{"id":33233,"date":"2021-11-08T16:00:38","date_gmt":"2021-11-08T08:00:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/?p=33233"},"modified":"2021-11-08T16:03:42","modified_gmt":"2021-11-08T08:03:42","slug":"homesick-living-abroad","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/blog\/homesick-living-abroad\/","title":{"rendered":"What To Do When You\u2019re Homesick: Guide for Singaporeans Living Abroad"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Good on you for making that brave step forward onto unchartered territories to pursue your dreams! Yet, before you take on the great big world all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed \u2014 here are some tips to ensure that you\u2019re well-equipped to handle the dreaded homesickness whenever it hits.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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If there\u2019s one thing we\u2019ve all come to realise, it’s the fact that our island city is really<\/em> tiny. So if you\u2019ve been presented with the opportunity to live abroad, whether for a semester or a couple of years, go for it! The experience of immersing yourself in a different culture, and being away from all that you know, is equal parts daunting and exciting. Exciting because living like a local in a foreign land builds character and broadens your perspective. Daunting because, well, no one is infallible \u2014 even seasoned travellers get homesick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yes, we’re talking about that tear-inducing, mind-numbing, and body-paralysing cloud of dread that depletes its victim of any will to embrace their new adventure. It is that insidious voice that convinces, even the bravest of us, to run back to the comforts of home \u2014 even before we’ve succeeded with whatever we have set out to do in the first place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But don’t worry, to ensure that you\u2019re well-equipped to deal with whatever comes your way, we\u2019ve put together our list of tried-and-tested items that\u2019ll help combat those feelings. Read on for the full list! \ud83d\udc47 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. First Thing\u2019s First: Food, Glorious Food! \ud83c\udf5c<\/strong>\ud83c\udf63<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Sure, the idea of living abroad is, for the most part, to immerse yourself in the host country\u2019s culture \u2014 food included. However, when you’ve lived in a city that\u2019s often touted as a culinary paradise for most of your life, it\u2019s easy to see why this category deserves a spot on the list, and definitely your luggage<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

[ Editor’s note: <\/strong>This is true. I’ve got a best friend who studied in the US and she can’t go one meal without referencing her mother’s cooking. Well, that’s an exaggeration but you get the drift. ]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We recommend choosing items that don\u2019t take up too much space \u2014 and premixes that don\u2019t require 1,001 complementary ingredients. Milo packets (as opposed to tins) are surefire winners, as are Ba Kut Teh<\/em> sachets, and of course, premises of local dishes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image credits: Toast Box<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Often, the best way to win the hearts of your new flatmates, or friends, is through their bellies \u2014 especially on cultural potluck nights! These premixes by Toast Box are known to taste good whilst being really easy to prepare. Of course, if you still prefer the OG Prima Deli for its wide range of options, here\u2019s the link<\/a> for your viewing (and shopping) pleasure \u2014 they\u2019ve also got recipes<\/a> for you to follow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> Already got your new home address? Search for Asian supermarkets on Google Maps and see if there are any in the vicinity. That way, you can decide how little or how much reinforcements you\u2019ll need to bring from home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price: <\/strong>From S$5.50<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homesick? Purchase your cure <\/em>here<\/em><\/a>, or visit any Toast Box outlet islandwide.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Bring Along A Piece Of Home \ud83d\uddbc\ufe0f<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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When the going gets tough, it\u2019s important to never lose sight of what matters to you (literally). There\u2019s something so personal and sentimental about owning physical photographs of loved ones, so we\u2019d recommend taking the time to curate a small selection of your favourite memories and have them printed out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image credits: Urban Outfitters<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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To up the aesthetics<\/em>, you can purchase one of these lovely album frames for your desk. This one from Urban Outfitters may be dainty, but it can fit up to 28 polaroids! This way, you get to see your favourite faces every day AND have a nice little workspace accessory. #winwin<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> If you\u2019re purchasing from Singapore, remember to visit the US site<\/a>. Otherwise, you\u2019ll be redirected to the Singapore site instead!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price:<\/strong> US$16 (~S$21.65)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homesick? Purchase your cure<\/em> <\/em>here<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Something New, Something Blue, Something Uniquely Singaporean<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Sometimes, the only way to combat homesickness is to surround yourself with great company. Even if you lie in bed and binge on Instagram stories from back home, you won’t feel better. The world is moving, and so should you! Instead of moping, go out there and meet new people. Join clubs, attend parties \u2014 the phrase ‘the world is your oyster’ literally doesn’t apply more than when you\u2019re studying overseas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To help you get the conversation going, we recommend bringing along something uniquely Singaporean along with you on your day out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image credits: Pupsik<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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We love this How To Order Kopi <\/em>tote bag because it definitely is a fun way to break the ice \u2014 and maybe even share your love for the local brew. Not a fan of kopi? Fret not. There\u2019s also a teh version<\/em> for all you tea drinkers out there. Either way, Shigga Shay sings it best<\/a> in the local Kopitiam anthem, “Tapau”. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip: <\/strong>When it’s time to go home, turn your reminder of Singapore into a farewell gift for your favourite housemate or friend! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price: <\/strong>From <\/strong>S$26 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homesick? Purchase your cure<\/em> <\/em>here<\/em><\/a> (kopi), or <\/em>here<\/em><\/a> (teh). <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. Don\u2019t Forget Those Creature Comforts \ud83d\ude47\u200d\u2640\ufe0f<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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For some, being homesick doesn\u2019t just literally mean missing home. It can be missing a routine that you\u2019re used to<\/a>, or a specific ritual that\u2019s familiar and comforting<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To minimise the disruption of your day-to-day, we recommend bringing along that one creature comfort you absolutely cannot live without. That, however, comes with limits. For instance, it might not be such a good idea to lug around your giant plushie or pack 10 books into your backpack. Always<\/em> adapt and improvise whenever possible! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image credits: Amazon<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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For me, reading has always been a way of decompressing and escaping from the mundanities and stressors of life. This is why my travel essential is a Kindle. When I was studying overseas, the Kindle accompanied me many a chill afternoon at the cafe as well as on long bus rides across states. It’s a great time-passer, but more importantly, it allowed me to unwind in the same way I would have if I were back in Singapore. Plus, it\u2019s so compact that I could literally fit it into the inner pocket of my jacket!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> Check out our quick guide<\/a> on how you can purchase the Kindle Paperwhite at a cheaper price from Amazon US! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price: <\/strong>From USD$89.99 (~S$121.75)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homesick? Purchase your cure<\/em> <\/em>here<\/em><\/a>. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5. For When You\u2019re Feeling Under The Weather \ud83d\udc8a<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Image credits: Watsons, Guardian<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Chances are, you\u2019ll be heading off to a country that experiences all four seasons. For us, Singaporeans, who have only ever experienced summer, this might make us more susceptible to the sniffles \u2014 thus, the importance of a well-stocked medi<\/em>-pack. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While medication can be easily purchased over the counter, we’ve got our own local special go-to remedies \u2014 Po Chai<\/em> pills for the upset stomach, Tiger Balm<\/em> for colds and aches, and Pei Pa Koa <\/em>for coughs! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price:<\/strong> Pei Pa Koa Individual Sachets \u2014 S$6.70, Tiger Balm Tourist Favourites Pack \u2014 S$64.80 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homesick? Purchase <\/em>Pei Pa Koa <\/em>here<\/em><\/a>, and Tiger Balm <\/em>here<\/em><\/a>. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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6. Pack A Warm Hug \ud83e\udde5<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Hugs are pretty dang<\/em> powerful, and now that you\u2019re going to be away from your usual supply of snuggles and cuddles \u2014 you\u2019ll need to improvise. Enter: your favourite hoodie. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You might not immediately see how an article of clothing can help you alleviate the symptoms of homesickness, but, when you\u2019re cold and maybe even a little miserable in a foreign land, having a soft and comfy pullover hits you differently. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image credits: American Apparel<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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If you don’t have a favourite comfy sweater yet? Here\u2019s our recommendation: the quintessential<\/em> American Apparel Flex Fleece hoodie feels as lush as a hug once you break into it \u2014 plus, it comes in 20 gorgeous colours. For maximum cuddle effect, get yours a little oversized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price:<\/strong> From US$12.15 (~S$16.40)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homesick? Purchase your cure<\/em> <\/em>here<\/em><\/a>. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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7. Penny For Your Thoughts \ud83d\udcdd<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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In between travelling, partying, and studying, don\u2019t forget to take some time for yourself. Journalling is a great way to feed your introspective mind and help you pick up on triggers that make you feel happy, sad, or anxious. Sometimes, combating homesickness requires a shift in perspective: don\u2019t think about what you\u2019re missing out on back at home, but instead focus on all the new experiences you stand to gain! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

We love this blank leatherette hardbound notebook from The Paper Bunny, not only because of the local touch it brings, but also because it comes with a super apt reminder. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image credits: The Paper Bunny<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Tip: <\/strong>Use this chance to exercise those creative muscles by scrapbooking \u2014 save those polaroids, bus tickets, and concert wristbands to commemorate those experiences. You’d be glad you did! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price<\/strong>: From S$18<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Homesick? Purchase your cure<\/em> <\/em>here<\/em><\/a>. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Sick of Being Homesick<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Living abroad for the very first time can be quite daunting, but we hope that this list will show you how to manage your emotions if you get homesick. The pandemic, with all its inconvenience and heartache, has unwittingly proved that spatial distance has nothing on us. With two years of Skype hangouts and phone calls on our belt, you\u2019re likely to be more prepared than ever to take on the world bravely. So go forth and be the global citizen you\u2019ve always wanted to be! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of where in the world you end up for your studies, don\u2019t forget to take your YouTrip Card<\/a> along with you! As a (broke) student, every cent counts, which is where our Wholesale Exchange Rates<\/a> will come in super handy too! You\u2019ll thank us later. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not on YouTrip yet? Use promo code <BLOG5<\/strong><\/a>> to sign up and receive a free S$5 in your account. For more great guides like this, join our Telegram Channel (@YouTripSG<\/strong><\/a>)<\/strong><\/a> and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here<\/strong><\/a> or down below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Best Carry-On Luggage Alternatives to Rimowa From Amazon US Under US$150<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Get a Student Loan in Singapore: Bank Comparisons<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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*All currency conversion rates are accurate to nearest 10 cents on 4 November 2021 SGT 16:00. Bank card prices are calculated based on 3.25% foreign currency transaction fee.<\/sup><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Say no to homesickness.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":33236,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[623,624],"tags":[39159],"class_list":["post-33233","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lifestyle","category-travel","tag-vtl"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33233","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33233"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33233\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/33236"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33233"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33233"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33233"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}