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Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Having cancelled our proposed move to Oz, I thought it might be interesting for those about to go or those who are having second thoughts, an alternative point of view.
First thing to say is that we are not completely green to this and Australia would have been our second big move, having ‘emigrated’ from England to Germany some six years ago. Secondly, the cancellation of our move has created an unbelievable amount of disruption as we had already gone a long part of the way down the road (visa granted, house sold, removals booked, job resigned etc.). We had decided to move to Oz basically because after nearly six years of living in Germany we wanted to return to an English speaking environment and for the children to continue their education in English. In addition, we took a big holiday in Australia last year and really enjoyed it. Anyway, over the last few months there were a couple of events that started to make me feel a little uncomfortable about going; some of them I’ll admit are very personal and a little bit ridiculous. Anyway here goes….. 1. Over the last few months I’ve had the good fortune to visit Oslo and Prague and, as anyone who has visited either place will confirm, they are incredibly beautiful cities. That got me thinking of all the other places in Europe that I hadn’t visited and made me think how difficult it would be to visit those places living so far away. 2. The summer arrived. I live in a small town in southern Germany which is surrounded by mountains (well more like hills really) and the summer is such a great time to go mountain biking. There would have been minimal opportunities in Perth. 3. The mountains got me thinking about skiing and whilst there are opportunities to ski in the southern hemisphere, they are not the places where (like now) I could leave after work on Friday and be back at my desk on Monday morning. I was also starting to have difficulties picturing the family eating Christmas dinner in shorts. 4. I would have had to give my car (a Porsche) back. Ok I could have had a reasonably nice car down under but even then no opportunity to drive like I can in Germany (I’m aware that to a lot of people this will sound really pathetic!) 5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I had not shared my concerns with the family having committed so much time and effort to organizing the move and the catalyst came when our dog failed its final blood test. This really through things into chaos as there was no way I could ask the children to leave their dog behind. We had a second blood test done and a third before finally after two-weeks she was given the all-clear. But over those two weeks we had shared our concerns as a family and had collectively come to the conclusion that there were more reasons to stay than to go. So over the last two weeks we have had to dial-ourselves back into our life. We have moved house, got the kids back into school and (luckily) managed to get my job back (I had remained on very good terms with my employer and they had told me that if ever I decided to come back then the door would be open for me). I don’t regret the decision as I think it has given us the opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and appreciate all the great things about it – as opposed to looking at the other side of the hill and thinking the grass is greener. In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed. My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
Having cancelled our proposed move to Oz, I thought it might be interesting for those about to go or those who are having second thoughts, an alternative point of view.
First thing to say is that we are not completely green to this and Australia would have been our second big move, having ‘emigrated’ from England to Germany some six years ago. Secondly, the cancellation of our move has created an unbelievable amount of disruption as we had already gone a long part of the way down the road (visa granted, house sold, removals booked, job resigned etc.). We had decided to move to Oz basically because after nearly six years of living in Germany we wanted to return to an English speaking environment and for the children to continue their education in English. In addition, we took a big holiday in Australia last year and really enjoyed it. Anyway, over the last few months there were a couple of events that started to make me feel a little uncomfortable about going; some of them I’ll admit are very personal and a little bit ridiculous. Anyway here goes….. 1. Over the last few months I’ve had the good fortune to visit Oslo and Prague and, as anyone who has visited either place will confirm, they are incredibly beautiful cities. That got me thinking of all the other places in Europe that I hadn’t visited and made me think how difficult it would be to visit those places living so far away. 2. The summer arrived. I live in a small town in southern Germany which is surrounded by mountains (well more like hills really) and the summer is such a great time to go mountain biking. There would have been minimal opportunities in Perth. 3. The mountains got me thinking about skiing and whilst there are opportunities to ski in the southern hemisphere, they are not the places where (like now) I could leave after work on Friday and be back at my desk on Monday morning. I was also starting to have difficulties picturing the family eating Christmas dinner in shorts. 4. I would have had to give my car (a Porsche) back. Ok I could have had a reasonably nice car down under but even then no opportunity to drive like I can in Germany (I’m aware that to a lot of people this will sound really pathetic!) 5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I had not shared my concerns with the family having committed so much time and effort to organizing the move and the catalyst came when our dog failed its final blood test. This really through things into chaos as there was no way I could ask the children to leave their dog behind. We had a second blood test done and a third before finally after two-weeks she was given the all-clear. But over those two weeks we had shared our concerns as a family and had collectively come to the conclusion that there were more reasons to stay than to go. So over the last two weeks we have had to dial-ourselves back into our life. We have moved house, got the kids back into school and (luckily) managed to get my job back (I had remained on very good terms with my employer and they had told me that if ever I decided to come back then the door would be open for me). I don’t regret the decision as I think it has given us the opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and appreciate all the great things about it – as opposed to looking at the other side of the hill and thinking the grass is greener. In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed. My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. P.S. We've holidayed a lot in Austria (Australia without the kangaroos) and in Bavaria (Garmisch Partenkirchen specifically) so I know why you would feel a wrench leaving such a beautiful area - we're summer visitors rather than winter visitors. OzTennis :) |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
What a refreshing and well constructed post ... well done you.
For the record, I don't blame you. The Fatherland sounds wonderful :cool: Three Legs
Originally Posted by MartinH
Having cancelled our proposed move to Oz, I thought it might be interesting for those about to go or those who are having second thoughts, an alternative point of view.
First thing to say is that we are not completely green to this and Australia would have been our second big move, having ‘emigrated’ from England to Germany some six years ago. Secondly, the cancellation of our move has created an unbelievable amount of disruption as we had already gone a long part of the way down the road (visa granted, house sold, removals booked, job resigned etc.). We had decided to move to Oz basically because after nearly six years of living in Germany we wanted to return to an English speaking environment and for the children to continue their education in English. In addition, we took a big holiday in Australia last year and really enjoyed it. Anyway, over the last few months there were a couple of events that started to make me feel a little uncomfortable about going; some of them I’ll admit are very personal and a little bit ridiculous. Anyway here goes….. 1. Over the last few months I’ve had the good fortune to visit Oslo and Prague and, as anyone who has visited either place will confirm, they are incredibly beautiful cities. That got me thinking of all the other places in Europe that I hadn’t visited and made me think how difficult it would be to visit those places living so far away. 2. The summer arrived. I live in a small town in southern Germany which is surrounded by mountains (well more like hills really) and the summer is such a great time to go mountain biking. There would have been minimal opportunities in Perth. 3. The mountains got me thinking about skiing and whilst there are opportunities to ski in the southern hemisphere, they are not the places where (like now) I could leave after work on Friday and be back at my desk on Monday morning. I was also starting to have difficulties picturing the family eating Christmas dinner in shorts. 4. I would have had to give my car (a Porsche) back. Ok I could have had a reasonably nice car down under but even then no opportunity to drive like I can in Germany (I’m aware that to a lot of people this will sound really pathetic!) 5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I had not shared my concerns with the family having committed so much time and effort to organizing the move and the catalyst came when our dog failed its final blood test. This really through things into chaos as there was no way I could ask the children to leave their dog behind. We had a second blood test done and a third before finally after two-weeks she was given the all-clear. But over those two weeks we had shared our concerns as a family and had collectively come to the conclusion that there were more reasons to stay than to go. So over the last two weeks we have had to dial-ourselves back into our life. We have moved house, got the kids back into school and (luckily) managed to get my job back (I had remained on very good terms with my employer and they had told me that if ever I decided to come back then the door would be open for me). I don’t regret the decision as I think it has given us the opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and appreciate all the great things about it – as opposed to looking at the other side of the hill and thinking the grass is greener. In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed. My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Yep - sounds like you made the right decision. Better to stop now than to get over there just because of the time and effort you'd put into it and be miserable. Horses for courses and all that :)
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Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed.
Just be sure you understand that in a few years time you may not be able to go to Australia even if you want to. Your visa will be dead and it is possible the immigration of retirees will be restricted more than they are now. So it's a clear message of no looking over your shoulder and live the life you have chosen. Good luck to you all. :) |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Wow, what a decision. Must have been really hard. Doesn't matter if some of the reasons seem a bit bizarre ;) if they are important to you, then end of.
You must feel a great amount of relief now. Just out of interest, did you validate your visas or just happily losing them? The best of luck to you and yours. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by moneypen20
Wow, what a decision. Must have been really hard. Doesn't matter if some of the reasons seem a bit bizarre ;) if they are important to you, then end of.
You must feel a great amount of relief now. Just out of interest, did you validate your visas or just happily losing them? The best of luck to you and yours. Overall its a really strange feeling - like it was all a dream - but I will remember the day that I decided not to go. I was riding through the forest near where I live about three weeks before we were due to leave on a beautiful summers day. This is really corny.......but the birds were singing and there was that lovely smell of grass and pine needles in the air......and then I got this feeling in the pit of my stomach like 'this will be the last time I can do this' and I think it was then that I knew that I couldn't go through with it. Winter is now coming and the nights seem to close in so quickly but now I'm looking forward to Val D'Isere the week before Christmas and sitting down to a turkey dinner with (hopefully) some snow on the ground outside. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
Having cancelled our proposed move to Oz, I thought it might be interesting for those about to go or those who are having second thoughts, an alternative point of view.
First thing to say is that we are not completely green to this and Australia would have been our second big move, having ‘emigrated’ from England to Germany some six years ago. Secondly, the cancellation of our move has created an unbelievable amount of disruption as we had already gone a long part of the way down the road (visa granted, house sold, removals booked, job resigned etc.). We had decided to move to Oz basically because after nearly six years of living in Germany we wanted to return to an English speaking environment and for the children to continue their education in English. In addition, we took a big holiday in Australia last year and really enjoyed it. Anyway, over the last few months there were a couple of events that started to make me feel a little uncomfortable about going; some of them I’ll admit are very personal and a little bit ridiculous. Anyway here goes….. 1. Over the last few months I’ve had the good fortune to visit Oslo and Prague and, as anyone who has visited either place will confirm, they are incredibly beautiful cities. That got me thinking of all the other places in Europe that I hadn’t visited and made me think how difficult it would be to visit those places living so far away. 2. The summer arrived. I live in a small town in southern Germany which is surrounded by mountains (well more like hills really) and the summer is such a great time to go mountain biking. There would have been minimal opportunities in Perth. 3. The mountains got me thinking about skiing and whilst there are opportunities to ski in the southern hemisphere, they are not the places where (like now) I could leave after work on Friday and be back at my desk on Monday morning. I was also starting to have difficulties picturing the family eating Christmas dinner in shorts. 4. I would have had to give my car (a Porsche) back. Ok I could have had a reasonably nice car down under but even then no opportunity to drive like I can in Germany (I’m aware that to a lot of people this will sound really pathetic!) 5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I had not shared my concerns with the family having committed so much time and effort to organizing the move and the catalyst came when our dog failed its final blood test. This really through things into chaos as there was no way I could ask the children to leave their dog behind. We had a second blood test done and a third before finally after two-weeks she was given the all-clear. But over those two weeks we had shared our concerns as a family and had collectively come to the conclusion that there were more reasons to stay than to go. So over the last two weeks we have had to dial-ourselves back into our life. We have moved house, got the kids back into school and (luckily) managed to get my job back (I had remained on very good terms with my employer and they had told me that if ever I decided to come back then the door would be open for me). I don’t regret the decision as I think it has given us the opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and appreciate all the great things about it – as opposed to looking at the other side of the hill and thinking the grass is greener. In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed. My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. an excellent post, thank you martin. no doubt many of us have had the feelings 'why am i doing this.... is it the right thing?!' obviously for you, you have made a final decision. now that things are under way for us, i have had the thoughts, OMG, i'll probably never go to Greece again, one of my favourite place in the whole world! and i've never visited austria, something else i've always wanted to do too. but, we all know that we are making the move to australia because things here in the uk, in our eyes are going from bad to worse and we hope that we will be able to change our lives for the better once we're there. it sounds like you all have a great life in germany and i hope it continues for you, good luck debbie |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
Having cancelled our proposed move to Oz, I thought it might be interesting for those about to go or those who are having second thoughts, an alternative point of view.
First thing to say is that we are not completely green to this and Australia would have been our second big move, having ‘emigrated’ from England to Germany some six years ago. Secondly, the cancellation of our move has created an unbelievable amount of disruption as we had already gone a long part of the way down the road (visa granted, house sold, removals booked, job resigned etc.). We had decided to move to Oz basically because after nearly six years of living in Germany we wanted to return to an English speaking environment and for the children to continue their education in English. In addition, we took a big holiday in Australia last year and really enjoyed it. Anyway, over the last few months there were a couple of events that started to make me feel a little uncomfortable about going; some of them I’ll admit are very personal and a little bit ridiculous. Anyway here goes….. 1. Over the last few months I’ve had the good fortune to visit Oslo and Prague and, as anyone who has visited either place will confirm, they are incredibly beautiful cities. That got me thinking of all the other places in Europe that I hadn’t visited and made me think how difficult it would be to visit those places living so far away. 2. The summer arrived. I live in a small town in southern Germany which is surrounded by mountains (well more like hills really) and the summer is such a great time to go mountain biking. There would have been minimal opportunities in Perth. 3. The mountains got me thinking about skiing and whilst there are opportunities to ski in the southern hemisphere, they are not the places where (like now) I could leave after work on Friday and be back at my desk on Monday morning. I was also starting to have difficulties picturing the family eating Christmas dinner in shorts. 4. I would have had to give my car (a Porsche) back. Ok I could have had a reasonably nice car down under but even then no opportunity to drive like I can in Germany (I’m aware that to a lot of people this will sound really pathetic!) 5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I had not shared my concerns with the family having committed so much time and effort to organizing the move and the catalyst came when our dog failed its final blood test. This really through things into chaos as there was no way I could ask the children to leave their dog behind. We had a second blood test done and a third before finally after two-weeks she was given the all-clear. But over those two weeks we had shared our concerns as a family and had collectively come to the conclusion that there were more reasons to stay than to go. So over the last two weeks we have had to dial-ourselves back into our life. We have moved house, got the kids back into school and (luckily) managed to get my job back (I had remained on very good terms with my employer and they had told me that if ever I decided to come back then the door would be open for me). I don’t regret the decision as I think it has given us the opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and appreciate all the great things about it – as opposed to looking at the other side of the hill and thinking the grass is greener. In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed. My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. Good luck to you all - wherever your future lies. :) Sue |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
It was a 457 employer sponsored visa so no we had not validated and now it will just lapse.
Overall its a really strange feeling - like it was all a dream - but I will remember the day that I decided not to go. I was riding through the forest near where I live about three weeks before we were due to leave on a beautiful summers day. This is really corny.......but the birds were singing and there was that lovely smell of grass and pine needles in the air......and then I got this feeling in the pit of my stomach like 'this will be the last time I can do this' and I think it was then that I knew that I couldn't go through with it. Winter is now coming and the nights seem to close in so quickly but now I'm looking forward to Val D'Isere the week before Christmas and sitting down to a turkey dinner with (hopefully) some snow on the ground outside. As we've all said, brave decision, right for you and your family, get on and enjoy the rest of your life. I know Australia would be grateful to have you and your family in the future if you still wish to go and can get a visa (I'm most sincere here, there isn't an emoticon for that). OzTennis :) |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I'm not a fan of US culture either, but each to their own, This isn't a flame by the way, good luck with your decision, and for having the balls to make it. I hope it works out well, http://67.18.37.16/532/117/emo/thumbsup.gif |
happy to be home
thank you for your post.I can relate as i just did the same thing., however i DID leave but came back again! It may not have been as far as you but all the psychological , financial and emotional factors of a move remain the same .
On august 27th 2005 , my 3 kids ( 12, 11, 7 ) and i packed up 18 bags and moved from Quebec city to toronto . The kids had all had emotional good bye parties with their friends and i had been given a huge fan fare of a farewell lunch with all of my friends , i had quit my job and was on the road to a divorce . We arrived in toronto and moved into my sisters apartment . I had applied and received my ontario nurses licence which would lead me to a job . infact , i was already hired in a major toronto hospital .I got the kids into the local schools and then took a deep breath. what was i doing in toronto? my kids seemed ok . i had boosted them up so much about the move and they seemed fine . But , panic set in . a 3 bedroom apt couldnt be found at a reasonable price . those i could afford were in terrrible dirty run down neighborhoods.I started to miss my easy life in quebec, and i really realized how good i had it in quebec city . the last straw was when i found out a pedophile had escaped from a midway house down the road and i got a knock on the door by the cops giving us his description . so on sept 5 t h 2005 we packed up our bags and headed home . the kids are back in their old schools and are telling me that they never wanted to leave in the first place .the older 2 said that they didnt want to upset me and tell me the truth. I appreciate my life so much more . I love the french culture and the quebec way of life and am so glad i went so that i may nev er have the inclination to leave when the tough gets going . I will never run away from life again as no where is perfect. I had to physically leave to realize that . so i got my job back and are going through marriage counselling . I love Toronto but would never live there. when i arrived back , my friends welcomed me back . i must admit i did feel like a fool and i had a lot of explaining to do , but sometimes you have to lift your chin up high and admit you made a terrible mistake . anyway , no one is really judging you , you just think they are . i am truly happy to be home |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Yes great post. At first I wasn’t convinced, especially about the dog story, but upon rereading it, yes it makes sense.
You may well look back and wonder what if, but hey, as you say you have already exchanged your life and embraced a new culture. Something which I still need to do, so its Australia for me. Having been to Germany I fully understand your desire to stay there, in fact I have to admit I am a bit jealous of your choice of domicile. I to would love the opportunity, but alas with children across an age band of 4 upto 15 and not one of them speaking German I would say it is a no go. Something I should of considered before I had children I guess, too late now though. Good luck with everything and may your love of the of aroma pine needles equal the eucalyptus air which I shall breathe. ManxFamily |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
Having cancelled our proposed move to Oz, I thought it might be interesting for those about to go or those who are having second thoughts, an alternative point of view.
First thing to say is that we are not completely green to this and Australia would have been our second big move, having ‘emigrated’ from England to Germany some six years ago. Secondly, the cancellation of our move has created an unbelievable amount of disruption as we had already gone a long part of the way down the road (visa granted, house sold, removals booked, job resigned etc.). We had decided to move to Oz basically because after nearly six years of living in Germany we wanted to return to an English speaking environment and for the children to continue their education in English. In addition, we took a big holiday in Australia last year and really enjoyed it. Anyway, over the last few months there were a couple of events that started to make me feel a little uncomfortable about going; some of them I’ll admit are very personal and a little bit ridiculous. Anyway here goes….. 1. Over the last few months I’ve had the good fortune to visit Oslo and Prague and, as anyone who has visited either place will confirm, they are incredibly beautiful cities. That got me thinking of all the other places in Europe that I hadn’t visited and made me think how difficult it would be to visit those places living so far away. 2. The summer arrived. I live in a small town in southern Germany which is surrounded by mountains (well more like hills really) and the summer is such a great time to go mountain biking. There would have been minimal opportunities in Perth. 3. The mountains got me thinking about skiing and whilst there are opportunities to ski in the southern hemisphere, they are not the places where (like now) I could leave after work on Friday and be back at my desk on Monday morning. I was also starting to have difficulties picturing the family eating Christmas dinner in shorts. 4. I would have had to give my car (a Porsche) back. Ok I could have had a reasonably nice car down under but even then no opportunity to drive like I can in Germany (I’m aware that to a lot of people this will sound really pathetic!) 5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I had not shared my concerns with the family having committed so much time and effort to organizing the move and the catalyst came when our dog failed its final blood test. This really through things into chaos as there was no way I could ask the children to leave their dog behind. We had a second blood test done and a third before finally after two-weeks she was given the all-clear. But over those two weeks we had shared our concerns as a family and had collectively come to the conclusion that there were more reasons to stay than to go. So over the last two weeks we have had to dial-ourselves back into our life. We have moved house, got the kids back into school and (luckily) managed to get my job back (I had remained on very good terms with my employer and they had told me that if ever I decided to come back then the door would be open for me). I don’t regret the decision as I think it has given us the opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and appreciate all the great things about it – as opposed to looking at the other side of the hill and thinking the grass is greener. In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed. My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. Well done you, and very best of luck! :cool: |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Thanks to all for your really nice posts.
For those who have thought about moving to a continental European country and been worried because of the language thing - then you really shouldn't. Most international employers will consider you, provided you are willing to learn. Our children were in international school for the first two years here but - mainly because of the cost - we decided to put them into the local school system. This has proved to be an excellent decision and they are both (13 and 10) now perfectly bilingual. What really surprised me was that the local children were so friendly and interested in "auslanders" and to my knowledge they have never been teased or bullied because they were 'different'. They do have an advantage that they the schools teach English as a foreign language - so they are always top in something! Anyway, thanks again for your kind messsages |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
Thanks to all for your really nice posts.
For those who have thought about moving to a continental European country and been worried because of the language thing - then you really shouldn't. Most international employers will consider you, provided you are willing to learn. Our children were in international school for the first two years here but - mainly because of the cost - we decided to put them into the local school system. This has proved to be an excellent decision and they are both (13 and 10) now perfectly bilingual. What really surprised me was that the local children were so friendly and interested in "auslanders" and to my knowledge they have never been teased or bullied because they were 'different'. They do have an advantage that they the schools teach English as a foreign language - so they are always top in something! Anyway, thanks again for your kind messsages Interesting. I will have to go home tonight and convince her that Australia isnt for us, and to consider heading for Germany!!! |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
One of the better posts to read on here at last.
It does make you sit down & think about things. I spent time in lake district & then over in europe recently & it has made me think, dam I cant do this anymore for a while maybe not for a long time. But I dont have the feeling of dread at the moment. Mainly because were I am both physically & professionally is not here. Therefore if a person is like this & they will be open to doing extreme things to change it ie emigrate. Your choice was made by yourself & family agreed so it sounds great for you, also Germany sounds like a brilliant place to work/live & bring up a family. At the end of the day thats what most decent people want & for me it wasent going to happen in the UK at the moment. Good luck with your lives in Germany & this will make you enjoy your lifestyle over there 10 folds. Marty |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
Having cancelled our proposed move to Oz, I thought it might be interesting for those about to go or those who are having second thoughts, an alternative point of view.
First thing to say is that we are not completely green to this and Australia would have been our second big move, having ‘emigrated’ from England to Germany some six years ago. Secondly, the cancellation of our move has created an unbelievable amount of disruption as we had already gone a long part of the way down the road (visa granted, house sold, removals booked, job resigned etc.). We had decided to move to Oz basically because after nearly six years of living in Germany we wanted to return to an English speaking environment and for the children to continue their education in English. In addition, we took a big holiday in Australia last year and really enjoyed it. Anyway, over the last few months there were a couple of events that started to make me feel a little uncomfortable about going; some of them I’ll admit are very personal and a little bit ridiculous. Anyway here goes….. 1. Over the last few months I’ve had the good fortune to visit Oslo and Prague and, as anyone who has visited either place will confirm, they are incredibly beautiful cities. That got me thinking of all the other places in Europe that I hadn’t visited and made me think how difficult it would be to visit those places living so far away. 2. The summer arrived. I live in a small town in southern Germany which is surrounded by mountains (well more like hills really) and the summer is such a great time to go mountain biking. There would have been minimal opportunities in Perth. 3. The mountains got me thinking about skiing and whilst there are opportunities to ski in the southern hemisphere, they are not the places where (like now) I could leave after work on Friday and be back at my desk on Monday morning. I was also starting to have difficulties picturing the family eating Christmas dinner in shorts. 4. I would have had to give my car (a Porsche) back. Ok I could have had a reasonably nice car down under but even then no opportunity to drive like I can in Germany (I’m aware that to a lot of people this will sound really pathetic!) 5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I had not shared my concerns with the family having committed so much time and effort to organizing the move and the catalyst came when our dog failed its final blood test. This really through things into chaos as there was no way I could ask the children to leave their dog behind. We had a second blood test done and a third before finally after two-weeks she was given the all-clear. But over those two weeks we had shared our concerns as a family and had collectively come to the conclusion that there were more reasons to stay than to go. So over the last two weeks we have had to dial-ourselves back into our life. We have moved house, got the kids back into school and (luckily) managed to get my job back (I had remained on very good terms with my employer and they had told me that if ever I decided to come back then the door would be open for me). I don’t regret the decision as I think it has given us the opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and appreciate all the great things about it – as opposed to looking at the other side of the hill and thinking the grass is greener. In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed. My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. Made us wander if we were doing the right thing but have no regrets now we are here. Good luck mate wishing you all the best. Mags and family |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by Dmartyos
One of the better posts to read on here at last.
It does make you sit down & think about things. I spent time in lake district & then over in europe recently & it has made me think, dam I cant do this anymore for a while maybe not for a long time. But I dont have the feeling of dread at the moment. Mainly because were I am both physically & professionally is not here. Therefore if a person is like this & they will be open to doing extreme things to change it ie emigrate. Your choice was made by yourself & family agreed so it sounds great for you, also Germany sounds like a brilliant place to work/live & bring up a family. At the end of the day thats what most decent people want & for me it wasent going to happen in the UK at the moment. Good luck with your lives in Germany & this will make you enjoy your lifestyle over there 10 folds. Marty Good luck to you as well. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
thanks for that and you are so right. i forgot to mention the only thing that i regret is all the wasted energy that was put into the move and then having to straighten every thing out again. what a waste of time and energy . i am still unpacking boxes but i am just thankful that it hadnt all been shipped to toronto . cheers
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Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
A brilliant post. Thank you for being so honest and open despite the knowledge that you may get slated for your opinions ( as happens so often on here!).
I think that you and your family are very brave for making that decision. If you had gone ahead with the move without opening up with your family about how you felt then you could have all ended up not very happy over there. I am really pleased that you realised that you already had everything you want right where you are before you made the move. I dont feel like I have all that i want right here at the moment and believe that there is something more out there for me. I know that australia isnt utopia but it is going to be a new experience for me and my family. Good luck with your lives and always remember that Australia wont be going anywhere soon so you can always try again at a later date if you want to :) Tracey |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
All the best to you and your family, you have to follow your heart.. :)
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Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
great post martin
we to came to the decision to stay after much soul searching and hours and hours of shall we stay or shall we go (theres a song in there somewhere) we (myself wife 2 daughters (2 & 4)and the mother in law)went over to perth in april for a reccie and thought what a beautiful and ideal place for kids to grow up,this made our decision so much harder it would have been easy if we didnt like perth but who could not want to be sitting at a cafe at hiliarys just taking in the atmos..... :D anyway it took us a while to come to our decision but we came to realise that our lives really arent that bad here and you do get swept up the whole 'uk is rubbish and your kids will be worse off then you are'thing. we and our daughters could also be worse off if we went having no other family but my wife and i,leaving behind our numerous friends and their children,cousins,nephews,aunties,uncles and the big one grandparents,after see'ing how much our girls are doted on by our their grandparents theres no way i could take that out of their day to day lives... i know apprieciate what we used to take for granted and how beautiful the uk can be,hell i'm even looking forward to the winter (we're already in negotiations as to where we are having xmas dinner)autumn is coming and the sun is out at 7 am but theres a cetain nip in the air that wakes you up. we are now looking to move out to a rural area to enjoy the things that we used to take for granted and hopefully retire early.... sorry to waffle on but you know how it is....... p.s we're still planning another trip to oz tho fantastic place just we dont feel we've seen enough of where we live now karl |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
I think that sometimes in life, you are lucky enough to get the 'warning signals' that what you are about to do is not and will not be right for you.
You have had that feeling which told you this wouldn't be right for you or your family and were lucky enough to get it before you made the move. You slotted back into bits of your old life with a new house, new attitude and a new outlook and appreciation for the things that you have rather than the things you would have to move to get. Quite suddenly, you have learned to enjoy the weather, the festive season and the convenience of being able to see and love other countries. Sometimes you need to go quite far in a process to realise it isnt for you and sometimes, you also need the thought of moving away to make you REALLY SEE what is in front of you. Well done for that, and when I say enjoy your new life, I mean enjoy your life with your new outlook on it. Good luck Samantha |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
Having cancelled our proposed move to Oz, I thought it might be interesting for those about to go or those who are having second thoughts, an alternative point of view.
First thing to say is that we are not completely green to this and Australia would have been our second big move, having ‘emigrated’ from England to Germany some six years ago. Secondly, the cancellation of our move has created an unbelievable amount of disruption as we had already gone a long part of the way down the road (visa granted, house sold, removals booked, job resigned etc.). We had decided to move to Oz basically because after nearly six years of living in Germany we wanted to return to an English speaking environment and for the children to continue their education in English. In addition, we took a big holiday in Australia last year and really enjoyed it. Anyway, over the last few months there were a couple of events that started to make me feel a little uncomfortable about going; some of them I’ll admit are very personal and a little bit ridiculous. Anyway here goes….. 1. Over the last few months I’ve had the good fortune to visit Oslo and Prague and, as anyone who has visited either place will confirm, they are incredibly beautiful cities. That got me thinking of all the other places in Europe that I hadn’t visited and made me think how difficult it would be to visit those places living so far away. 2. The summer arrived. I live in a small town in southern Germany which is surrounded by mountains (well more like hills really) and the summer is such a great time to go mountain biking. There would have been minimal opportunities in Perth. 3. The mountains got me thinking about skiing and whilst there are opportunities to ski in the southern hemisphere, they are not the places where (like now) I could leave after work on Friday and be back at my desk on Monday morning. I was also starting to have difficulties picturing the family eating Christmas dinner in shorts. 4. I would have had to give my car (a Porsche) back. Ok I could have had a reasonably nice car down under but even then no opportunity to drive like I can in Germany (I’m aware that to a lot of people this will sound really pathetic!) 5. This may be controversial and I am prepared to be flamed for it BUT one of the things I like about Germany is the lack of Brits and living in a culture which still has a strong sense of discipline and order and I really worry about British / American culture invading Australia. I am not saying that Germany is perfect but the hooligan element is certainly much reduced. I had not shared my concerns with the family having committed so much time and effort to organizing the move and the catalyst came when our dog failed its final blood test. This really through things into chaos as there was no way I could ask the children to leave their dog behind. We had a second blood test done and a third before finally after two-weeks she was given the all-clear. But over those two weeks we had shared our concerns as a family and had collectively come to the conclusion that there were more reasons to stay than to go. So over the last two weeks we have had to dial-ourselves back into our life. We have moved house, got the kids back into school and (luckily) managed to get my job back (I had remained on very good terms with my employer and they had told me that if ever I decided to come back then the door would be open for me). I don’t regret the decision as I think it has given us the opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and appreciate all the great things about it – as opposed to looking at the other side of the hill and thinking the grass is greener. In 10-15 years when we retire, when I can no longer mountainbike and when I no longer wish to drive like a loon then we may decide to go but for the now the chapter is closed. My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by MartinH
My message to other is make sure you weigh up all the pro’s and cons. Don’t try and sell yourself on a “getting a better life” in general ticket. Really sit down and think about what you will gain but more importantly, what you will lose and then evaluate whether that is an acceptable sacrifice. Good post. It's refreshing to hear of someone thats taken a step back, evaluated their situation and taken a grasp of what they already have around them. ;) |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
As you say, a refreshing post in contrast to many recently. It's good to see someone making an informed decision and making a rational case for it in public instead of just going with the herd.
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Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Great post Martin - good luck with your life in Germany & whatever you decide to do in the future :) .
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Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
An inspiring post mate.
It shows all of us reading, that gut feelings should be welcomed and explored fully. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Good luck. Well done for deciding what is right for you. Funny, some of the mail points you listed as reasons for not going are the very things that appealed to me. And I love it here. Brilliantly illustrated how different people's needs and wants are. All the best - WWW
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Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
I agree, fabulous post Martin! Obviously, you made an informed decision about what was best for you and your family. All of those so called "silly things" can often be the "big things" over here that make you want to go back home and it truely appears that Germany IS your home.
Congratulations on making such a difficult decision with grace and decorum. Siren |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Hi
I thought this was an interesting post. The enjoyment of, and proximity to Europe weighed heavily on my mind before we left, and must agree that it continues to do so. Some of your other comments, like ability to ski, seem tied up with your original decision to target Perth specifically as opposed to other Australian locations. Your reasons for doing so you did not divulge, though no doubt they are utterly reasonable. Melburnians regularly drive north for a weekend ski. Perhaps people from the Sydney region do to. Ultimately, emigration, as you already know, is hugely personal thing. And however nitpicking my post may seem to be, I do respect your decision. It made for interesting reading that the 'rose-tinting' set - if there is one - ought to consider. Neil |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by wongstonn
Hi
I thought this was an interesting post. The enjoyment of, and proximity too Europe weighed heavily on my mind before we left, and must agree that it continues to do so. Some of your other comments, like ability to ski, seem tied up with your original decision to target Perth specifically as opposed to other Australian locations. Your reasons for doing so you did not divulge, though no doubt they are utterly reasonable. Melburnians regularly drive north for a weekend ski. Perhaps people from the Sydney region do to. Ultimately, emigration, as you already know, is hugely personal thing. And however nitpicking my post may seem to be, I do respect your decision. It made for interesting reading that the 'rose-tinting' set - if there is one - ought to consider. Neil Plenty of Sydneysiders do indeed ski for the weekend but its pretty expensive.. I went to NZ for my boaring/ski trip and it didnt cost that much more! I am visiting Germany in May on a hoilday to home, and cant wait to be honest! S |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
In my time on this board, since about Jan this year. It's looking more and more like the most consistent complaint, in amongst all the others, seems to be proxmity to Europe.
It would be really, interesting to see if that did come out overall, as the number one complaint on a preferential voting type of base. IE: most people don't put it as their No1 complaint, but it always seems to figure somewhere in amongst peoples dislikes of being in Aussie. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by ozzieeagle
In my time on this board, since about Jan this year. It's looking more and more like the most consistent complaint, in amongst all the others, seems to be proxmity to Europe.
It would be really, interesting to see if that did come out overall, as the number one complaint on a preferential voting type of base. IE: most people don't put it as their No1 complaint, but it always seems to figure somewhere in amongst peoples dislikes of being in Aussie. Having actually lived in Europe I don't have ''rose tints'' for it. badge |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by Badge
One of the things I like about SE Melbourne and Victoria is that the trees and wooded areas remind me a bit of the German countryside. Thick forestry, almost ''alpine'' in nature. The rolling hills could almost be parts of the UK. I''m talking where I live, not any area posters might think I live in or have been to ;)
Having actually lived in Europe I don't have ''rose tints'' for it. badge I must get over your way a bit more often, for me it's the most neglected place to visit. I always head North to the Murray, and NSW, or west to Horsham and SA. I'm assuming youron the way to Gippsland ? |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by ozzieeagle
In my time on this board, since about Jan this year. It's looking more and more like the most consistent complaint, in amongst all the others, seems to be proxmity to Europe.
It would be really, interesting to see if that did come out overall, as the number one complaint on a preferential voting type of base. IE: most people don't put it as their No1 complaint, but it always seems to figure somewhere in amongst peoples dislikes of being in Aussie. OzTennis :) |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Know just how you feel - I'm 50% German, and would move to my family's city, Berlin, like a shot if only it were coastal (I'm very asthmatic & need the sea air).
Enjoy Das Schone Deutschland for me - but don't forget to come & have some great vacations in Oz, too! Auf wiederlesen :) Anya. |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Hi Martin,
funny to read your post..I'm German married with a brit. and we had the chance to go and life in Heidelberg and I decided against it...I would like to live in Britain :) Ok the Germans are in many ways very professional and organized, but I have not lived for the last 10 years in Germany and I prefer the brit. lifestyle by now. I think Germans lack a bit of humour and are a bit stiff in many ways. I just cant wait to go back to England to live there. :D Is the world not a funny place? :beer: |
Re: Cancelled our emigration - here's why.
Originally Posted by maggy
Prague is certainly a very beautiful place and was the last place we visited before making the move to oz.
Made us wander if we were doing the right thing but have no regrets now we are here. Good luck mate wishing you all the best. Mags and family debs x sorry for going off thread everyone :) |
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