From Homesick to Thriving: Tips for Adjusting to Life Abroad as An English Teacher 

You’ve taken the leap to teach English abroad – congrats! You’re about to embark on a life-changing adventure filled with new cultures, incredible students, and unforgettable experiences. But let’s be real: living in a foreign country isn’t always smooth sailing. Culture shock and homesickness can creep in, and that’s 100% normal.  At TravelBud, we’ve helped thousands of teacher-travelers navigate the ups and downs of living abroad, so trust us when we say: you’ve got this. Here’s a guide to going from homesick to thriving.

1. Understand That Culture Shock Is Normal 

Culture shock happens to everyone – even seasoned travellers. It’s that “whoa, everything is different here” feeling, and it can hit hard when you least expect it.  

How to handle it:  

• Acknowledge it: It’s okay to feel overwhelmed – it’s a sign you’re stepping out of your comfort zone (and that’s where growth happens).  
• Embrace the differences: Instead of comparing, start exploring. Dive into local traditions, try unfamiliar foods, and approach everything with curiosity.  
• Be patient with yourself: Adjusting takes time, so don’t rush the process.  

2. Stay Connected with Home (But Not Too Much)  

Missing family and friends is totally normal when you’re teaching abroad, but it’s important to strike a balance between staying connected and being present in your new environment.  

Tips for staying connected:  

• Schedule regular video calls so you have something to look forward to.  
• Share your adventures through social media or a personal blog – your loved ones will love following along.  
• Avoid relying on constant communication – it’s okay to unplug and focus on where you are.  

3. Build Your Community Abroad

One of the best parts of teaching English abroad is meeting people from all over the world. Finding a supportive community can make all the difference when adjusting to life in a new country.  

How to find your people:  

• Fellow Teachers: Connect with other expats in your program – they’re going through the same challenges and wins as you.  
• Locals: Make an effort to get to know your coworkers and neighbors. They can offer insider tips and help you feel at home.  
• Join Groups: From language exchange meet ups to expat Facebook groups, there are tons of ways to meet like-minded people.  

4. Create a Routine  

Tips for building a routine:  

Teaching abroad comes with structure, but your free time might feel like a whirlwind at first. Establishing a routine can help ground you in your new environment.  

• Set aside time for hobbies – whether it’s journaling, yoga, or learning the local language.  
• Explore your surroundings regularly – make it a goal to discover a new café, park, or market every week.  
• Prioritize self-care, like exercising or treating yourself to your favorite snacks from back home (yes, care packages are a thing).  

5. Learn the Language (Even Just a Little) 

You don’t need to be fluent, but learning some basic phrases in the local language can make daily life easier – and help you feel more connected to your new home.  

How to get started:  

• Download apps like Duolingo or Babbel for quick lessons.  
• Practice with locals – they’ll appreciate your effort, even if you make mistakes.  
• Label everyday items in your apartment with sticky notes – it’s a fun way to build vocabulary!  

6. Explore Your New Home Like a Tourist 

When teaching abroad, it’s easy to fall into a work-home routine, especially during the adjustment period. Break out of that bubble and rediscover the excitement of why you came.  

Ways to explore:  

• Visit landmarks, museums, and cultural sites – be the tourist you were on day one.  
• Try local delicacies at street markets or family-run restaurants.  
• Take weekend trips to nearby towns or cities – new adventures are just around the corner.  

7. Focus on the Why

When homesickness strikes, remind yourself why you chose to teach abroad in the first place. You’re here for a reason – to experience life differently, make a difference in your students’ lives, and grow as a person.  

How to reconnect with your purpose:  

• Reflect on your “why” – journal about your goals and what excites you about this journey.  
• Celebrate small wins, like your first successful lesson or a meaningful conversation with a student.  
• Picture the stories you’ll share when you return home – every experience adds to your journey.  

8. Give Yourself Permission to Struggle

Adjusting to teaching English abroad isn’t all sunshine and rainbows – and that’s okay. It’s a process, not a race, and everyone struggles at some point.  

What to remember:  

• Struggles don’t mean you’re failing – they mean you’re learning.  
• Reach out for support when you need it – whether it’s a friend, family member, or TravelBud’s in-country team.  
• Celebrate how far you’ve come – even if you’ve only been abroad for a week, you’re doing something incredible.  

9. Seek Out Familiar Comforts 

Sometimes, a little taste of home is all you need to recharge.  

Comfort hacks:  

• Cook your favorite meal from home – bonus points if you share it with new friends.  
• Watch your go-to Netflix shows or listen to your favorite podcasts.  
• Bring small reminders of home, like photos, a cozy blanket, or your favorite snacks.  

10. Embrace the Adventure

Ultimately, teaching abroad is all about stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing the unknown. The more you lean into the experience, the more you’ll grow – and before you know it, the homesick moments will be overshadowed by incredible memories.  

Pro tip: Keep a gratitude journal and jot down one positive thing from each day. It’s a great way to shift your mindset and focus on the good.  

Why TravelBud Is Your Best Ally  

At TravelBud, we understand the challenges of teaching English abroad because we’ve been there too. That’s why we provide comprehensive pre-departure and 24/7 in-country support to help you navigate every step of your journey.  

From cultural orientation to tips on making friends and adjusting to life abroad, we’ve got your back. With programs in South Korea, Japan, Spain, Costa Rica, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Poland, we’re here to help you thrive, not just survive.  

Adjusting to life abroad might feel overwhelming at first, but with time, patience, and the right mindset, you’ll go from homesick to thriving. Teaching English abroad isn’t just about the destination – it’s about the journey, the growth, and the amazing people you’ll meet along the way.  

So, take a deep breath, embrace the adventure, and know that every challenge you face is shaping you into a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.