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Owning a little house in the countrysideasounds like a dream, right?

Beautiful views, peace and quiet, and a close-knit community where everyone looks out for each other.

Thatas exactly what one couple from London had in mind when they bought a holiday home by the sea.

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But life isnat quite like a Hallmark movie, and their over-the-top enthusiasm didnat land well.

Now, the locals arenat sure what to do with this family they canat stand.

These communities typically have long-standingfriendships, established customs, and unspoken norms for how things are done.

Woman smiling at the front door, welcoming new couple to the neighborhood.

In this case, the etiquette expert recommends approaching the locals at a reasonable, gradual pace.

aAuthentic connections and a sense of community take time,a she added.

aDonat expect neighbors to hand over their mobile numbers immediately,a Hayes said.

Text describes new couple in town seeking community in a coastal village known for quiet life and artistic residents.

Thereas no need to stop and chat every time you cross paths.

aAgain, go gently.

Gale-force winds destroy things.

New couple from London moves into a small holiday home, seeking local engagement and community involvement.

A gentle breeze is pleasant and makes people feel safe and comfortable.

Text highlighting new couple’s expectations of community welcome versus reality.

Text describing neighbor interactions and expectations in a new community setting.

Woman on phone, looking puzzled, in a modern kitchen, discussing new neighbors' expectations in a non-Hallmark neighborhood.

Text discussing a husband working away, with the wife visiting alone and messaging for updates on the community.

Text discussing new couple’s expectation to be included in neighborhood activities, highlighting their arrival in town.

Text about new couple expecting a warm welcome and neighbors' humorous response, hinting at unrealistic expectations.

Text saying newcomers expect a warm welcome, neighbors remind them reality differs from a Hallmark movie.

Couple in town greeting neighbor through gate, expecting a warm welcome.

Comment about tourists receiving a harsh welcome, contrasting with a Hallmark movie greeting.

Text response discussing neighbors joining the community in Cornwall, mentioning second homes and community integration.

Comment about life near Bruton in Somerset, mentioning local attractions and community lifestyle.

Text advice on how to calmly connect with new neighbors, balancing interaction and respect for personal space.

Comment about neighbors not being welcoming like in a Hallmark movie.

Text expressing local resentment towards part-time village residents and their unsolicited advice.

Text from user sharing a humorous anecdote about holiday visitors who expect recognition.

Social media comment expressing sarcasm about a person’s friendliness.

Text discussing new couple’s potential long-term integration and neighborly interactions.

Commentary on community involvement and neighbor dynamics.

Text comment discussing a new couple’s efforts to get to know neighbors and suggesting giving them a chance.

Text from an online discussion about welcoming neighbors, highlighting feelings of prejudice and friendliness.

Text conversation about new couple inviting locals for dinner and neighbor etiquette.

Text comment by Annabella92 discussing loneliness and efforts to connect in a community.

Text exchange referencing mixed messages and Regina George.

Text from social media about a couple trying to fit in and the challenges of making friends in a new town.

Text from a forum user about socializing and neighbor expectations.

Text from commenter AGoingConcern discusses social dynamics and insider vs. outsider perceptions.