My name is Emy and I’m originally from Cairo, Egypt. Being an adventurous person, I always liked to take risks and making changes.
But I didn’t ever imagine coming to Germany.
I always had the dream of working abroad where I could learn from a new culture and try new opportunities. Basically, I was searching for a city where I could speak the language, like French or English … but German, that was new.
In the beginning, it was difficult for me to apply to companies in Germany but after a while I figured out that the IT market is big there, and I could find more opportunities and even learn a new language.
Well, for a person who speaks three languages, it should not be a problem.
So, in 2016, I took the risk and traveled on my own to the beautiful green city of Munich.
I fell in love with the city from the first day on, the green landscape and the nature are amazing but without speaking German that was a big challenge.
I could use English in many places near the city center but outside it was almost impossible.
So, I was always asking for help from my colleagues to book an appointment with a doctor and had to be sure that they speak English. I had difficulties speaking to people in customer service and ask about something or complain — that was a nightmare. I even have a funny story where I had to use Google translate to explain what I needed.
And then I decided to learn German! I enrolled myself in an intensive course and in six months, I reached B1 level and was able to have a decent conversation. Actually, I couldn’t be much prouder.
Now, after six years, I can say that it was the best decision I made. I love being here, have international friends, and enjoy being independent person.
If I had to go back, I wouldn’t change anything as every step in life is teaching you something new.
I'm originally from Cairo/Egypt, have been living in Munich for six years, and work as IT Service Manager. I’m an outdoor person who adores nature, so I’m very lucky to be in Munich where I can enjoy nearby places like Starnberg or Tegernsee. I like to travel, and I love to try new foods. Honestly, what makes life easier is to have great friendships. I’m lucky to find a great friends with whom we can entertain, travel, and try new things.
After a tough start of 2015, InterNations member Bryan Johnson decided to move to China for a new, exciting experience. What was supposed to be a short-term teaching assignment became a permanent stay and a once-in-a-lifetime journey. This is Bryan’s story!
Ica’s move abroad was full of excitement but still, it took her a while to make friends. After spending a lot of time with her co-workers, she decided to branch out. Read about her experience of making new friends abroad and how this has helped her to settle in.
Moving to the mainland full time was supposed to be a breeze for InterNations member Diana. It came as a shock to her when she initially felt out of place. But with time, she found a way to adapt to the new circumstances and pass on what she learned. This is Diana’s culture shock story!
As a serial expat, InterNations member Monica has learned something from every country, she has lived in. Although the experience also came with a lot of challenges, she has found a way to create a sense of belonging and connection wherever she goes. Read on to learn more about her story!
Being an expat can be both the most amazing experience in the world and the hardest. From fantastic new friends, to feeling far from home, find out just how simultaneously difficult and awesome life abroad can be!