Why I Created Almost Local: The Expat Dilemma
When does a place stop feeling temporary? When do you stop calling it ‘this city’ and start saying ‘home’? I’ll never forget the first time ...
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Building Community, Far From Home
Stories, guidance & real connections for life abroad — unfiltered.
ABOUT ALMOST LOCAL
Are you navigating life abroad?
Feeling the highs and lows of this journey? Sometimes, it can feel a bit lonely or like a rollercoaster.
We get it!
Grab a cup of coffee (or tea!) and join our community for real stories, laughs, and support. Listen to the Podcast, read real stories, or join our workshops, outings, and online gatherings.
Let’s navigate life abroad together, one coffee at a time!
Join us in Auckland!
Next in person Coffee Circles and Workshops: March 7 . May 9th
Home is where your heart is… and where you can finally find a decent cup of coffee!
Join the Almost Local Community
Meet other Almost Locals in person in New Zealand or connect online wherever you are in the world!
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Join the Almost Local Coffee Circles
Are you an international woman in Auckland, NZ?
Reserve Your SpotTake a break and join
an intimate gathering
for women navigating life
between countries,
sharing the ups and
downs of life abroad.Limited spots. Booking essential
From the Community
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“It wasn’t one single moment — it was the presence in the room. The safe and trustworthy space Maria and Andrea created allowed us to truly connect. I felt seen in shared experiences and inspired by others’ stories. Even knowing only a few women beforehand, I left feeling a real sense of belonging.”
Yanina Auckland, NZ -
"Great initiative taking shape in this beautiful community! Always great to connect, share and meet new people! 🫶"
Flavia Auckland, NZ -
"Thank you so much Maria for inviting me today. And for putting together a very thoughtful event with a beautiful group of women. You and Andrea are very special women ❤️"
Karina Auckland, NZ
See what we've been up to
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Almost Local Community Moments
Almost Local Coffee Circle in Auckland
A Gathering for International Women Building Community Abroad Moving to a new country changes more than your address — it shifts your sense of belonging, ... -
Returning to New Zealand as an Expat: Embracing the In-Between
Returning to New Zealand as an expat isn’t starting over — it’s starting differently. In this reflective piece, I share what it really felt like ... -
Book of the Month: Migrants – The Story of Us All
Why this book, and why now Some books arrive at exactly the right moment. Migrants: The Story of Us All is one of those. This ... -
The Power of Community Abroad: Finding Connection and Belonging
Discover why community abroad matters, how loneliness affects expats, and practical tips on how to make friends abroad and build real connection.
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Relocating to New Zealand: Finding Home, Community, and Connection
Welcome Back I’m Maria, your host here at Almost Local. Today I want to share a deeply personal and universal story—the experience of relocating to ...
Meet the Voices Behind Almost Local
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Living Abroad? You’re Not Alone!
Navigating Life Abroad: Unfiltered.
About UsMoving abroad is an adventure—but let’s be honest, it’s also a lot. From making friends to navigating culture shock, life comes with its fair share of challenges.