17 Jan 2025
Moving to a new country can be exciting and challenging, especially when adapting to a different culture. These hard-working Gambian expats often send money from Poland to Gambia to help their loved ones. As a result, they may experience culture shock and face unique challenges when relocating to Poland. Here are five essential things Gambians should avoid to ensure a smoother transition and make the most of their new life in Poland.
While English is commonly spoken in many countries, it differs in Poland. Polish is the primary language, and English fluency is less widespread than expected. Many people, especially in smaller towns, may have limited English proficiency. Here are some facts about Polish that will help you gain more familiarity with the language:
Suppose you rely solely on the English language; it may lead to misunderstandings and frustration in daily interactions.
Learning basic Polish phrases can significantly improve your daily interactions. It can help you navigate essential services such as grocery stores, public transport, and healthcare while respecting the local culture. Even a simple phrase like "Dzień Dobry" (Good day) can go a long way, and knowing a few essential words will endear you to the locals. As an expat, saving money for making a money transfer from Poland to Gambia is necessary. Hence, you can use language learning apps like Duolingo instead of attending local language classes to get started.
Poland has a rich cultural heritage, and many social customs are deeply rooted in tradition. For example, greeting someone with a firm handshake and direct eye contact is customary. Additionally, Polish people place great importance on respecting personal space and privacy.
Make an effort to understand Polish customs to avoid unintentionally offending anyone. Simple gestures, like giving a small gift when invited to someone's home or removing your shoes upon entering, can make a positive impression. Poles also celebrate numerous holidays with specific traditions, such as Christmas and Easter, so participating in or acknowledging these traditions can help build connections with locals.
One thing to remember is that Poland uses the Polish Zloty (PLN) and not the Euro, which may affect exchange rates and transaction fees when sending money to Gambia. Hence, managing finances while living in Poland can be tricky, especially when making an online money transfer from Poland to Gambia.
As an expat, consider using ACE Money Transfer for efficient and cost-effective cross-border transactions. With competitive rates and fast services, ACE Money Transfer makes it easy to support your loved ones back in Gambia without incurring high fees. By planning your finances and using reliable services, you can avoid unnecessary costs and ensure your money reaches its destination safely.
Poland experiences a temperate climate, with cold winters and mild summers, which can be quite a change for Gambians who are used to warmer weather. Winters can be especially harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snow being a common occurrence.
Prepare for the cold using appropriate winter clothing, including thermal layers, waterproof boots, and a good-quality coat. Embracing the local winter activities, like skiing or ice skating, can also make the season more enjoyable and help you adapt to the climate more easily.
Poland's bureaucratic processes can be complicated and time-consuming, especially for non-EU nationals like Gambian expats. Obtaining residency permits, registering for healthcare, and even opening a bank account often involve paperwork and multiple visits to government offices.
To navigate these processes smoothly, ensure all required documents are ready and translated into Polish if necessary. It may also help to enlist the assistance of a local friend or a translator when dealing with official procedures. Familiarizing yourself with Poland's administrative requirements will reduce delays and frustrations.
Relocating to Poland from Gambia requires some adaptation. Still, by avoiding these common pitfalls, Gambian expats can enjoy a smoother transition and make the most of their experience. From learning the language to navigating local customs and managing finances, small efforts can lead to a fulfilling and enjoyable life abroad.
For those needing to send money to Gambia from Poland, ACE Money Transfer is here to help. With reliable, secure, cost-effective services, ACE Money Transfer ensures your hard-earned money reaches your loved ones quickly and efficiently.
Ready to make your move more manageable? Start managing your money transfers seamlessly with ACE Money Transfer, and stay connected with your loved ones back home.
While being fluent in Polish is optional, learning some basic phrases can significantly improve your experience. While some English speakers may be in major cities, English proficiency is limited in smaller towns. Knowing a few Polish words helps in daily interactions and shows respect for the local culture.
Polish people value personal space, politeness, and traditions. For instance, bringing a small gift when visiting someone's home is common, and removing your shoes upon entering is customary. Being aware of such customs can help you build positive relationships with locals.
Poland uses the Polish Zloty (PLN). Exchange rates and transaction fees can vary, so it's important to plan when sending money to Gambia. Services like ACE Money Transfer offer competitive rates and low costs, making it easier to manage cross-border finances.
Winters in Poland can be harsh, so it's advisable to invest in warm clothing like thermal layers, waterproof boots, and a quality coat. Embracing winter activities, such as skiing or ice skating, can also make adapting to the cold climate more enjoyable.
Poland's bureaucratic processes can be complex and may require patience. Having all necessary documents ready, potentially translated into Polish, will help you navigate official procedures like obtaining residency permits or opening a bank account. Enlisting local assistance can also be beneficial.
