In this lively and honest webinar, Andrew Motiiala, CEO of The Good Life Abroad, is joined by Bianca Tate, a professional expat coach who has lived in four countries and helps others navigate the transition to living abroad. The conversation dives deep into what really matters when moving to a new country—beyond visas and packing lists.

If you’re dreaming of the good life abroad, this is a must-watch conversation filled with heartfelt stories, mindset shifts, and practical advice for making your first move abroad a success.

Meet Bianca Tate

Bianca’s journey spans Germany, the US, the Netherlands, and Portugal. Along the way, she faced mass redundancies, burnout, and loneliness—transforming each challenge into a lesson. Now, she helps aspiring expats uncover their “why,” overcome fears, and build fulfilling lives overseas with confidence.

Key Takeaways

1. Your Why is Everything

Before you book a one-way ticket, ask: What do I want to get out of this experience? Adventure? Cultural immersion? A slower pace of life? Being clear on your intention will guide your choices—and help you stick through tough moments.

2. It’s Not Just About Logistics

While housing, visas, and moving logistics matter, the real challenges begin after you arrive. Without social connections, community, hobbies, and routines, even a dream destination can feel lonely.

3. The Expat Slump is Real

The initial honeymoon phase wears off. That’s when loneliness, doubt, and even burnout can set in. Bianca encourages you to expect it—and prepare for it.

4. Mindset Shifts are Crucial

• You take yourself with you. A new country won't "fix" old problems.
• Loneliness will happen—plan for it.
• Different is not wrong. Withhold judgment when things don't go your way.

Practical Tips

• Establish a routine early: Familiar places and habits help ground you.
• Join local groups before you move: Facebook, Meetup, and WhatsApp groups are invaluable.
• Repeat local interactions: Go to the same café or gym. Repetition builds community.
• Start with a trial run: Programs like TGLA offer one-month stays to test a city before committing.
• Don't romanticize the wrong location: Visit different neighborhoods, understand noise levels, and align your environment with your lifestyle.
• Learn basic phrases in the local language: Even a small effort changes how locals treat you.
• Build a support network: Connect with fellow expats and locals through shared interests.

Common Pitfalls

• Overworking or self-isolating instead of forming connections.
• Believing “If I don’t like it, I’m stuck.” You can always go home.
• Using unhealthy coping mechanisms instead of addressing the root of stress.

For Retirees

Bianca emphasizes that retirees, unlike working expats, don’t have a built-in community from work. That’s why programs like The Good Life Abroad—which provide a cohort, activities, and a local host—are invaluable. Community makes the difference between thriving and struggling.

Coaching with Bianca

Bianca works with people at every stage of their expat journey—from considering the move to navigating mid-life transitions or the infamous six-month slump. She offers:

• A free 30-minute intro call
• A Fearless Decision-Making Guidebook
• A whole-person coaching approach grounded in values, intention, and realistic planning

🔗 biancatate.com

Final Thoughts

Moving abroad is one of life’s biggest and most fulfilling decisions—but it’s not without its challenges. This webinar is a roadmap to doing it intentionally, with clarity, courage, and community.

Andrew Motiwalla

Andrew is the Founder of The Good Life Abroad and has worked in the travel industry for over 30 years. His first experience living abroad was as a Peace Corps volunteer. He is also the Founder of Discover Corps, a company specializing in meaningful vacations for families. Learn More about Andrew Motiwalla