Moving from one country to the next not only is stressful there are so many things you have to think about. If you have children then you have to worry if htey will fit in or make friends or even like the new country. I myself have recently moved with a 4 year old daughter from America to the UK.

Also from a small town and a small farm to London one of the biggest metros in Europe. It can be done. It can be simple but time consuming and you do not have to start taking valium to finish the task! The worst part in the end is always the unpacking right?

Here is a simple checklist of things you need to do if you are moving or having a prolonged vacation in a foreign land.

1. Find your countries embassy for the country you are moving to or visiting. There you should be able to find information on what type of visa you need and the fees you pay to obtain it. Also the paperwork you need to ready before you apply for the visa.

2. Check some shippng companies that will ship your boxes for you. You can save loads of money by boxing it up yourself and ship in good time so your stuff arrives when you do. Always bring your important things on the airplane when you fly over. Prices vary from company to company so time consuming research can save you tons of cash!

3. Start preparing your family early. Especially with young children. You can get them exited by using the accent of the country you are moving to, or having dinner with an array of foods from the country you are moving to. Talk about it a lot and often and your family in the end will be prepared and less stressed.

4. Research the internet for websites like craigs list in the US that can help you understand your area and the activities. Google maps and Google Earth can also allow you to see parks and other things in your new place. This is also a fun activity for your family.

5. Make sure that all your paperwork is in order when you get to the customs agent. Take your visa, passport, online banking account print out, flight information, confirmation of your address if you have it. Travel insurance or work offers. Anything to make it easier for them to let you into the country, just because you hold a visa in your hand, does not mean you are going to satisfy a customs agent with that. Especially since 9/11.

Finally in the end take time to enjoy your move. Enjoy the new space you are living and try new things, don't move half way across the world and go into the same routine you had at your previous home!