4 Tips for a Memorable Thanksgiving in an Expat World

Nothing evokes the nostalgia of home like Thanksgiving. The food, gathering of family and friends, even an occasional family squabble that reminds us we're all unique. If you're an expat living abroad, here are 4 tips to help you create your own Thanksgiving in your new home or city – minus the squabbles:

1. Give a nod to your local support team – You don't need to be American to take part in the holiday of gratitude. Take time to thank those around you who have made your transition a success – new work colleagues, realtor, neighbors, teachers – even your local butcher or grocer. If you don't invite them to dine at your Thanksgiving dinner, take a moment to thank each person for their support.
2. Connect with your family and friends – Long gone are expensive overseas phone calls saved for special events and holidays. Now you can Skype or Facetime* with your family and share photos throughout the day. You may not be able to smell the turkey, but you can get a glimpse of dinner at your grandmother's house and see how much your nieces and nephews have grown. Keep time zones in mind so you don't call in the middle of dinner – or a football bowl game! (*Refer to your carrier for calling plan costs.)
3. Let's face it - holidays can be sentimental and may bring about emotions of unhappiness or unease. In sharing tips on positive thinking, Josh Wood of Expat Exchange suggests demonstrating worth to ourselves by assisting a worthwhile cause or other people. Opportunities to do just that are frequently found while on an expatriate assignment. Whether it's through your company, an expat club or elsewhere, embrace the chance to use your strengths in some type of philanthropic activity.
4. Create new traditions – Whether dining at a local restaurant that specializes in a traditional American Thanksgiving menu, diverting from tradition and having sushi or curry, or cooking a Thanksgiving feast in your home, you get to design the Thanksgiving of your choice. Be creative – or traditional – the choice is yours.