What would you tell a friend who has to spend an important holiday far from home for the first time?

A natural way to answer

My advice would be to plan a video call with your family at the same time you'd normally celebrate. It helps you stay connected. And try to start one small tradition of your own where you are.

Key phrases to use

• reach out — to make contact with someone, often to connect or ask for support“Reach out to a friend if you're feeling low.”
• keep busy — to stay occupied so you don't feel bored or sad“Keeping busy helps me when I miss home.”
• stay connected — to keep in regular contact with people“Video calls help us stay connected.”
• get a bit homesick — to start to miss your home and family a little“I always get a bit homesick around the holidays.”