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Checklist of Things to Do Before Moving Your Household Abroad

Moving Abroad

Moving abroad is a big deal, and there are a lot of things that you need to do to prepare for what may be the biggest move of your life. Depending on the country you’re relocating to, the preparation steps can take months or even years. No matter when you plan to move abroad, it’s important that you get to work on your checklist right away to avoid the hiccups that come with last minute preparation. To help you get started, here are some of the essential checklist items for moving your household abroad from Cheap Movers Sacramento (1601 Alhambra Blvd #100, Sacramento, CA 95816, (916) 584-9939):

1. Select what to bring with you to your new country.

Put these items in a specific place so that they don’t get mixed in with your other belongings.

2. Decide what to do with your other belongings and property.

If you own a home, who is going to care for it? Where are you going to leave your car if it’s not coming with you? Here are some good ideas from Budget Direct for what to do with your vehicle. If you don’t have property in the states but can’t bring all of your things, where will you store them? All of these questions need to be answered well in advance and developed a plan of action.

3. Sell or give away what you can’t keep or bring.

If you have limited storage space and you can’t bring everything with you, you may want to sell or give away some of your belongings. Selling your items can provide you with extra cash for your move and can be done via garage sales, estate sales, eBay, and some mobile apps.

4. Make sure that you have your passports and visas ready for each country you will enter.

The passports of each family member moving abroad need to be valid, but they must be renewed if they expire within the time frame that you will be living abroad. You’ll also need to verify that everyone has their visas approved and ready to go.

5. Make photocopies of your important documents

These include medical records, vaccine records, birth certificates, and passports. Do this for each family member.

6. Schedule your cancellations.

Before moving abroad, you’ll need to cancel your utilities, phone plans, gym memberships, magazine subscriptions, and any other services that you can’t obtain outside of the country. Also, make plans to forward your mail to an appropriate address.

7. Set up travel plans with your bank.

You’ll need to notify your bank that you’ll be out of the country and let them know which countries you’ll be in before doing transactions abroad.

8. Make sure that your pets cleared for travel

Your furry companions should be vaccinated. You can also request a certificate of health and any other documents that they may need to travel and enter foreign countries.

9. Get yourself checked

Make sure you have your teeth cleaned, eyes checked, and any other self-care appointments that you need to have done before leaving. Take advantage of opportunities to visit your regular doctors and dentists before going away.

10. Buy what you need for living and traveling.

You can get most things in almost any country these days, or at least a very close variation, but if you’re unsure, you can stock up on your favorites before moving. This also applies to any medications you’re on that you will continue to need long-term.

11. Get a credit or bank card that can be used in that country.

If you set up your travel plans, you should be able to use your regular card in your new country. You should also consider getting a backup international banking card in case you can’t access your funds with your regular bank card.

12. Find out what the tax requirements are in the new country.

You want to make sure that you’re in good standing with your new country, so it’s a good idea to do some research and find out what you’ll need to do regarding taxes and health insurance.

Each country has their own set of demands for entering foreigners, so you’ll need to extend your checklist to include any special items that pertain only to your new country. Moving abroad can be both stressful and exciting, but you can cut back on your stress by staying organized and getting things done well in advance of moving day.

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Traditional Caribbean Recipes You Can Cook At Home

Traditional Caribbean Recipes

Traditional Caribbean foods are a flavorful combination of African, British, Creole, Cajun, Portuguese, Spanish/Latin American, Amerindian, East/South Asian, Arab, and Chinese cuisine. Each of these cultures left their impression on the colorful islands at various points in history, creating a unique, global style. Common ingredients include rice, plantains, beans, bell peppers, chickpeas, and a variety of locally available meats.

traditional-caribbean-recipe

Below are two recipes that encompass the best of traditional Caribbean flavor.

TOSTONES

In this quintessential island recipe, plantains are deep fried, re-hydrated, and fried again for a crispy dish that is satisfyingly sweet and salty.

Prep: 10 minutes

Cook: 10 minutes

  • 5 tablespoons oil
  • 1 green plantain
  • 3 cups cold water
  • Salt to taste

Have the plantain peeled and chopped into one-inch chunks.

Pour the oil into a large skillet and allow to heat. Place the plantains in the oil and fry on both sides, about three and a half minutes per side. Once done, remove them from the pan and flatten the plantains by pressing down with a plate over the top.

Dip each of the plantains in water, then return them to the hot oil and fry for one minute on each side. Then salt according to taste, then serve immediately.

JERK CHICKEN

There are many variations of this chicken marinade, but this version by John Torode is exceptionally spicy.

Prep: 25 minutes

Cook: 45 minutes

  • 12 (bone in) chicken thighs
  • 1 lime, halved

For the marinade:

  • Hot sauce for serving (optional)
  • 1 bunch of spring onions, chopped
  • Thumb-sized piece ginger, roughly chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • ½ a small onion
  • 3 scotch bonnet chiles; remove the seeds for less heat
  • ½ tsp dried thyme, or substitute thyme leaves
  • Juice 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp allspice

Now for the rice and peas:

  • 200g basmati rice
  • 400g can coconut milk
  • 1 bunch spring onions, sliced
  • 2 large thyme sprigs
  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped small
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 2 large cans of kidney beans, drained

First, mix all ingredients for the jerk marinade in a food processor. Add 1 tsp salt, and blend to a purée. Taste; it should be salty, but not intense. Add more chilies or brown sugar to taste.

Add slashes to the chicken thighs and coat with the marinade, rubbing it into the cuts. Leave overnight in the fridge, allowing flavors to absorb.

To barbecue the chicken, fire the coals an hour before cooking. For more authentic flavor, add wood chips to the coal, and cook the chicken over low heat for a half hour.

For the oven, heat to 365, and cook in a roaster with the limes for forty-five minutes.

Meanwhile, begin preparing the rice and peas. Add all of the ingredients (except for the kidney beans) into a large saucepan, add salt and one cup of cold water. Cook over high heat until it boils, then turn down to medium heat, and continue cooking for ten minutes. Stir the beans into the rice.

caribbean-recipes-to-cook-at-home

If you’re not comfortable whipping up Caribbean dishes on your own, you might want to try one of the recipes from popular meal kits like Blue Apron or Green Chef. Blue Apron’s Caribbean Chicken Curry with Roasted Plantain is a crowd-pleaser while the Caribbean Chicken with Pineapple Salsa from Green Chef is delicious and filling.

 

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How to Plan an International Move to the Caribbean

Moving Here

For the last few months, you have been daydreaming about moving somewhere exotic. You may want to escape the cold winters in your current city, or you might be tired of the fast pace that comes along with living in a big city. Many people daydream about moving to a tropical island. The Carribean islands are paradise. A few adventurous people make a plan to move to their favorite island. There are several things to consider before you pack your bags and purchase a plane ticket.

Find a Remote Job

Unlike moving to a nearby state, a move to the Carribean will require extensive planning. You may not be able to transfer your job to your new city. You will need a reliable source of income. Remote jobs are great for people who are relocating without a traditional job.

Get to Know the Local Residents

You have probably visited your favorite Carribean island at least once. Living in paradise is not always a vacation. Before you move to the Carribean, you should rent a temporary apartment for at least one month. Shop at the local grocery stores and eat at the local restaurants. You will learn more about the local culture. If you do not have a car, you will need to research the local public transportation system.

Sort Out the Residency Requirements

If you are not moving to a United States territory, you may have to apply for a visa. Investigate the residency requirements. Visit the local embassy and check international expat boards.

Make a List

When you are ready to move, you should make a list of everything that needs to be completed. You will have a record of all your tasks, and you will clear your mind. You will have your unique situation, but most people will have a few things in common.

  • Ask your doctor for copies of your medical records.
  • Schedule any required immunizations.
  • Make dental appointments.
  • Get copies of all important legal documents.
  • Order copies of birth certificates, diplomas, marriage licenses and insurance policies.
  • Make sure your insurance policy will be accepted in your new city. Store all of your paperwork in a binder. When you organize your documents, you can have peace of mind knowing that all of your important papers are in one place.

Hire a Relocation Company

You need to have a shipping plan for your belongings. International moving companies are expensive, so be sure to research (try this site) and assess whether or not it’s in your budget to move all your belongings. If you cannot afford the cost of relocating all your possessions, you should consider scheduling a garage sale. Make a list of your inventory and label everything. When you are organized, you will have more time to lounge on the beach.

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Which Caribbean Island to Visit | Your Vacation Guide

Caribbean Island Vacation

The Caribbean Coast is one of the most gorgeous vacation destinations in the world. The sandy beaches, aquamarine waters, delicious local cuisine, and laid-back vibes are a few reasons the Caribbean is so popular. However, there are a ton of island choices when it comes to your Caribbean getaway. Here are four of the most popular picks:

island-vacation-at-caribbean

Aruba

Aruba offers a wide range of activities for the whole family. Outdoor activities are popular on this island as it boasts the sunniest days of any island in the Caribbean. Wreck diving, snorkeling, and sail boating are three of the most popular water activities in the area. The capital city of Oranjestad contains most of the night life and lodging accommodations, but you can also explore the inland where you’ll be treated to the desert aura of Arikok National Park which contains a large variety of wildlife, eclectic rock formations, and breathtaking views of the ocean.

St. Lucia

St. Lucia is located on the eastern portion of the Caribbean and is known for its romantic vibes, making it one of the more popular destinations for honeymooners and newlyweds. The island has a wide array of geographical wonders including mountainous volcanic terrain and suave beaches. The island is also home to a Botanical Garden, local Sulfur Springs, and activities like the St. Lucia Jazz Festival and the Windward Islands Cricket Team. The West African influence is strong on the island and can be found in everything from the food, resort decor, and festivals featured on the island.

St. John

St. John is one of the smallest and most cozy of all the Caribbean islands. Over sixty percent of the island’s land mass is concentrated in a National Park. The island is famous for its unspoiled natural beauty and is a great destination for anyone looking for a little seclusion and relaxation. St. John focuses less on the touristy night life and more on basking in nature’s natural beauty. Hot spots on the island include Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Honeymoon Beach.

Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago is a true cultural experience. Located in the southern part of the Caribbean, its bursting with Creole culture. Most bars and tourist attractions will offer a little flavor of the Creole drum routine or a classic game of the Limbo. Trinidad offers the bustle of a commercial island and has pockets of immense wealth and luxury while its sister city of Tobago offers a more sleepy and secluded escape. The dichotomy between the two locations makes Trinidad and Tobago a great place to vacation with friends or family.

These are just a few of the more popular islands in the Caribbean. Each island offers a unique flavor and the experience of a lifetime. If you’re searching for your next tropical getaway consider one of these delicious retreats.

caribbean-getaway

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