A Canadian woman, Anna Dodd, has found love and a new life in Germany after initially planning to stay for just nine months. She moved to the country in September 2022 as part of her Master’s program, which led her through three different European cities. Now, nearly three years later, Dodd is married to a German man, Leo, and they are expecting a child in January 2024.
Dodd’s journey began in Glasgow, followed by a stint in Barcelona, before arriving in the small city of Göttingen. Initially, she intended to return home to Canada after completing her studies. However, fate intervened when she matched with Leo on a dating app during a moment of boredom. The couple quickly realized they had a deep connection, spending every day together shortly after their first date.
Despite the couple’s immediate chemistry, practical considerations loomed. Dodd had a life and plans back in Canada, where most of her family and friends still reside. She had a beautiful apartment waiting for her return, filled with her belongings that remain untouched. Yet, her unexpected romance made the decision to stay in Germany increasingly clear.
The couple’s relationship blossomed rapidly, leading to an engagement by June 2023. Dodd and Leo moved in together shortly thereafter and even traveled to Canada together, where Leo met her family. By October 2023, they celebrated their marriage with a significant gathering in France, surrounded by friends and family.
Living in Germany has presented both challenges and rewards for Dodd. While she appreciates the charm of rural life, including the local mobile bakery that visits their village twice a week, she has also experienced cultural adjustments. The highly rule-oriented society has sometimes left her feeling isolated, especially as she navigates the language barrier. Despite her efforts, her German language skills remain at a beginner level, and English is not widely spoken in their rural community.
Dodd has noticed differences in the social climate between Canada and Germany. She misses the friendliness and laid-back attitude of Canadians, recalling an incident where she was scolded for jaywalking—an action frowned upon in Germany, particularly when children are present.
Despite these challenges, Dodd finds many aspects of German life appealing. The cost of living is lower, and she appreciates the slower-paced lifestyle that Sundays bring, as most businesses close, allowing for family time and relaxation.
Looking forward, the couple has decided to stay in Germany for at least another two years. This timeframe will allow Leo to complete his education and take advantage of the country’s excellent healthcare system, especially as they prepare to welcome their child. They have discussed plans to eventually return to Canada, aiming to find a balance between both countries in the future.
Dodd acknowledges that her move to Germany has taught her valuable lessons about flexibility and the unpredictable nature of life. Although she misses her home country and the comfort of English-speaking environments, she embraces the journey she has embarked on with Leo.
As they prepare for the arrival of their child, Dodd reflects on how her definition of home has evolved. “My home is Leo,” she says, emphasizing that their journey together, now expanding to include their child, is what truly matters.
