First 6 months in Lithuania

Posted • 2 min read

Impressions of my first 6 months in Lithuania so far

Half a year already

6 months gone and past

It has been half a year already since I moved from Tokyo, Japan to Vilnius, Lithuania.

Time has been flying, and learning to adapt to a new environment, culture and language really takes a lot of energy from day to day.

I would like to point out some friction points I’ve had so far, and the pleasant surprises since I moved here.

Friction points

Language - I have tried to join some social gatherings with my friend here, but sometimes it does feel isolating not being able to converse in Lithuanian. The feeling of being an outcast is palpable. I knew it would be difficult at the beginning, but it still doesn’t feel good to go through it. Most people speak decent English, at least. Also, for some reason I cannot join the government-subsidized language class as I am not an “official resident” yet.

Food - I am still getting used to Lithuanian food. It tastes good, but it is definitely different from Asia and North America.

Car - I am able to drive, but renting a car share isn’t the same as owning your own car. Hopefully I will be able to purchase my own once I have a stable job. I’ve always wanted to do a road trip across Europe.

Employment - As I am currently on a working holiday visa and not a work visa, I still need to transition my visa once I receive a job contract.

Small wins

I have been through Spring and Summer so far, and I look forward to experiencing Autumn in Vilnius. I would like to visit more parks when the leaves turn orange.

I will persist with my Lithuanian language learning, and hopefully will get a job contract sooner rather than later.

Once that is out of the way, I will have more resources to enjoy life in this beautiful country.

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