For the longest time, I dreamt about experiencing life in another country, seeing how it felt to live in another culture with different customs, traditions, and values. It always sounded so tantalizing, but also completely unrealistic, the kind of thing only people with giant backpacks and an interest in organic farming could do. Plus, as I got older, I accumulated responsibilities. A partner who craved stability, for example. And kids. And a mortgage.

Then the COVID pandemic hit, and like many, we became very much aware of the fleeting nature of life and that we only get one crack at this, so we decided it was time to give it a shot.

In the span of three months, we (deep breath) vacated our house, applied for visas, searched for schools and apartments, and soon we were off on a new adventure to Valencia, Spain.

We’ve experienced a LOT in the past few years, and we’ve learned so much about ourselves in the process. Becoming an expat is both much easier than you think and also requires intentionality and effort. Our goal at Open Harts is to help you through your journey, to pay it forward for the next set of seekers. How can we help you get started?