Stay connected with SA when living overseas

As an expatriate, it’s easy to become engulfed by your new way of life, but with an abundance of resources available, staying connected to SA has never been easier.

The most important part of staying in touch and in tune is by keeping abreast with news, current affairs, business and entertainment back home. Ndalo Media’s Zinio application allows readers around the world to access DESTINY and DESTINY MAN magazines digitally. Not only can you get your monthly fix of the magazine, but you can start a central digital library, share articles on social networking sites and find articles easily using the searching function. To access the Zinio application, visit www.destinyconnect.com/page/digital-magazine, register, pay and download the Zinio reader. 

Another important part of staying connected is by surrounding yourself with people and things that remind you of home. There are various Facebook groups for South African expats in most foreign countries, as well as events where South Africans living abroad can get together and socialise.

Food is an important aspect of settling in to a new country. Try to find restaurants that serve dishes and cuisines that you enjoy and scour local markets and shopping centres for foods, ingredients and spices that will enable you to prepare dishes that you’re accustomed to.

With various free communication services like Skype and AOL Instant Messenger, especially when used in conjunction with a webcam, you can communicate with your loved ones in real-time, cheaply and conveniently. Make a point of communicating with friends and family often via telephone, email or handwritten letters.
Decorate your house with items that remind you of home. Photographs, art and music are great for easing homesickness.

Lastly, don’t consume yourself with trying to stay too connected; make time to enjoy, explore and experience the culture, cuisines and people in your new home.