From Philippines to the Serbia: One Expat's Journey

Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming, and there are always a few things that you wish you had known beforehand. As someone who made the move from the Philippines to Serbia in 2018, I've compiled a list of the things I wish I knew before making the move.

Language barrier:

The important of learning the local language even if you don't become fluent, learning basic phrases and words can be very helpful in navigating daily life and building relationships with locals and while English is widely spoken in the Philippines, it is not as commonly spoken in Serbia. At first, you may expect people to accept that you don't know Serbian language. I wish I had spent more time learning language before moving, as it would have made navigating daily life much easier.

Photo by Siora Photography on Unsplash

Cultural differences:

There are many cultural differences between the Philippines and Serbia, from social customs and etiquette to the way business is conducted. It's important to do some research and be prepared for these differences to avoid misunderstandings or offending locals. Serbia is a nation with a vibrant culture and a nice, welcoming population. The kindness and warmth of the people in Serbia are only a couple of the traits that set them apart. It is crucial to express your gratitude by bringing a modest gift, like as flowers, chocolate, or a memento from your own country, if you are invited into a house. This is a way to honor and express thanks to your hosts for their generosity.

Finding housing:

It can be challenging to find housing in Serbia, especially if you're not fluent in Serbian language or don't have a local contact to help you. We recommend starting your search as early as possible and being prepared to put in some extra effort to find a suitable place to live.

Renting a house or apartment in Serbia can be a great option for those looking for a more long-term living situation, as it allows you to have a sense of stability and to put down roots in a new community.

One of the first things to consider when looking for a rental property in Serbia is the location. Serbia has a number of large cities, some of the bigger cities are Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Niš, each with its own unique character and attractions. Belgrade, the capital city, is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene, while Novi Sad is known for its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. No matter where you choose to live, it is important to consider factors such as proximity to schools, public transportation, and amenities like grocery stores and hospitals.

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Transportation:

Public transportation in Serbia is fairly well-developed and is a convenient way to get around the country. The main forms of public transportation in Serbia include buses, trams, trolleybuses, and trains.

Buses are the most common form of public transportation in Serbia and can be found in most cities and towns. There are both local and long-distance buses available, and tickets can be purchased from the driver or at a ticket kiosk. If you are planning to visit small villages or rural areas, it is a good idea to research the availability of bus lines to and from these places, as they may not have constant service or it can be crowded and not enough space for all passengers (on certain bus routes, we experienced similar circumstances where there wasn't enough capacity for all of the people).

Trams and trolleybuses are also popular in Serbia, particularly in Belgrade. These modes of transportation are electric and run on dedicated tracks, making them a more environmentally-friendly option. Tickets can be purchased from the driver or at a ticket kiosk around the city and purchase a 'Bus Plus' card. Trains are another option for long-distance travel in Serbia. The country has a well-developed railway network that connects major cities and towns. Tickets can be purchased at the train station or online.

Overall, public transportation in Serbia is reliable (most of the time) and affordable, making it a convenient option for travelers and locals alike. Just be sure to have the correct fare and a valid ticket when using these modes of transportation.

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Healthcare:

Healthcare in Serbia is generally good, with a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics available. The country has a national healthcare system that provides free or low-cost healthcare to citizens, but the quality of care can vary. Private healthcare is generally more expensive but may offer a higher level of service.

If you are moving to Serbia as an expat, it is important to research your options for healthcare coverage before you arrive. Many expats choose to purchase private insurance, as it can provide access to a wider range of healthcare providers and can be more convenient. However, private insurance can be expensive, so it is important to shop around and compare plans to find the best coverage for your needs.

Another option for expats is to join the national healthcare system. In order to do this, you will need to apply for a personal identification number and register with a local healthcare provider. This can be a more affordable option, but the quality of care may not be as high as with private insurance.

Overall, healthcare in Serbia is generally good, but it can be expensive if you don't have insurance. Make sure to research your options and find the right healthcare coverage for your needs before moving to Serbia to ensure that you have access to the care you need.

EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS

Knowing your emergency numbers It's always a good idea to know where to call for assistance in an emergency. You may call these numbers in Serbia from any mobile phone to make a help request:

1. Police:  192
2. Fire station:  193
3. Ambulance:  194
4. AMSS road assistance:  1987

Photo by Camilo Jimenez on Unsplash

Working in Serbia:

Due to my limited knowledge of Serbian language, my experience looking for work has been difficult. Finding job as an expat can be challenging, particularly if you don't speak the local language or have no prior professional experience in the field.
I can, however, advise you to increase your chances of finding job in Serbia by making a little bit of effort and being persistent.

Making contacts and networking within the community is one of the most important things you can do. This might involve signing up for professional groups or going to meetings and events in your profession. You may also get in touch with nearby companies and ask about opportunities for jobs or prospective internships. Consider seeking out job opportunities with international companies or organizations that have a presence in Serbia. These companies may be more open to hiring expats and may have resources in place to support you in your transition to living and working in Serbia.

Overall, finding work in Serbia as an expat requires effort and persistence.

Social connections:

Making friends and integrating into the local community as a Filipino expat might be challenging, especially if you don't speak the language well. Finding people who share your interests and experiences can be challenging while trying to navigate a new culture and social environment.

Joining local expat groups on Facebook or organizations, is one approach to overcome these challenges. These kinds of organizations may be a great resource for seeking support, building connections, and learning about the region because they frequently consist of individuals who are in a similar situation to you.

We recommend using our website as a resource for finding information and connecting with other expats. Our website is designed specifically to help expats connect and find resources to make their transition to living abroad smoother and more enjoyable.

Photo by Dimitrije Milenkovic on Unsplash

Homesickness:

Moving to a new country can be tough, and it's natural to feel homesick at times. Make sure to stay in touch with loved ones back home and find ways to stay connected to your roots, whether it's through food, music, or other cultural traditions.

The Top 5 Things I Miss About Philippines

1. The food: The delicious and diverse range of foods available in the Philippines, such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon, seafood and veggies.
2. The culture: The rich and vibrant culture of the Philippines, including traditional dances, music, and art.
3. The landscapes: The beautiful landscapes of the Philippines, such as the beaches, mountains, and rice terraces.
4. The people: The friendly and welcoming nature of the people in the Philippines.
5. The lifestyle: You may miss the slower pace of life in the Philippines and the strong sense of community and family.

Embracing the adventure:

One of the biggest changes in one's life is moving to a new country, which can be both exciting and scary. As you get ready to leave your home country and begin a new life abroad, it's normal to experience a range of emotions. Moving to a new country, however, is definitely a great opportunity to learn new things and grow as a person.

Stepping outside of your comfort zone, embracing new cultures, and trying new things are all crucial parts of the expat experience. It's an opportunity to meet new people, grow your family, learn a new language, and experience a new culture. Take chances and enjoy the experience, it's all a part of the journey.

Learning about other cultures and traditions is one of the best aspects about moving to a new country. You will have the opportunity to get immersed in a different way of life whether you relocate to a city or a rural location. You may discover new things about the world and expand your horizons by doing this.

If you're considering moving to a new country, don't be afraid to take the plunge. It may seem intimidating at first, but the expat experience is an incredible opportunity to grow and learn. Embrace the adventure and don't be afraid to take risks you never know where it might lead you.

5 Things I Love About the Serbia

1. The celebration of their Slava and the high-quality wines produced in Serbia
2. The relatively low population density, which allows for a more laid-back and less crowded atmosphere
3. The convenient location for exploring neighboring countries by land
4. The availability of free healthcare and education for children
5. The driver warns other motorists that there are police on the road by blinking their headlights

Photo by Lazar Gugleta on Unsplash

Author:

Niña Clarren Maksimovic

founder + Entrepreneur + marketing + creative consultant

Mother, wife, photographer, graphic designer, traveler, business owner, and enthusiast of digital and social media marketing. She decided to relocate to Serbia in order to be closer to her family. Join her as she share her expat experience and work to grow both personally and professionally. She appreciate your visit and hope you will find this website interesting.

Sava Maksimovic

Digital Entrepreneur + Content Creator = computer enthusiast & tech geek

Husband & father who is driven & dedicated, with a passion for creativity & technology. With a background in the creative industry, he has a wealth of skills & experience, including expertise in extreme photo-manipulations and 3D modeling for the film and gaming industry. Sava has also been working on improving his coding skills with Coursera. He has traveled extensively & is always seeking out new opportunities to learn & explore technology. Sava is a highly skilled professional who is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest developments in his field.

If you're a Filipino expat living in Serbia or a Serbian expat living in the Philippines and you have a passion for technology and creativity, we'd love to have you as part of the development process for our website. Whether you have experience in blogging, journalism, or any other type of writing, we welcome your contributions. If you're interested in writing with us, please get in touch and let us know a little bit about your background and what you'd like to contribute. We look forward to hearing from you!
Let us know what you think by emailing serficommunity@gmail.com