Different families react in different ways when you start your new life in France.Some families understand that you are starting a wonderful, crazy adventure and that it is easier than ever to live and work in the EU.
Other families think that you are making a huge mistake, running away from your home and it will all end in tears.
As ever, the truth is out there. In order to maintain a good relationship with your family back home, it is imperative that you keep them up to date with what is happening in your new life in France and that you take time to understand that their life is just as important as yours.
Keep Your Family Involved
If you are careful not to alienate your family when you are planning and talking about your upcoming move, there is no reason why they cannot feel just as excited as you do. After all, you will provide a handy holiday destination, they too may be able to spend more time in France when you are based there and your new experiences can be shared.
However, if the picture is not so rosy – perhaps you are keen to get away from your family or they are not happy about your move for whatever reason - keeping in touch with them when you move is just as important. This is because the miles now in between you can make it easier for arguments to fester and harder to just pop in for a cup of tea and talk over your issues.
Utilise Cheap Communications
There are a number of ways to keep in touch with your family whatever the circumstances. The first thing to do is arrange your communications – there are a number of cheap broadband providers that also offer unlimited calls to the UK. You can find these advertised on the various expat forums and advice websites.
Use a Diary
Make sure you have an up to date diary with the important things to remember marked – hospital appointments, exams, parties and promotions are just as important as birthdays and anniversaries. Make time to phone your family on these days, as well as sending a card. This will help you feel connected to your family and show them that even though you have moved abroad, your family is just as important to you.
Make Them Welcome
Make it clear that your family is welcome to visit you. If you can have a guest room in your new home, it makes it far easier. Keep abreast of the good deals on low cost airlines and get to grips with how their sale flights work.
Deal With Issues
If you have a difficult relationship with your family, the distance can work to your advantage. When you have had to travel for many hours to spend time with your family, it makes it more likely that you are not prepared to put up with a bad visit. They are also likely to be keen to know about your new adventure, so perhaps issues may be settled so they can enjoy your new life in France, too.
