I married an American and moved to the US 12 years ago. I'm happy now, but I didn't realize how tough the transition would be.

I moved to the US 12 years ago, but I still miss my life in New Zealand.

Dragonite_East/Getty Images

• When I moved from New Zealand to the US, I didn't realize how much it would actually cost me.
• It's been hard for me to be away from family and to build a community in a new place.
• When I visit my home country, I often experience reverse culture shock.

I moved from New Zealand to California more than 12 years ago after I met and married an American.

Even...