The Expat Life: Do I Really Have To Learn The Language?

Posted on 06. Jul, 2009 by Emmanuelle Archer in Blog, Expat Life, Relocation
1 comment

You are in the process of moving, or maybe you have just moved to a new country. Should you learn the local language?

I know that learning a new language as an adult can be an intimidating process. I have met many people who swore that they did not need to learn the language because they were living in an expat enclave. And I know even more people who thought they’d pick up the language naturally once they got there, only to get completely discouraged when it didn’t come to them all that easily.

So I am not saying that this is the easiest thing in the world. It’s a big commitment. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be horribly difficult either – yet so many expats seem to think it’s completely optional…
What good could come from not learning the language?

(more…)

Good Quotes: On Learning Languages

Posted on 03. Jul, 2009 by Emmanuelle Archer in Blog, Musings & Inspiration, Relocation
1 comment

July is Language Learning Month at Winning Away!

“Learn a new language and get a new soul” – Czech Proverb

“A different language is a different vision of life” – Federico Fellini

Emmanuelle

Image: Watts Chapel by nick.garrod

Book Review: A Portable Identity

Posted on 01. Jul, 2009 by Emmanuelle Archer in Blog, Reviews
0 comments

First of all, if you are a fellow Canadian, I wish you a Happy Canada Day!
If you are not Canadian, no worries – we Canucks are known for being a nice, welcoming bunch, so please grab a chair, get yourself a drink and stay for a while!

In case you’d like something funny to read while we wait for the fireworks and the barbecue, I would recommend this excellent post by James Chartrand for Copyblogger: Old-School Marketing No Longer Working? Blame Canada.
I loved the bit about startling the wildlife and being – politely, of course – shown the door by Mounties. Then again, I am easily entertained.

And now, it’s time for a book review!

I have a really good workbook to recommend today. Not exactly a light summer read, but if you are ready to do some serious, powerful personal work to better understand how expatriation has changed you, I cannot think of a better starting point.

(more…)