Introduction: The Shift of Perspective

I have lived in Spain for 27 years and had the privilege to experience the cultural richness of various cities around the world including Kuala Lumpur, Budapest, Chile, the USA, Australia, Singapore, and Thailand. With every move, my perspective on home and culture shifted, leading to a unique series of experiences that defined my identity.

Returning to the Motherland: A Sea Change

After spending my career in several countries abroad, I returned to Kuala Lumpur in 2022 following the transition from my life in the United States, Australia, Singapore, and Thailand. This journey back home was not without its challenges, predominantly marked by the phenomenon of reverse culture shock. It’s a term much discussed but truly personal experience that leaves one contemplating life in a new context.

Reverse Culture Shock: A Personal Account

The essence of reverse culture shock is evident through the lens of someone who finally returns home after years of living abroad. The reality of my surroundings no longer aligns with my memories, causing a sense of disconnection and even disappointment. These feelings are quite common in individuals who have spent significant time in another country, but the experiences shared here bring forth a relatable narrative for those who have faced similar experiences.

The Transition from Abroad to Home

When I returned to Kuala Lumpur, I was overwhelmed by the changes that had occurred. While the city has seen tremendous advancements, there were aspects that either stagnated or took a negative turn. For instance, the funeral practices and ceremonial events were still there but now carried a somber undertone, where funerals seemed to be a way of acceptance rather than celebration. The marriage ceremonies, although still a joyous occasion, were no longer the vibrant events they once were, embodying a slower pace of life that is more focused on familiarity rather than novelty.

Personal Experiences and Culture Shock

My personal experience in Chile, a place where my identity was constantly being shaped by the blend of Spanish and Hungarian cultures, highlights the complexity of reverse culture shock. While I spoke Spanish fluently, my background as a person born to a German mother and a Chilean father made me an outlier. In my culture, I was seen as a “stranger in a strange land,” a phrase that resonates deeply with those who have immigrated or lived in a foreign country for a considerable period.

Adjusting to Familiarity and Strangeness

After 15 years of living overseas, the experience of returning home was particularly challenging. The cultural differences and disparities were amplified by the absence of familiar elements such as language, food, and transportation. Even the simplest things, like knowing what a Howard Johnson’s restaurant was, became a mystery. It was a humbling experience, and re-adapting to the daily norms of my homeland required a significant adjustment period.

The Road to Reintegration

Despite the challenges, the support from my family made my transition smoother. They were warm and welcoming, and their positive attitudes helped me navigate the ups and downs of returning to familiar yet foreign surroundings. From the personal anecdotes shared here, one can see the resilience and adaptability required to overcome the barriers of reverse culture shock.

Returning Home: A Hallmarked Experience

My main focus now is to delve into the practical aspects of returning home. Upon my recent move back to Kuala Lumpur, several challenges presented themselves, but the experience was a mix of both difficulties and smooth sailing.

The Challenges Faced

One of the most immediate challenges post-return was the timing of Ramadan. Due to external circumstances, our belongings arrived in Dubai, stuck in customs due to extreme temperatures. This delay proved to be both a blessing and a curse, as it allowed us to make essential changes to our new home, such as replacing carpets with tiles. Among other expenses, purchasing appliances and twin beds directly with the house was seamless and spared us additional expenses.

Administrative and Practical Challenges

Retiring meant dealing with administrative paperwork without the stress of job hunting, which simplified many aspects of our transition. The biggest challenge was related to our driver's licenses expiring due to the relaxed driving policies in our previous country. Ontario required a full setup of a learner’s permit, but fortunately, they granted us credit for our previous driving experience. Although there were restrictions—zero alcohol, no night driving, and no freeways—these were manageable. The process of reinstating our unrestricted driving licenses took one year, and obtaining conventional car insurance proved to be a significant hurdle, forcing us to purchase a low-cost used car as a workaround.

Conclusion: The Journey of Returning and Adapting

The journey of returning home is a complex and multifaceted experience. While some may face significant challenges, others might find a relatively seamless transition. The key to successfully navigating this transition lies in embracing the unknown, understanding the changes, and seeking the necessary support.