Staying in Touch with Loved Ones while Abroad
Ways to Communicate with Home while Living Overseas
So you're about to embark on the great adventure of living overseas for a while, but are a bit apprehensive because you're afraid of spending time away from your loved ones. This is natural! There are plenty of ways, especially now with various internet services available, to stay connected to family and friends when there's an ocean between you.
Free Online Communication Services
Skype: The communication service Skype is available with a free online membership. Skype is an Instant Messenger service, as well as a telephone service that utilizes the computer's microphone and treats it almost like a telephone. The service is free if both parties have Skype; if not, there is something called "Skype Out" where the caller (usually the one overseas) puts down a minimum of USD $10.
AOL Instant Messenger (AIM): Not only does AIM have a one-on-one instant messenger service and a chat room option, it also offers a "Talk" feature where it's possible to speak to family and friends just as you would with Skype or a telephone.
An important notice regarding both AIM and Skype's telephone-like service: Make sure, especially if you have an older computer model, that it has a microphone. Otherwise, you'll have to buy it separately and plug it in to your computer (usually it's right next to where you'd put headphones).
Technology Worth Investigating to Stay in Touch
In addition to the internet, there are other means of communication worth considering:
Webcam: Want to actually see your family and friends in addition to hearing their voices? Get a webcam! Prices range from the very inexpensive (USD $30) to the splurge (USD $100).
Worldwide Mobile Phone Service: Be sure the cell phone that you use in your home country can be used, even for emergencies only, in the destination country. Even if a phone call is a dollar, Euro, or pound a minute with this sort of plan, it's smart to have it as a backup in addition to the mobile phone you should purchase for local calls in the destination country.
Additional Ways to Keep Home Close
Combat homesickness by bringing personal items along: A photograph of you and your best friend, a special gift from a family member, your favorite recipe, or a college t-shirt are all great objects to pack, and they don't take up a whole lot of suitcase space.
And what ever happened to good, old-fashioned letter writing? Send your family and friends a postcard or a handwritten note, and let them know you'd love to hear from them. It can also be exciting for you to open up an envelope rather than an email, especially when that envelope is covered in familiar handwriting.
All of the above suggestions can help you stay in touch with everyone you love at home, but don't forget to meet new people while you're overseas! Keeping the right balance between remembering those you care about and enjoying your experience abroad is key to getting the most out of what could be one of the most memorable times of your life.
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