So, you’ve finally gotten that visa or job offer abroad. You’re excited, nervous, and maybe already dreaming of snowy selfies or a “soft life” in Europe or America. But before you pack your bags, let’s talk about what life abroad really feels like, the parts many Africans wish they knew before taking that big leap.
This isn’t to scare you, just to keep it real. Because the truth? Living abroad can be both amazing and exhausting at the same time.
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1. The Shock of Real Independence
Back home, you might not notice how much of a support system you have until you leave. Need a favor? There’s always an auntie, cousin, or friend nearby. In many African communities, life is shared, food, laughter, and sometimes even bills.
But once you move abroad, it’s all on you.
You’ll be cooking, cleaning, working, studying, paying bills, doing laundry, and trying to stay sane all at once. I remember a friend in Germany who once said, “I thought I was independent until I had to fix a broken heater by myself in winter.”
That’s the real deal. Life abroad forces you to grow up fast. You learn to manage time, money, and emotions on your own.
Tip: Start practicing independence before you go, learn to budget, cook, and manage basic repairs. It’ll save you a lot of stress later.
2. The Cost of Comfort Is Real
Ever wondered why people abroad always talk about bills? You’ll soon find out.
Rent, insurance, transportation, taxes, they add up quickly. You might earn in dollars or euros, but you’ll also spend in dollars or euros.
Many newcomers are shocked by how expensive simple things can be. That $15 you spent on lunch? That’s ₦25,000 gone in one meal. A little careless spending, and by month’s end, you’ll be counting coins.
What helps:
Learn how to budget before you move.
Use apps to track expenses.
Cook more; eat out less.
Avoid lifestyle pressure, don’t try to “fit in” by overspending.
Abroad, financial discipline is not optional. It’s survival.
3. The Weather Will Test You
If you’re from Africa, you probably take sunshine for granted. Wait till you meet your first winter.
The cold hits differently not just your body, but sometimes your mood. Many Africans struggle with “winter blues” when the days are short, the sky is gray, and sunlight disappears for weeks.
I knew a guy from Ghana who used to laugh at people complaining about the weather until he moved to Canada. After one snowy month, he said, “Now I understand why people drink so much coffee.”
What to do:
Get warm clothes before winter starts.
Take vitamin D or go for short walks when the sun is out.
Don’t isolate yourself, stay social even when it’s cold.
4. Culture Shock Is Real (But You’ll Adjust)
At first, everything feels new and exciting. Then, small things start to confuse or frustrate you.
People don’t greet as warmly. Neighbors might not say hello. You can’t just drop by a friend’s house without calling. And don’t even think of bargaining in a supermarket!
It’s not that people are rude, it’s just a different culture. Relationships take longer to build. Friendships often start formally and grow slowly.
But with time, you’ll learn the rhythm. You’ll discover that people value privacy and boundaries, but they can be very kind once you earn their trust.
Pro tip: Stay curious instead of judgmental. Ask questions, observe, and keep an open mind.
5. Homesickness Never Fully Leaves
There will be days when you miss home so badly it hurts the food, the language, the noise, even the chaos. You’ll miss your mom’s cooking and the way people laugh loudly at jokes that don’t even make sense.
That’s normal. Everyone goes through it.
Some people cope by joining African associations or attending church or mosque gatherings. Others find comfort in food making jollof rice or suya becomes a small way to keep home close.
Little things that help:
Stay connected with family through regular video calls.
Celebrate African holidays and traditions, even if you’re alone.
Build a small community, you’ll need it more than you think.
6. The Dream Can Still Be Beautiful
Now, let’s be real, despite the struggles, living abroad has its bright side.
You’ll gain exposure, access to new opportunities, and a broader worldview. You’ll meet people from different cultures, learn new skills, and grow in ways you never imagined.
The key is balance. Don’t expect life abroad to be perfect, it’s not. But also, don’t focus only on the negatives. It’s a journey of learning, adaptation, and growth.
Many Africans who stay long enough end up building something meaningful, a career, a business, or even a bridge between their new home and their roots back in Africa.
7. Things I Wish Someone Told Me
If I could go back, here’s what I’d tell my younger self before moving abroad:
1. Plan beyond the visa. Getting there is just the beginning.
2. Don’t compare your progress. Everyone’s journey is different.
3. Keep your African values. They’ll keep you grounded.
4. Ask for help. Pride won’t pay your bills or ease your loneliness.
5. Remember why you left. On tough days, that reminder will keep you going.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Easy, But It’s Worth It
Life abroad isn’t a fairytale, it’s a mix of freedom, loneliness, opportunity, and sacrifice. You’ll laugh, cry, question yourself, and sometimes want to go home. But you’ll also grow stronger, smarter, and more independent than you ever thought possible.
So, if you’re planning to move, go with open eyes and a humble heart. Prepare for the challenges, but don’t forget to enjoy the journey.
After all, every African abroad has a story, make yours one worth telling.
| “If you’re planning your move, this post on How to Save and Invest When You’re Planning to Relocate Abroad will help you prepare financially.”