I moved back to Australia after decades in the US. The culture shock stunned me
Returning home after many years abroad can cause unexpected culture shock, and releasing the expectation of immediate belonging allows gradual reconnection and belonging.
I moved to Spain over a decade ago and visit the Bay Area yearly. After a few weeks in California, I remember why I stay abroad.
Living in Spain feels preferable because of walkability, reliable public transit, lower daily friction, and less car-dependence compared with the expensive, traffic-bound Bay Area.