My Journey: From Indonesia to Egypt
In November 2020, I packed my bags and moved from Indonesia to Egypt, stepping into a new chapter of life with my Egyptian husband. It was exciting, scary, and full of unknowns. I told myself, “Give it a year. One year should be enough to settle, adapt, and understand the culture.” Culture Shock, Postpartum
Looking back now, I smile at that version of me — hopeful and a little naïve. A year went by, and while I did try my best to fit in, I realized adaptation isn’t something you can schedule. It’s a process that happens layer by layer — slowly, deeply, and often painfully.
Culture Shock Postpartum
Being In A Mixed Marriage is Not Always Sunshines & Rainbows
Sometimes It’s about learning. Clashing. Laughing at misunderstandings. But also feeling completely alone in a room full of people who don’t speak your language — literally and emotionally.
I struggled with identity. I wanted to be more than someone’s spouse. I wanted to feel capable again. The language barrier was tough, but so was the mental block that came with it — the doubt and the fear of being misunderstood.
Cultural stigma crept in too. Sometimes I felt judged. Sometimes I felt invisible — not even looked at. It wasn’t just about missing home. It was about missing who I used to be. I missed being known without needing to explain myself. Culture Shock, Postpartum
Pregnancy Changed Everything, Again
Then came the pregnancy in late 2021. It was a blessing — truly. But also a storm. The hormones. The distance from home. The fear of becoming a mom in a country that still didn’t feel like mine.
Giving birth and navigating postpartum while still finding my way here — that broke me open in ways I didn’t expect. I was healing, raising a baby, adjusting to a life I still didn’t fully feel at home in.
I cried a lot. I smiled a lot too. Sometimes both in the same hour.
Culture Shock Postpartum
Choosing Growth – What Helped Me Cope
But I didn’t stay stuck there. I decided to try — really try — to change my situation. I took Arabic courses. I pushed myself to go out ; to kids’ playdates, meetups, anything. Slowly, I started building my own bubble.
One of the biggest lessons I learned was the power of agreeing to disagree when it comes to cultural values. I don’t have to fully understand or accept everything to respect it. That mindset shift brought me peace.
I also stopped being so hard on myself. I began to acknowledge all the quiet work I was doing — learning, unlearning, adapting, raising a child, respecting a new culture, building a life from scratch.
Building A Home Away From Home
I still miss my family, my culture, and the comfort of what’s familiar. That will never go away. But I’ve also created something new here: a family of my own, genuine friendships, and a version of myself I’m learning to love.Now it’s been almost five years. Egypt is already my second home.
If you’re in the middle of a similar journey, please know that you’re not alone. You’re allowed to feel lost and grateful at the same time. You’re allowed to grow slowly. And your efforts — even the invisible ones — matter more than you know. That’s hard work. And it deserves to be seen.
If you have a story of your own to share, we would love to here from you! Share Your Story!
