Ushakiran Thoyyeti - Our Principal Design Engineer Earlier this year, he relocated from India to Barcelona, Spain—and here’s a glimpse into that journey.
Q: What inspired your move to Spain, and what made this opportunity feel right for you?
A: While I was happy in my role in India, working in Europe offers a unique perspective. I’ve always wanted to explore the world, and relocating to Spain felt like the perfect way to combine professional growth with personal aspirations. It gives me the chance to experience a new culture and travel whenever possible.
Q: How did your family react when you shared the news about relocating?
A: My parents were understandably concerned about the distance and time apart. My wife asked practical questions that helped me think through the logistics more clearly. Ultimately, I decided to move alone initially to understand the culture and challenges before relocating my family. Their support, despite the emotional difficulty, has been invaluable.
Q: What was the biggest personal challenge you faced during the move — and how did you overcome it?
A: Leaving my family behind was by far the hardest part, even knowing it’s temporary. Staying connected through regular calls and planning visits has helped bridge the gap.
Q: What were your first impressions when you arrived in Spain?
A: The warmth of the people stood out immediately—greeting strangers is common and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Picking up basic Spanish phrases was easier than I expected, and it’s rewarding to use them in daily interactions. Barcelona is quite accommodating for English speakers, but finding vegetarian food was initially a challenge.
Q: What’s one thing from your home country that you personally miss the most?
A: Family and food! It took a couple of weeks to adjust to the local cuisine, but now I’m enjoying the experience and discovering new flavors.
Q: What advice would you give to others considering a move abroad — especially those relocating with family?
A: Do your homework—research work culture, transportation, lifestyle, schools, and taxation laws. This helps set realistic expectations. Speak to people in your network who have relocated to gather insights. Make decisions that align with both your personal and professional goals.
Q: What’s the most “Spanish” thing you’ve done since moving?
A: I started learning Spanish from day one, and now I can confidently order a coffee without using English. It’s a small win, but it feels great!
Q: Have you explored any local spots or activities with your team?
A: Yes! We came here as a team from India, and after settling in, we made a couple of trips to a beautiful hill station nearby—Can Baró. One memorable moment was trekking to Castell de Torre Baró, a historic site with stunning views of Barcelona. Exploring these places together has been a fantastic way to bond and enjoy the city beyond work.