Making it easier to settle in the UK is about much more than visas, bank accounts, jobs and finding somewhere to live. There is also an emotional adjustment that nobody can completely prepare you for.
At first, everything can feel like an adventure. You’re discovering new places, learning how things work and building a new life. But once the excitement of arriving starts to wear off, you may find yourself missing home more than you expected.
That’s completely normal. Settling into a new country takes time.
Give Yourself Time to Adjust
Don’t put pressure on yourself to feel “settled” within a few weeks.
You have changed countries, possibly changed jobs, left family and friends behind and exchanged familiar routines for an entirely new way of life. Even simple things such as finding a dentist, understanding the train system or knowing which supermarket to use can initially require extra effort.
Some days you’ll love living in the UK. Other days you might wonder why you ever left South Africa.
Both can be part of the experience.
Instead of comparing every day with your old life, concentrate on gradually building a new one.
Stay Connected With Home
WhatsApp, video calls and social media make staying connected with South Africa much easier than it once was.
Make time to speak to family and friends, especially during your first few months.
At the same time, try not to spend every evening virtually back in South Africa. Building a life in the UK requires making connections here too.
A regular Sunday call home combined with making plans with people locally can provide a healthy balance.
Find Your South African Community
Sometimes you simply need to be around people who understand where you’ve come from.
There are South African communities throughout the UK, and you’ll find Facebook groups, WhatsApp groups, churches, sports clubs, social events and South African shops in many areas.
Go to a braai. Watch the rugby with other South Africans. Find somewhere selling decent biltong. Talk Afrikaans if that’s your home language.
These little connections can make a surprisingly big difference.
But don’t limit yourself to South African friendships. Getting to know British people and people from other countries will help the UK begin to feel like home rather than somewhere you’re temporarily living.
Create Familiarity in Your New Home
You don’t have to leave everything South African behind to embrace your new life.
Cook the food you grew up with. Put familiar photographs around your home. Make a potjie when the weather allows it. Find your favourite South African products.
Then start adding new UK traditions and routines.
Find your favourite local pub or coffee shop. Discover a walking route you enjoy. Visit your local market. Explore nearby towns and countryside.
The aim isn’t to replace your South African life. It’s to create a new life that contains pieces of both.
Get Outside — Even When It’s Cold
The UK winter can be one of the biggest adjustments for South Africans.
Short days, grey skies and cold weather can affect your mood, particularly if you’re accustomed to considerably more sunshine.
It’s tempting to stay indoors, but getting outside can help.
Go for walks, explore parks, visit National Trust properties, discover nearby villages or simply get outside for a coffee.
And buy a decent coat.
British weather becomes considerably easier to tolerate when you’re dressed for it.
Don’t Compare Everything
It’s natural to compare the UK with South Africa.
Some things will seem better. Others won’t.
Try to avoid turning every difference into a competition between the two countries.
Instead of asking, “Which country is better?”, it can be more helpful to ask, “How can I make the best life possible here?”
You can love South Africa and still build a wonderful life in Britain.
Give Yourself Something to Look Forward To
Plan things.
It doesn’t need to be an expensive European holiday. Arrange a weekend away, visit a new town, invite friends over for a braai or plan a summer picnic.
Having something in the diary gives you something positive to anticipate and encourages you to experience your new country rather than simply working and going home.
Remember Why You Made the Move
There may be difficult days when you question your decision.
When that happens, remember why you moved.
Perhaps it was for career opportunities, your children’s future, family, adventure, safety, education or simply the opportunity to experience something different.
Whatever your reason, keep it somewhere in the back of your mind.
And remember that settling in doesn’t happen on a particular date.
One day you’ll realise that you have a favourite supermarket, know which train to catch without checking your phone, complain about the weather, recognise people in your neighbourhood and automatically say “cheers” instead of “thanks”.
South Africa will always be part of who you are.
But slowly, almost without noticing it, the UK can start feeling like home too. 🇿🇦 ❤️ 🇬🇧
Some Helpful Tips
Learn the Language: Even if you’re familiar with the language, learning local phrases and expressions can help you connect with people and feel more at home.
Understand the Culture: Take time to learn about local customs, traditions, and etiquette. It will help you feel more confident and respected in social and professional situations.
Build a Support Network: Make connections with both locals and fellow expats. Join social groups, meetups, or community events to expand your circle of friends and support.
Find a Comfortable Home: Choose a place to live that suits your lifestyle and needs. Being in a comfortable environment can help reduce stress.
Stay Organized: Ensure your paperwork is in order—visa, work permits, health insurance, and bank accounts. The more organized you are, the smoother the transition will be.
Explore Your New Surroundings: Take time to explore your new city or town. Visit landmarks, try local foods, and get familiar with public transportation. The more you explore, the more you’ll feel connected to your new home.
Stay Positive and Patient: Adjusting to a new country takes time. Be patient with yourself and others as you navigate new systems and environments. Keeping a positive mindset helps.
Settle Into Your Routine: Establishing a daily routine will help bring structure and stability to your life, making the new place feel more like home.
Stay in Touch with Family and Friends: While you’re settling in, staying connected with loved ones back home can provide emotional support and reassurance.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talking to a counselor or expat group can provide guidance and emotional support during the transition.
