Who are you?
Diana Lockhart , more-than-middle-aged woman who loves her husband and will follow him anywhere!
Where, when and why did you move abroad? We moved to Luxembourg in July 2016 for my husband’s job.
What challenges did you face during the move?
Paperwork for the visa is a bit cumbersome. We were leaving our 5 (basically) adult children and grandchild, and an aging parent.
How did you find somewhere to live?
We had a wonderful relocation expert assisting us, not only in housing and acclimation to the area, but pointing out areas where we can be involved in the community.
Are there many other expats in your area?
About 40% of the population of Luxembourg is expat.
What is your relationship like with the locals?
It’s wonderful having friends who are native Luxembourgers, as well people from other countries who have been established in Luxembourg for many years. We have GOOD friends from all over the world.
What do you like about life where you are?
I love the view from my apartment–the Luxembourgish rooflines and buidlings, seeing the culture and history around me, living a life unexpected.
What do you dislike about your expat life?
Being away from family is very difficult, and the language barrier is huge!
What is the biggest cultural difference you have experienced between your new country and life back home?
The difference in the perception of taking vacation is such a change for us, as is the lesser visibility of customer service.
What do you think of the food and drink in your new country? What are your particular likes or dislikes?
Wine and beer in Luxembourg, in Europe, is amazingly delicious and inexpensive. It seems food has fewer preservatives, more flavor. I miss salsa in huge bottles, but the fries here are amazing! Flaming garlic prawns–oh la la!
What advice would you give to anyone following in your footsteps?
Live your life without fear, without regrets. Embrace the differences and the opportunity to overcome them!
What are your plans for the future?
While I’ll travel back and forth to the States frequently to see my family (while Mr. Wonderful works his butt off), we will be here as long as the job is here. We’ll travel and see more of Europe while it’s so incredibly accessible and inexpensive.
You can keep up to date with Diana's adventures on her blog, European Trophy Wife, and on City Savvy Luxembourg.
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