Welcome Expats
Your Guide to Settling in the New York City Area
Embracing Your New Adventure
Welcome to Tessa International School and the vibrant community of Hoboken, New Jersey! We understand that moving to a new country or city can be both exciting and challenging. Our goal is to help you and your family transition smoothly into your new life in the United States, providing you with the resources and support you need.
Why Hoboken?
Hoboken is a family-friendly city renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and close proximity to Manhattan. Here’s why Hoboken is an ideal choice for expat families:
Proximity to Manhattan:
Enjoy the benefits of a quieter, family-oriented lifestyle while being just minutes away from the bustling energy of New York City. Manhattan is easily accessible via convenient PATH trains -directly linked to NYC subway stations-, scenic ferry rides, or 10 minutes bus drive.
Excellent Schools:
Hoboken is home to some of the best private schools in New Jersey and the tri-state area. Tessa International School, with its commitment to multilingual education, social-emotional learning, and academic excellence, provides an exceptional learning environment for your children. Our diverse student body fosters global understanding and allows your child to connect with peers from all over the world.
Family-Oriented Community:
Hoboken is a top choice for numerous families. The city is known for its stroller-friendly streets, and boasts a welcoming and inclusive international community where families can connect and build lasting friendships. Numerous Parks, playgrounds, and waterfront promenades offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and family bonding.
Social Life:
Hoboken offers a lively social scene with a variety of bars, restaurants, and cafes that cater to all tastes. It’s a great place for parents to unwind and socialize!
Settling In: Tips and Resources
- Housing: Hoboken offers a variety of housing options to fit different needs and budgets. Websites like Zillow and Trulia can help you find your new home. Luxury buildings like 7 Seventy House, Avalon or Wonder Lofts offer comfort and convenience for families.
- Healthcare: Research local healthcare providers and register with a family doctor. Hoboken has excellent medical facilities, including urgent care centers (CityMD, PromptMD), hospitals (Hoboken University Medical Center) and numerous specialists, such as pediatricians (Tenafly Pediatrics, Optum Pediatrics, Blossom Pediatrics) or dentists (Bear Brook Dental Care).
- Banking and Finances: Open a bank account as soon as possible. Major banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have branches in Hoboken.
- Local Services: Familiarize yourself with essential services such as grocery stores (Trader Joe’s, ShopRite, ACME, Kings, Aspen, Whole Foods) pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, independent pharmacies), and utility providers.
Community Connections
- Expat Groups: Join expat communities and social groups in Hoboken to meet other families who have recently moved to the area. Websites like Meetup and Facebook groups can be valuable resources.
- Children Activities: Hoboken offers a wealth of activities for children, such as sports programs, art classes, music lessons, dance studios, and theater programs. The main hub for children’s activities, the Monroe Center is home to a kids’ gym, art classes, LEGO classes, diverse sports programs, and more. It’s a fantastic place for children to explore their interests and develop new skills.
- Language Support: If English is not your first language, consider enrolling in language classes to improve your communication skills and ease your transition. The Hoboken Public Library offers free in-person English classes.
Additional Support
If your company does not provide you with a relocation agent, you might consider hiring one independently (NYC Navigator, Dwellworks) to help with the logistics of your move. Relocation agents can assist with finding housing, navigating local services, and ensuring a smooth transition for your family.
Contact us!
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us at admissions@tessais.org or 201-755-5585. Our team at Tessa International School is here to support you every step of the way.
Join us at Tessa International School
Discover why our bilingual curriculum is one of the best! Explore how we combine learning with fun, making new friends, and encouraging a global mindset.
Tessa International School
Office: (201) 755-5585 | Location: 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ 07030
