Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Moving to Milan

As you can probably understand from the title, this post will be about my move to Milan. There are so many thoughts I want to share, so I need to be sharp-witted and not ramble on forever.

This is also the reason I've been a bit MIA this week, because we still don't have internet in our flat, but let's start from the beginning. To make it easier to follow I'll divide this in a few "chapters".

Have a pink-tastic day!
Kisses.

An idea 
When I finished high-school and was researching universities, I briefly considered Milan because of my love for fashion. However after attending a German Kindergarten and school, it made more sense to attend a Uni in Germany or Austria. We all know I opted for Austria, where I studied Cultural and Social Anthropology in Vienna.

After finishing Uni it was time to start looking for a job and deciding in which direction I want to go, which is when an idea came to mind. What if I move from Vienna? My boyfriend is Italian, so it made sense to explore the possibility of moving to Milan. We started talking about our options, what it would mean mentally and financially, and what possibilities there might be for us here. This was about 7-9 months ago. 


Let the search begin

Research, research and more research people. When you're looking for an apartment in a foreign country or even new city, you need to research the neighbourhoods and prices, not to mention transport connections. It's important to have a plan about your possible costs like rent, electricity, water, gas, internet, furniture, food prices, etc. . This wasn't too hard for us, because he already came from the Lecco region, so we kind of knew what we were getting ourselves into. 

We used to come to Milan at least two times a year, but as you have noticed these past months I was here more than in Vienna or Romania. This was mainly for apartment hunting and moving our things. Finding the perfect apartment can take a few good months. Be careful, don't visit shady apartments and do not deal with shady people. If they ask for a ridiculous amount of money via internet without showing you the apartment or without signing a contract, don't just walk away, run. From my experience, if it's too good to be true (gorgeous, big yet cheap), it's probably not.

Before even starting the apartment search, set a budget, consider if you want it furnished or would be open to purchasing your own furniture, think how many rooms you need and which area is most suited to you. When we saw our flat, we knew it was meant to be, but stopped to think it rationally before signing a contract. We liked what we already saw, but most importantly saw the potential it had of becoming ours (decor). The only "problem" was we had to wait for it. Since it was what suited our needs the most, it was worth it. 

This was the perfect opportunity to spend some time home with my parents, to recharge with positivity and set a plan for what will come.


The move

Now is the best time to donate all the crap you've been hoarding. I donate twice a year and still had so many unnecessary things which I kept out of sentimental value. Now, now, I'm not saying to throw everything, that wouldn't be too bright because you'll have to repurchase it. I'm also not suggesting you live with a capsule wardrobe, but if you didn't wear it in the last year it probably has to go. There are people needing clothing, so why not donate your clothes to someone who needs and appreciates them, instead of pilling everything in your wardrobe? I understand keeping shoes, because those cute special occasion shoes aren't at fault for the lack of galas and princess parties in our life. For the rest, you'll feel better and not even notice, because you already didn't wear these pieces. Also, there couldn't be a better opportunity to throw away old make-up

Once you get the keys to your awesome new flat, gather all the patience you can find, because it's time to clean like you've never cleaned before. This is the time when you'll tend to get frustrated with each other, if you're moving with your significant other, but don't rush it and take your time, do not fight over stupid things. You will feel so good when it's all squeaky clean.  

Now is the time to visit Ikea or whatever shop you prefer, for anything you might need from decor to furniture pieces. For decor I also recommend visiting local shops. We still have to search for some decor pieces, but it's almost finished.


Next chapter

We've made it so far, now is the time to explore the area and discover this gorgeous city from a new perspective, not a tourist anymore. But life isn't all about having fun, it's time to work and gather experience. Be careful how you budget your savings, you never know how long it can take to find a new job!

We don't know how long we'll be here and what life will serve us, but we took a chance in pursuit of our dreams and hopefully it will be worth it.

Do you want to see any apartment tour/ decor ideas/ make-up collection videos + posts? or do you have any other suggestions ?




PS: I'm not a moving expert, I've only moved to two different countries and this is what I've learned thorough trial and error. You will probably never prevent all of the small "disasters", but you can try. Even if sh*t happens it's ok, you live and you learn. Everything has a solution, so don't cry over spilt milk.
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75 comments

  1. yay! congrats on the move! hope you find the perfect place!

    www.prettyinleather.net

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  2. Nice place, have a good day

    http://elegant-e.blogspot.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/elegant_e_blog/

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  3. I'm so thrilled to know how eager you are in pursuing your career and actually enjoy the new environment! Good luck with everything :)

    Oh Dear Bumblebees

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  4. You're so lucky to be moving to Milan. It's fab city and I always enjoy visiting it.

    LUXESSED

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  5. Congrats dear on the move and I really hope you find the perfect place, Best of luck. :)

    www.thequirkyminimal.com

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  6. That's great! Good luck :)
    xx

    http://losaway.blogspot.com

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  7. We moved from Malaysia to Canada in end 2014 and it was so much work, so much packing, unpacking, shopping...while it was fun and exciting, it was also exhausting. I agree with all these tips that you shared here, we didn't rent a place but we bought our own and my husband made sure he checked the place well before purchasing. And if a deal sounds too good to be true, it usually is applies to all areas of life....lots of scammers out there.

    Shireen | Reflection of Sanity

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  8. This is great news! Good luck with the move and be sure to keep us updated with all your adventures :)
    xox

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  9. Oh congrats! That's so amazing. Would love to live in a European country one day. :)

    -Emily www.coatandcoffee.com

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  10. I really enjoyed reading about your new adventure my best wishes and blessings for you
    xx

    www.sakuranko.com

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  11. I really enjoyed reading about your new adventure my best wishes and blessings for you
    xx

    www.sakuranko.com

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  12. Best wishes on your move, Id love to visit Milan, it is a beautiful and also is the city fashion! xxx
    www.travelera.es

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  13. good luck! enjoy!
    xoxo
    Patinka
    www.patinkasworld.com

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  14. good luck! enjoy!
    xoxo
    Patinka
    www.patinkasworld.com

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  15. Wow, how exciting?! Good luck on your move and on your next chapter !

    XoXo,

    Tamara - LoveofMode.com

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    1. Great story! It should read everyone who moves to live to another country. I understand you very well with all obstacles and troubles this change can give. I moved from Lithuania to Spain 4 years ago and was in similar situatio n like yours. I also had a lot of success to meet people who helped me at the beginning. I wish you all the best in Milan!
      http://misperlasdemoda.com

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    2. Great story! It should read everyone who moves to live to another country. I understand you very well with all obstacles and troubles this change can give. I moved from Lithuania to Spain 4 years ago and was in similar situatio n like yours. I also had a lot of success to meet people who helped me at the beginning. I wish you all the best in Milan!
      http://misperlasdemoda.com

      Delete
  16. How cool! I was just in Milan a couple years ago and loved it! I'm so jealous!

    District of Chic

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  17. Congratulations on your next adventure! How amazing that you are moving to Milan, it sounds like the perfect move =o) Italy is such a beautiful country =o)

    http://www.dreamofadventures.com/

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  18. How fun! I actually love moving and the cleaning that comes with it! I haven't been long in Milan, but I bet you will love it :)
    xoxo

    Ileana

    Novelstyle Blog

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  19. I've lived on 3 different continent, so I know a bit about moving far away... It can be really stressful, but it forced me to take a good hard look at my belongings and decide what matters and what I can give away. It turns out that not much is really that important. My lipstick collection was, lol!

    Beaumiroir

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  20. Congrats on the huge move, but I'm sure this marks an amazing new chapter for you!
    xo
    Siffat
    http://icingandglitter.com

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  21. Congrats, this is absolutely amazing! I love Milan, one of the best fashion cities in the world! All the best!
    xx
    cvetybaby.com

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  22. Great post :D
    http://the-rose-style.blogspot.com/

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  23. Good luck with your new chapter! I like people who are brave enough and who get out of their comfort zones. I'm sure you'll have an amazing experience! :)

    fashionabejita.blogspot.com

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  24. Beautiful post! Good luck in your new chapter :-)
    https://barbiegirl06.wordpress.com/

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  25. Good luck with it all lady!! Love Milano!
    xx Jenelle
    http://www.inspiringwit.com/

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  26. Congrats on the big move! I would love to see home decor ideas :)

    http://www.thebeautybeau.com

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  27. Congrats on the move and I wish you the best of luck with everything. Milan is such a beautiful city x

    Beauty with charm

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  28. Milan, so exciting! I'm loving the photos + account of what's happened so far! Keep it coming, lady- Italy is on my bucket list! :)

    -Ashley
    Le Stylo Rouge

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  29. What an amazing place to move to! Hope you have the time of your life :)

    Corinne x
    www.skinnedcartree.com

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  30. first of all congrats on the move. Mila is such an amazing city! and goodluck. just dont stress out yourself so much. I think I move about 2-3x a year and I know how stressful it can be. just enjoy
    Thenewgirl.me

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  31. Ahh how exciting! Good luck!
    -Kate // www.classyandkate.com

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  32. How cool is this! I want to visit Milan one day :(

    Liz
    www.liznroad.com

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  33. This is so amazing! I really want to move to another country.

    http://ohduckydarling.com

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  34. Aww good luck with your move doll. The pics are so great x

    Check the latest from me here:
    http://thelondonthing.co.uk/sunrise-yoga-with-starbucks-teavana-at-the-sky-garden/

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  35. so exciting that you're moving! good luck with everything <3

    xo Sarah
    Absolutely Sarah | Bloglovin | COMPETITON

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  36. Good luck with the whole process, it must be so exciting! Great pictures and article :)

    Poshlife

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  37. Great post! I would love to visit Milan one day :)

    Girl About Town blog

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  38. You're moving to such a lovely place.All the best with that.Sure you'll enjoy it.
    sophieatieno.com

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  39. Lovely post with great advice. I think you'll love Milano. Ciao bella! :)

    http://hungrycaramella.blogspot.it/

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  40. Milan sounds like an incredible place to live! Would definitely love to hear more about the process of moving to another country. Thanks for sharing!
    Vanessa
    www.theretropenguin.com

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  41. Amazing photo! Love your blog! Thanks for sharing!
    Much love, Len
    http://www.lenparent.com

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  42. Oh wow!! Good luck with your new life in Milan! I'm sure it'll be fantastic :)
    xx

    Eli

    www.acurlystyle.blogspot.com

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  43. Hello!
    Nice post, amazing! =)

    Kisses
    Amanda Z.

    New post: www.diariodelooks.com

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  44. Omg, Carina, congrats! I've been to Milan once, and I fell in love with it forever. Needless to say, it's the best place for someone who loves fashion:) Thank you so much for sharing your experience about moving. I would be really happy to see your apartment tour!

    Yuliannova

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  45. Nice place!

    http://annahandtheblog.blogspot.pt/

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  46. Beautiful place!


    http://the-fight-for-a-dream.blogspot.com

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  47. Congrats to moving to Milan! Its gong to be amazing once you fully get into the swing of things.
    -Kyanna
    http://kyannajames.com/?p=678

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  48. I have been dreaming of moving to another country too though, and I really want to make it real, thank you so much for the guide and tips Carina, I think this will really help me :)

    xoxo,


    |CHELSHEAFLO BLOG|
    |INSTAGRAM|

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  49. Decor ideas are always welcome! How is Milan?

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  50. It's always a huge decision to move to a new city and kudos for eventually making the leap together to Milan! Excited to read more about your experience living there. :)

    JennifHsieh

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  51. Good luck on your move and starting a new chapter of your life.

    www.mydailywear.co.uk

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  52. Amazing photo! Good luck in this new chapter of your life in an amazing city!

    Darriyan xo
    www.darriyancateland.blogspot.com

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  53. Congrats on the big move! We just moved and I read "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up' beforehand, and it makes it SO easy to get rid of things once you read it!

    -Clarissa @ The View From Here

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  54. Incredible, really want to know Milan. Good luck with your new adventure and do not forget to tell us. I really want to see the decoration photos! ♥
    Kisses from Brazil.
    http://blogarotaestranha.blogspot.com.br/

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  55. So lucky! I would love to live in Milan

    https://iameleine.blogspot.com/2016/08/new-proyects.html

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  56. Milão é perfeito demais, você amar! Força nesse período de mudança

    Beijos!

    EsmaltadasdaPatyDomingues

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  57. That would be so amazing to live in Milan... I hope you are enjoying it so much. I have moved more times than I care to count and these are some great tips!!

    xoxo, ❤︎ rachael ❤
    RachaelBurgess.com | Instagram

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  58. Milan is such a great place for your new home! Thanks for your wonderful comment on Qing's Style I hope you keep in touch, I would love to hear from you!

    Follow me @qingsstyle on Instagram and Twitter!

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  59. Omg! That's amazing. Have a great time there :)

    www.wildfirecharm.com

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  60. Beautiful! Hope you have a lovely new week.

    STYLEFORMANKIND.COM
    Bloglovin

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  61. Wow, Milan sounds so exciting! I wish you all the best! :)

    http://carinazz.blogspot.com.ee/

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  62. I've never been to Milan but I've mostly heard positive things! I've also never moved to a new country (except maybe my year abroad, but that doesn't really count). I admire your courage and hope things go well for you!

    xx, rebecca
    awayinparadise.blogspot.de

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  63. This is so inspiring! I love the post:)

    irenethayer.com

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  64. This is so inspiring! I love the post:)

    irenethayer.com

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  65. I love the photo ! I hope you spend a nice week :)
    eloonly.com

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Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to write your lovely comment. I highly appreciate it and am happy I get to read all of them. You are the sweetest for sharing your amazing thoughts with me.
Hope you have the best day!
Kisses!

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