In two weeks my partner and I will begin to transition into life in our own apartment. It’s literally across the road from where we live, and on the top floor of a three-story house. We weren’t actively looking to move as we both enjoy living here, with my in-laws. It’s also not easy to come upon rental apartment listings in Tramin, since most homes with spare rooms run holiday-on-the-farm arrangements. But some months ago, we found a listing for what looked like a tastefully decorated apartment with a balcony. When we realised how close it is to where we currently live, we considered checking it out. Though we’d initially agreed we’d take our time with arriving at a decision, after walking through it, we were totally besotted and said yes instantly. I was drawn to the idea of not having to buy things, moving in simply with our suitcases and my books, and maybe our sound system. My partner found himself excited by the balcony. Though we have a terrace that overlooks the church, the balcony in the new apartment boasts a totally different view. The apartment also faces another side of Tramin and we’re hoping it will be somewhat quieter, considering we no longer will be the first to hear the church bells ring. 

I’m nervous and excited about the transition. I never imagined I would one day be renting an apartment in another continent. I also feel a bit emotional about leaving the financial and emotional security of my in-law’s generous providence. Living with them for over a year allowed me to save money for the first time in my life. It has been a joyful experience for me to, for a change, actually feel like I have savings that I earned, and to feel the warmth of a financial blanket. The last ten years in Delhi, while wonderful and exhilarating, were also filled with an everyday precariousness. I remember vividly the times when I had less than R200 in my account and was too proud to borrow; times when I had to accept unsatisfying work because it would help me pay my bills and keep me afloat; times when I felt incredible house envy because I felt sure all my friends had better living conditions than me.