Was it worth leaving my homeland for American citizenship?

A long journey to citizenship

Obtaining U.S. citizenship has been a long and difficult journey for us, stretching over a decade and a half. This path has proven to be not only complicated but also full of obstacles, much like many other immigrants who faced prolonged processing times for their applications in the early 2000s. We found ourselves in a challenging situation that caused the waiting and the process of obtaining status to drag on for many years, creating numerous difficulties in our lives.

As a result, a group of immigrants decided to sue the Immigration and Naturalization Service (now known as USCIS), accusing it of taking too long to process cases.

Problems with extending the work permit

Every year we had to repeatedly submit applications for work permit extensions, as well as bear the financial losses associated with this process. In the end, we spent a full ten years obtaining a green card. Once we became permanent residents, the process of obtaining citizenship became significantly easier. Four years after receiving the green card, we submitted our citizenship application, and the waiting time was much shorter than before.

Difficulties with social security numbers

The situation with obtaining social SSN numbers was also far from ideal. My wife and I applied at the same time, but we had different fates in this matter. I received my number without any problems or delays, but my wife's process dragged on for months with many questions from the staff. There were additional marks on her license plate number which caused her a lot of trouble later on.

Educational barriers

When my wife started trying to continue her education and obtain financial aid, she had to repeatedly confirm that she is a U.S. citizen and legally resides in the country. This requirement created additional difficulties for us. We had to look for ways to resolve this issue, and only after a personal visit to the Social Services office with her naturalization documents were we able to remove the suspicious notations on her SSN. Since then, we haven't encountered any more difficulties regarding this matter.

Difficulties at the immigration office

The situation at the immigration office was no less difficult, where every little thing had to be fought over. Many employees were not sufficiently aware of the laws in force, and it often became extremely unprofitable to engage in discussions with officials. This applied not only to immigration offices, but also to government officials at all levels, both federal and local.

Adaptation to a new life

Adapting to a new country turns out to be a much more complicated task than it may seem at first glance. Many claim that they quickly integrate into life here, but in reality, that's not the case at all. Ultimately, there is a lack of opportunity to share childhood memories with new people in a new place, as your homeland is not America, and stories about childhood experiences sound different. This process of adaptation leaves a deep mark that every emigrant encounters on their journey.

Moving to a new country: where to start

Moving to another country is always a return to your roots. Even if you have significant savings, say, several million dollars, it doesn't mean you can avoid a lengthy adaptation process.

Personal experience

My personal experience begins in the early nineties when I first encountered the topic of Russian-speaking emigrants in Australia by reading an article in "Komsomolskaya Pravda." This article discussed four main stages of the migration experience.

Stages of emigration

• First stage— it's a state of delight: "How wonderful it is here! We don't have such beautiful places!"
• Second stage— It's disappointing: "We've seen much nicer places."
• Third stage- Identity crisis: "Why am I here? Everything seems so unfamiliar and strange!"
• Fourth stage— acceptance of the new: "Ultimately, you can live here."

New stage

After 25 years of living abroad, I can add one more stage - stage five: "Wait, have I made a mistake with this decision?" Based on personal observations and stories of acquaintances, I have seen that this question sooner or later begins to worry very many emigrants. Each of them thinks: "Maybe I could have achieved similar success while staying in my native land?"

Debates and discussions

This topic is a source of many discussions. Many are not ready to admit that a move, which initially seemed like a joy, can ultimately be perceived as a mistake. When it comes to the complete integration of an adult into a new culture, I believe that it is practically impossible.

Emigrant children and adults

Only those who moved to a new country in childhood and have not yet gone through excessive experiences in their homeland can build a fulfilling life. Children easily learn the language and quickly make friends without much effort.

Adaptation among adults

Among the adult migrants I met, already established as individuals or professionals, I was not lucky to find successful examples of full-fledged adaptation. When it comes to language skills, most emigrants still maintain an accent.

Language skills

I can't claim to have a high level of English - rather, it's just a basic knowledge. I can communicate on various topics, but as soon as the conversation goes beyond my comfort zone, I find it difficult to find words.

Education and training

In school, I studied English at an advanced level, and of course, it gave me some foundation, but unfortunately, it's not enough. Both in Soviet times and now, foreign language education often turns out to be insufficiently effective.

Challenges of emigrants

There are always situations when even the best intentions and expectations of emigrants encounter real difficulties in a new place. This is what everyone who is about to leave their country in search of a new life should consider.

Emigration: more than displacement

Emigration— it is not just a physical relocation, but also a profound emotional, cultural, and social experience.

Methods of learning foreign languages

To master a foreign language, it's important to avoid watching foreign films with dubbing. It is much more beneficial to watch the original versions with subtitles. This approach has helped many Europeans communicate fluently in several languages.

Reasons to change your approach to learning

It is necessary to rethink language learning methods, giving preference to conversational practice rather than an excessive focus on grammar and spelling, as is often done in countries that were once part of the Soviet Union.

Personal experience

Personally, I had the opportunity to live in a French-speaking region for about a year. In a short time, just a few months, studying French at an immigrant school, I learned much more than most students do over a long period of study. As a result, I can still understand simple phrases and road signs.

The phenomenon of rapid language acquisition

As for my relatives, my wife, having no experience in the language, already after six months became a French teacher for elementary school children - it may seem unbelievable, but the fact remains, albeit with a noticeable accent.

Tips from teachers

During our training, our instructors told us:

• "If you wish to master a language, learn as young children do."

In the lessons, only French was used, with a refusal to use other languages. Classes were held three to four times a week, lasting from two to three hours.

Methods of children

Children do not read or write, they are not burdened with spelling rules and complex grammar, yet they are quite capable of constructing sentences and communicating easily. They do not have memorized verb tables in their heads, but instead simply repeat the speech of others.

Adapting the method for other languages

This method can also be adapted for learning English or any other language. Watch movies, read books, or explore various online resources. For example, I study materials daily on a website dedicated to customer interaction, and this significantly expands my vocabulary as well as improves my grammar skills.

Recommendations for choosing TV series

Some helpful tips we've gotten from people we know:

• Choose a show that interests you and watch it regularly.
• In most series, themes, jokes, and catchy phrases are repeated.
• Over time, you will start to pick up some words, understand their meanings, and be able to comprehend the text.

Personal experience of learning a language through TV shows

That's exactly what happened to us: we watched shows like "Friends" and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," and that's where we picked up new words from.

Continuing Education

I am currently continuing to use this method to learn Spanish. This kind of approach really makes the learning process engaging and effective.

Key success factors

Studying a language in a natural environment, interacting with native speakers, and constant practice are what truly lead to success in mastering any language.

Don't be afraid of mistakes.

Don't be afraid to make mistakes, it's an inevitable part of learning. Every step you take, every new phrase you can utter, brings you closer to your goal.

Conclusion

So take action actively, enjoy the process, and learn from your own experience.

Steampunk festival in Waltham

In 2022, an interesting steampunk festival took place in Waltham, a small town in America. This event gathered many fans of the unusual aesthetics and technologies of the Victorian era.

Our life in Massachusetts

My wife and I are in Boston County, and our home is located in Billerica, near this city of less than 50,000 inhabitants. We previously spent nearly ten years in Ohio, and now enjoy the atmosphere of Massachusetts.

My career in the IT field

I provide technical support services for businesses, which allows me to work for myself and earn a living independently. My journey into the world of modern technology began many years ago when I worked as a mechanic. However, the transition to the IT field was an important and significant step in my career, especially considering that the income in this area is much higher and the physical workload is noticeably lower.

Income levels and expenses

When discussing income levels, it is worth noting that salaries in this region are indeed high, but expenses are also significantly higher. In comparisons with Kazakhstan, there is also a tendency in the USA for higher earnings. The average household income in the country is approximately$74,099.annually. However, in Massachusetts, the figures are even more impressive:86,725 dollars. But even these reviews can be perceived as inadequate in our neighborhood. Boston and its neighborhoods are known for their high cost of living, especially in terms of housing prices.

The "Affordable Housing" program

There is a program called "affordable housing" that offers subsidies for those whose incomes do not exceed certain limits. The eligibility requirements for this program vary depending on the locality. In Massachusetts, there are special resources available to obtain information about such offers.

More often than not, access to housing is through a lottery, which can result in a purchase price substantially below market value.

Maximum allowable income

For a family of four, the maximum acceptable income to participate in this project is approximately75-85 thousand dollarsper year. However, it is worth noting that in cities like San Francisco, this income level is insufficient, as housing prices there are too high. Incredible, but sometimes$80,000.In a year, they can lead to financial difficulties, considering the high costs.

Health insurance

In addition to housing expenses, it is important to consider another key aspect –health insuranceThis is becoming a serious burden on the budget, and for many, this obligation ranks alongside other significant expenses, such as rent or purchasing groceries.

Living in high-wealth states

Thus, life in states with a high level of prosperity requires significant effort and careful financial management to ensure a comfortable existence for one's family. At every stage, from moving to a new state to participating in local festivals, we face the necessity of finding suitable solutions for ourselves and our loved ones.

The situation with health insurance in the USA

In some companies, employers fully cover the cost of health insurance, but such organizations are extremely rare. Usually, when it comes to the cost of a health plan for a family of four offered by employers, you may encounter figures that range in the hundreds of dollars per month.

Personally, I know people who spend about500 dollarson a monthly basis, and a guy I know is now paying800 dollarsfor insurance coverage for a family of three. There are quite a few situations where my acquaintances, having insurance arranged on their own, spend about1500 dollarsper month for medical services.

Financial conditions of health insurance

In addition, various financial conditions are added to the above costs, such as:

• Deductible— the amount that needs to be paid out of pocket before the insurance starts covering medical expenses.
• Maximum out-of-pocket limitfor a year.

It often happens that insurance companies refuse to cover certain types of procedures or medications, explaining their decisions by saying that they are not necessary. I have many examples to support this.

Example of medical expenses

Let's consider one specific example. You may receive a bill for a medical procedure in the amount of6000 dollars...while your insurance includes a deductible in...1,000 dollars.and the limit on personal expenses at the level of10,000 dollarsUsually, you will need to pay first.1,000 dollars.and, as expected, the remaining amount will be covered by insurance.

However, it is important to understand that this does not guarantee coverage of the entire amount — it is only about the probability. The insurance company can either approve or deny funding for this procedure.

Recommendations before seeking medical help

Before seeking medical assistance, it is strongly recommended to first contact your insurance company to find out:

• Will the procedure be covered at a specific hospital?
• Does the doctor accept your insurance?
• What specific services will be reimbursed?

It's also worth paying attention to the many nuances that can affect the final result.

Problems with health insurance before Obamacare

Before the introduction of the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, the situation was significantly worse. There was the issue of so-called "pre-existing conditions," where if you had a certain illness at the time of applying for insurance, that illness would not be covered for two years after signing the contract.

Bankruptcy due to medical debts

The reasons why people in the US declare bankruptcy are often related to medical debt, and this situation ranks among the top five main causes of insolvency. Moreover, many of those who went bankrupt had health insurance. The problem is that the aforementioned exclusions and coverage issues can arise at the most inconvenient times.

Education and student loans in the USA

Additionally, it's worth touching on the topic of education in the USA — this is a separate serious issue, as many residents face long-term repayment of student loans that can stretch over two decades. There is a vast amount of information on this topic, covering all aspects of the loan acquisition and repayment process.

Debts in the field of education

I also have debts in the field of education. Most often, these are obligations to government institutions, and it should be emphasized that such debts are almost impossible to discharge in a bankruptcy situation. The real options are very limited – either you need to pay off the debt, or you face extremely undesirable consequences. If people cannot meet these obligations for various reasons, they may face the threat of losing their passport and being banned from traveling abroad.

Student debts

As of today, the total student debt in the United States has reached an astronomical $1.75 trillion. This figure surpasses the total debt for auto loans, according to data published in 2022 by Student Loan Hero.

Tax burden in the USA

As for the tax burden for American citizens, it varies across many aspects. There are several types of taxes in the country:

• federal income tax;
• State income taxes (it should be noted that some states do not have them);
• city income tax;
• taxes on social and health insurance.

The latest deductions are taken directly from the employees' salaries.

Excise taxes and fees

In addition to the mentioned taxes, there is also a system of excise taxes, the rates of which vary depending on the region. For example, in our county, the sales tax is 6.25%. There is also a deposit for packaging, which is a separate amount charged for the container. For instance, if the price of a "Pepsi" drink is 99 cents, the customer needs to pay extra:

• 99 cents for the product itself;
• about 5 cents for the packaging deposit and sales tax.

This deposit can be refunded if the packaging is returned for recycling.

Taxes on pets

Additionally, there are taxes on pets. In our locality, taxes are imposed only on dog owners, while in other places there are also taxes on cats. Property tax can vary depending on the area of residence and in our case is 1.412%.

Taxes on cars

It is also worth mentioning the car taxes, which are not applied everywhere. In our case, we pay between $45 and $80 annually for each of the three cars. In the neighboring state, I even heard about taxes for a nice view from the windows. If a house is located in a picturesque area, local authorities may impose such a tax. I knew a person who was attempted to be charged such a tax, but he managed to prove that there was no breathtaking landscape visible from his window.

Additional taxes for entrepreneurs

For entrepreneurs, there are additional tax categories, which is quite a broad topic.

Life in America without a car

Life in America without a car is a real challenge. In fact, it is often extremely difficult to get by without personal transportation in the United States. For a comfortable life, you either need to be located in the city center with good access to public transport (if it exists), or you must have your own car. In this context, a car is not just a luxury item or a means of transportation, but an essential element that allows you to get to work, do shopping, take your kids to activities, and meet with friends.

The availability of reliable transportation when job hunting

When people are looking for a job, especially in fields not related to information technology, there is sometimes a question about whether the candidate has reliable transportation. This is due to the fact that a lack of transportation can be seen as a sign of potential unreliability, as the candidate may be late or may not show up at all due to difficulties in getting around.

Selection of vehicles for working professionals

Workers employed in factories, construction sites, and auto repair shops most often choose pickups. This is due to the need to have various tools on hand, such as:

• keys
• drill
• saw
• protective glasses
• other devices

Pickups are perfect for transporting all of this, which makes them especially in demand among such professionals.

The popularity of pickups in the USA

In the USA, pickups hold a leading position in vehicle sales. Popular models like the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, and Dodge Ram account for a significant share of sales. Speaking from my driving experience over the years in various countries since the nineties, I have developed a certain opinion about driving.

Driving in the USA compared to other countries

Recently, upon returning to my hometown, I noticed that drivers in America are much more careful. Although in Almaty, drivers also follow speed limits and respect pedestrians, which is nice, the lane management style raises concerns. In the US, if someone starts driving recklessly, other motorists often call the police to deal with the offender.

Personal experience of interacting with the police

Personally, I have encountered police fines for speeding, and in most cases, I managed to get away with a warning, but once I did have to pay a fine.

Problems with public transportation in Boston

The orange line of the subway in Boston is currently closed for a whole month, which is causing significant difficulties for local residents who rely on public transportation.

The history of the Boston subway spans a long period, but its quality leaves much to be desired. Breakdowns of old trains occur systematically, and incidents of cars derailing happen quite frequently.

Difficulties with suburban trains

Suburban trains also face problems. Even when a train is scheduled, it doesn't guarantee that it will arrive on time. During the winter, when it snows, trains can be delayed or may not run at all for several hours.

Housing rental in Boston

Dmitry and his family rented a place in an area with a pool in a residential complex. Buying property here is seen as a risky venture. Currently, renting an apartment costs us about $3,500 a month. This amount includes:

• three bedrooms;
• spacious living room;
• two bathrooms;
• The total area is about 117–120 square meters.

The rent is supplemented by utility costs: about $100–120 for electricity, $30–240 for gas, and around $100–110 for water supply and sewage. In total, the monthly expenses amount to about $4,000.

Real estate prices and home buying

We often discuss the possibility of buying our own home, but for various reasons, we still haven't made that leap. The active housing prices in our area make this process a real game of chance. In our town, which is not the most expensive but also can't be called cheap, the cost of homes starts at 700 thousand dollars. This means that even with a mortgage, including property taxes, the payments can amount to around 4,700 dollars a month.

Additional expenses of homeownership

We should not forget about other aspects related to home ownership. According to statistics, maintenance costs can range from 2 to 6% of the market value of the property. These expenses include:

• regular maintenance work (lawn care, fence repairs, roof repairs);
• possible improvements (for example, building additional barns).

The final amount of expenses will depend on the age of the house and the level of involvement of its owner in carrying out the necessary work. I don't know a single homeowner who doesn't engage in the ongoing maintenance of their property.

Real estate market offers

Today's housing purchase offers in the USA vary. For example:

• A house in Miami costs 1,059,303 euros, up to 280 square meters with five bedrooms and four bathrooms;
• A less expensive option is a townhouse in the same city for 525,000 euros, with an area of 170 square meters, featuring four bedrooms and three bathrooms.

If anyone has questions about the real estate market in this sunny state or is interested in purchasing residential or commercial property, I am always ready to help. Feel free to call if you need a consultation, and I will gladly provide all the necessary information.

Hello! If you're interested in real estate in the beautiful city of Miami or want to learn about our offerings, feel free to ask questions. My name is Dmitry Baranov, and I am an experienced real estate broker. You can contact me at +1.305.302.9776, and I would be happy to help you find the right property for living or doing business.

Diversity of real estate

In our portfolio, you will find a wide range of real estate in Miami, including:

• apartments
• apartments
• lofts
• luxurious villas

These options can meet various preferences and financial capabilities.

Examples of objects

For example, we have the following available for sale:

• ApartmentIn the city center, there is a property with a total area of 130 square meters. Its price is 272,709 euros. It includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and also offers financing options.
• Apartmentsmeasuring 270 square meters, valued at 5,066,231 euros. These apartments offer four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a spacious living room.
• LoftA 95 square meter space priced at 505,702 euros. This option is perfect for a small family or for setting up a comfortable workspace. The loft includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
• ApartmentA 145 square meter property priced at 3,591,497 euros, consisting of two bedrooms and one bathroom, fully meets modern standards.
• Villawith an area of 500 square meters, priced at 6,332,789 euros. Inside this magnificent house, there are seven spacious bedrooms and six bathrooms, making it ideal for a large family or for those who enjoy hosting friendly gatherings.
• Penthousean area of 180 square meters, priced at 1,335,643 euros, with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, offering a magnificent view of the city.

Types of real estate

I work with bothnew objectsin the real estate market, as well as withsecondary. Feel free to contact me with any questions about our offerings or the real estate market in general. I will be happy to help you understand the ins and outs and give you valuable advice on buying a home or commercial property.

Conclusion

Don't miss the chance to become a property owner in amazing Miami! I look forward to your call. Thank you! Dear clients, I am here to help you find the solution that meets your needs. You can contact me at the number provided. I hope for a successful collaboration!

Hello!

I would like to introduce you to some interesting real estate options available in sunny Miami, Florida, from Square Estates LLC. We are pleased to offer a variety of residential and commercial properties that may interest you and serve as great investments.

Apartments and penthouses

For example, in our portfolio, there is a stylish apartment covering an area of 200 m² and priced at 212,920 euros. This property includes:

• 3 bedrooms
• 2 bathrooms
• Possibility of mortgage lending

If you're interested in this option or have any questions about real estate or the market, I'm always available. My name isDmitry Baranov, and I am a professional real estate broker. It would be my pleasure to assist in the purchase of both primary and secondary homes in stunning Miami. My contact number is +1.305.302.9776, available via any messengers.

Magnificent penthouses

In addition, we have a magnificent penthouse with an area of 310 m², which is for sale for €1,611,983. This luxurious residence includes:

• 5 bedrooms
• 4 bathrooms
• Mortgage opportunity

If you would like to learn more about this property or explore other options on the market, let me know and I will provide all the necessary information.

Spacious penthouse

If you are looking for more spacious options, check out this 400 m² penthouse for €3,638,475. This luxury property includes:

• 6 bedrooms
• 5 bathrooms

I am always ready to consult you on any questions related to real estate in Miami or South Florida. You can contact me at +1.305.302.9776, as well as at the contact number in Russia +7.905.231.8833.

Special offers

We also have a wonderful penthouse with an area of 130 m² priced at 967,190 euros. This cozy residence includes:

• 2 bedrooms
• 1 bathroom

An online viewing can be arranged. If you need information or assistance with the transaction, I would be happy to help you.

Other real estate options

In addition, we offer an apartment in Miami with an area of 180 m² for 2,486,138 euros. This property includes:

• 3 bedrooms
• 2 bathrooms

We can arrange a remote property viewing.

Another option is a 200 m² apartment, priced at €3,637,554. It includes:

• 4 bedrooms
• 3 bathrooms

There is also the option for remote viewing and purchasing. We have a wide range of offers in both the primary and secondary markets. We are ready to conduct an online showing and assist with the transaction remotely if that format is more convenient for you.

Apartments

Finally, among our offerings, you will find apartments with an area of 40 m², listed for sale at 559,128 euros. This property includes:

• 1 bedroom
• 1 bathroom

Online showings are also available, along with the option for financing. This project has become the first residential complex of a well-known hotel brand, opening new horizons in the field of modern residential properties in Miami.

Contact me

Contact me for more information, and I will be happy to help you choose the perfect property that will become your home or a great investment in sunny Miami!

New residential complex on NE 1st Avenue

A new residential development is planned for the near future on land located at 3100 NE 1st Avenue. This project includes the construction of a 12-story building that will house 228 apartments.

Proposals from Square Estates LLC

Square Estates LLC offers housing in Miami starting from852,048 €, with an apartment area of110 square metersin which it is provided3 bedroomsand2 bathroomsIn the modern format, it is possible to organize online showings as well as remote deal closures.

If you are interested in details about this property or the overall state of the real estate market in Miami, please feel free to reach out for a consultation. I am ready to provide you with comprehensive assistance in acquiring both residential and commercial real estate in South Florida.

• A wide range of both new and secondary properties.
• The possibility of conducting online inspections.
• Closing deals remotely.

My name is Dmitry Baranov, and I am your trusted real estate broker.

Additional suggestions

In addition to what was described above, we have an apartment with an area of250 m², at a cost of3,576,759 €, consisting of4 bedroomsand3 bathroomsThis project also offers the option to pay using cryptocurrency, which is a relevant choice for modern buyers.

We are pleased to present one of the most modern residences at the moment —1428 Brickell ResidencesThis project includes luxurious apartments with3 bedroomsand a separate office located at1428 BrickellThe overall structure of the residential complex includes189 apartmentsEach of which is designed with a focus on creating a "private home in the sky," offering its owners an optimal level of privacy and comfort.

Other apartments for sale

There is also an apartment that can be purchased for1,925,168 €with a total area210 m²in which it is provided4 bedroomsand3 bathroomsWe continue to practice online showings and remote deal closures, including payment options using cryptocurrency.

If you have any questions about this offer or if you're interested in learning more about the real estate market in Miami, just let me know. I would be happy to assist you in finding and purchasing residential or commercial property in South Florida.

Our database includes both new constructions and properties on the secondary market. We pay close attention to your requests and strive to offer modern solutions for remote service.

More suggestions

Additionally, we have an apartment worth4,228,000 €, with an area of250 m²with4 bedroomsand3 bathroomsThis is a great opportunity to make a deal remotely and arrange an online showing.

I am always happy to answer any questions regarding real estate in Miami or aspects related to the market in South Florida.

Apartments for consideration

• Apartment for598,736 €, with an area of130 square meters, with4 bedroomsand3 bathrooms.

We are ready to organize an online showcase and provide the opportunity to close deals remotely, as well as the convenience of payment in cryptocurrency.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions about this property or the real estate market in Miami in general. I am ready to assist you in finding the right residential or commercial property in this beautiful region of South Florida.

Our company has extensive experience, and we are happy to share it with you by providing access to a wide database of new developments and secondary market properties. My name is Dmitry Baranov, your trusted real estate agent.

Cultural life of Boston

In Boston, like in many other cities, there is a diverse cultural life and plenty of entertainment options; however, they do not always meet the interests of all residents. For example, transportation is very popular here, which is explained by the considerable distances between various leisure spots. To visit their favorite locations, people often need not just one, but several cars.

A car is an essential helper.

When it comes to outdoor recreation—whether it's trips to the mountains or the sea—having a personal car becomes an indispensable companion. It's also important to remember that you need to take children to various activities, such as dance, music, or art classes. Most leisure opportunities in the city are largely geared towards car travel.

Natural beauty in the surroundings

Don't forget about the natural beauties that can be found in the surroundings of Boston. Here are:

• Small mountains
• Beautiful forested areas
• Lakes
• Opportunities for active recreation by the ocean

Nevertheless, Boston's restaurant scene significantly lags behind cities like New York or Miami, which certainly concerns local food enthusiasts.

Leisure problems

Unfortunately, due to constant busyness, it often turns out to be impossible to fully relax. The issues with leisure time are caused by our daily routine — my wife and I have a lot to do. My wife is busy managing a children's center where she teaches kids Russian language, reading, drawing, and other interesting activities. That's why we can't find time to rest on Saturdays, as it is the busiest day for us.

Cultural program of the city

Nevertheless, Boston attracts with its local cultural offerings, which, although they have lost some diversity due to the pandemic, still include concerts and theatrical performances. We have managed to attend events featuring both local and well-known performers of Russian-speaking music.

Architectural landmarks

The city is also rich in architectural landmarks and charming parks along the coast, making it an attractive destination for tourists. Locals mention the similarities between Boston and St. Petersburg, but I don't have enough experience to confirm or deny this opinion, as I have only been to the northern capital a few times, and that was a long time ago.

The ocean and its features

As for the ocean, in my opinion, its waters are quite cold and not always clean. During my time in Boston, I have only swum in the ocean a few times. Locals, both Americans and immigrants, often vacation in Cape Cod, but I think it's a rather expensive destination that doesn't justify its prices.

Rental housing in Cape Cod

Rental prices in this area range from $400 to $1500 per day, while in Florida you can find warmer and cleaner waters along with more affordable accommodation. If you're lucky, you can find a plane ticket from Boston to Miami for just $80 per person, but it will take some effort to search for good deals.

Disadvantages of living in Boston

One of the drawbacks of Boston is its early closing time. Most restaurants and cafes serve customers until 10 PM, and at best until 11 PM. Starting at nine in the evening, the streets of the city become almost empty. This gives Boston a unique quietness, but at the same time limits evening entertainment options.

Conclusion

The process of obtaining American citizenship turned out to be one of the most difficult and confusing stages of our lives. We faced bureaucratic challenges, not really knowing what awaited us ahead. Year after year of waiting, additional expenses, resubmissions, and constant checks from the authorities felt like we were being whipped by a broom. When my wife and I recalled all these difficulties, the question inevitably arises: how many applicants continue to struggle with the same system?

Our experience is not just a personal story; it reflects the broader picture of the lives of many immigrants trying to integrate into a new environment. Yes, we have become citizens, but our journey to this point was fraught with numerous difficulties. The situations with obtaining social security numbers and constant checks on the legality of our residency are just the tip of the iceberg. Every step turned into a small battle against an impenetrable wall of bureaucracy.

Adaptation to a new life

Adapting to a new life is yet another integral part of immigration that requires time and willpower. No matter how hard we try to feel comfortable in our new role right away, we always leave a piece of our homeland outside of this new life. There are moments when old memories suddenly resurface in our minds, making us question whether it was worth leaving. This question, like a stagnant cat, appears in the minds of changing generations of immigrants, and at some point, we realize that a definitive answer may never come.

Lessons of Emigration

Despite the difficulties, we continue to search for our thread in this new life, sometimes making mistakes, but always striving for the better. Complete adaptation is more of a myth than a real goal, especially for adults who are deeply rooted in their habits and lifestyles.

• Each of us carries our own accents and traits that remind us of the past.
• Our experience becomes the foundation for new generations.
• Emigration is not just a struggle, but also a process of self-discovery.

Self-discovery and experiences

Ultimately, it's not just about how we adapt to a new life, but also about how we make decisions and learn from our experiences. Along this journey, we become not only witnesses to our own changes but also part of a global story that intertwines the fates of people from all corners of the world.