Finding yourself and your confidence after a big move.
Rachael Lynn, Author + Founder at Women Connect Abroad
In this increasingly global world, you may find yourself moving cities once or twice, completely shifting continents, living a nomadic lifestyle, or even simply re-creating what home means to you in the very place you grew up. How do you navigate all of the changes that come with the transition, feel secure in your identity, and feel joy in every single day of this great adventure?
Join Rachael in the pages of her debut book to discover how to cultivate home in the place it matters most – yourself, and carry that trust anywhere your suitcase goes next.
READ THE FIRST CHAPTER FOR FREE, HERE: https://www.rachael-lynn.com/free-chapter
Find Rachael on IG: @athomewithin
What made you want to move to Dubai and how long have you lived here?
I moved to Dubai in 2018 for my husband. He lived here already, and when we got married, I moved over from Toronto (I grew up in the US)!
What was you first job ?
First job ever was working in a bagel shop! Lol. First ‘real’ job was as a Human Resources Consultant for Small Businesses in New York.
What’s your job role now?
I’m an Author (published here in the UAE) and my business is in supporting 30-something women who want to feel more stable in themselves as they move abroad, love their lives, and build really solid relationships while they’re here.
Any tips for girls wanting to find work?
Make use of Facebook groups or social media – by sharing what you’re looking for and how you can help a person or company. So many people are willing to help, they just have to know how to help you! Share your expertise/qualifications in some way.
How did you find accommodation and do you have any recommendations for first time movers ?
My husband already had a place, but I know so many friends who again, get recommendations off of Facebook groups and girls they meet on social media! For first time movers I would say look for recommendations for good agents, and feedback from others in certain neighborhoods or apartments you’re looking at. Consider the commute – even if you want to live in a ‘prime’ area.
What’s your recommendations on best places to get your hair and make-up done ?
For events I love to book an artist through @instaglam or @bgx and have them come to our home. It’s the ultimate Dubai experience and I’m always happy with the results! For a regular trim + treatments I visit Tito + Tuthill Ladies Salon @titoandtuthill
Favourite clothing stores?
Shop Retold – and otherwise I do most of my shopping online. The Outnet for luxury items, and Nisnass and Nashmi, as well as SHEIN for basics.
Tips on local brands and boutiques?
I love thing that beautify the home, or a nice experience out. Here are a few of my favorites right now
The Good Karma Co for eco-friendly home products (@thegoodkarmaco)
Bliss Flowers for stunning flower arrangements (blissflowersuae) and also Florette @florette.ae
Retold clothing if you’re looking to resell some of your clothes, or purchase name-brand and some luxury pieces second hand (for the sustainable friendly!) @shopretold
Finally, I love to meet friends for coffee or lunch at The Courtyard – specifically Boston Lane (@bostonlane.dubai) or Cassette (@cassettedxb)
Favorite ladies night brunch and ladies day
Sadly, I don’t have a favorite because I haven’t been to enough to decide! But I love anything the One and Only Hotels do.
What do you do when you’re not working and partying ?
You might have guessed from above, but I don’t drink so I also don’t party as much as the average young woman here! When I’m not working, I’m meeting friends for lunches, headed off to an event like something at the Opera or a Women in Business event, or spending time at home or out to dinner with my husband. We LOVE to eat! There is truly something for everyone here.
Any tips for ladies wanting to move to Dubai
If you want to do it, make a way. And understand that it can be really easy to dive into working, partying, or dating while also feeling totally overwhelmed that your whole life just changed. Underneath everyone in Dubai on social media, people are really just trying to do their best and be happy. Try to make GOOD friends, and don’t settle! They will get you through all the difficult times – because we’re all “new” here in some way.
Do: Put yourself out there on social media to make friends.
Do: Try a private beach cabana at a luxury hotel at least once
Do: Try things good for your mental health – meditation classes, yoga, retreats, events for making friends, therapy, expat support – all of that exists here!
Don’t: Rush yourself to settle in. It takes years (and I know that kind of sucks!)
Don’t: Spend all your money if you don’t have to – there are always good deals for high quality things here
Don’t: Forget why you decided to move here. Go after your dreams!