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Posts by: Chrissie Stephen

Chrissie Stephen

Chrissie is a UK-born writer at My Dolce Casa, living in France. She has also worked for many years as a radio presenter. She has been living abroad since she was 20. She lived in Germany, Cyprus, Greece, and is now in France, where she and her husband run a successful gite business and she conducts civil wedding ceremonies.

Albi France
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From Expat to Local: How to Feel Like You Belong in a New Country

by Chrissie Stephen on March 2, 2025
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Moving to a new country is a major challenge and it can take time to adapt to a different culture, to master a new language and to comfortably feel that you belong in your new home. Many people question how…

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Reverse Culture Shock: Returning Home from Abroad Isn’t Always Easy

by Chrissie Stephen on February 8, 2025
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It can come as a surprise to learn that returning home after a stint of living abroad, might not be as easy as you think. ‘Reverse culture shock’ is the term given to the challenging period experienced by people returning…

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France in Spring: Top 10 best places to visit and things to do

by Chrissie Stephen on February 8, 2025
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Springtime is the perfect time to enjoy France. The days are longer and colorful blossoms transform cities as well as the countryside. There are plenty of bright sunny days to enjoy, although the warmest temperatures are usually found in the…

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Foreign Buyers Brace for a Hefty New Property Tax and the End of Spain’s Golden Visa

by Chrissie Stephen on February 2, 2025
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With its long warm summers and mild winters, and a relaxed and affordable lifestyle, Spain has long been a popular place to buy property. Originally it was a popular retirement destination for expats from the UK, Germany and Scandinavia, but…

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Money Matters Abroad: Managing Financial Stress and Mental Well-Being

by Chrissie Stephen on January 30, 2025
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Living abroad can be a dream come true with many amazing life opportunities and experiences. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to have financial stress when living in a foreign country. Managing financial stress and mental well-being are closely entwined. Any…

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Dealing with Homesickness: How to Stay Connected Without Losing Yourself

by Chrissie Stephen on January 5, 2025
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You have made the move abroad and are living your dream. Yet you find yourself regularly missing home. Dealing with homesickness is a common experience for expats that creates feelings of nostalgia and longing for their home, their home town,…

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Malta
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Malta in February: Carnivals, Tile Painting and Other Cool Events

by Chrissie Stephen on January 4, 2025
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The Mediterranean Island of Malta enjoys about 300 days of sunshine each year, so those planning a trip to the island in February are guaranteed to enjoy plenty of sunny days. The average temperatures in February in Malta are around…

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Paris in February: The Best Events in the World’s Most Romantic City

by Chrissie Stephen on January 2, 2025
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With St. Valentine’s Day in the middle of February, what better idea than to spend it in the most romantic city in the world with your loved one? Having visited many many times, this is one of my favorite times…

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Athens in February: Tips for a Great Winter Getaway to the Greek Capital

by Chrissie Stephen on January 1, 2025
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January and February are the two coldest months in Athens Greece, but it is still warmer than in most of Europe, making Athens a great winter destination. It is true that if you enjoy holidays with sandy beaches to relax…

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Redefining Yourself Abroad: How Living in a New Culture Changes You

by Chrissie Stephen on December 28, 2024
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Do you have moments when you feel that you are a different person now that you live in a different country? You will not be alone if you answered yes! Many people describe moving to another country and living in…

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Cyprus in February: Delight in the Sun and Discover the Island’s Treasures

by Chrissie Stephen on December 23, 2024
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Cyprus in February is a refreshing contrast to the dreary, overcast days often found in much of Northern Europe. The island of Cyprus offers a delightful experience with its mild climate and consistently blue, sunny skies. It’s the perfect time…

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Paris in January: Unveil the City’s Hidden Winter Secrets

by Chrissie Stephen on December 16, 2024
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With the holiday season behind, the city of Paris regains its quiet romantic allure in January. The crisp winter air and occasional snowfall add a magical touch to the already picturesque streets. It’s a time to enjoy the city’s cozy…

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Language Barrier Anxiety Abroad: How to Cope When You’re Not Fluent

by Chrissie Stephen on November 30, 2024
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Have you ever felt nervous trying to order a coffee in a foreign language? Have you been anxious about visiting a doctor who doesn’t speak your language? Unfortunately, although living in a foreign country can be great fun for so…

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Loneliness and Isolation: How to Build a Support Network Abroad

by Chrissie Stephen on November 23, 2024
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After all the initial excitement of living abroad fades, many find themselves feeling lonely and isolated. These are common challenges when moving to a new and very different country. The key to successfully dispelling these feelings is building a support…

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Tips for Dealing with Culture Shock: How to Adapt to a New Country’s Way of Life

by Chrissie Stephen on November 7, 2024
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Some people find the experience of living abroad difficult and at times overwhelming – especially if they have never travelled abroad before. Instead of feeling positive, enthusiastic and adapting to their new life, they begin to miss home and its…

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The Honeymoon Phase of Living Abroad: Why Everything Feels Amazing at First

by Chrissie Stephen on November 3, 2024
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Moving to a new country is an exhilarating experience. Most newcomers view their new surroundings through “rose-colored glasses,” feeling like they are “falling in love” with the place and that they are “living the dream.” Exploring local monuments, enjoying freshly…

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8 Budget-Friendly Towns in France for English Speakers

by Chrissie Stephen on October 20, 2024
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France has long been a popular destination for British couples and families. In 2023, Ibanista reported that 200,000 Americans chose to enjoy the French way of life. The appealing countryside, excellent public transport, rich cultural heritage and outstanding healthcare system all…

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Is Cyprus a Good Destination for Digital Nomads?

by Chrissie Stephen on October 13, 2024
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With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Cyprus is one of the few warm winter destinations in Europe. Add to that beautiful beaches and charming villages, and you can easily see how Cyprus is becoming an increasingly popular destination…

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8 Budget-Friendly Towns in France for Arts and Culture

by Chrissie Stephen on September 15, 2024
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France is world-renowned for its rich culture and arts scene, shaped by centuries of history, social influence and its regional diversity. Choosing an affordable place to live with direct access to world-class museums, art galleries and colorful local traditions is…

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8 Budget-Friendly Towns in France for Wine Lovers

by Chrissie Stephen on September 8, 2024
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France is world-famous for its exquisite wines, which are deeply intertwined with the country’s culture. With 17 wine regions, the French landscape is characterized by endless vineyards and a countryside dotted with small wineries. Local life revolves around the winegrower’s…

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