In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria welcomes Melissa, an avid traveler and author, to share her insights on the art of travel and the rich experiences that come from exploring different cultures. With a lifetime of adventures under her belt, Melissa reflects on her journey as a passionate backpacker who has traversed Southeast Asia, embracing the unknown and celebrating the connections made along the way.

Melissa discusses being a traveler, emphasizing that it’s not just about the destinations but the people encountered during the journey. From humorous anecdotes about leeches during a challenging hike in Laos to the warmth of local guides, she illustrates how these interactions shape our understanding of the world.

Listeners will learn about the balance between adventure and comfort, as Melissa shares her experiences in both backpacking and luxury travel. She also touches on the impact of technology on modern travel, the importance of being present in the moment, and how cultural rituals, like the candle lighting tradition in Colombia, can inspire new habits and perspectives.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or dreaming of your next adventure, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

SUPPORT THE PODCAST by leaving a five-star review or consider buying me a coffee to keep the stories coming!

Check out Melissa's book, The People You Meet, available on Amazon, and follow her on Instagram at @Fly_Travel_Media for more travel insights.

Here are some previous episodes about South East Asia:

Beyond Borders - Kevin's Journey from Korea to Koh Phangan, Thailand

Moving to Bali

Starting a Practice in Singapore - Dr. Elefant Yanni about her Therapy Approach for Expats

Keywords: Travel, Backpacking, Cultural Experiences, Southeast Asia, Personal Growth, Adventure, Community, Travel Writing, Connection, Travel Rituals, Modern Travel, Technology in Travel, Storytelling.

(00:00) This is a new episode of Worlds Collide about moving abroad

(00:53) Hey, Melissa. How are you today

(01:06) What makes a traveler, in your opinion?

(02:57) What makes a traveler? I don't know. I think we, some of us are born with curiosity

(05:24) This book is completely about your Southeast Asia adventure

(06:43) Backpacking is where the stories come from, right?

(11:39) Sometimes you put your faith into complete strangers when traveling

(17:07) The second you smiled and said hello to somebody, everything changed

(19:01) Is this also how you would say, like, you would find friends while traveling

(21:20) Do you think the...

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria welcomes Helery, an inspiring Estonian expat who has found her home in the picturesque northern town of Bassano del Grappa, Italy. Helery's journey from Estonia, to various corners of Europe—including Finland and Spain—has been shaped by her adventurous spirit and the desire to embrace new cultures. With experience in the tourism sector, she now runs her own business helping foreigners navigate the job market in new countries.

Helery opens up about the profound personal loss she faced when her fiancé unexpectedly passed away while they were living in Spain. She shares how this life-altering event propelled her to seek professional help and ultimately inspired her to become a guiding light for others. Her business reflects her mission to support expats in finding jobs and integrating into their new communities.

Listeners will gain insight into the challenges of adjusting to life in Italy, from overcoming cultural differences to the nuances of learning the Italian language. Helery shares her thoughts on the importance of mindset in job searching, the value of genuine connections in networking, and the unique experience of living abroad—where the line between home and foreign can often blur.

Whether you're contemplating a move abroad, dealing with the complexities of loss, or seeking inspiration to pursue your dreams, this episode offers a heartfelt narrative filled with resilience and hope. Don't miss out on Helery's incredible story and the valuable lessons she imparts along the way.

Support the podcast by leaving a five-star review or consider buying me a coffee to keep the stories coming!

Here is Helery's website to help on your resume's and CV's for your job search abroad.

Here are previous episodes with similar destinations:

Moving to Spain with Astrocartographer Isabel

Moving to Spain - Meg's Journey from Cold to the Sun

From St. Luis to Sicilian Shores - Jennifer's Quest to Italian Citizenship

Grieving in a foreign country - Brigette's Story

(00:00) Worlds Collide is a podcast about moving abroad in 2026

(00:59) This episode includes a trigger warning about loss of a loved one

(01:40) Hilary is studying tourism and hospitality in Italy

(05:20) How long did you stay in Estonia until you went away again

(07:10) Ferrera Hilary helps foreigners find jobs in new countries

(14:29) You passed your Spanish language exam, and you were proud of that

(17:12) How much longer did you stay in Spain after that?

(19:24) ChatGPT helps job seekers with their CVs

(26:06) I'm specialized in helping foreigners when they are searching for a job abroad

(32:31) People say they don't feel home when living abroad, according to survey

(35:09) I asked people to name something you are most proud of during living abroad

(37:04) Sometimes people talk to me like I am a foreigner when I go abroad

(40:13) Why did you decide to move to Italy from Spain

(43:04) Tell me about your language process with Italian and Spanish

(48:02) Hillary: Future wise, do you plan or can you...

Today's episode is a re-run! I wish you all a merry Christmas and happy holidays!

If you feel generous for the season you can support this Podcast and leave a 5* rating or Buy me a Coffee.

In this heartfelt episode of Worlds Collide, I sit down with Linda, who, alongside her family, embraced the expatriate life for an incredible 26 years in Japan. With a recent return to the United States, Linda opens up about the complex emotions that come with repatriation—the good, the bad, and the deeply honest. Linda's journey is a profound exploration of home, identity, and the bittersweet nature of long-term overseas living.

Linda recounts the initial allure of Japan, where she and her husband carved out a life rich in community and culture, and the stark contrast of coming 'home' to the USA. She shares the challenges of finding her feet back in the US, where the expectation of instant community clashes with the reality of starting anew. We delve into the nuances of reverse culture shock, from the surprising aspects of American life that now feel foreign, to the things she yearns for from her life in Japan.

Listeners will also get a glimpse into Linda's passion project, her podcast "Kaidankai," where she breathes life into ghost stories and supernatural tales from modern writers around the globe. Links for the Kaidankai Podcast are here for Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Whether you're an expat grappling with the idea of going back, someone curious about life after long-term travel, or just looking for a connection to stories of profound change, this episode will resonate with you. Don't miss out on Linda's captivating narrative and be sure to check out her podcast for a dose of the eerie and enchanting.

If Linda's story has touched you or if you're eager to share your own, reach out to us at worldscollide123pod@gmail.com or join our community on Instagram @worldscollidepod. And for those who cherish this podcast, share it with friends and consider leaving a five-star review to help us grow. Stay tuned for more Worlds Collide episodes, where the stories of lives lived across borders continue to unfold.

Here are other episodes with similarities:

Navigating Culture Shock - Cecile's move back to France

Building a Life Abroad in Japan - Jo tells her story

Keywords: Repatriation, Expat Life, Japan, Reverse Culture Shock, Community Building, American Culture, Multicultural Diversity, Language Learning, Family, Overseas Living, Podcasting, Storytelling, Ghost Stories, Adaptation, Personal Growth, Returning Home, Cultural Identity, International Experience, Transition Challenges, Moving Abroad, Living Abroad, Living in Japan

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find comfort and connection in these stories. Until next week, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

---

📋 Episode Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to Worlds Collide, the podcast about moving abroad

(00:50) Victoria: Linda and her family have lived abroad for 26 years

(05:00) Your husband was teaching English in Japan when you had your first...

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria sits down with Tracey, a global nomad originally from China, who has made her way to the bustling streets of New York City. After living in six different cities across three countries, Tracey shares her transformative journey that began at just 16 years old when she left her small hometown for the metropolis of Shanghai. She discusses the unexpected opportunities that have shaped her life and career, including her current role as a relocation coach.

Tracey opens up about the challenges of adjusting to new cultures, the emotional toll of relocating, and the importance of finding community in unfamiliar places. As she navigates her own experiences of loneliness and identity shifts, she emphasizes the significance of self-connection and the power of spiritual growth in overcoming life's transitions. With a unique blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, Tracey provides listeners with valuable tools for processing emotions and building a sense of home, no matter where they are in the world.

Explore Tracy's work and download her free ebook on emotional journeys of relocation at traceyzhang.com.

Support the Podcast by leaving a 5* review or if you feel extra generous, you can buy me a coffee.

Check out www.Worldscollidepodcast.com for contact info and more.

Here are 2 more picked episode that resonate with this episode.

This is another episode for self help for expats

Starting a Practice in Singapore - Dr. Elefant Yanni about her Therapy Approach for Expats

and this one is more about Canada

International Experience Canada - Jack's work and travel adventure

Chapters:

(02:30) Tracy's journey from China to New York City

(10:00) The challenges of relocating and finding community

(15:30) Understanding emotional loneliness and self-connection

(22:00) Transitioning from corporate finance to relocation coaching

(30:00) The impact of spirituality on personal transformation

(35:00) Navigating identity shifts and reverse culture shock

(40:00) Tracy's insights on building a sense of home

(45:00) Future plans and embracing uncertainty

Keywords: Expat Life, Relocation Coaching, Cultural Adjustment, Emotional Loneliness, Spiritual Growth, Community Building, New York City, Identity Transformation, Somatic Practices, Personal Journey, Global Nomad, Career Transition, Life Changes, Inner Peace, Self-Discovery, moving to New York, moving abroad

💬 Show Notes

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria welcomes Christina, a Canadian expat who has made her home in Hungary after a whirlwind journey through several European cities. Christina shares her story of moving from Vancouver to Europe, starting with a spontaneous decision in Paris that led her to London, then to Paris again, Amsterdam, and finally settling in Budapest. She reflects on her experiences navigating different cultures, the challenges of finding housing, and the unique aspects of life as an expat.

As the holiday season approaches, the conversation turns to Christmas traditions across cultures. Christina compares her experiences of celebrating Christmas in Canada versus Hungary, highlighting the differences in customs and the speed at which the holiday is celebrated in her current home. With humor and insight, she shares her favorite holiday memories and discusses how she plans to spend this year's festivities in Scotland.

Christina also opens up about her work as a psychologist, specializing in supporting expats and digital nomads. She discusses the common challenges her clients face, including culture shock, the complexities of living abroad, and the emotional toll of being away from family during the holidays. If you're curious about the expat experience or looking for guidance on navigating life in a new culture, this episode is filled with relatable stories and valuable advice.

Check out Christina's website for professional help here.

Buy a coffee to support the Podcast here or give a 5* rating in your Podcast app.

Check out www.Worldscollidepodcast.com for contact info and more.

If you want to hear other expat stories with Eastern European destiantions, why don't you check out these previous episodes:

A Family's Transition to Life in Romania

Moving to Croatia - Sara from Expats in Croatia

Moving to Albania, leaving Italy and the US behind - Jasmine's Story

Chapters:

(02:30) Christina's journey from Canada to Europe

(10:00) Moving to Budapest and the challenges of expat life

(15:30) Christmas traditions in Canada vs. Hungary

(22:00) Christina's work as a psychologist for expats

(30:00) Building a social network in a new country(35:00) Navigating culture shock and identity changes

(40:00) Future plans and reflections on living abroad

Keywords: Expat Life, Moving Abroad, Cultural Differences, Christmas Traditions, Expat Psychologist, Digital Nomad, Budapest, Canada, Community, Culture Shock, Identity, European Adventure, Mental Health Support for Expats, Life Transitions, Moving to Hungary, Christmas Abroad.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria chats with Paul, the creative mind behind the popular Instagram account "We Got Frenched." Join them as they explore Paul's adventurous journey of moving to France from Southern California. With a backdrop of the picturesque Loire Valley, Paul shares the pivotal moment that led him to take the leap into expatriate life during the pandemic, trading the sunny shores of Newport Beach for the charm of French countryside living.

Paul recounts his experiences of settling into a new culture, navigating language barriers, and the joys and challenges of renovating an old winery. He candidly discusses the emotional rollercoaster of uprooting his life, the logistics of moving with a dog, and the delightful surprises of French holiday traditions, including the enchanting Christmas markets. With humor and insight, he reflects on the cultural differences he encountered and the importance of understanding one's "why" when making such a significant life change.

Paul's journey is not just about relocation; it's about reinvention and embracing the unexpected. He also introduces his book, "Get Frenched: A Practical Guide to Inventing Your Life in France," which serves as a helpful resource for anyone considering a move abroad. Whether you're dreaming of a new life in France or simply curious about the expat experience, this episode is packed with valuable tips and engaging stories that will inspire your own adventures.

Support this Podcast by leaving a 5* review or if you feel extra generous you can buy me a coffee.

Paul's Website wegotfrenched and his Instagram.

You can find Paul's book here or on his Website.

(00:00) World Collide is a podcast about moving abroad

(01:56) Holiday season is around the corner. Actually, holiday season already started

(02:19) Paul was living in Southern California when he decided to move to France

(06:37) How did you make the move from France to Florida? Okay. So tell me about it. How did you then made the move

(09:52) How did you end up in France where you are now

(12:22) You bought a winery and your living rooms and kitchen are in caves

(14:49) You got your dog certified as a service dog in France

(17:05) Your language skills are a lot better now after moving to New York

(21:14) The French are very proud people, and if they don't speak the language well

(24:18) Get French A practical guide to inventing your life in France

(30:01) You can buy The Evil Empire on Amazon if you're anti Amazon

(31:22) Emily started writing about France on Instagram when she was in France

(33:59) How do you celebrate the holidays abroad? Um, well, France has these Christmas markets

(37:56) Down south, people don't want to go to church on Sundays

(38:49) Do you have any other things that it was hard for you to adjust in France

(42:38) You say you bought your car in Germany because it's cheaper there

(45:18) So did you, um,...

Today's episode is a rerun.

Support this Podcast with a 5* review wherever you listen and don't forget to subscribe. If you feel especcially generous, you can also buy me a coffee!

This weeks episode is Amanda's riveting journey to Iceland, the land of fire and ice, an adventurous spirit who traded America for the stark beauty of Iceland. In this episode of 'Worlds Collide,' I sit down with Amanda to unravel her decade-long saga in the volcanic embrace of this Nordic nation. From the seismic leap of moving with her family to embracing the quirks of Icelandic cuisine – think rotten shark and boiled sheep's head – Amanda reveals the nuances of expatriate life in an environment where nature's raw power is a backdrop to daily life.

With anecdotes that traverse the spectrum from the challenges of learning Icelandic to the heartwarming community response to volcanic eruptions, Amanda's tale is a testament to the resilience and warmth of the human spirit. As a mother raising a bilingual child and a podcaster with a flair for comedy, she offers a glimpse into the life lessons and laughter that come with calling Iceland home.

As always, if Amanda's story has stirred your wanderlust or you have your own tale of cultural adaptation, we invite you to connect with us at worldscollide123pod@gmail.com or follow the adventure on Instagram @worldscollidepod.

Thank you Serge Quarando for the Music from Pixabay.

If you want to listen to other expat stories about Scandinavian Countries, check out the following:

Moving to Denmark - Aggelos' Experience as a Greek Expat

From Texas to Norway - Judah tells her story

Strong Contrasts - From Barbados to Sweden

Amanda's Podcast is called The Good, The Bad & The Braindead and is available on Spotify, Amazon and Youtube.

Remember, your reviews are the compass that guide others to our storytelling shores. If you're enjoying 'Worlds Collide,' please consider leaving a five-star review.

Keywords: Iceland, American Expatriate, Language Learning, Icelandic Cuisine, Community, Volcanic Eruptions, Bilingual Children, Podcasting, Expat Adaptation, Nordic Life, Cultural Experiences, Moving Abroad, Life Transitions, Community Support, Adventure, Expatriate Challenges, Family Relocation, Icelandic Community, Cultural Immersion, Resilience.

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria engages in a heartfelt conversation with Tanya, a passionate advocate for third culture kids (TCKs) who shares her own experiences growing up as a TCK. Originally from Australia, Tanya recounts her journey through various countries, including significant time in China and Cambodia, and her current aspirations to move to the United States. They delve into the challenges TCKs face, such as identity struggles, the impact of constant transitions, and the emotional toll of reentry into one's home country.

Tanya also discusses her work with TCK Training, where she supports globally mobile families and provides insights on how to foster positive childhood experiences for TCKs. With her extensive background in intercultural education, Tanya offers valuable advice for parents navigating the complexities of raising children in a global context. Don't miss this enlightening episode filled with personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice for those living between cultures.

Support this Podcast with a 5* rating or chip in any amount you want at Buy me a Coffee.

Find Tanya Crossmann's Books, Misunderstood: The impact of growing up overseas in the 21st century and Thongs or Flip Flops?: Australian kids overseas and what comes next here.

Find more about Third Culture Kids here.

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction to Tanya and her background

(02:30) Tanya's journey as a third culture kid

(05:15) The challenges of moving abroad and cultural transitions

(10:00) Navigating identity issues as a TCK

(15:45) Tanya's work with TCK Training

(20:00) The importance of community support for Third culture kids

(25:30) Strategies for parents to support their TCK children

(30:00) Tanya's upcoming move to the United States

(35:00) Final thoughts on the TCK experience

(40:00) How to connect with Tanya and TCK Training

Keywords: Third Culture Kids, TCK Training, Cultural Transitions, Identity Struggles, Parenting Abroad, Emotional Health, Global Mobility, Intercultural Education, Community Support, Positive Childhood Experiences, Relocation Challenges, International Living, Corporate Families, Moving Overseas, Moving Abroad, Australia,

Show notes created by https://headliner.app