Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Raanana, Israel
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Raanana
Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?
Very limited specific training
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Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?
Hebrew is the language used in Israel. I had good knowledge before I came because I lived here in my Gap year (59 years ago). Took a 6 month immersion course
Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?
No terribly
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Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?
Limited because of many visits and a good number of Israeli friends.
Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?
After 25 years, I still am the the honeymoon stage.
What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.
I am an optimist and that has served me well. One guiding philosophy has been to never expect Israel to be the USA or even NY.
What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?
Warmth of family and friends. Openness. Large number of smart people. A feeling of being home after 2000 years. Love of children. A feeling that we are all relatives.
What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?
Sometimes a bit too much intimacy.
Did you "commit" any embarrassing or humorous cultural blunders? If you did and you'd like to share them, please do tell!
Some founded out language situations. Right after we arrived we purchased a Volvo. At that time it was viewed as the smart person car. Here it was viewed (25 years ago) as being like a Cadillac in a neighborhood of Chevrolets.
Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?
Roll with the punches. If this is a lifetime commitment think of it as a marriage not a one night stand. If it is a temporary move, savor the experience and do not be judgmental.
Additional Information:
- Israel Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Israel
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Israel
- Best Places to Live in Israel
- Real Estate in Israel
- Guide to Real Estate in Israel
- Pros & Cons of Living in Israel
- Cost of Living in Israel
- Enrolling in the Public Healthcare System in Israel
- 10 Best Places for Families to Live in Israel
- How to Get a Driver's License in Israel
- 15 Best Places to Live in Israel
- Pros and Cons of Living in Israel 2024