I wanted to give you a bit of comfort on this point. My parents moved me and my sister to St. Lucia when I was 9 and she was 7. At first we went through a very painful transition, but after a few years we melted into the culture and began to love life in St. Lucia SO much- to the extent that now I’m 32 and want to move my own children back there - best of luck and thank you so much for your incredibly valuable videos!
Zoe you are so refreshing and so honest. Thank you! I hope now (2 years later), you are finding time for yourself in amongst everything else, and that the kids are settled and loving sand.
Thanks for your kind words. The kids do complain a little less 😄. I've more or less found my rhythm and I'm getting closer to feeling settled. I hope you can visit the island one day
@@ExodusCollective Glad to hear it. I love your videos and hope to come sometime. Glad the kids are not complaining as much, I’m sure that feels half the battle at times.
We sometimes romanticize and fantasize living in another Country. I love my expat groups and gained a wealth of knowledge BUT expats don't seem to be open and honest about things they perceive as negative. The narrative seems to be rainbows and unicorns in another Country. They don't want to talk about the struggles, crime, mental, emotional, and financial struggles, racism, etc. Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
You're welcome! I think it's important to try to give folks all sides of the experience when it comes to moving overseas... Hope it helps to feel less pressure to have the "perfect" experience.
I had a similar conversation with an expat in Cozumel which is one of my favorite vacation destinations. This was awhile back but I was discussing how even though it’s relatively safe there and exempt (mostly) from cartel activity, there is still some trickle effect. They denied that any crime has happened there until I cited an actual article from one of their local newspapers. So yeah, rainbows and unicorns. They don’t want to talk about anything else.
I totally agree One of the things i wish Zoe would ask these expats: have you totally removed from the UK or are you still paying into their pension systems for later in life (National Insurance contributions), do you have a bank account in the UK, life insurance etc. Someone people may say, yes I am completely closed out everything that will tie me to the UK, whilst others may say, no I feel that I still need a safety net for later in life, like paying in the State pension system - which one can still do as an expat. Someone may think that this is not a valid question, but we never know what's around the corner and what may happen later in life.
I moved to Grenada at the age of 11 and I had such a culture shock. Even though I grew up around family and many Grenadian friends I wasn’t prepared for the distinct difference. School was horrible….the language barrier, the reading, the different form of education, the religious aspect of school. Then there was just the every day life challenges of trying to fit in into a culture I clearly knew nothing about but was expected to assimilate into. So happy you’re taking the time to help your children adjust it will make all the difference. Holding space for you as you navigate how to find time for yourself.
Thanks Aunty P! I always thought you'd moved back when you were younger. Sounds like my son is going through a lot of what you went through when you moved here. Can't wait to see you 🙌🏾
Thank you for being so honest and eloquent Zoe! Everything you said is so relatable. It's definitely not easy making such a big transition, but it sounds like it's very much worth it. I can't wait to be in the same position!
I’m Wishing You & Your Children All The Very Best With Your New Life In Grenada. I *Moved* (Firstly Half & Half) ie 6/6 Months a Few Years Ago To The Fabulous Lisbon Coast. Like You, I’d Been Visiting Portugal Periodically For Several Years. However, Living Here (As Much As I Loved/LOVE It)Threw Up Unforeseen Challenges. NOW? I’m Beyond Grateful To Be Here. Happy, Fulfilled, Healthy Lifestyle. Beach Runs, Tennis, Farm-To-Table Nutrition. My Point, You’ll Find Solutions & I Wish You Great Happiness.🌹
I feel your anguish! The culture is very insular here. I made the move to Carriacou from UK in 2008 on my own. Strong family ties here & Uk. Its getting difficult in the UK now. Stick with it girl. More quality of life here. Life is a growth process. Be one with nature grow into your new location!
Thank YOU! Sometimes, we are in our heads so much that we can be hard on ourselves when mistakes happen. I appreciate this! The pressure and anxiety around moving abroad can be overwhelming. Thank you for living out loud and sharing your experiences! This really helps to take the angst out of making a mistake. Mistakes happen. This video is definitely helping me to take the pressure off. My Moving Abroad Journey doesn't have to be perfect. I appreciate this so much! It was really an amazing therapeutic moment! The advice you gave that I really needed to hear was JUST BREATHE! Thank you!
You're most welcome. It's not the most exciting part to talk about but I imagine I'm not the only one who's going to face these challenges/learning opportunities 🙂
Hey Zoe, I luv and appreciate your, reflective, honesty about your travel experiences with your family. As well as sharing those important hindsight pre-travel plans that those of us that are seeking expat paradise should be mindful of and definitely take heed. 🙏 🥰
Brand new to your channel and loving it. You paint a realistic picture of what life is really like after the honeymoon period is over. Much food for thought before deciding to make a move abroad, so thank you.
Hello Zoe. I am no expert, but think you have done very well. It maybe a culture shock to some degree, and it will take time. I have been on holiday to Grenada regularly, but to my family home. I went to primary school there when I was small a long time ago for the first time, and just as I got use to Grenada I had to go back to the UK. Every child is different and maybe within time things will change. But in my day there was no internet,cable tv, etc etc. So maybe I did't miss anything, but the cold weather. I got use to seeing family, getting to know some people, and some not. So I think its having time to build on what you have now, which will happen. Its frustrating, I know. Count on the fact that Grenadians are wonderful people, who are very helpful. Yes its important you think of your children, but I would like to think you came through the hardest part by arriving during the pandemic with them. So finally I would say you can learn from any mistakes.
Thanks Andrew! It's always good to hear from other folks who spent significant amounts of time in Grenada and survived 😁. You're absolutely right, even on the days when I'm pulling my hair out, the stunning scenery and friendly people I'm surrounded by let me know that 100 % Grenada is where I'm supposed to be right now.
Thanks for sharing, Zoe; I can relate. You are looking so well; Grenada agrees with you. It sounds like your going through a reality check, like myself, fright or flight mode, but stick with it.
"Reciprocity of Respect"-yes yes yes.....this is very difficult. It is an exhausting process to help my daughter work through as well. Its very stressful. Please keep us updated! Wishing you well and happiness as you continue to make these adjustments.
Your experiences really resonates with mine when I travelled to Dominica with my young son. It was challenging for my boy in many ways. We returned to the UK and have travelled to the Caribbean regularly and now he is a man approaching 30 and he loves the Caribbean 🤷🏾♀️
That's a relief to hear your son loves the Caribbean now. How long did you spend in Dominica? I'm hoping it'll be the same with my son too - get him acquainted with the island while he's young even if his appreciation of Grenada doesn't kick in until later in life.
@@ExodusCollective we spent just over 2 yrs in DA. I can only imagine how emotionally challenging this must be for you, where our children are concerned we worry about the impact on them, but keep going if it’s what you want and need at this time because if you were not happy in the UK your children would also feel that too! Any change would be challenging. I recall you saying something like - we often remain where we are because we’re fearful and it’s what we know (comfort zone) lots of reflection me thinks and stay in touch with what feels right for you!!!!! Btw, I do enjoy your channel 🙏🏾
Congratulations Bulelwa 🎉🙌🏾! Had you been to St Kitts and Nevis before? Lots of folks from South Africa here too. I'd love to hear how you're finding it. I wish you and your family all the best!
Thank you so much 😊 It is our first time coming to the Caribbean.Talking about mistakes one thing we did not investigate properly was the school system,it is different compared to back.we start a school calendar in January whereas here they start in September🙆♀️ Our son started last week Monday and our daughter will only be starting this coming Monday.right now I can only pray they will be able to cope. Culture is different but we are very positive people and ready to learn.
Zoe thanks for this honest share. I'm a homeschool practitioner and advocate and that worked for me moving to other states more than a few times with small children. I augmented with socializing extracurricular activities like field and track. I like that your son is learning sailing. My daughters forced me to be more extroverted and engaged. With the internet and virtual learning being what it is you could put together a fantastic and engaging program. I found it to be a destressing move and significantly improved the quality of life for my family. My oldest daughter (42) is now homeschooling her youngest and traveling. My other daughter may adopt and has said she will probably do likewise. You never know, it may be viable alternative.
I've just subscribed to you at a ridiculous time in the UK, twighlight 3.30 am ish 🤪 The point is, I was drawn to your content! You are amazing!! Authenticity pours from you! I feel prevelidged to have experienced your story - as a black female professional, carving out my own success, having been a single mother for the most part! My son is now 27, bless him, my pride and joy!! Thank you for sharing, my sister!❤
Aw, thanks Karen! I really appreciate your kind words. It's really tempting to try to make everything look perfect but hopefully others on their journey to move abroad will be reassured to know that "wobbles" are a normal part of the process and not necessarily a reason to pack your bags and come home. 😊
I can empathise with your youngest. I too moved full time to Grenada aged 10. I thought my life was over lol (and this was the 80’s no Amazon, no WhatsApp) Fwd to now… it was the best decision my parents made
Hey! We've talked soo much about having things perfect -- It held me up sooo much. I finally pushed myself to go to Mexico and then to El Salvador. I learned so much from these trial runs. The only regret I have is that I hadn't done it before the pandemic when I had a chance to go to the West Indies (where my home is for sure!). All in due time. Appreciate all the wisdom you have shared and time you've taken to hear me out ♥️
I am so loving your blogs. I migrated to Grenada in 2009 but had to come back to England in 2016. It was meant to be brief but I am still here 6 years on. Coming back to Grenada soon to salvage and refurbish not knowing if I even want to go back for good. It would be nice to link up when I arrive back in Grenada would be nice to share our experiences
I don't believe in mistakes and nothing you did was "stupid or silly". It's a learning experience...learn as you go. I traveled with 3 kids and a husband overseas...you really don't have an obligation to "fix it" for your kids...you rob them of their own experiences. You all have to roll with the punches...Did we mention the pandemic???You are an amazing mom; give yourself lots of credit!
awesome, thank you for being so open and honest. I, fly out from Las Vegas on the 23rd and am planning on living in Grenada as I, get my dental work done, being single/retired is an eye-opener on its own. Try not to be so stressed out on everything being perfect for your children, life is not that way, temper the rewards with hard work and they will appreciate it more. I, know that I, chopped miles of cotton to purchase the clothes that I, wanted to wear in High School and took better care of them as I, did so. Maybe I, will see you on the Island... Quien Sabe? I, don't drink so it won't be there... Luck to you and your family.
You're welcome! Glad you found it useful and congratulations on making the choice to come to Grenada. You're right - perfection does not exist. This is definitely a journey so I guess I just need to trust that the kids will adjust as time goes on. Make sure to drop me a line when you get here and best of luck with your move!
Grenada is a beautiful island but it does have its challenges. I can't really advise you what to do but time always have a way of working for you, if you try and keep a positive attitude to your move. Time is so powerful, it's a giver, its a healer, a forgiver and your friend. Give your move more time and it will work out.
very wise words Sydney, thank you! Yes, Grenada does have it's challenges but where in the world doesn't? Don't worry, I'm not throwing in the towel yet ;-)
I can appreciate the difficulties of the situation. I grew up in the Caribbean, and yet I have some difficulties with fitting in with some of the norms when I visit. I can imagine that actually moving there is even more challenging, especially having to reconcile the experiences of 3 others besides your own. Unfortunately, I have no suggestions, just hoping it all works out whatever path you take moving forward
Thank you for being so transparent about your journey. This video is so timely lol. I have been talking to my husband about moving from the U.S. to St. Lucia (where my husband is from). We have 3 young children (7,5, 2) and I am a bit concerned about the transition but I’m also very aware that children are resilient. My desire is for my children to experience many of the values, sense of community, and oneness with nature that my husband grew up in and to a certain degree myself going back and forth to Jamaica where both of my parents are from. I have a keen awareness of a holiday experience vs living in a new environment but the U.S. society is becoming more and more corrupt and unsafe (although it is not unique to the U.S.). Don’t be so hard on yourself. You are a mother of 3 little human beings with their own personalities and outlook. You are also responsible for a very big transition moving from one continent to another!!! You know the reason you made the decision that you deemed best for your children, it is and will continue to be an adjustment for them but rest assured they will be okay. Blessings 🙏🏾❤️
The US have always been corrupt. It is just that things have happened in the last couple of years that have opened the eyes of the population to what the US is really all about. I would jump at the chance now that your children are this age, once they hit their teens, it then becomes more problematic. As you rightly said you want your children to have certain values and sense of well being and that is hard within the US and the UK - but it can be done.
Thank you so much for being honest the transparency you gave. I e only filerted with the idea of moving abroad and have a daughter. I've wondered if this is the right move as a single mother but what is right at the end of the day. This video really help hove me some perspective so thank you greatly!!
Several weeks into researching retirement to the Caribbean (from Dorset, UK) I have come across your videos and I have to say I am enjoying your presentation. It's 'natural', informative and interesting, thanks. I'd like to make a trip to Grenada for a couple of weeks to get a feel for the island. Would that be a long enough stay? When's the best time to visit? Best place to stay? (not too touristy.) Best way to get around? I have a ton of other questions but don't want to be a nuisance. Is there a preferred way to get to Granada? Please keep posting videos when you get the chance, they're really helpful, thanks. Happy to have Skype, What'sApp, Messenger video chat if that suits.😀
Hi Graham, great to hear you're considering Grenada! There are direct flights from the UK (Virgin & BA). Happy to schedule a call with you - do send me an email zoe@theexodus.co (not .com)
I moved here November 2020. There’s a lot going on here but change is coming. It’s sad when you see the truth. I wouldn’t mind doing an interview with you. However I am in Carriacou but there is a virtual option.
Most people experienced the same feeling when they moved to a different.country. maybe you should stay a little longer to see if the situation changes. Don't just give up easily. I know you are thinking about your and you would like them to be happy, but don't give up easily.
Hello miss...thanks for sharing...you are a beautiful woman and an amazing mom...Grenada is the most beautiful place in the caribbean...you may need a good and hornest Grenadian pathner...who can put all these worries in place
A "hornest" Grenadian partner? That word sounds about right 😆. Forgive me for teasing you! Grenadian men are indeed very wonderful. Let's see what happens, a good and honest one would be nice 😁
@@ExodusCollective yes we are indeed wonderful...i wish i can say more...but i don't think here is the right place to do so...i wish you all the best...you deserve it....i will be happy if i should walk into you one day...take care of yourself and keep the faith...bye!
I watched this again and was impressed with your thoughts around creating a learning space for your children - might there be the possibility of utilizing a hybrid model (virtual/traditional/abroad field experience) ? Remains open and curious - great reminder.
Awww Zoe thanks for sharing and congrats on the growing channel. Yeah the kids being content in the move is absolutely important for them and for you. Think of it this way…. at least they have each other so they’re never alone and not necessarily missing social interactions which is what I kind of fear for my son who’s an only child. I plan to home school using a US style program with the help of good teachers there who wants to earn some extra income. You might consider possibly doing something similar using a UK style program. Also don’t forget to put your oxygen mask on first so you can then help the kiddos to put theirs on. Its going to take sometime getting used to. Also try to see money as just a tool, a means to an end just like any other resource. A UK retired nurse I met in Jamaica back in November 2021 told me she’d been living there for over 2 yrs and its only after the 2nd year that she finally felt settled and enjoying living there. She said she’d planned to return to the UK in early 2020 but the virus ruined their plans forcing them to stay put on the island and now she said it was the best thing that could’ve happened and now she does not wish to return to the UK. Give it time and be kinder to yourself Sis. You done great getting your family across the world in search of simple, safe, thriving and peaceful life 👏🏿
Thanks for your words of wisdom! 2022 is definitely the year of the oxygen mask 😊. Funnily enough I am considering alternative education options but I definitely want to get myself in the right place before I embark on that journey. Best of luck with your move too - it sounds like you have a great strategy in place for you and your son.
All I kno is I tink u have done quite well as life has it's ups an down u have to take it in u stride there r so many parts to dis i actually remember other stories of other people who went straight back to trinidad without carefully checking an testing like u did after an then in a matter of a short space if time they return back to d UK after having packed house an everyting an I always could never understand dis as me being a patriot I always look at life to remember where I came from which dat I take into account how laid back it is to prepare for dat going into a post office an taking long some people wanted to leave an come back on dat alone, an now a new thought just arrived having to leave by force I must say u right about having d rite people in u corner for d transition an it was nice to c u I felt so elated excited an happy for u children it was such a nice story I heard part 1 an I was looking everywhere I couldn't find u to c how u progress but now I found u I am still happy some people take there kids without preparation to all parts of d world don't knock u self u done well d kids done well I did d same coming to england mine was worse u r a very talented person an u operate u have dat on u side good luck for d future an tings Will go well with u
This has been a while. How is the adjusting going? Also, do you happen 2 know about best areas to live for remote workers and best places to live for 2 person households? Prob not the right video ..thought I'd ask..
Hi Anne, the adjusting is still an ongoing process 🙂. As for the best areas to live that's a difficult one to answer as there are so many factors involved - not everyone's looking for the same thing. Feel free to book a call over at www.theexodus.co or give Miranda at Sapna Homes Grenada a call and tell her Zoe sent you. I'm sure she'd be willing to give you a some advice. Hope those two options work for you 🙂
thank you for a courageous and authentic video - you are doing an amazing job as a single mother - is Grenada a place you would recommend for other expats ?
Thanks Lee, I'm trying! Yeah Grenada is awesome but it's not for everyone - it's an acquired taste 🙂. It's small island, that's very laid back and life here moves fairly slowly. If that sort of thing appeals, there are definitely international folks and Grenadians to connect with on the island.
Are you of Grenadian or Caribbean heritage? That makes a difference . Also leaving in the Caribbean, Latin America and Africa there is a big resource difference among other things.
Hi Zoe could you share who the lady is thats in Dominica that shared yoga Nidra and gene keys. Thanks for sharing this video. I relate when I came to Barbados.
Hi, the lady in question is the fabulous Martha Cuffy. Here's her interview (you can also find her contact details in the show description) th-cam.com/video/n-iuebAYZMM/w-d-xo.html
Hello Zoe. Refreshing to experience that there are other human beings out there. Thank you for making me reflect on important issues that could be relevant to our family and more so should we choose to move to Grenada permanently. Now how could we find your secret spot this summer? :) Alto Braveboy
Hahaha keep watching, I might sneak the location in there one of these days 😉. As challenging as these initial months has been at times, there's still nowhere else on earth I'd rather be than Grenada.
You are an amazing mom and everything you are feeling is valid. Thanks for giving insight to the realities of the transition stage. I’m sending you an email asap on some info that could benefit you. Stay well.😊💐
U very lucky,and privileged at Ur kids age 60 yrs ago I was picking cotton taking care of pigs, goats, sheep cows donkey and school and church,and still found time to have fun all with out, TV or street light, taxis,and very few buses, mummy and daddy wasn't dropping us off at school in fancy cars we walked,and after school we had to go and cut feed for our animals or carry water to them carry it on our heads now children sits on there arses on there play stations and still complain!! sometimes we saw to our animals b4 school as well,or at dinner time,other times we skipped school because the family needed us in the field to plant corn or peanuts melon ,peas punkin, cotton, not forgetting havesting it all later in the coming months!! Did I enjoy my childhood,of course I did,!!
Sounds like you had an awesome childhood, not too dissimilar from my dad's growing up in rural Grenada. I don't think luck much has to do with my situation but I definitely acknowledge my privilege 🙂
If you speak to a lot of us from the Caribbean, they would tell you that even though those times were hard, it was the best time of their lives Even last night we had some friends over and we touched on this subject. We were poor, but so free and never hungry. There was always something to eat: mangoes, soursop, manciport, fat pork, sugar cane, apples, cashews, almonds, grapes etc and the sweetest water you can ever drink from the mountains. Yes, we can chores to do, no TV or games etc, but we made our own entertainment and enjoyed ourselves with what we had. We spent our time doing things that brought us enjoyment and happy memories now
Appreciate your videos. I live in the U.S. Virgin Islands. I would love for my daughter to experience life outside of the U.S. Can outsiders purchase property there?
You are the adults and supposed to know what's best for your children. Give them time to adjust eventually they would appreciate it. A lovely home with a swimming pool, it seems like you can afford that, children love's that , invite their friends around to swim, for pizzas, ice cream, McDonald's etc. After 2 years Once they settle they won't want to leave. God bless. A praying family stays together let Jesus lead the way.
Invite their friends round and serve island food - leave the foreign food that is killing us (McDonald's). Make your own pizza: salt fish or chicken (buy the dough) or get the children involved in planning the menu without the foreign food. Have a games night with their friends: monopoly, ludo, chess (if they cannot play - see if you can get someone to teach them) Not sure how busy you are, but start a chess club within your community - widen their circle of friends. Sometimes you have to think outside the box
Enjoy your well earned freedom 🎉🙌🏾! Guadeloupe sounds like an exciting place to be at the moment. Check out this video if you haven't already th-cam.com/video/ya-5T7LfGN0/w-d-xo.html
@@ExodusCollective I'm not able to make the connections with people the way I thought I would. I really wanted to make friends, create family, but... I'm ... we are experiencing... well nothing close to my ideals. Also, I'm not feeling at home, or completely safe. I moved to get away from race issues and there's still quite a bit of that vibe sometimes and I thought we'd just fit right in but people stare at us during shopping or just being out. I don't mind the staring because I know I'm with a raving beauty, my 3 year old daughter, so it's to be expected 😏 But the main thing, is seeing my sweet girl try to play and make friends, and this little yt boy hit and pushed her. 💔 she was just smiling and talking to him. Wasn't just him, the African kids treat her... well she's outside of their circles. I feel the same, like an outsider, who people just want something from. My host, who's abnb we r living at, has attempted to guilt trip me into paying a cancelation fee outside of the abnb contract because she's issue with me changing our stay from 11 months to 2. I changed because she has a 25 year old son living in the back yard that was not disclosed, three dogs, who poop all over the large, lovely garden, which isn't ok for my daughter to play around, and she lives on the property in the scullery quarters. I was under the impression, we'd be here unbothered, but no. It's just... not... home! We've lived in Joburg, Durban, Pretoria, South Africa. There's a feeling I'm searching for but it's not here. I don't feel relaxed here, and I don't talk much anyway, but here... I talk even less after a few experiences. Feel like a turtle retreating into a shell. And I feel sad, alot, more alone than I was back in the US. Not the mom I want to be right now. The fact that it's winter here, isn't helping because cold just makes me wanna stay in the house. I cry in secret from my little one almost everyday because I want to find a place outside of the US that were we can be us, free, warm, happy, and have people in our lives that mean us well, don't treat us with passive aggressions, or want anything from my pockets... which I don't have! Oh, wow, I wrote alot, sorry, I haven't talked to another adult in like three days so I busting and unloading. Anyhow, I passed on the Caribbean to come to Africa because I thought I'd been here before before my daughter arrived. But it's not the same, I see things differently now.
@@trinnysaysno I really feel for you! Are there any groups for black folks who've moved to South Africa? Sometimes finding others who can understand what you're going through can help you feel a little less isolated. I remember catching up with another mum who'd moved with her son to Grenada and we spoke for literally 6 hours straight! Immersing yourself in a new culture is also but a dose of what you're familiar with can often work wonders too... I'll have a look online to see if I can get some suggestions for you. Do feel free to send me an email if you wanna connect privately - zoe@theexodus.co (not .com) Sending you and your daughter much love xx
@@ExodusCollective Thank you! I will email you. I have not come across any groups or other Americans, but once in Durham. Two women, younger than me, dressed like video vixens, hair to the floor, spent the whole time complaining about the food, their lodging, everyone was ugly... I ran as far away from them as possible. Thank you for this talk support is most appreciated. I will write to inquire. Right now I'm struggling with sleep and a serious case of the blues. Thanks again for letting me reach out!
Oh I can imagine how u kids feel kinds in the islands are very mean I left Grenada 30 yrs ago am in the USA and I can't even imagine going back to Grenada to live to many adjustment the people are very small minded so sad
Some people are small minded but enough aren't. I'm discovering that, even on an island of only 110,000 people it's still possible to find your tribe/s.
@@ExodusCollective So true and people in the US or UK are no better You have to take one day at a time and look at people not form the eyes of the UK, but from the eyes of someone now living on an island with your own kind
kids can b mean every where, lame excuse!! our kids don't go around killing dozens of there school friends,now that's mean,or wiping out there whole families,get a grip
Thank you so much for the advice the Best thing to do is pack your bags with your children and head out before they hate you when they turn adults The thing is how the white world has created such pampering for themselves that our people can get so immerse in it that living with their own people becomes a nightmare. I do get what you saying I really do, but it's good to educate your children from a small way about life and your history. Just imagine we leave the Islands and go to European culture and just adjust so we well to it no matter how hateful we are treated and don't have the tolerance for our own that's a phenomenon. I don't think white people really know how much our people love them.
Thank you for being so transparent about your journey. This video is so timely lol. I have been talking to my husband about moving from the U.S. to St. Lucia (where my husband is from). We have 3 young children (7,5, 2) and I am a bit concerned about the transition but I’m also very aware that children are resilient. My desire is for my children to experience many of the values, sense of community, and oneness with nature that my husband grew up in and to a certain degree myself going back and forth to Jamaica where both of my parents are from. I have a keen awareness of a holiday experience vs living in a new environment but the U.S. society is becoming more and more corrupt and unsafe (although it is not unique to the U.S.). Don’t be so hard on yourself. You are a mother of 3 little human beings with their own personalities and outlook. You are also responsible for a very big transition moving from one continent to another!!! You know the reason you made the decision that you deemed best for you and your children, it is and will continue to be an adjustment for them but rest assured they will be okay. Blessings 🙏🏾❤️
Thank you Natasha, I think the younger children are the easier it is for them to adjust. In some way your kids are the perfect ages! All the things you wish for are also what drew me to the island and the kids receive all of that in bucket loads (despite their complaining, lol). I guess at the end of the day we as parents just have to weigh up what matters most and accept that perfection is not to be found anywhere on this planet 🙂
I wanted to give you a bit of comfort on this point. My parents moved me and my sister to St. Lucia when I was 9 and she was 7. At first we went through a very painful transition, but after a few years we melted into the culture and began to love life in St. Lucia SO much- to the extent that now I’m 32 and want to move my own children back there - best of luck and thank you so much for your incredibly valuable videos!
St Lucia and Grenada are very different when it comes to priority for education etc.
@@Swolecows ok. Education is a huge priority for parents in st lucia
@@tristybrooke33 That was the distinction I was making any why she maybe having some issues in Grenada
Zoe you are so refreshing and so honest. Thank you! I hope now (2 years later), you are finding time for yourself in amongst everything else, and that the kids are settled and loving sand.
Thanks for your kind words. The kids do complain a little less 😄. I've more or less found my rhythm and I'm getting closer to feeling settled. I hope you can visit the island one day
@@ExodusCollective Glad to hear it. I love your videos and hope to come sometime. Glad the kids are not complaining as much, I’m sure that feels half the battle at times.
@@AlannahBruce-g4p for sure 😄
We sometimes romanticize and fantasize living in another Country. I love my expat groups and gained a wealth of knowledge BUT expats don't seem to be open and honest about things they perceive as negative. The narrative seems to be rainbows and unicorns in another Country. They don't want to talk about the struggles, crime, mental, emotional, and financial struggles, racism, etc. Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
You're welcome! I think it's important to try to give folks all sides of the experience when it comes to moving overseas... Hope it helps to feel less pressure to have the "perfect" experience.
I had a similar conversation with an expat in Cozumel which is one of my favorite vacation destinations. This was awhile back but I was discussing how even though it’s relatively safe there and exempt (mostly) from cartel activity, there is still some trickle effect. They denied that any crime has happened there until I cited an actual article from one of their local newspapers. So yeah, rainbows and unicorns. They don’t want to talk about anything else.
All expat channels seem to be pretty transparent to me.
I totally agree
One of the things i wish Zoe would ask these expats: have you totally removed from the UK or are you still paying into their pension systems for later in life (National Insurance contributions), do you have a bank account in the UK, life insurance etc.
Someone people may say, yes I am completely closed out everything that will tie me to the UK, whilst others may say, no I feel that I still need a safety net for later in life, like paying in the State pension system - which one can still do as an expat.
Someone may think that this is not a valid question, but we never know what's around the corner and what may happen later in life.
I moved to Grenada at the age of 11 and I had such a culture shock. Even though I grew up around family and many Grenadian friends I wasn’t prepared for the distinct difference. School was horrible….the language barrier, the reading, the different form of education, the religious aspect of school. Then there was just the every day life challenges of trying to fit in into a culture I clearly knew nothing about but was expected to assimilate into.
So happy you’re taking the time to help your children adjust it will make all the difference.
Holding space for you as you navigate how to find time for yourself.
Thanks Aunty P! I always thought you'd moved back when you were younger.
Sounds like my son is going through a lot of what you went through when you moved here.
Can't wait to see you 🙌🏾
@@ExodusCollective just keep building his community and find ways to boost his confidence.
Hopefully in December if not for Carnival 💗
@@patsyandall4781 that's so true. A sense of community is everything! I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you🤞🏾
Thank you for being so honest and eloquent Zoe! Everything you said is so relatable. It's definitely not easy making such a big transition, but it sounds like it's very much worth it. I can't wait to be in the same position!
Thank you, its worth it for sure. Best of luck on your journey too!
I’m Wishing You & Your Children All The Very Best With Your New Life In Grenada. I *Moved* (Firstly Half & Half) ie 6/6 Months a Few Years Ago To The Fabulous Lisbon Coast. Like You, I’d Been Visiting Portugal Periodically For Several Years. However, Living Here (As Much As I Loved/LOVE It)Threw Up Unforeseen Challenges. NOW? I’m Beyond Grateful To Be Here. Happy, Fulfilled, Healthy Lifestyle. Beach Runs, Tennis, Farm-To-Table Nutrition. My Point, You’ll Find Solutions & I Wish You Great Happiness.🌹
Thank you Aimee! I'm glad to hear life in Portugal is treating you well too 😊
I feel your anguish! The culture is very insular here. I made the move to Carriacou from UK in 2008 on my own. Strong family ties here & Uk. Its getting difficult in the UK now. Stick with it girl. More quality of life here. Life is a growth process. Be one with nature grow into your new location!
I love your words of wisdom! Life is about growth for sure. I'd love to hear more about your move to Carriacou - we should schedule an interview!
@@ExodusCollective I'm to shy & private princess for that kind of exposure . unplanned for sure, but un-regrettable.
@@tehuti9995 completely understand. Part of my dad's side of family hails from Carriacou so perhaps our paths will cross on the island anyhow✨.
@@ExodusCollective Will make it happen. Love too link & share!
Beautifully said
Thank YOU! Sometimes, we are in our heads so much that we can be hard on ourselves when mistakes happen. I appreciate this! The pressure and anxiety around moving abroad can be overwhelming. Thank you for living out loud and sharing your experiences! This really helps to take the angst out of making a mistake. Mistakes happen. This video is definitely helping me to take the pressure off. My Moving Abroad Journey doesn't have to be perfect. I appreciate this so much! It was really an amazing therapeutic moment! The advice you gave that I really needed to hear was JUST BREATHE! Thank you!
You're most welcome. It's not the most exciting part to talk about but I imagine I'm not the only one who's going to face these challenges/learning opportunities 🙂
Thank for being transparent and sharing your experiences. I look forward to future content. Blessings and peace.
Thank you 🙏🏾!
Hey Zoe, I luv and appreciate your, reflective, honesty about your travel experiences with your family. As well as sharing those important hindsight pre-travel plans that those of us that are seeking expat paradise should be mindful of and definitely take heed. 🙏 🥰
Thank you Theresa, it's really good to hear that folks find this perspective useful!
Brand new to your channel and loving it. You paint a realistic picture of what life is really like after the honeymoon period is over. Much food for thought before deciding to make a move abroad, so thank you.
Thanks for subscribing Dionne Marie! I hope you find the conversations useful 😊
Hello Zoe. I am no expert, but think you have done very well. It maybe a culture shock to some degree, and it will take time. I have been on holiday to Grenada regularly, but to my family home. I went to primary school there when I was small a long time ago for the first time, and just as I got use to Grenada I had to go back to the UK. Every child is different and maybe within time things will change. But in my day there was no internet,cable tv, etc etc. So maybe I did't miss anything, but the cold weather. I got use to seeing family, getting to know some people, and some not. So I think its having time to build on what you have now, which will happen. Its frustrating, I know. Count on the fact that Grenadians are wonderful people, who are very helpful. Yes its important you think of your children, but I would like to think you came through the hardest part by arriving during the pandemic with them. So finally I would say you can learn from any mistakes.
Thanks Andrew! It's always good to hear from other folks who spent significant amounts of time in Grenada and survived 😁.
You're absolutely right, even on the days when I'm pulling my hair out, the stunning scenery and friendly people I'm surrounded by let me know that 100 % Grenada is where I'm supposed to be right now.
Thanks for sharing, Zoe; I can relate. You are looking so well; Grenada agrees with you. It sounds like your going through a reality check, like myself, fright or flight mode, but stick with it.
Thank you! Yep, it's a reality reassessment for sure but there's no going back 😊
"Reciprocity of Respect"-yes yes yes.....this is very difficult. It is an exhausting process to help my daughter work through as well. Its very stressful. Please keep us updated! Wishing you well and happiness as you continue to make these adjustments.
Thanks for letting me I'm not the only one struggling with this! Where are you based?
Your experiences really resonates with mine when I travelled to Dominica with my young son. It was challenging for my boy in many ways. We returned to the UK and have travelled to the Caribbean regularly and now he is a man approaching 30 and he loves the Caribbean 🤷🏾♀️
That's a relief to hear your son loves the Caribbean now. How long did you spend in Dominica?
I'm hoping it'll be the same with my son too - get him acquainted with the island while he's young even if his appreciation of Grenada doesn't kick in until later in life.
@@ExodusCollective we spent just over 2 yrs in DA. I can only imagine how emotionally challenging this must be for you, where our children are concerned we worry about the impact on them, but keep going if it’s what you want and need at this time because if you were not happy in the UK your children would also feel that too! Any change would be challenging. I recall you saying something like - we often remain where we are because we’re fearful and it’s what we know (comfort zone) lots of reflection me thinks and stay in touch with what feels right for you!!!!! Btw, I do enjoy your channel 🙏🏾
@@SylviaSmith_53Brend thank you, I value your wise words!
Great information; thank you for sharing your true experiences and wishing you and your family the best!
Thank you Gina 🙏🏾
Another great video Zoe, keep the honesty coming!
Thanks! I appreciate your support 🙏🏾
Thank you for this video,I just moved with my family from South Africa to St kitts.we moved first week of February and we are finding our way.
Congratulations Bulelwa 🎉🙌🏾! Had you been to St Kitts and Nevis before? Lots of folks from South Africa here too. I'd love to hear how you're finding it. I wish you and your family all the best!
Thank you so much 😊 It is our first time coming to the Caribbean.Talking about mistakes one thing we did not investigate properly was the school system,it is different compared to back.we start a school calendar in January whereas here they start in September🙆♀️
Our son started last week Monday and our daughter will only be starting this coming Monday.right now I can only pray they will be able to cope.
Culture is different but we are very positive people and ready to learn.
St. Kitts is my birthplace. I want to relocate back too. Im also looking into Grenada because its outside of the hurricane zone.
Zoe thanks for this honest share. I'm a homeschool practitioner and advocate and that worked for me moving to other states more than a few times with small children. I augmented with socializing extracurricular activities like field and track. I like that your son is learning sailing. My daughters forced me to be more extroverted and engaged. With the internet and virtual learning being what it is you could put together a fantastic and engaging program. I found it to be a destressing move and significantly improved the quality of life for my family. My oldest daughter (42) is now homeschooling her youngest and traveling. My other daughter may adopt and has said she will probably do likewise. You never know, it may be viable alternative.
Thank you Rachel! It's great to hear that homeschooling worked for you and your family. It's definitely an option I've looked into...
@@ExodusCollective I'd like to hear more about your progress. You are already their Primary Teacher 👍✌
I've just subscribed to you at a ridiculous time in the UK, twighlight 3.30 am ish 🤪 The point is, I was drawn to your content! You are amazing!! Authenticity pours from you! I feel prevelidged to have experienced your story - as a black female professional, carving out my own success, having been a single mother for the most part! My son is now 27, bless him, my pride and joy!!
Thank you for sharing, my sister!❤
Aw, thanks Karen! I really appreciate your kind words.
It's really tempting to try to make everything look perfect but hopefully others on their journey to move abroad will be reassured to know that "wobbles" are a normal part of the process and not necessarily a reason to pack your bags and come home. 😊
I can empathise with your youngest. I too moved full time to Grenada aged 10. I thought my life was over lol (and this was the 80’s no Amazon, no WhatsApp) Fwd to now… it was the best decision my parents made
Great interview
Thank you 🙏🏾
Hey! We've talked soo much about having things perfect -- It held me up sooo much. I finally pushed myself to go to Mexico and then to El Salvador. I learned so much from these trial runs. The only regret I have is that I hadn't done it before the pandemic when I had a chance to go to the West Indies (where my home is for sure!). All in due time. Appreciate all the wisdom you have shared and time you've taken to hear me out ♥️
Yep, you're so right! You could die waiting for the "perfect" time!
Wise, gorgeous, sister Goddess. Very inspirational. Refreshing honesty.
Thank you 😊
Thanks for the video. I needed to hear this
I hope it helped and hasn't put you off 🇬🇩😊🤞🏾
@@ExodusCollective no it didn’t put me off but I needed to not just hear all the good things. I needed the truth.
I am so loving your blogs. I migrated to Grenada in 2009 but had to come back to England in 2016. It was meant to be brief but I am still here 6 years on. Coming back to Grenada soon to salvage and refurbish not knowing if I even want to go back for good. It would be nice to link up when I arrive back in Grenada would be nice to share our experiences
Good luck in making it back to the Spice Isle - definitely drop me a line when you're here.
I don't believe in mistakes and nothing you did was "stupid or silly". It's a learning experience...learn as you go. I traveled with 3 kids and a husband overseas...you really don't have an obligation to "fix it" for your kids...you rob them of their own experiences. You all have to roll with the punches...Did we mention the pandemic???You are an amazing mom; give yourself lots of credit!
Aw, thank you 🙏🏾! I really appreciate your kind words 😊
Wow speechless - fantastically ststated
awesome, thank you for being so open and honest. I, fly out from Las Vegas on the 23rd and am planning on living in Grenada as I, get my dental work done, being single/retired is an eye-opener on its own. Try not to be so stressed out on everything being perfect for your children, life is not that way, temper the rewards with hard work and they will appreciate it more. I, know that I, chopped miles of cotton to purchase the clothes that I, wanted to wear in High School and took better care of them as I, did so. Maybe I, will see you on the Island... Quien Sabe? I, don't drink so it won't be there... Luck to you and your family.
You're welcome! Glad you found it useful and congratulations on making the choice to come to Grenada.
You're right - perfection does not exist. This is definitely a journey so I guess I just need to trust that the kids will adjust as time goes on.
Make sure to drop me a line when you get here and best of luck with your move!
Grenada is a beautiful island but it does have its challenges.
I can't really advise you what to do but time always have a way of working for you, if you try and keep a positive attitude to your move.
Time is so powerful, it's a giver, its a healer, a forgiver and your friend.
Give your move more time and it will work out.
very wise words Sydney, thank you! Yes, Grenada does have it's challenges but where in the world doesn't? Don't worry, I'm not throwing in the towel yet ;-)
Lesson learned thanks for the pointers
I'm sure you'll fare better than I have 😆
I can appreciate the difficulties of the situation. I grew up in the Caribbean, and yet I have some difficulties with fitting in with some of the norms when I visit. I can imagine that actually moving there is even more challenging, especially having to reconcile the experiences of 3 others besides your own. Unfortunately, I have no suggestions, just hoping it all works out whatever path you take moving forward
Thanks for your kind words Jen, I really appreciate them. We're doing well - it's all just part of the journey I guess 🙂
Thank you for being so transparent about your journey. This video is so timely lol. I have been talking to my husband about moving from the U.S. to St. Lucia (where my husband is from). We have 3 young children (7,5, 2) and I am a bit concerned about the transition but I’m also very aware that children are resilient. My desire is for my children to experience many of the values, sense of community, and oneness with nature that my husband grew up in and to a certain degree myself going back and forth to Jamaica where both of my parents are from. I have a keen awareness of a holiday experience vs living in a new environment but the U.S. society is becoming more and more corrupt and unsafe (although it is not unique to the U.S.). Don’t be so hard on yourself. You are a mother of 3 little human beings with their own personalities and outlook. You are also responsible for a very big transition moving from one continent to another!!! You know the reason you made the decision that you deemed best for your children, it is and will continue to be an adjustment for them but rest assured they will be okay. Blessings 🙏🏾❤️
The US have always been corrupt. It is just that things have happened in the last couple of years that have opened the eyes of the population to what the US is really all about.
I would jump at the chance now that your children are this age, once they hit their teens, it then becomes more problematic.
As you rightly said you want your children to have certain values and sense of well being and that is hard within the US and the UK - but it can be done.
Great critique
Thank you 🙏🏾
Thank you so much for being honest the transparency you gave. I e only filerted with the idea of moving abroad and have a daughter. I've wondered if this is the right move as a single mother but what is right at the end of the day. This video really help hove me some perspective so thank you greatly!!
Give it a trial run, even if it's only for a couple of weeks. Anything is possible once you set that intention and take action ✨
Several weeks into researching retirement to the Caribbean (from Dorset, UK) I have come across your videos and I have to say I am enjoying your presentation. It's 'natural', informative and interesting, thanks. I'd like to make a trip to Grenada for a couple of weeks to get a feel for the island. Would that be a long enough stay? When's the best time to visit? Best place to stay? (not too touristy.) Best way to get around? I have a ton of other questions but don't want to be a nuisance. Is there a preferred way to get to Granada? Please keep posting videos when you get the chance, they're really helpful, thanks. Happy to have Skype, What'sApp, Messenger video chat if that suits.😀
Hi Graham, great to hear you're considering Grenada! There are direct flights from the UK (Virgin & BA). Happy to schedule a call with you - do send me an email zoe@theexodus.co (not .com)
I moved here November 2020. There’s a lot going on here but change is coming. It’s sad when you see the truth. I wouldn’t mind doing an interview with you. However I am in Carriacou but there is a virtual option.
I'd love to do an interview with you! Can you please send me your details - zoe@theexodus.co (.co not .com).
Thanks!
@@ExodusCollective sure I’ll send a message tonight.
@@SheisEileenLang thank you!
Most people experienced the same feeling when they moved to a different.country. maybe you should stay a little longer to see if the situation changes. Don't just give up easily. I know you are thinking about your and you would like them to be happy, but don't give up easily.
Thanks Humaline. I'm definitely not throwing in the towel 😊
Hello miss...thanks for sharing...you are a beautiful woman and an amazing mom...Grenada is the most beautiful place in the caribbean...you may need a good and hornest Grenadian pathner...who can put all these worries in place
A "hornest" Grenadian partner? That word sounds about right 😆.
Forgive me for teasing you! Grenadian men are indeed very wonderful.
Let's see what happens, a good and honest one would be nice 😁
@@ExodusCollective yes we are indeed wonderful...i wish i can say more...but i don't think here is the right place to do so...i wish you all the best...you deserve it....i will be happy if i should walk into you one day...take care of yourself and keep the faith...bye!
I watched this again and was impressed with your thoughts around creating a learning space for your children - might there be the possibility of utilizing a hybrid model (virtual/traditional/abroad field experience) ?
Remains open and curious - great reminder.
Thanks Lee! I'm open to all possibilities. If you have any suggestions, please let's chat 🙏🏾
Loved this
Thanks!
Awww Zoe thanks for sharing and congrats on the growing channel. Yeah the kids being content in the move is absolutely important for them and for you. Think of it this way…. at least they have each other so they’re never alone and not necessarily missing social interactions which is what I kind of fear for my son who’s an only child. I plan to home school using a US style program with the help of good teachers there who wants to earn some extra income. You might consider possibly doing something similar using a UK style program. Also don’t forget to put your oxygen mask on first so you can then help the kiddos to put theirs on. Its going to take sometime getting used to. Also try to see money as just a tool, a means to an end just like any other resource.
A UK retired nurse I met in Jamaica back in November 2021 told me she’d been living there for over 2 yrs and its only after the 2nd year that she finally felt settled and enjoying living there. She said she’d planned to return to the UK in early 2020 but the virus ruined their plans forcing them to stay put on the island and now she said it was the best thing that could’ve happened and now she does not wish to return to the UK. Give it time and be kinder to yourself Sis. You done great getting your family across the world in search of simple, safe, thriving and peaceful life 👏🏿
Thanks for your words of wisdom! 2022 is definitely the year of the oxygen mask 😊.
Funnily enough I am considering alternative education options but I definitely want to get myself in the right place before I embark on that journey.
Best of luck with your move too - it sounds like you have a great strategy in place for you and your son.
All I kno is I tink u have done quite well as life has it's ups an down u have to take it in u stride there r so many parts to dis i actually remember other stories of other people who went straight back to trinidad without carefully checking an testing like u did after an then in a matter of a short space if time they return back to d UK after having packed house an everyting an I always could never understand dis as me being a patriot I always look at life to remember where I came from which dat I take into account how laid back it is to prepare for dat going into a post office an taking long some people wanted to leave an come back on dat alone, an now a new thought just arrived having to leave by force I must say u right about having d rite people in u corner for d transition an it was nice to c u I felt so elated excited an happy for u children it was such a nice story I heard part 1 an I was looking everywhere I couldn't find u to c how u progress but now I found u I am still happy some people take there kids without preparation to all parts of d world don't knock u self u done well d kids done well I did d same coming to england mine was worse u r a very talented person an u operate u have dat on u side good luck for d future an tings Will go well with u
I ❤️ your voice and personality
Thank you 😊
This has been a while. How is the adjusting going? Also, do you happen 2 know about best areas to live for remote workers and best places to live for 2 person households? Prob not the right video ..thought I'd ask..
Hi Anne, the adjusting is still an ongoing process 🙂. As for the best areas to live that's a difficult one to answer as there are so many factors involved - not everyone's looking for the same thing. Feel free to book a call over at www.theexodus.co or give Miranda at Sapna Homes Grenada a call and tell her Zoe sent you. I'm sure she'd be willing to give you a some advice. Hope those two options work for you 🙂
@@ExodusCollective thank you for the suggestion and feedback..alot of work ahead for me but, a day at a time...🙋♀️
thank you for a courageous and authentic video - you are doing an amazing job as a single mother - is Grenada a place you would recommend for other expats ?
Thanks Lee, I'm trying! Yeah Grenada is awesome but it's not for everyone - it's an acquired taste 🙂.
It's small island, that's very laid back and life here moves fairly slowly.
If that sort of thing appeals, there are definitely international folks and Grenadians to connect with on the island.
Are you of Grenadian or Caribbean heritage? That makes a difference . Also leaving in the Caribbean, Latin America and Africa there is a big resource difference among other things.
Supply chain is a problem
I'm 100% Grenadian 😁
Definitely!
Hi Zoe could you share who the lady is thats in Dominica that shared yoga Nidra and gene keys. Thanks for sharing this video. I relate when I came to Barbados.
Hi, the lady in question is the fabulous Martha Cuffy. Here's her interview (you can also find her contact details in the show description) th-cam.com/video/n-iuebAYZMM/w-d-xo.html
@@ExodusCollective thank you that’s cool oh yes I have met and spoke to Martha. Great thanks for sharing.
@@BeHolistic nice! What a small world
Anyone knows how Ecador or Hati is this time of year? Take a guess why I'm asking?
Hello Zoe. Refreshing to experience that there are other human beings out there. Thank you for making me reflect on important issues that could be relevant to our family and more so should we choose to move to Grenada permanently. Now how could we find your secret spot this summer? :) Alto Braveboy
Hahaha keep watching, I might sneak the location in there one of these days 😉. As challenging as these initial months has been at times, there's still nowhere else on earth I'd rather be than Grenada.
@@ExodusCollective Thank you for your answer, ill watch out. If i dont have your secret spot by june we will come over!
Children raised in the US and Europe are accustomed to luxuries and way more material things and way entitled.
You are an amazing mom and everything you are feeling is valid. Thanks for giving insight to the realities of the transition stage. I’m sending you an email asap on some info that could benefit you. Stay well.😊💐
Thanks Bubu, you reminded me that we need to connect!
U very lucky,and privileged at Ur kids age 60 yrs ago I was picking cotton taking care of pigs, goats, sheep cows donkey and school and church,and still found time to have fun all with out, TV or street light, taxis,and very few buses, mummy and daddy wasn't dropping us off at school in fancy cars we walked,and after school we had to go and cut feed for our animals or carry water to them carry it on our heads now children sits on there arses on there play stations and still complain!! sometimes we saw to our animals b4 school as well,or at dinner time,other times we skipped school because the family needed us in the field to plant corn or peanuts melon ,peas punkin, cotton, not forgetting havesting it all later in the coming months!! Did I enjoy my childhood,of course I did,!!
Sounds like you had an awesome childhood, not too dissimilar from my dad's growing up in rural Grenada.
I don't think luck much has to do with my situation but I definitely acknowledge my privilege 🙂
If you speak to a lot of us from the Caribbean, they would tell you that even though those times were hard, it was the best time of their lives
Even last night we had some friends over and we touched on this subject. We were poor, but so free and never hungry. There was always something to eat: mangoes, soursop, manciport, fat pork, sugar cane, apples, cashews, almonds, grapes etc and the sweetest water you can ever drink from the mountains.
Yes, we can chores to do, no TV or games etc, but we made our own entertainment and enjoyed ourselves with what we had. We spent our time doing things that brought us enjoyment and happy memories now
What do you do for work
I work remotely with a company based in the UK.
Great Observations Sistah.......
Appreciate your videos. I live in the U.S. Virgin Islands. I would love for my daughter to experience life outside of the U.S. Can outsiders purchase property there?
Can foreigners purchase property in the Caribbean? Sure they can.
I love your ambitions for your daughter. Good luck!
You are the adults and supposed to know what's best for your children. Give them time to adjust eventually they would appreciate it. A lovely home with a swimming pool, it seems like you can afford that, children love's that , invite their friends around to swim, for pizzas, ice cream, McDonald's etc. After 2 years Once they settle they won't want to leave. God bless. A praying family stays together let Jesus lead the way.
Lol, I'd love to be able to afford a home with a pool... I'm not quite there yet 😉
Invite their friends round and serve island food - leave the foreign food that is killing us (McDonald's). Make your own pizza: salt fish or chicken (buy the dough) or get the children involved in planning the menu without the foreign food.
Have a games night with their friends: monopoly, ludo, chess (if they cannot play - see if you can get someone to teach them)
Not sure how busy you are, but start a chess club within your community - widen their circle of friends. Sometimes you have to think outside the box
I wanna move to guadeloupe for retirement. My children are grown and out of the house. So I am Free🌎🇫🇷🇺🇸
Enjoy your well earned freedom 🎉🙌🏾! Guadeloupe sounds like an exciting place to be at the moment. Check out this video if you haven't already th-cam.com/video/ya-5T7LfGN0/w-d-xo.html
Ive moved from US to South Africa with my 3 yr old...shes not happy... neither am I.
Aw, sorry to hear that. What's keeping you from being happy?
@@ExodusCollective I'm not able to make the connections with people the way I thought I would. I really wanted to make friends, create family, but... I'm ... we are experiencing... well nothing close to my ideals. Also, I'm not feeling at home, or completely safe. I moved to get away from race issues and there's still quite a bit of that vibe sometimes and I thought we'd just fit right in but people stare at us during shopping or just being out. I don't mind the staring because I know I'm with a raving beauty, my 3 year old daughter, so it's to be expected 😏 But the main thing, is seeing my sweet girl try to play and make friends, and this little yt boy hit and pushed her. 💔 she was just smiling and talking to him. Wasn't just him, the African kids treat her... well she's outside of their circles. I feel the same, like an outsider, who people just want something from. My host, who's abnb we r living at, has attempted to guilt trip me into paying a cancelation fee outside of the abnb contract because she's issue with me changing our stay from 11 months to 2. I changed because she has a 25 year old son living in the back yard that was not disclosed, three dogs, who poop all over the large, lovely garden, which isn't ok for my daughter to play around, and she lives on the property in the scullery quarters. I was under the impression, we'd be here unbothered, but no. It's just... not... home! We've lived in Joburg, Durban, Pretoria, South Africa. There's a feeling I'm searching for but it's not here. I don't feel relaxed here, and I don't talk much anyway, but here... I talk even less after a few experiences. Feel like a turtle retreating into a shell. And I feel sad, alot, more alone than I was back in the US. Not the mom I want to be right now. The fact that it's winter here, isn't helping because cold just makes me wanna stay in the house. I cry in secret from my little one almost everyday because I want to find a place outside of the US that were we can be us, free, warm, happy, and have people in our lives that mean us well, don't treat us with passive aggressions, or want anything from my pockets... which I don't have! Oh, wow, I wrote alot, sorry, I haven't talked to another adult in like three days so I busting and unloading. Anyhow, I passed on the Caribbean to come to Africa because I thought I'd been here before before my daughter arrived. But it's not the same, I see things differently now.
@@trinnysaysno I really feel for you! Are there any groups for black folks who've moved to South Africa?
Sometimes finding others who can understand what you're going through can help you feel a little less isolated.
I remember catching up with another mum who'd moved with her son to Grenada and we spoke for literally 6 hours straight!
Immersing yourself in a new culture is also but a dose of what you're familiar with can often work wonders too...
I'll have a look online to see if I can get some suggestions for you. Do feel free to send me an email if you wanna connect privately - zoe@theexodus.co (not .com)
Sending you and your daughter much love xx
@@ExodusCollective Thank you! I will email you. I have not come across any groups or other Americans, but once in Durham. Two women, younger than me, dressed like video vixens, hair to the floor, spent the whole time complaining about the food, their lodging, everyone was ugly... I ran as far away from them as possible. Thank you for this talk support is most appreciated. I will write to inquire. Right now I'm struggling with sleep and a serious case of the blues. Thanks again for letting me reach out!
Don't buy land in carriacou - very shady people. Even the lawyers protect the bad dealers. 5 years later and still can't get help.
Oh I can imagine how u kids feel kinds in the islands are very mean I left Grenada 30 yrs ago am in the USA and I can't even imagine going back to Grenada to live to many adjustment the people are very small minded so sad
Some people are small minded but enough aren't. I'm discovering that, even on an island of only 110,000 people it's still possible to find your tribe/s.
@@ExodusCollective So true and people in the US or UK are no better
You have to take one day at a time and look at people not form the eyes of the UK, but from the eyes of someone now living on an island with your own kind
kids can b mean every where, lame excuse!! our kids don't go around killing dozens of there school friends,now that's mean,or wiping out there whole families,get a grip
@@davidgay5960 Well said.👍🏿
Yqu have not spoken once about a husband or a boyfriend. Perhaps that is your biggest problem, male companion. You are too beautiful to be alone.
😆
Thank you so much for the advice the Best thing to do is pack your bags with your children and head out before they hate you when they turn adults The thing is how the white world has created such pampering for themselves that our people can get so immerse in it that living with their own people becomes a nightmare. I do get what you saying I really do, but it's good to educate your children from a small way about life and your history. Just imagine we leave the Islands and go to European culture and just adjust so we well to it no matter how hateful we are treated and don't have the tolerance for our own that's a phenomenon. I don't think white people really know how much our people love them.
Thank you for being so transparent about your journey. This video is so timely lol. I have been talking to my husband about moving from the U.S. to St. Lucia (where my husband is from). We have 3 young children (7,5, 2) and I am a bit concerned about the transition but I’m also very aware that children are resilient. My desire is for my children to experience many of the values, sense of community, and oneness with nature that my husband grew up in and to a certain degree myself going back and forth to Jamaica where both of my parents are from. I have a keen awareness of a holiday experience vs living in a new environment but the U.S. society is becoming more and more corrupt and unsafe (although it is not unique to the U.S.). Don’t be so hard on yourself. You are a mother of 3 little human beings with their own personalities and outlook. You are also responsible for a very big transition moving from one continent to another!!! You know the reason you made the decision that you deemed best for you and your children, it is and will continue to be an adjustment for them but rest assured they will be okay. Blessings 🙏🏾❤️
Thank you Natasha, I think the younger children are the easier it is for them to adjust. In some way your kids are the perfect ages!
All the things you wish for are also what drew me to the island and the kids receive all of that in bucket loads (despite their complaining, lol).
I guess at the end of the day we as parents just have to weigh up what matters most and accept that perfection is not to be found anywhere on this planet 🙂
@@ExodusCollective Well said