At Expedia Group, we celebrate the bold steps our employees take to grow their careers—and themselves. For Charmaine Tan, a Data Scientist III, relocating from Singapore to London wasn’t just a change of scenery—it was the fulfilment of a long-held dream and a powerful step in her personal and professional journey.

Charmaine Tan | Data Scientist III, Analytics, PLS | London, UK

A Long-Time Dream in the Making

“I’ve always had the dream to live abroad,” Charmaine shares. “To experience different cultures and grow beyond the limitations—both personally and professionally—of where I grew up.”

That dream didn’t happen overnight. Charmaine began preparing for her move three years before it became a reality. She sought advice from colleagues who had relocated, built relationships across global teams, and made sure her managers knew that relocation was a personal goal she was committed to.

Embracing the Challenge of Change

Relocating meant leaving behind the familiar—family, friends, and the only home she’d ever known. “The biggest challenge was being physically apart from the people I’ve known for most of my life,” she says. “We’ve made a conscious effort to stay connected through technology, while also embracing the new life experiences we’re building separately.”

New Culture, New Opportunities

Moving to London opened the door to new perspectives and professional growth. Charmaine now collaborates with partners from different cultural backgrounds, using her own diverse experiences to help create more inclusive and welcoming travel solutions.

“I had the chance to work with our partners from a completely different culture,” she explains. “It’s helped me bring a more inclusive lens to the work we do.”

Support That Makes a Difference

Charmaine credits her team and leaders at Expedia Group for helping make her relocation possible. “They were always on the lookout for opportunities that aligned with my goals,” she says. “Their support and advice were constant, and it’s a team culture I’ve always been proud of.”

That support didn’t stop once she landed in London. Her new teammates checked in regularly, offering tips on everything from renting a flat to opening a bank account. “There’s a strong inclusive culture here,” she says. “It made me feel at home right away.”

Advice for Others Considering a Move

Charmaine encourages others to reflect deeply on their motivations before making a move. “Relocation gives you a completely different experience because it involves uprooting your life into another country,” she says. “When things get tough, your motivations will be what carry you through.”

A Journey of Persistence and Gratitude

For Charmaine, this move was more than a career milestone—it was the culmination of years of preparation, hope, and persistence. “I’m sincerely grateful to my leaders and the company,” she says. “Without their support and belief in me, this dream wouldn’t have become a reality.”

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