What do expats find most challenging?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Colombo. They wrote...

"Everything is so slow. People are very proud and stubborn at times. They smile a lot, but the smile doesn't always feel sincere. There is a lack of problem solving orientation. Prices are quite high for some items and especially for foreigners. Old cars are being driven and they are very polluting," said a member in Colombo , Sri Lanka.

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"Expats in Colombo often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken. Additionally, the local customs and etiquette can be difficult to navigate, as they are quite different from those of other countries. The traffic and congestion in Colombo can also be overwhelming for expats, as it is much more chaotic than what they may be used to. Finally, the heat and humidity can be a challenge for expats, as it can be quite oppressive at times," remarked another expat who made the move to Colombo, Sri Lanka.

What do expats find most challenging?

If you live in Colombo, newcomers to Colombo would love to hear your answer to this question.