You did it! Thanks to your meticulous planning and preparation you successfully navigated the overseas property buying process. You also took care of all those other important tasks on your pre-move checklist without a hitch. Everything from sorting your pet’s passport and obtaining the necessary insurance to organising your leaving do. Now that you’re finally in possession of the keys to your home it’s time to turn your attention to settling into your new life in Ireland.
Here are some top tips to help make your transition into life in Ireland as smooth as possible.
Read our Healthcare Guide to accessing medical attention in Ireland.
Research
You’ve probably decided to buy a property in Ireland because you’ve fallen in love with the hospitality, relaxed pace of life and countryside. Just because you’ve visited once or twice before and have an understanding of life here, it’s important to conduct further research around the Emerald Isle. Delve into its history, brush up on the culture and customs and explore the area in which you are buying. The latter should involve researching the local geography, services, events and amenities. The more you know about your new home, the sooner you’ll be having a good craic!
The Irish are famously welcoming
Get involved
Don’t be afraid to get involved, whether it’s a trip to the pub with your new work colleagues or a cup of tea with the neighbours. Perhaps you want to pursue your favourite pastime or take up a new one by joining a local club or society. For example, Gaelic football and hurling are as authentically Irish as it gets. Plus the social side of proceedings is taken just as seriously as events on the field. Remember, the Irish are famously welcoming so get involved and you will be part of the gang in no time.
Learn what questions to ask and how to avoid the legal pitfalls in our Emigration Guide.
Don’t be shy
Don’t be daunted by the prospect of starting your social life from scratch. Thousands of Brits who have already made a new life in Ireland were once in your shoes. So channel your inner social butterfly and put yourself out there. In other words, be as Irish as possible by introducing yourself to as many new people as possible. The best way to feel comfortable doing this is seeking out likeminded people such as fellow expats or fans of your favourite sport/team.
Embrace life in Ireland!
Prepare for a bout of homesickness
Following this useful advice will help you feel at home, but it will take time. Accept that there will be periods early on when you will feel homesick. Whether it’s the food, places, your friends and family or all of this and more that you miss, it’s only natural to feel that way. Adopt a pragmatic approach that helps you deal with things sensibly and realistically, safe in the knowledge that your doubts will pass.
Moving to Ireland is an adventure, taking you out of your comfort zone to experience life in a new country.
Stay in touch
Moving to Ireland is an adventure, taking you out of your comfort zone to experience life in a new country. However, one of the most effective ways of managing homesickness is staying in touch with friends and family back home – the ones you miss that is. Try and strike a balance between relying on their support while still doing your upmost to get out there and integrate. Online platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook and Skype will enable you to contact your nearest and dearest whenever you need them. And don’t forget, it’s only a quick hop over the Irish Sea to pay them a visit.
