Hi!
My name is Natalie, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself as I begin a new chapter of life in the heart of Europe. After over two and a half years of navigating a long and sometimes daunting path, I’m incredibly proud to have achieved Slovak citizenship and made my move to Bratislava. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee—home to Elvis and some of the best barbecue—my journey began with a sense of belonging I could never quite find in the U.S., no matter how much I valued my home and family. The dream to move to Europe was always there, and over the years, it only grew stronger.
The story of my grandfather, Steve, has always held a special place in my heart. He grew up in a small town near Bratislava but was displaced during World War II, a time when he had to find the courage to start a new life alone in the United States. He never spoke much about the past, choosing to leave behind painful memories while building a new life for our family. Yet, as I started my own journey toward Slovak citizenship, I felt his spirit guiding me in ways I hadn’t before. I came to understand that, while he left Europe behind, he was deeply proud of his roots— which I now have the chance to reconnect with on a personal level.
Two and a half years ago, I learned that Slovakia had loosened its regulations around citizenship by descent, and I felt a spark of hope. With determination and, perhaps, a little nudge from my grandfather, I found a treasure trove of documents he had left behind—proof of his birth, immigration papers, even old photos. These documents became the key to unlocking my dream, and after years of persistence, I was finally able to make the leap.
Now, I find myself in Bratislava, building a life that feels deeply aligned with who I am. While my Slovak language skills are still growing, I’ve been welcomed with open arms. Groups like Global Slovakia have been a tremendous support, helping me settle in and feel connected to the culture here. This transition has been both challenging and fulfilling, a blend of the familiar and the unknown, and I couldn’t be happier to call this city my new home.
As I embark on this journey, I am reminded that while it takes courage to move to a new country, it also brings a deep sense of fulfillment that makes every challenge worthwhile. My dream for the past decade has been to live in Europe, and now, my goal is to build a beautiful life here in Slovakia. I look forward to sharing this adventure with all of you and hope my story inspires others to pursue their own dreams, no matter where they may lead.
Author: Natalie Davis
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