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So lonely!

Question

I have had a hard time making friends in Belgium. I've been trying to get involved in many activities, expat groups, language classes etc. and it just feels difficult to make friends. It seems a lot of people are transient and are living here for a short period of time and are reluctant to invest in a friendship. My friends at home are in a different time zone and it is difficult to connect as I'm usually asleep by the time they finish work. I'm not used to feeling so alone. Does anyone have any advice? Were you able to overcome this? thanks for your help

Diestenaar

I was in a similar situation when I first arrived, but it does get better. If you are getting involved in language classes etc that's great, however you may want to try some local activities as well, or perhaps invite some folks from work for a meal or drinks at your place - That worked really well as an ice breaker for me, I am still in close contact with 2 of them even after changing jobs and I am married to the 3rd (So call that one break even ;-)
Get out there and take advantage of some of the local scene - to your point the expats tend not to want to invest in friendships they know probably won't last beyond their next move.
I am guessing you're North American (given the time difference with friends) so maybe invite your friends from home to come and visit as well, they may have time now that summer is here, I am from Toronto originally, and my friends there were biting my arm off to come to visit.
Good luck!

Jun 26, 2012 21:20