What about communication back home?

Cell phones are readily available at relatively low prices and reasonable fees. You can choose from simple cell phones and high level smart phones. You can pay as you go or have a monthly billing system. There are no two-year contracts like several companies in the USA use.

Internet is available and, although it can be frustratingly slow at times, many expats use Skype and various chat programs to keep in touch with their friends and family back home.

Regular mail is available as well. It takes at least two weeks to receive letters through the mail. Packages can come that quickly, but often take much longer.