Christmas is a unique holiday season that is associated with warm family gatherings, joyful smiles, and the smell of mom's cookies. But for expats living abroad far from their homeland, this holiday can bring feelings of sadness and loneliness. Find out more about how to have a fun Christmas away from home

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Holidays without family and friends are one of the most difficult moments of living abroad. Preparing for the winter holidays, Christmas, New Year: all these previously joyful days become empty and lonely in a moment. But there is a way out of any situation! We will tell you the best ways to deal with these feelings if you are spending Christmas alone abroad.

Christmas alone for expats

Christmas away from home always poses special challenges for expats, whether it's their first holiday in another country or they're already used to it. The loneliness of being away from family, especially when they celebrate according to different traditions, can cause feelings of loss and insecurity. As Christmas approaches, expats often face the challenge of adapting to a new holiday environment that may be different from what they are used to. This can be a time of joy and new experiences, as well as a period of intense homesickness.

For those who are unable to meet with family members due to international restrictions, feelings of loss and separation can be particularly pronounced. It is important to try to find ways to connect with others and create new traditions that make the holiday special, even in a foreign land.

The expat community can be an important support, allowing you to share experiences and support each other during this special time. Celebrating Christmas in a new environment requires patience and an open mind to new possibilities to make this time unforgettable, even when away from family.

Why are Christmas holidays abroad so challenging for expats?

Celebrating Christmas in a foreign country can cause feelings of loss and loneliness, especially when you realize that your life goes on, and you won't be able to be with your family during this special time. When abroad, it is necessary to get rid of the guilt of choosing a new path as soon as possible, and this can be a difficult task.

For expats, Christmas is often a key time of year when they try to compensate for the absence of loved ones by getting together with other expats or starting their own family away from home. But such loneliness can lead to mental health risks, and it is important to find ways to relieve tension by sharing the joy and warmth of the holiday season with other expats.

The annual trip home not only provides an opportunity to reconnect with family, but also serves as a chance for internal accountability and acceptance of one's choice to live abroad. It also reminds us that each of us has our own path, and it is important not to feel guilty that this path has led us away from our families.

What to do with feelings of loneliness?

The holidays can be a challenge for those who are away from their homes and loved ones. However, it is important to remember that everyone has their own path and their own way of celebrating Christmas. Those who find themselves in different circumstances or countries may feel loss and longing, especially if it is the first time they are away from their families.

For those who feel lonely or have lost their usual social circle, it is important to find ways to support them. Technology makes it easy for us to connect with loved ones, even if they are far away. Video calls, cards, and gifts can be ways to express care and support.

Creating your own traditions and rituals is another way to overcome feelings of loneliness. This can be special time for yourself, cooking your favorite dishes, or even virtual reunions with friends or the expat community.

For those who don't have traditions yet, it can be a time to create them. It's important to help each other and remember that the holidays are not only a time for fun celebrations, but also an opportunity to help those in need.

Even if you are abroad, you can find community and support through technology and communities of Ukrainians in other countries. Ask your friends, join chats, and participate in refugee events to find new friends and a sense of belonging.

It is important to realize that each person experiences the holidays in their own way, and it is important to show empathy. Encourage and support, but don't force, people to express their emotions and choose the ways of celebrating that best suit their feelings.

Top tips for celebrating Christmas for expats

Christmas is a time for your own traditions. Try to simplify your expectations and allow yourself to create a Christmas that fits your current situation abroad. Consider it an opportunity to do something new and unpredictable. Enjoy the holidays stress-free and reinterpret your traditions to create a unique Christmas.

1. Create your own festive, moody environment. Before you get into holiday mode, it's important to create your own Christmas environment. Ornaments, bright lanterns, Christmas branches - all this can create an atmosphere of coziness and festivity in your home. Ordering decor or creating it yourself can be not only a creative process, but also a personal expression of your individual holiday mood.

2. Plan your dinner. Develop a menu for the holiday dinner that you would like to try. You can prepare traditional dishes from your country or try out local gastronomic specialties. Schedule a cooking time and participate in this creative process to create your own Christmas traditions.

3. Gifts for yourself. Instead of regretting the lack of gifts from your family, take care of yourself and give yourself small pleasures. Order gifts online or make sure you buy something nice for yourself. Remember, Christmas is a time of touching, and you don't have to wait for someone else to make you happy.

4. Plan a vacation. Instead of being sad about the absence of your family, use this time to plan a vacation. Maybe it will be a trip or visiting new places in your city. Make it a festive time for self-education, relaxation, and discovery.

5. Virtual meetings with family.  Thanks to modern technology, you can easily keep in touch with family and friends. Use video calls, chats, and social media to share your impressions of the holiday season and virtually join in the festive mood of your loved ones.

6. Join local holiday events. Many countries and cities organize various holiday events. Join local events, exhibitions, concerts, or charity events. This will not only allow you to feel the holiday spirit, but also to make new friends and feel the support of the community.

7. Keep in touch with other expats. Finding other expats who are also far from home can be very helpful. Create communities, get together to celebrate holidays and share your experiences. Mutual support can make the holiday season much easier.

Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

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