Have you ever wondered what it really takes to pack up your life and move overseas - not just physically, but mentally as well? What does it mean to fully commit to a new country, instead of keeping one foot in the place you came from?
In this episode, I talk to Norman and Chantal van Wyk, the first couple I’ve interviewed who made the move from South Africa to Norway. What struck me most about our conversation was how determined they were, right from the start, to go all in. They didn’t leave with a safety net or a backup plan to return home. Instead, they put all their energy into starting over and truly making Norway their new home.
I really enjoyed speaking to them. Their honesty about the ups and downs of committing fully to life in another country really resonated with me. If you’ve ever wondered about what it means to let go of your old life and embrace a new one wholeheartedly, I think you’ll find their story both inspiring and relatable.
“We need to make Norwegian friends. We can't just stay in this South African bubble. Although we're very appreciative of them.” - Norman van Wyk
00:00 Introduction
06:25 Seeking safety abroad
08:49 Life in the countryside
11:59 Serendipitous Scandinavian job offer
13:52 Finding the right house
18:18 Aligning their mindsets was key
22:34 Adapting to life in a foreign country
27:58 Applying for a visa
35:24 Breaking barriers with locals
37:57 Yearning for familiar connections
42:14 Limpet the cat went missing in Amsterdam
Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency:
