When we decided to move countries and had to use the internet for a lot of planning, Google AI started throwing all kinds of moving related links ranging from the mundane to the metaphorical. I ignored most, chuckled at some and diligently read a few. I am able to relate to many of those now that we have actually moved. But I also wish I had known some other tips before-hand which I had to discover the hard way. Here is a list that I would have given myself before the move!
- Material memories
There is evidence that even in prehistoric times when migration was an everyday phenomenon, people carried stuff – like tools, medicine bags, etc. Even though you get everything (mostly) everywhere today, for most of us, there is something comforting in setting up the hearth with familiar stuff. What we find very comforting during this move are tiny bits of everyday objects that we had with us right from day 1 – like keychains, coasters, mugs, bedspreads, etc. As we sit in the sparse furniture in the house, each of the few objects scattered around triggers a conversation. OMG, do you remember how I messed up the paints in the tissue holder?
Can’t believe we are carrying that cloth hangar from Auroville for so many years and didn’t it move from the dressing table to the kitchen to the bathroom:>
Ah, the pleasure of getting lost in memories! (I wrote on this )
2. Money Money honey
Can’t buy that droolworthy roasted peanuts / chestnuts because the guy will only take exact cash? Can’t take the auto or the bus because the transport card has no balance and no change in purse? Rings a bell? Don’t buy all that talk on digital / cashless economy. Be it first world or third world, CASH is your saviour. Be sure to carry notes / coins of all denominations when you are new to a place while you are still sorting your bank accounts / cards etc.
3. Stupidity budget
Whenever we have travelled and this time while settling in a new country, I realize we need something called a stupidity budget. Possibly in its effort to acclimatize to the new place, the brain seems to be resting some neurons that fire logical thinking. Why would you otherwise buy the wall hooks that have never ever stuck on the wall, forget bearing any load? Or buy some fancy things online that are totally useless and cannot be returned. Or order a mattress without measuring the bed frame. Or leave umbrellas in all kinds of places as public service. Confession: I have done all this. The list can go on AND NOTE the I do not imply that stupidity budget kicks in ‘only’ while moving! It just fattens up, so beware and be prepared.
4. Beware of what does not work well in the new place
Generally, one gets to hear about all the things that work well in the new place which is good. But do make it a point to find out what does not! One of the first things that hit us in Singapore is the long delivery time for goods – be it furniture or white goods. It completely upset our home setting up schedule and I wish we were forewarned!
5. Don’t overdo the ‘Newbie / Immigrant’ card
When the culture and language and the way of life is quite different, it is very tempting to use the ‘Newbie / Immigrant’ card while settling in a new place. Along with this comes over sensitivity and reading between the lines essentially taking the fun out of everyday life and interactions. Its ok initially but I am learning that the sooner we drop the newbie label, the better we can blend in! Learning the local customs and language is a wonderful way to begin! Ok Lah?
Tell me what experiences you have had in moving, good and bad.
