An American man currently living in Ahmedabad opened up about his experience of settling in with his family, calling locals friendly but expressing that they felt a bit isolated. Reddit users were quick to offer help.
In a post shared on Reddit’s ‘r/Ahmedabad’, the man working in the software industry said he had visited the city several times in the past, but had now relocated to Shela with his family for a year, thanks to his employer.
He described his experience so far as largely positive. “I love the city, and the people have been very friendly and welcoming,” he wrote. “We have been here for about a month now and are starting to get settled in.”
The man mentioned how much he was enjoying local food, especially paan, and had even managed to bond with some of his coworkers. However, he admitted his family was finding it harder to adjust.
“I think my family are starting to get bored and feeling a bit isolated. We would like to get engaged a bit more with the community,” he said.
He also expressed interest in finding a private Gujarati tutor and enquired about activities where foreigners might be welcome. “Westerners appear to be somewhat of an enigma here, but I find the reaction from the locals quite charming,” he said, adding, “Just looking for some connections and some friends for me and my family to help us adjust to the city and language.”
The post concluded with a request for any suggestions that could help them feel more at home in the city.
Take a look at his post here:
Reddit users reacted with detailed suggestions and warm invitations. “You can join one of the running clubs that meet for a 5K every weekend (check out Runcrew or Brews & Shoes). You could also take your family to art and creativity workshops, which are great for connecting and networking with like-minded artistic people in the city (Tvastra Art Gatherings). I believe you may have already done the Heritage Walk in the old city – if not, do try it with your family on a Sunday morning. There’s also a newly formed creative group called Kirdar Creative Club, where they host movie screenings, open mics, jam sessions, and more,” said a user.
Another user, a UK citizen living in Ahmedabad, offered to connect personally and chat.
Someone who also lived in Shela chimed in with more specific ideas. “Wabi Sabi has a good environment for art and craft activities. They can join the nearest garba classes, they’re super fun. There are game nights at Kaunversations on weekends too. Brunch, street games, all of it!”
A local man also extended a friendly hand. “I’m always up for making new friends. I don’t know if this matters, but I’m 40 with a 9-year-old kid. If your children are of a similar age, they could be playmates. I can also help with Hindi, which might be more useful than Gujarati,” he said.
The man’s open note prompted Reddit users to step forward with genuine offers to help his family feel more connected.
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