13 Reasons Why Being an Expat is a Pretty Amazing Thing

When it comes to expatriate living, many think they're just not cut out for it.

In fact, how many times have you been asked, "I don't know how you do it? I wouldn't be so brave!" from a friend, colleague or family member in your home country. 

SEE ALSO: Real life stories in Dubai that will restore your faith in humanity

But what they fail to realise that while yes, we've moved from home, from a familiar environment and away from people we care deeply for, it's really not all doom and gloom. In fact, it's actually pretty awesome to be an expat - and we hope you agree.

Here's 13 reasons why being an expat is a pretty amazing thing.

Broadens the mind 

Let's start with the cliche - yes, living abroad broadens your mind. You're now exposed to new cultures, experiences, religions, histories... So much so that you are a lot more emphathetic to others, understanding of their cultural norms and you begin to learn a lot more about the world around you.

New experiences otherwise unavailable

You're able to try and experience new things that were otherwise unavailable back home; from recreational activities, to sports, dining experiences to festivals and religious holidays.

Worldly education

Whoever said you learn everything you need at school told a big fib. Sure, academic education is very important but that doesn't mean we should disregard the educational values and opportunities we have.

From different languages, to religions, to life skills - you'll find that you're learning something new every single day. 

Clock up air miles

Whether you're travelling home for summer, or you're spending New Year's on holiday in a brand new country - there's no denying we all love the feeling of clocking up those air miles and reeping the benefits once there's enough. 

Builds your confidence

You're a fish out of water as an expat; you're now out of your comfort zone, and it could take some time for you to start feeling comfortable. But that's okay, because you'll no doubt feel a lot more confident with new people, in new situations and also with your life choices.

Appreciative of favourite things

Did you grow an addiction to a particular type of food back home? We're quite sure you probably won't find it where you're living now. The world doesn't end however, because no doubt you'll find new favourite things, activities, foods that you weren't necessarily introduced to back home.

New and different people

Of course - a biggy! Nobody can deny the fact you meet SO many different people from all walks of life. And despite all of the stereotypes you may have been taught in your home country, you'll realise that actually, they're not true.

You'll also probably find that your social group is now made up of all different backgrounds; from Jordanian, to American, from Indian to Philipino... They're all unique in their own ways. Which leads us to...

You're uniqueness

In a familiar place, you may find yourself relating to others around you. Same schools, same experiences, same histories, same area of living. But now in a whole new place, you might begin to realise just how unique you are - which isn't arrogant, but instead builds your self-worth.

SEE ALSO: 16 awh-worthy pictures of dogs in Dubai

A Brit's one of many Brit's in England, but throw them in the middle of an Asian country, or even over in Canada, and you'll realise people are just as interested in you, as you are them.

You'll talk to family more than ever

Being away from your loved ones means you'll probably find yourself allocating time in your day to make the effort to talk to them. Be it via messaging, or a video call, taking that time to connect to where you've come from becomes so much more valuable to you.

You know that phrase you take things for granted when you're around them all that time? That applies to family, and now you're away we're sure you'll make extra efforts to keep in touch.

Avoid extended family

On the flip side of the above point - being an expat means you get the chance to avoid that creepy uncle you've never liked, or the second cousin you're forced to spend time with, or you now have the perfect excuse if you forget to send a birthday card. 

Always have a local tour guide

By meeting all of these new people, you'll quickly realise that there are so many new countries to be explored - and now thanks to them, you'll have your very own local tour guide. And if they're nice - a place to stay, too!

Indulge in all new foods

Let's just say, the Arabic food you've probably tasted at a popular restaurant back home isn't close to what real Arabic food should or does taste like. Living abroad, you'll have more opportunities to try authentic dishes from various different countries... And you might even find your new favourite go-to dish!

You're less judgemental

As an expat, you'll see the world from all different points of view; and in fact, you'll find that no, your home country is not the centre of the universe. Instead, you'll begin to understand just how diverse Earth is.

SEE ALSO: Here's why the Dubai Marina turned orange

Meaning, you'll be generally less judgemental when meeting and talking to people. Your way isn't necessarily always the right way, so open your ears and listen to the new people around you from all parts of the world.