Trail-Blazing Spouse!
How to Make
the Most Out of
Following Your
Partner Abroad
By Macrui Dostourian
It is a truth universally acknowledged that
one half of a couple in possession of a job
abroad must think about his or her partner. As work opportunities in today’s global village takes employees and adventure-seekers further and further away from
their own countries the trailing spouse’s, or
rather the supportive spouse’s, happiness
is key to the success of a stint abroad.
The first few months of a move abroad
are filled with activities: both partners are
excited to explore their new home, one
partner is adapting to a new workplace
and culture and the ‘trailing spouse’ is
busy setting up a home.
Once the settling period is over, however,
the ‘trailing spouse’ may start to wonder
where he or she fits into the family’s new
life. With limited work possibilities, cultural
and language barriers and the inevitable
homesickness, it is no wonder that trailing
partners can feel alone even in the busiest cities of the world.
Here are some tips to thrive when following a loved one abroad.