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 I gave someone directions in my new country and realized I knew exactly where I was going. It was a small moment, but suddenly, I felt local.

If you’re living in a new country like me, you’ve probably felt that in-between place: not a tourist, but not quite a local. Even when you return “home,” you might feel like you’re no longer part of it. That sense of displacement keeps you looking for where you truly belong, a place you can call home. But that feeling of being “home” takes time, and sometimes, becoming a local feels like a distant dream.

What makes a place feel like home?

 It’s about finding people who get it—those going through the same challenges and joys as an expat. My “almost local” friends have become my new support network. They’re not from here, but they live here, and that shared experience creates a unique bond.

Over time, I’ve learned much from these expats—about their stories, adventures, and challenges. These friendships helped me feel settled, whether finding a grocery store, making a doctor’s appointment, or choosing the right school for my kids. We’re all navigating similar hurdles, from the basic to the more complicated.

My Expat Story in Brief

I left Argentina ten years ago and have since lived in New Zealand and the Netherlands. These culturally different countries have shaped how I see the world and what it means to be an expat. Moving with young kids has also impacted how we adapt and evolve as a family.

One thing I quickly learned is the importance of community. Just like home, your connections make all the difference. Finding your tribe of like-minded people is key to making your life abroad successful.

While there are many expat groups for specific needs—like starting a business or connecting with women—Almost Local is a space to share struggles and victories. It’s a place to learn from each other, to know we’re not alone, and to embrace the courage it takes to embark on this journey.

So, why Almost Local?

Life abroad is exciting: traveling to new cities, trying new foods, and decorating your new home. But it also comes with tough times: feeling lonely, facing health issues, or dealing with the pain of losing someone back home without being able to say goodbye.

 I’m excited to connect with expats and those living abroad. This community is a place for kind conversations—a warm, welcoming space where we can acknowledge how thrilling life abroad is and how imperfect it can be. We constantly face dilemmas and navigate through them sooner or later.

• Identity Crisis: Who Am I Here?
• Building a Social Life from Scratch
• Raising Kids in a Different Culture
• More? You can read more in my Article on the 5 Biggest Challenges of Life Abroad.

And you know what?

It’s okay if you haven’t learned the local language yet or have yet to visit that popular spot everyone talks about.

It’s OK if you’re still figuring out the best place for your kids or second-guessing your choices. We don’t have to have it all figured out.

What about you?

I hope this space brings you comfort and companionship. If you’re an expat or someone living abroad, what’s one small thing that made your new country start feeling like home? Let’s swap stories in the comments!