As you likely know, there are many challenges that go along with relocating to a new country.  Expatriates have to deal with language difficulties, cultural barriers, and changes in many different areas of life!  Meet another family new to the Upstate: Jose Luis Avila, Lucia Almeida and their daughter Luisa moved to Simpsonville, South Carolina, from Celaya, Guanajuato. Mexico.  They have lived through these challenges and are willing to share their experiences with you in this issue of Blatt.

What are the best things about moving to Upstate SC?

First on the list is Southern hospitality, and we also sincerely enjoy that this is still a safe place to live. The weather is nice and comfortable. The cultural diversity is also one of the best things about this area.

What is the hardest part of moving to Upstate SC?

It is difficult to be away from our family and friends.

What has been the biggest difference you have seen between here and your home country?

Here, we need a car for everything, and that is hard to get used to. Living here in the Upstate, shopping is very convenient. It's nice that there are many franchises in all different types of businesses. I also appreciate the serious attitude about taxes and laws, but it bothers me that the government has a tendency to over-protect its citizens.

Describe your child's school experience.

Luisa is a junior at Woodmont High School, and she is adjusting excellently! The biggest difference for her is probably the cultural diversity at school. It would be a good idea for newcomers to just be aware that for some of the students, race seems to be an issue. Also, you have to realize that there is a lot of "drama" and materialism. As in many industrialized nations, clothes, hair and cars are everything for many children.

How are you handling the language challenges?

We're taking it one day at a time. It is hard for me [Jose] and Lucia, because we came here as adults, but for Luisa, it is no problem.

Besides family, what things are you missing most from home?

Not too much, actually. Friends, and sometimes food.

What is your favorite restaurant in Greenville, South Carolina?

We all have a favorite: Lieu's, Applebee's, Chophouse.

What are your goals during this expat contract?

I [Jose] work for Grammer, Inc., and the contract is open-ended. My goal is to be economically independent. I'd like to see my daughter graduate from college, and perhaps and perhaps see our family capitalize on the fertile soil that the U.S. provides to entrepreneurial minds.

What is your best recommendation for a day trip so far?

Go visit Atlanta.

Do you feel like you have assimilated well?  Met many Americans?

YES! We have very good, close friends.

What have you learned about yourselves through this experience?

We've learned how important it is to communicate as a family.

How has Wetzel helped with your expat experience?

The two Professional English Classes have been very helpful

What advice can you give to other expats who may come to Upstate South Carolina?

Be ready - you will find "Beautiful Places and Smiling Places."