Moving to Algeria as an expatriate is much more than a simple change of country: it’s a unique human and professional adventure. Between discovering cultural roots, immersion in a specific economic environment and adaptation to local customs, each expatriation is a lesson in curiosity and openness.
In this episode, we explore the journey of Xavier Gesnouin, who chose Algeria to get closer to his ancestors and start his own business. His experience is a perfect illustration of the challenges, surprises and learning opportunities offered by expatriate life in Algeria, where humility and respect for others become indispensable keys to success and fulfillment.
Why Algeria? An expatriation motivated by roots
It all began in 2007, after the death of his grandmother. Xavier felt a deep desire to reconnect with his origins, and decided to move to Algeria. It wasn’t a long-prepared project, but rather a strong impulse, born of a combination of personal curiosity and a desire to discover his family’s land.
“In 2006, I had the misfortune to lose my grandmother, who was born in Algeria. And I had the mad desire to go to Algeria to visit the land of my ancestors.”
In addition to family ties, Xavier soon discovered that Algeria also offered many professional opportunities. The warm welcome of the locals and the beauty of the landscape reinforced his desire to settle here permanently. All these factors contributed to transforming a simple visit into a real expatriation adventure.
As soon as he arrived, he founded Beluga Communication, an agency specializing in corporate communications and events. His beginnings were not easy, but thanks to his determination, proactivity and ability to seize opportunities, he quickly landed his first contracts and laid the foundations for a rich and formative entrepreneurial experience.
Eight years in Algeria: challenges, anecdotes and beautiful discoveries
For eight years, Xavier was totally immersed in Algerian culture. He remembers it as an incredible period, rich in encounters and learning.
Among his memorable anecdotes, he shares an episode that perfectly illustrates the cultural differences in the perception of time: a flight delayed by several hours… without it seeming to worry anyone!
“An hour-and-a-half flight delay in Algeria? It’s not a delay, it was on time. That’s the way to look at it.”
But there’s more to expatriation than professional adventures. To settle in successfully and make the most of life in Algeria, it’s essential to understand the local culture and traditions. Xavier emphasizes the central role played by the family: it’s not uncommon for several generations to live under the same roof, and daily life is organized around family ties.
“For me, Algeria, quite honestly, when I landed, it felt like landing at home.”
Expatriation also requires attention to social customs and codes:
- Islam is the official religion, but tolerance is real. French expatriate women, for example, are not required to wear the veil, except in places of worship.
- It is important to dress and behave in a way that respects the local culture. Although the law does not impose strict constraints on day-to-day behavior, failure to respect local customs can sometimes have legal consequences.
- Understanding the traditional division of roles within couples and families facilitates integration and social relations.
And so, beyond the challenges and unforeseen events, Xavier finds in Algeria a balance between his family roots, the human ties forged locally and the country’s cultural richness, which make him feel truly at home.
What expatriation has taught her
For Xavier, the key to a successful expatriation is respect and humility. He stresses the importance of remembering that, as a foreigner, you are first and foremost a guest in another country. This means understanding and accepting cultural and religious differences, while adapting to local customs rather than imposing your own codes. As he puts it so well:
“The most beautiful thing you learn abroad is how to live together.”
Health, a key point not to be overlooked
One of the major topics discussed in this episode is Algeria’s healthcare system. Xavier explains that while doctors are highly trained, hospital facilities, particularly in the public sector, can be limited. His advice to future expatriates is clear:
“You have to make sure that the country you’re going to has the best healthcare conditions. You only have one life, and you have to make it as pleasant, happy and healthy as possible.”
Health is at the heart of any expatriation project. It is essential to find out about the local healthcare system and the options available to expatriates. In Algeria, there are over 200 public hospitals and more than a hundred private clinics, and the majority of doctors speak French. However, the public sector suffers from a shortage of practitioners and infrastructures that fall short of European standards, often prompting expatriates to turn to the private sector.
To benefit from reliable, appropriate care, we recommend you take out international health insurance. It covers the cost of private services, repatriation and even treatment received in France, if necessary. It also allows you to add additional cover as required, simplify contract management and gain access to partnerships with recommended local establishments.
It’s this experience and demand for health care that led Xavier to work with Santexpat, to offer reliable, comprehensive solutions for expatriates and international travelers, guaranteeing peace of mind and security when settling abroad.
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The little misses and conviviality
The distance from his family was not too difficult for Xavier, thanks to his geographical proximity (2-hour flight from Paris) and modern communication tools.
But he did miss a few things: cheese and charcuterie! A gourmet nostalgia he shared with other expatriates during convivial evenings.
“Cheese, yes. We used to have charcuterie and cheese evenings with other expats. I don’t think I’ve ever eaten so much.”
A life-changing experience
This expatriation has not only left its mark on his professional career. It profoundly transformed his vision of the world, teaching him tolerance, openness and the richness of cultural diversity.
“It’s a life-changing experience. Going to another country means accepting and understanding religions, cultures… it’s great to be able to understand each other and get along despite the differences.”
Today, he continues to share this philosophy, advising future expatriates to be well prepared – especially in terms of health – while retaining the magic of adventure and encounters.
Expatriate health insurance in Algeria
Respecting local culture: understanding traditions and adopting respectful behavior facilitates integration.
Remember that you are a guest: accept cultural and religious differences, and adapt to local customs.
Preparing to set up: anticipating professional and financial challenges, especially if you’re setting up a business.
Don’t neglect your health: check access to healthcare and take out international health insurance.
Staying open to adventure: enjoying encounters, discovering culture and forging enriching human links.
