Moving from Greece
In October 2024, I moved from Athens to the Netherlands, where we will be staying for a period of three to six years. Although we have kept our home in Athens and will be traveling back and forth to explore the most beautiful places for families, our base is now in the Netherlands. We will be in Greece during the school vacations, that is, about 5 times per year.
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This move was a major life transition for me. I lived in Greece for 30 years, including 25 years in Athens, and had never made a big move before. Within Greece, we stayed in the same beautiful, sunny apartment for over 20 years, where both of my children were born. Leaving behind that home was one of the biggest emotional and logistical challenges of this experience.
I originally left the Netherlands as a student and returned decades later with a full family—including a pet. The biggest challenge was emptying our home in Athens in October. Wanting to fully enjoy the Greek summer, I delayed much of the packing process. However, when the time came, I realized that a week—despite the help of a moving company—was simply not enough to declutter, sort, and pack in a calm and organized manner.
To share my personal journey, struggles, and lessons learned, I documented my experience in a blog post for KAE International Movers.
Here is an extract from that article, where you will find useful tips on planning an international move from Greece, moving with family, overcoming struggles and difficulties, valuable lessons, handling pets, and much more.
Summary of My Journey Abroad: Practical Tips from a Real Moving Experience
Moving abroad is an exciting yet complex process, filled with both opportunities and challenges. My journey from Greece to the Netherlands taught me invaluable lessons about preparation, organization, and adaptability. One of the biggest takeaways is the importance of early planning—securing the right moving company, understanding visa and residency requirements, and arranging temporary housing before arrival.
Moving with a family adds another layer of complexity, as it involves considering schooling, healthcare, and emotional adjustments. Children may need time to settle into a new environment, and it’s essential to find ways to make the transition smoother for them. Keeping familiar routines, involving them in the process, and helping them integrate into the new culture can make a significant difference.
Another key aspect is moving with a pet. Relocating with a furry companion requires careful planning—ensuring vaccinations and paperwork are in order, choosing pet-friendly accommodations, and helping them adjust to their new surroundings. We booked a pet cabin on the ferry boat from Greece to Italy and took our furry friend with us.
10 Tips for moving
In retrospect, I believe that the biggest task was decluttering. Sorting through 30 years of memories, and deciding which toys can stay or go, was a difficult task. Not only physically, but mostly emotionally. Books were the hardest to part from. If I had to give one advice, it would be to prepare and declutter as early as possible.
Here are 10 valuable lessons I learned from my international move:
- Begin preparations well in advance—moving takes more time than expected.
- Research everything about your new destination, from legal requirements to lifestyle differences.
- Decluttering before the move makes packing and unpacking much easier.
- Choosing a professional moving company with international expertise is crucial.
- Keep essential documents (passports, visas, medical records) in a safe and accessible place.
- Secure temporary housing ahead of time to reduce stress upon arrival.
- Notify banks, subscriptions, and utility providers of your relocation in advance.
- Pack a separate bag with must-have essentials for the first few days in your new home.
- If moving with a pet, research regulations and ensure a smooth transition for them.
- Expect the unexpected (!!!) —flexibility and a positive mindset will help you overcome challenges.
Unexpected challenges always arise, whether it’s dealing with local movers, cultural differences, or unexpected costs. However, with flexibility and an open mindset, these obstacles can turn into valuable learning experiences.
For the entire blog article, click here: My Journey Abroad: Practical Tips from a Real Moving Experience
Do you have any questions about moving to Greece or vice versa? Do you want to know what it is like to raise a family in Greece? Reach out at info@familyexperiencesblog.com, or leave a comment under this blog!
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