Expat Life – Five Types of Crises & Ten Preparation Ideas
Living abroad is exciting, challenging, and life-changing. We select our new host location for its potential comfort, safety, stability, economic benefits, and even the natural environment. Many of us never think about the "what ifs" that could happen if any part of the political, economic, or environmental infrastructures should suddenly collapse. By the way, part of that challenge is knowing what to do if you have an emergency in your location. I am here to help you think in advance and develop a plan to the best of your ability.
Have you thought about or do have a plan if one of the five scenarios should arise while you are an expat?
Natural Disaster…
Depending on where you live, your location could experience hurricanes, typhoons, or flash flooding. The other situations are earthquakes with or without tsunamis or wildfires. You could have an unexpectedly hot summer or extremely cold winter, which can result in loss of power, heating, or air-conditioning. Have you thought about what you would do if you needed to evacuate?
Political Unrest…
You could move to a stable country, but during your tenure, the direction and stability changes due to increased unemployment, fluctuation in the local currency, religious conflicts, or election violence. The unrest could be rallies, street protests, or even mistreating foreigners. Have you thought about how you would protect yourself or your family?