Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Living Abroad” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Reasons for Living Abroad
1. Why do people decide to live abroad?
2. What benefits can living abroad provide?
3. How does living abroad impact one’s career?
4. How can studying abroad benefit your education?

II. Choosing a Country
5. What factors should you consider when selecting a country?
6. Which countries are popular destinations for expats?
7. How do language barriers affect your choice of country?
8. How important is the cost of living in your decision?

III. Cultural Adaptation
9. What challenges might you face adapting to a new culture?
10. How can you learn about local customs and traditions?
11. What strategies can help you overcome culture shock?
12. How can making friends with locals improve your experience?

IV. Language Learning
13. How can living abroad help you learn a new language?
14. What are some effective ways to practice the local language?
15. How important is it to become fluent in the local language?
16. How can language exchange programs help your language skills?

V. Daily Life
17. What aspects of daily life might be different abroad?
18. How can you find accommodation in a foreign country?
19. What transportation options are available in most countries?
20. How can you stay connected with friends and family back home?

VI. Work and Career
21. How can you find a job while living abroad?
22. What are the advantages of working for a local company?
23. How can networking help you find job opportunities?
24. What challenges might you face working in a foreign country?

VII. Studying Abroad
25. How can you choose the right study abroad program?
26. How can studying abroad impact your future career?
27. What are the benefits of studying in a foreign language?
28. How can you make the most of your study abroad experience?

VIII. Travel and Leisure
29. How can living abroad help you explore new places?
30. What are some popular travel destinations for expats?
31. How can you discover local attractions and hidden gems?
32. How can you make the most of your free time abroad?

IX. Food and Cuisine
33. How can you adapt to the local cuisine?
34. What are some ways to find and enjoy local food?
35. How can you learn to cook traditional dishes?
36. How can trying new foods enhance your experience abroad?

X. Health and Safety
37. How can you stay healthy while living abroad?
38. What are some common health concerns for expats?
39. How can you find a reliable healthcare provider?
40. How can you ensure your personal safety in a foreign country?

XI. Relationships and Networking
41. How can you meet new people while living abroad?
42. What are some ways to maintain long-distance relationships?
43. How can you find and join local clubs or organizations?
44. How can you build a professional network in a foreign country?

XII. Legal Considerations
45. What types of visas or permits might you need?
46. How can you navigate the local legal system?
47. What are some important local laws to be aware of?
48. How can you find assistance with legal matters?

XIII. Family Life
49. How can living abroad impact family dynamics?
50. What challenges might children face in a new country?
51. How can you find suitable schooling options?
52. What resources are available for families living abroad?

XIV. Returning Home
53. How can you prepare for the transition back home?
54. What challenges might you face when returning home?
55. How can you maintain connections with friends made abroad?
56. How can you integrate your abroad experience into your life at home?

XV. Miscellaneous
57. How has living abroad changed your perspective on the world?
58. What advice would you give someone considering living abroad?
59. How can you deal with homesickness while living abroad?
60. How do you plan to use your international experience in the future?

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