“Family Comes First”: Priority Number One When Moving Overseas
On this week’s episode of Moving Countries 101, Clare Kay is joined by Gabriella Köves, Hungarian guest who shares her deeply personal journey of moving to Ireland with her husband and children. What began as a tentative 2 to 3-year plan has evolved into 14 years of life in Ireland, where they’ve built a home, formed deep connections with the people and community, all while maintaining strong ties to Hungary.
Gabriella’s story is a testament to the power of family unity. From the outset, she and her husband approached every major decision collaboratively. When her husband first applied for jobs across Europe, securing a position in Ireland marked the start of their new chapter. She remained in Hungary with their children for six months, ensuring that the job was the right fit before the whole family moved. Though they faced the challenges of separation—missing small moments like bedtime stories—the experience strengthened their bond, reaffirming their commitment to staying together as a family.
Moving to a new country came with its complexities. While on the surface, their life seemed “shiny” and full of promise, Gabriella candidly reflects on the need for adaptation. It’s the everyday things, like missing a trusted hairdresser or familiar routines, that often go unnoticed yet require adjustment.
Their family unit, including their three children—two born in Hungary and the youngest in Ireland—has grown even stronger through this journey. The children have seamlessly integrated into Irish life while staying connected to their Hungarian heritage through frequent visits and holidays in Hungary. Supported by their teachers and close-knit school friendships in County Limerick, they’ve thrived, embodying a beautiful blend of both cultures. Decisions, such as buying their home in Ireland and an apartment in Spain, were made collectively, showcasing the strength of their teamwork.
Looking ahead, the couple continues to use their initial 2 to 3-year plan as a guide for making life decisions. They’re now considering a potential move to Spain, eager to explore new cultures and opportunities while leveraging the freedom of EU citizenship and the flexibility of remote work.
Despite the success they’ve found in Ireland, her husband remains on a quest for that elusive missing piece, the same drive that led them to leave Hungary. He has found a creative outlet in developing a game that brings together people of all ages—a passion project that not only fulfills him but also aligns with their shared value of fostering connection.
This episode sheds light on the unseen complexities of moving abroad and the delicate balance required to support each other in marriage through such transitions. Through Gabriella’s reflections as a mother and partner, she demonstrates the significant contributions each person makes to the success of an international move.
Listen to the full episode of Moving Countries 101 to hear Gabriella’s story of balancing life across three homes—Hungary, Ireland, and Spain—and how her family stays connected across borders while embracing their sense of belonging in Ireland.
About Moving Countries 101 Podcast:
Moving Countries 101 explores the journeys of individuals who have made significant moves across the globe, sharing their stories of relocation, adaptation, and travel. Hosted by Clare Kay, whose own global travel adds a unique perspective, the podcast seeks to inspire and inform those looking to embrace world travel or a global lifestyle. Moving Countries 101 offers insights into the challenges, rewards, and opportunities that come with living and traveling abroad.
Tune in to Moving Countries 101 for real stories, unique observations, and expert insights on navigating international moves and global travel.
Podcast Links:
You can listen/watch and follow this week’s podcast here:
Apple
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-countries-101/id1724940782
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/4cxcZ9rbrvZ6A0B6UPMaXj
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo75XfTWDQl6JgTn4pzlvnA
