Is there no going back? (page 2 of 2)

Explanations of local initiatives or differences may also be included and this information will help ease the transition for your children. If you anticipate moving regularly, get it updated at each school.

9. Medical. If you have any medical issues it is worth contacting your doctor for an up to date list of all immunisations and medical records. Keeping track of this data can be difficult.

Get a family table prepared which details all booster renewal dates, vaccinations and due date for future immunisations. And take with you any medications that you may need in the short term (along with a prescription or letter from your doctor explaining your need for the medication).

Remember too that if you will be travelling regularly, you may need to adhere to a number of different immunisation schedules. Make sure that you consider these differences and that you advise a doctor of your needs so that they are fully integrated.

10. Sightseeing. Run around and take tourist shots of the place before you leave. When you arrive, you are often too busy to take these type of pictures. When you are living there, it seems pointless. When you leave, you have missed your chance.

We have compiled a wall of photos from expat postings - friends, places, images that remind the family where we have been and the people that we have met over the years. It also helps the children to explain to friends where they came from in a concrete manner.

11. Banking. Attend to your banking needs. Some banks offer you the ability to transfer your banking history. You may need to determine what your company have organised as far as your finances are concerned.

Will you be retaining assets after you leave? Will you have to do tax returns in your home or local country or both after you have left? How will you minimise any tax that you may have to pay in either or both jurisdictions?

Your company may not always be putting your best interests forward and may instead be focussing on what suits them financially. Make sure that you obtain financial advice prior to your departure.

HSBC Bank International has a range of tools on their web-site that are worth checking out. These range from country guides which can help with background information on a variety of destinations to an expenses calculator or you to calculate your monthly living expenses