Yesterday I touched on some things that I think will help prepare you for your move overseas. Today we'll run through some of the more fun and exciting things you can do to help get ready to PCS.
1. Learn the language.
Sure, lots of people in Europe (especially in the major cities) speak English. It's not a necessity to learn to speak the local language, but it'll help. Especially if you've got time to kill before you move. I personally think it's respectful to at least attempt a small vocabulary - no one is expecting you to be fluent! We purchased Rosetta Stone, but you may want to check your local library or even see if there's a resource on your current base for this.
2. Shop for things that you CAN use in your new home.
I mentioned yesterday to stop shopping for things you can't take or won't be able to use...but we all know you're still going to shop, so just think about what you might need over there. Coming from Florida I have very little in the way of warm clothes or closed toe shoes. So I've started thinking about those items. Yes, I can get them in Germany and yes, I will definitely shop more when I'm over there, but on a more practical note I know we'll be spending a lot of money when we first arrive so I want to be somewhat prepared for chilly temperatures. We also know that our couch will probably need to be replaced before we get back to the States, so we're planning on getting a new one soon. You may have to just be a little more practically minded than normal!
3. Start daydreaming about all of the traveling you can do!
Have you always wanted to go to Paris? Well, it's only going to be a couple of hours away. Europe is tiny. Germany is only about half the size of Texas. Plus with a great train system and inexpensive airlines like Ryan Air you don't have any excuses for not getting out and exploring. Find some great blogs like We Took The Road Less Traveled and World Traveling Military Family and read through them. Casey, from We Took The Road Less Traveled, is now back in the States and working as a travel agent so she could even help you plan that dream vacation while you're living abroad!
4. Make a bucket list for your current base.
Make the most of the last little bit of time at your current base. I know that the hardest thing about leaving Florida will be leaving our friends behind...so make the last few months or weeks really count! It doesn't all have to be about spending money. Maybe it's a simple as finally taking that bike ride you've been talking about for ages or visiting a new brewery together. The point is, enjoy yourself and create some memories!
If you're moving overseas, where are you most excited to visit?
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