Project FUEL’s Post

After five unforgettable years in Singapore, we’ve recently made the big move to Brussels. With the kids now adjusting to their new school, we’re excited to start this fresh chapter closer to family and in a new environment. Yet, there’s a bittersweet feeling that lingers. While there are incredible opportunities ahead, there’s also a sense of loss as we say goodbye to what we’ve left behind. Leaving Singapore is a mix of emotions, both bitter and sweet. There’s joy in the new, but it’s also natural to grieve the end of a cherished chapter. This kind of transition can feel like a form of grief, not just for what we’ve lost but for the changes ahead. It’s about: ✔️ Denial: A part of me still feels like we’ll wake up to the tropical warmth of Singapore. ✔️ Sadness: I miss the friendships, routines, and vibrant culture that became part of our daily lives. ✔️ Acceptance: Slowly embracing the beauty of Brussels with all its newness and promise. But with every ending comes a beginning. Here’s the sweet side of this move: ✔️ The excitement of discovering a new city with endless opportunities, ✔️ Being closer to family in the Netherlands, offering a deeper sense of belonging for our children, ✔️ New connections, fresh perspectives, and a new chapter of personal growth. I’m immensely grateful for: ✔️ The enriching experience of living in Singapore, a place that taught us so much about different cultures, perspectives, and ourselves, ✔️ The friends we made who became like family (you know who you are), ✔️ Raising my kids as global citizens, who now carry pieces of every place they’ve called home. And now, I’m excited for what Brussels has to offer: ✔️ Fresh opportunities for personal and professional development, ✔️ Building new friendships and communities, ✔️ And the chance to root ourselves closer to family while continuing to grow in this new setting. For anyone else in a season of transition, know that it’s okay to feel both joy and sadness. Life’s changes are often bittersweet, but it’s the combination of both that makes the journey meaningful. Embrace the new while honoring the old. Stay tuned, Wilma #transition #move #emigration #personalgrowth #gratitude #tuneincoach #wilmapols

There's no place like Luxembourg. I mean... It's literally the 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 grand duchy in the world. But there's a lot more to this little country than it's unique form of government: 🌳 Green spaces More than a third of Luxembourg is lush forests and parks. Nature is your backyard. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's paradise found, especially from spring to fall! 🚆 Connectivity Nestled between Belgium, France, and Germany, weekend getaways to major European cities are just a train/plane ride away... as a Canadian, this is truly dream-material. 🎓 Multilingualism as a norm Children growing up here master languages. By adulthood, conversing in Luxembourgish, French, German, English, and often more, is just the standard. Talk about a superpower in today's globalized world! 💼 Career opportunities High demand for professionals, especially in finance and tech, combined with competitive salaries, makes Luxembourg a hotspot for career growth. It's a place where ambition meets quality of life. Sure, everyone knows the cost of living is high, but the return on investment is higher. For those who've made Luxembourg their home, what's your favorite part about living here? 🇱🇺 🔄 Repost if you agree! #Luxembourg #LifeInLuxembourg #CareerOpportunities

It has been a year since my wife and I arrived in the Netherlands, the place we now proudly call our new home. Our decision to relocate was a mutual one, driven by the realization that South Africa, where we were born and raised our daughters, could no longer provide a sustainable future for us. From the outset, our decision was firm: there would be no turning back. On the Rotterdam library building, you will find a quote by Desiderius Erasmus from the 16th century: “De hele aarde is je vaderland” (The whole world is your fatherland). This resonates deeply with me. I dislike being referred to as an expatriate. The term expatriate comes from the Latin ‘ex’ meaning ‘out of’ and the Greek ‘patria’ meaning ‘native country’ or ‘fatherland’, commonly understood as “a person living in a foreign land”. My choice is to be an immigrant, defined as “a person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country”. The issue with expatriates is that they often create parallel cultures within their host country. They tend to form cultural enclaves, clinging to familiar foods, sports, music, and festivals, and often resist integrating into the local culture. Every decision in life involves a balance of give and take. I am profoundly grateful to the Netherlands for welcoming me and providing opportunities that were no longer available in my native country. In return, I offer my expertise and knowledge in my field. I also make it a point to respect the laws and community standards of my new home. It amazes me when foreign individuals expect the Dutch public to adapt to their cultural norms, a phenomenon I frequently observe in the subways. Embracing Dutch culture does not mean forgetting my roots or cultural background. It is simply an expression of gratitude to a country that has graciously accepted me. #RoyalHaskoningDHV

Escaping the grey winter skies of Copenhagen, my family and I ended the year with a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, a destination I had long dreamed of visiting. The landscapes, the vibrant cities, and the ancient temples were stunning, but what truly stayed with me were the people we met—their resilience and the stories they shared. Listening to people’s stories is an extraordinary thing, and when speaking with locals, traveling becomes much more meaningful. It’s about connecting with others, sharing cultures, and gaining fresh perspectives—from something as simple as what’s for breakfast to how a government can shape someone’s life. Some of the most inspiring stories came from our tour guides. They had overcome unimaginable challenges as young adults: surviving wars, dismantling minefields, enduring family losses, and even living in exile in UN camps. Yet, amidst such adversity, they made one transformative decision—learning English. For them, it wasn’t just about acquiring a second language. It was a lifeline, a gateway to opportunities that allowed them to rebuild their lives. Step by step, their efforts led to new careers as translators and guides, and just as someone once inspired them, they now mentor others. Their determination also paved the way for their families to thrive. One guide shared how his children are now in school—a chance he and his 12 siblings stopped after the war started. His eldest is even studying to become a doctor in Phnom Penh and is the first in the family to attend university. Hearing stories like these reminded me of the power a single decision can have—not just in transforming your own life but in creating ripple effects for others. It also made me reflect on the decisions that have brought me to where I am today, both personally and professionally. It connects to the stories I’ve had the privilege to hear in my work with international professionals in Denmark. Moving to a new country is a bold step. Adapting to a whole new culture, embracing the unfamiliar, navigating challenges, and shading and building a new identity from the ground up—it’s no small feat. Yet the resilience and determination I see in these individuals every day mirrors those same stories of transformation. Isn’t it a universal truth that growth thrives in adversity, not in comfort? Embracing life as a learning playground and finding peace with our circumstances opens doors to extraordinary transformations—not just for ourselves but for those around us. 🌟Have you ever had an experience where learning something new completely changed your perspective—or your life? I’d love to hear your story! #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #TransformationJourney #TravelInspiration #CulturalExchange #InspirationThroughStories #LifeChangingDecisions

Looking to boost your quality of life? Greece has the perfect mix of culture, lifestyle, and opportunities that can really elevate your experience. With a €250K investment in modern properties, you can secure EU residency. Check out our article to discover the amazing benefits of living in Greece! Reach out to us if you want to learn more! #GreeceGoldenVisa #QualityOfLife #ResidencyByInvestment #InvestInGreece #PeristeriProperties

🌍 Exploring Luxembourg 🇱🇺: A Hidden Gem in Europe I recently had the opportunity to visit Luxembourg, and I was truly inspired by the unique qualities of this beautiful country. Here are some of the highlights that stood out to me: 1️⃣ Quality of Life: Luxembourg ranks among the best in the world for its high standard of living, blending modern infrastructure with serene natural beauty. 2️⃣ Safety for Expats: Known as one of the safest countries globally, Luxembourg offers a welcoming environment, making it an ideal destination for expats. 3️⃣ Free Public Transport: Yes, you read that right! Luxembourg is the first country in the world to offer free public transportation nationwide—a remarkable step towards sustainability and accessibility. 4️⃣ Multicultural Haven: With 170 different nationalities represented, integration is seamless in this diverse and inclusive society. 5️⃣ Multilingual Nation: Communication is easy with French, German, Luxembourgish, and English widely spoken. This linguistic diversity reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage. Luxembourg left me inspired not just by its beauty but also by its values of inclusivity, sustainability, and community. It's a place where cultures blend, innovation thrives, and life feels balanced. If you’re considering your next travel destination or even a new place to call home, Luxembourg should definitely be on your radar! #luxembourg

🇨🇷 WHAT ARE THE RESIDENCY OPTIONS FOR EXPATS IN COSTA RICA? 🤔✨ For those considering Costa Rica as a new home, understanding residency options is key! Did you know you can stay as a tourist for up to 180 days 🇨🇷? That’s six whole months with just your passport—perfect for testing the waters. 🌊 For a more permanent option, Costa Rica offers temporary residency through categories like Investor Residency. With an investment of $150,000, you can gain residency and enjoy this incredible country’s natural beauty, warm culture, and Pura Vida lifestyle. 🌴 This insight was shared in collaboration with Nicole Leper from Travel to Money, a communicator specializing in traveling finance, vanlife, international investments, and living abroad. 🌍💼 COMMENT BELOW IF YOU LIKE THE ENTIRE VIDEO! 🌟

New Horizons in Europe: Latvia, Czech Republic, and Portugal Await You! 🌍✈️ Are you considering a fresh start abroad for you and your family? Europe offers a range of pathways to make your dream a reality. Whether you're a student, professional, or investor, discover the benefits of relocating to Latvia, Czech Republic, and Portugal! 🚀 1. #StudentVisas 🎓 Quality Education: World-renowned universities with affordable tuition fees. Cultural Richness: Immerse yourself in diverse European cultures and languages. Career Opportunities: Access to a broad job market and post-study work options. 2. #WorkVisas 💼 Thriving Job Markets: Opportunities in IT, finance, engineering, and more. High Living Standards: Enjoy a safe, comfortable, and vibrant lifestyle. Network Growth: Connect with international professionals and expand your horizons. 3. #InvestmentVisas 💰 Secure Investments: Real estate and business investments with potential for growth. Residency Benefits: Fast-track to EU residency for you and your family. Gateway to EU Citizenship: Pathway to becoming an EU citizen, granting freedom to travel, live, and work across 27 countries. Why Choose Latvia, Czech Republic, and Portugal? Latvia: A hidden gem with a blend of modernity and rich history. Czech Republic: A hub of innovation and a central European hotspot. Portugal: Beautiful landscapes, friendly locals, and a thriving expat community. Secure a future filled with opportunities and experiences! Whether it’s for education, career advancement, or starting a new business, these countries provide a welcoming environment for growth and family settlement. Begin your journey to EU residency and citizenship today! 🚀 Explore more and take the first step towards your new life! #StudyAbroad #WorkAbroad #InvestInEurope #india #EUResidency #EUCitizenship #UAE #USA #uk #FamilySettlement #GlobalOpportunities #ExpatLife #NewBeginnings #DreamBig #MoveToEurope 🚀🌍

Top 5 Lesser-Known Aspects of German Mentality That Might Cause Misunderstanding for Foreigners Navigating life in Germany can be an enriching experience, but it also comes with its own set of cultural nuances. For foreigners interacting with Germans, understanding these subtle aspects can help avoid common misunderstandings. Here are five lesser-known facets of German mentality that might surprise you: ✅ Direct Communication Germans are known for their straightforwardness. While this directness is meant to be clear and efficient, it can sometimes be interpreted as bluntness or even rudeness by those from more indirect cultures. ✅ Punctuality is Paramount In Germany, punctuality is not just a courtesy but a sign of respect. Being late without informing someone can be seen as inconsiderate, so it’s best to adhere strictly to agreed times. ✅ Clear Boundaries in Personal and Professional Lives Germans typically maintain a clear distinction between personal and professional realms. While they are friendly, forming close personal relationships may take time, and initial interactions might feel more formal. ✅ Love for Rules and Structure Germans have a strong affinity for rules and order. Whether it’s following recycling guidelines or adhering to traffic laws, expect a high level of adherence to regulations, which might seem overly meticulous to those from more flexible backgrounds. ✅ Reserved Humor German humor can be quite dry and sometimes sardonic. Unlike cultures that favor light-hearted or overtly jovial humor, German wit often leans towards subtlety and irony, which might not always be immediately obvious. Being aware of these cultural nuances can enhance your interactions and help you navigate German society more smoothly. Germany offers a wealth of opportunities and experiences, and a little cultural insight can make your time there even more enjoyable! 🇩🇪🌟 #Germany #GermanCulture #GermanyVisa #StudyingInGermany #LivingInGermany #GermanLanguage #ExploreGermany #GermanyTravel #GermanEducation #StudyAbroad #InternationalStudents #GermanLife #WorkInGermany #GermanyExperience #GermanUniversity #GermanTraditions #GermanyTips #MoveToGermany #GermanyLiving