How to Feel Settled in a New Country – The Top 3 Essentials

Moving abroad isn’t just about unpacking—it’s about creating a sense of home. Discover the top three essential ways to feel settled in your new country.

When I moved to Dubai by myself, I knew no one. But my very best friend worked with a guy who knew a guy who traveled back and forth to Dubai a lot. One day, he brought me some local treats from Holland that my best friend had sent, and just like that, we became friends. Over the years, we traveled through Asia together, attended each other’s weddings, and now, our daughters are the same age and growing up as friends too.

The moral of the story? When you move somewhere new, there’s almost always a friend who knows a friend. The beauty of this global community is that people understand what you’re going through, and doors are almost always open—no questions asked. But to truly settle in, you need to take that first step toward building comfort and connection.

After years of expat life, I’ve found that three things make the biggest difference in turning a new place into home.

Make Your Space Feel Like Home

A rental is just four walls until you add your personal touch. Bringing familiar furniture, homewares, or even just a few sentimental pieces can instantly transform a space from temporary to yours.

If you can’t bring everything with you, focus on cozy essentials—soft blankets, warm lighting, and personal decor items like framed photos or favorite books.

This throw blanket from [Supplier Name] is my go-to for adding warmth to any space.

Connect with Your Community and Tap Into Your Network

Feeling at home isn’t just about where you live—it’s about who you surround yourself with. Finding your people makes all the difference, whether it's fellow expats, locals, or friends-of-friends.

Try joining local expat or hobby groups. Facebook, Meetup, or community events are great places to start. You might also already have a connection in your new city—an old colleague, a friend of a friend, or even a distant relative. Reaching out can lead to incredible friendships.

I once reached out to a friend-of-a-friend in a new city and ended up finding a whole group of amazing people through that one connection.

Create a Routine to Build Familiarity

Routines create stability, which is key to feeling grounded in a new place. Simple daily habits can bring comfort, structure, and a sense of normalcy.

Establish small rituals, like a morning coffee walk, an evening reading nook, or a weekly call with family. Exploring like a tourist can also be part of your routine—set a goal to visit a new café, museum, or park each week. The more you engage with your new surroundings, the more they’ll start to feel familiar.

Ready to Feel at Home Faster?

I’ve put together a full checklist with ten essential tips to help you settle in with ease.

Download it here