Hello, and welcome to The Blonde Outsider.
I was born in the UK, but I’ve spent more than half of my life living outside of my home country. My journey has taken me across cultures and languages: seven years in Germany, fifteen in the UK, fifteen in Italy, and now almost a decade in the South of France. My roots are mixed too — a Finnish mother, an English father, and possibly a touch of Scottish heritage — which may explain why I’ve always felt at home in more than one place, but never entirely rooted in just one.
Languages and cultures are my passion. Over the years, I’ve collected them like souvenirs, and I’m currently challenging myself with Chinese. Each language, each country, each friendship has shaped who I am — a woman with many cultural “homes,” but also someone who knows what it’s like to always feel a little different.
Even after so many years abroad, there are moments when I miss the small, irreplaceable things from my homeland — the comforts you can’t quite find in Provence, where I now live. But recently, something shifted: I met other expat women who truly understand this life. For the first time, I felt less alone in my experiences. It made me realise there are likely millions of women out there who feel the same way: women balancing the excitement of adventure with the ache of not fully belonging.
This blog is for them — and for you.
Here, I’ll share stories, reflections, and lessons from life as an “outsider.” Some will be lighthearted (because cultural misunderstandings can be hilarious), and others more serious, because this journey isn’t always easy. My hope is that you’ll find comfort, laughter, and recognition in these words — and maybe even a little inspiration.
One last thing: you won’t see my face here, and for now, my identity will remain anonymous. There are a few reasons I can’t share it openly right now.
But perhaps that’s a good thing. Without names or labels, maybe you’ll find it even easier to see yourself in my stories — and to know you’re not alone.
If you’ve ever lived between cultures, I think you’ll feel at home here.
Welcome to The Blonde Outsider.
