Home is where the heart is, as the old saying goes. For the hundreds, if not thousands, of South Africans living overseas, good ol’ Mzansi owns their hearts in abundance.
Remitly, an American financial services company, recently conducted a global survey to determine which countries feel the most homesick. In it, they asked participants who have moved abroad about the things they missed most. These included family, friends, food and drink, and climate.
Collecting the responses of 3 100 people from 21 nations worldwide, Remitly revealed the results of their findings.
SOUTH AFRICA TAKES SECOND PLACE
According to the survey, South Africa is the second-most homesick nation in the world.
Indeed, Mzansi finished runner-up on the list with a whopping score of 96.10%. The Philippines narrowly beat us with a 96.15% score.
Depending on your perspective, it’s quite understandable. After all, the Rainbow Nation is a multi-cultural landscape, one made memorable by its stunning scenery, culinary delicacies and beloved, homegrown brands (biltong and Woolies, anyone?).
Additionally, South Africa is home to the friendliest, most approachable and most accommodating folks on the planet – it’s no wonder we were recently voted one of the world’s most polite countries!
WHERE ELSE DOES HOMESICKNESS REIGN?
Here is the official list of the top 21 most homesick nations in the world (from first to last):
- The Philippines – 96.15%
- South Africa – 96.10%
- Canada – 96.02%
- Mexico – 96.02%
- Brazil – 94.44%
- India – 94.12%
- France – 93.53%
- Chile – 93.33%
- Australia – 93.00%
- Greece – 91.84%
- Sweden – 91.78%
- Spain – 91.75%
- Portugal – 91.18%
- United Kingdom – 91.13%
- New Zealand – 90.97%
- Germany – 90.55%
- United States of America – 90.55%
- Czech Republic – 90.32%
- Italy – 90.20%
- Ireland – 89.01%
- Japan – 85.71%
Interestingly, Canada and Mexico (both scoring 96.02%) tied for third place on the list.
“Canadians may find themselves missing home comforts, seasonal traditions and familiar everyday routines when starting over in a new country,” explained Remitly. “Meanwhile, Mexico’s strong food culture and emphasis on shared family meals can make long periods away from home and loved ones feel especially challenging.”
We’re pretty certain that there are plenty of South Africans who can relate to this. Which is why we landed in second place on the list, of course, but the point still stands.
ARE YOU FEELING HOMESICK FOR SOUTH AFRICA?
Jokes aside, homesickness is not to be scoffed at. Being away from your birthplace or long-time residence can take a huge toll on your mental health, as it can give rise to anxiety, concentration difficulties and depression.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by feelings of homesickness, be sure to stay connected with your loved ones, as well as partake in familiar cultural activities and events wherever you are. You can also seek out professional counselling.
Although South Africa has its challenges, as do other countries, it will forever remain a place of comfort, familiarity and security for the many Saffas dispersed around the world. In other words, it’s home.
