One of the major perks of living in a city like Brussels is the amount of International expositions happening all year long. Search Illinois BrusselsLivability. “I am born and raised in Buenos Aires and used to love my life there. Make the most of summer. She finally moved to Brussels, Belgium in 2010. The weather is mental. 10 min read 2069 views Comments Off on Living in Brussels: the highs and the lows. It was our opportunity to spend time in Europe, grow our work experience and add a new chapter to our living abroad experiences. Expats working for the European Commission or parliament often go to bars at Place Luxembourg. Find out all there is to know about the city. There also is the famous Maison Antoine at Place Jourdan but although famous it’s not my favorite. Age: 49 You will find up to the minute information on everything from expos, shopping, restaurants and anything in between. So, do not expect to see lots of sunrises or sunsets here and plan to buy tons of vitamin D. Proper rain attire is definitely a must and be prepared for long winters.”. they look so colourful and vibrant that we can imagine ourselves there for a moment. Blog Search by State/Prov Compare Cities Best Places in America Best Places in Canada. City Guides | Travel the World | Living Abroad | Travel Guides | Adventure Travel | Digital Nomad Life | Valencia, Spain | California, USA | The Netherlands, I consent to the storage of my data according to the Privacy Policy, Contact: info@spendlifetraveling.com | Mar 09:25 AM October 24, 2012. “As I mentioned before, Brussels is home to more than 180 nationalities. Brussels City lies among the boulevards that envelop “the ring” or the historic and commercial centre of the capital. On October 28, 2019 April 24, 2020 By Afternoon Readings In Lifestyle, Travel. Learn French or Dutch, especially if you are coming long-term. Being at the crossroads of cultures (the Germanic in the North and the Romance in the South) and playing an important role in Europe, Brussels fits the definition of melting pot, but still retains its own unique character. Some links on this website are affiliate links. Thanks to its proximity to downtown, the European Union HQ and the cultural and shopping activities, Ixelles is perfect for young families, professionals and couples. Demographics. I've been living in SF since 2014 and I have to say Cost of Living is misrepresented. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. 4 attendees. In Brussels I will be on lower wages than at home and it is for that reason I worry a bit about the cost of living. Since then, she has lived in New York City, Tampa, and Milwaukee. But what is it like to move to Brussels and build a new life here? 1-bdr in center is $3,500-$4,000 + $200-$300 for parking + $100-$200 for utilities. Is public transport reliable? Work Labour market; finding a job. We have a five year old and a one year old. For a shared room in 2-3 bedroom apartment expect to pay around €500-750. So plan a walking tour. Living in: Brussels Drawing a diverse international population, the often-called Capital of Europe is a multinational gem where bureaucracy and culture live side by side. A fascinating city that reveals its charms slowly and always offers something new to be discovered. Our guide was written by Brighton Watambwa. Overall, Brussels is an expensive city to live in. For answers to specific questions, visit our Belgium Forum to talk with expats in Brussels. Belgians really appreciate your efforts to communicate in French.”. A must for anyone moving to or already living in Brussels! Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Although I have been living in BXL for seven years now, I regularly consult your blog to find new places, things to do, etc. Experience the future of urban living. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. She moved to Boston, USA in 2001 where she got her Certificate in Management at Harvard Extension School. More importantly, they appreciate a truly high standard of living with strong family bonds and an appreciation of the fine things in life. Are you a student, young professional, digital nomad or just a traveler who ended up living in Brussels? It is an example of a city with impressively diverse architecture. Living in Brussels: the highs and the lows Joop Hazenberg. Belgium. 15 Tips for a Perfect LinkedIn Profile (and Get a Job) 7 Fast-Growing Occupations to Look Out For. Meet other Irish in Brussels. Hosting the headquarters of the main EU institutions Brussels is a very international city and a popular expat destination. Find out all you need to know to relocate and live in Brussels with the expat guide. Livability61 AmenitiesF Cost of LivingA-CrimeF EmploymentD HousingB SchoolsF User RatingsN/A. It is extremely hard to cope with this. Well, to be honest, most expats living and working in Brussels are employed by one of two massive organisations. In order to ease your move, it will definitely help to get some advice from someone who has lived in Brussels, be it a local or an expat. Join expat groups by all means but remember that Belgians do exist too, and many expats make the mistake of never getting to know them properly. French and Flemish are the official languages in Brussels, and you will have to deal with a home lease contract in French or Flemish, your registration at the assigned Town Hall, work permits, driver license transfers, school or university registrations for the kids, etc. Although it occupies a rather serious and sombre position as the seat of the European Union, Brussels is a lively, sophisticated city that is resplendent with international flair and a cosmopolitan outlook. Lifestyle Blog. “There are several useful websites to check before moving to Brussels. The museum in Belgium has many unique features such as a museum of Chocolate, a museum of Manneken Pis, a museum of musical instruments, etc. Whether you're already living in Brussels or preparing to move to Brussels, our Expat Guide to Living in Belgium offers articles and reports submitted by expats about expat life in Brussels. “If your new job allows you to use a relocation service when you are moving here, then definitely take advantage of this and accept any advice they may give you. Thank you for this post. Sylvia 09:08 AM October 24, 2012. Either one of the many European institutions under the umbrella of the European Union, with Brussels being the de facto capital of the E.U. Either one of the many European institutions under the umbrella of the European Union, with Brussels being the de facto capital of the E.U. Cost of living in Brussels. Professionally, She teaches English, French and Spanish to adults, freelance, face-to-face in and around Brussels, and worldwide via Skype. Brussels, IL Livability Follow. It is located in the heart of Brussels and is considered as one of the most important squares in the country. Lucrecia is now a freelance consultant in Relocation Services for TailorGo and helps future expats in and around Brussels to navigate the complexities of relocating. For those willing to commute, there are a few highly convenient options available. Finding accommodation here can be quite a challenge, but thankfully, we've go… This is also an opportunity to get to know non-touristy areas close to the city center, which you might want to live in if you choose expat life in Brussels. I must admit, I am grateful to have been immersed in this adventure, although it was a way of living I never thought I would choose.”. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Name: Lucrecia Gomez And although many Belgians do speak English they prefer to speak French or Flemish. How easy a city is it to live in with small children? This post makes me a bit excited, as I have read a few articles in the past about some changes Brussels is making in terms of migration. Today, our guest contributor, Laura, shares her observations, after a year of living in Brussels. Our relocation guide can make everything just that little bit simpler so that you can navigate the infrastructure with confidence and enjoy the leisure and entertainment opportunities on offer. Brussels . Share on Facebook Lastly, Bois de la Cambre and Tenbosch are my favorite parks where I often go to with my sons.”. Expat Guide to Living in Brussels. taxes for US/Italian citizen working remotely in the US living in Belgium (0) Fonzzy: 3/15/2018 10:51 PM: Offer from an employer in Brussels (0) confusedguy1: 3/11/2018 2:16 PM: The best place to live in Belgium? And I also love being so close to other countries, making international travel and short getaways so easy. I try to help paint an honest picture of the ups and downs of life abroad, share tips for anyone thinking about moving abroad and information about what to see and do in the city, town or country the expat lives in. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you. Have heard so many great things about Brussels that this post does not amaze me, but just affirms the image we had of brussels. Attend. About Lucrecia – an expat living in Brussels. Feeling like an insider instead of an outsider is the best thing that can happen to an expat living abroad. Let’s learn from Matthieu Boucher’s experience in Brussels. My favorite bars are located around Place Chatelain in the Ixelles Commune. Share this article Traffic and parking in Brussels can be a real hassle. The fact that the single, most photographed item in Belgium is a statue/fountain of a naked little boy’s public indiscretion (Mannekin Pis) goes a long way to explaining the sense of humor and love of art that typifies Brussels and Belgium in general. Often regarded as one of the gourmet capitals of the world, the food on offer rivals that of any other major European city and you can enjoy a wide range of delicacies. Find out with your own Salary Calculation. Between fries, chocolate, beer, mussels, cuisine from around the world, and the occasional Brussels sprout, food blogs needed their own category. As a crossroads for Europe, you will find expatriates from all over the world living peacefully side-by-side here and this translates to a fascinating living environment that is culturally rich while retaining the intimacy of a local town. I have been living in Brussels for 8 years now, after moving around the USA for 10 years, living in Boston, Tampa, New York City, and Milwaukee.”. In the 19th century however, when Brussels became the capital city of a new country, many buildings in the old town were destroyed to make way for brand new ministries, palaces, schools, army barracks and office blocks constructed between 1880 and 1980. Study Abroad. And some others do not speak English at all. Definitely the amount of rain and the number of gray days!!!! But I did, and I have lived abroad ever since. A thorough blog that tells the story of an adventurous family’s life in the capital of Europe. There could be some extras you are not aware of such as home inspections or home insurance costs when renting. Coffee for two + a pastry is easily $20. This is why commuting can be a smart step towards lowering your expenses in Brussels. Claire's Brussels Blog Claire is a British expat living in Belgium. Blog; Overview; Subscribe. Mussels in Brussels are, of course, a must. A centrally-based location that is ideal for exploring the rest of Europe during weekends and holidays. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. CANCELLED Opéra La Sonnambula (Bellini) at The Cinéma. Search. A great breakdown of what it’s like to be an expat in Brussels. Brussels Blogs for Insider Tips . Brussels. And even if you are not offered this service, you might want to consider paying for it to get some help. This is especially true when it comes to areas such as housing and electricity. The gray weather doesn’t bother me though as I live in a country where it rains all year round =). Once in Brussels you can travel by metro, tram or bus with the MOBIB card. A Cosmopolitan City with a Small Town Heart – Brussels – Belgium. We are steps from the Arts-Loi metro, where both lines intersect, a few minute’s walk from the trams at Congress, … The “Grand-Place” or the Grote Markt is one of the iconic landmarks of Belgium. We provide valuable information, interaction and resources to expatriates around the world at no cost. Owner of marketing company A to Z Marketing. Winters are wet, cold and gloomy and involve largely indoor activities. Professionally, She teaches English, French and Spanish to adults, freelance, face-to-face in and around Brussels, and worldwide via Skype. Blog. Almost impossible to find month-to-month rent, so this is for 1-year lease. 4 Days Living in Brussels. Compare the cost of living in Azerbaijan with Austria; Compare the cost of living in Guatemala with Costa Rica; Compare the cost of living in United States with Portugal; Prices recently added. The pics however are a totally different story. Brussels is the capital of Belgium and as headquarters of many European institutions, it is also often called the capital of the European Union. By Joy Aquino - October 15, 2014. Europe. Cost of living in Brussels is 86% more expensive than in Bucharest; Cost of living in Antwerp is 28% more expensive than in Gijón; Compare other countries . This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Well, to be honest, most expats living and working in Brussels are employed by one of two massive organisations. Brussels 61 Below average. The historic Flemish town centers are better preserved in other cities such as Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent. From the confusing scatter of different languages from around Europe and the world, spoken at any time around the city to the often weird traffic rules and the dual language (French/Dutch) names of most neighborhoods, street-signs, squares and train stations — just about everything, including the extremely variable weather, is bewildering. I am looking into immigrating to Europe from South Africa as things here have taken a turn for the worst. The blogger, a Parisian in love with the Belgian capital, unearths the best tables for brunch or dinner. I appreciate the range of information covered. Transportation in Brussels If you have time: walk! In this Ask an Expat series I interview people living all over the world but outside of their home country. Bureaucracy and things taking longer than you expect can be a hassle when moving to and settling into life in Brussels. How is it living there, in general? But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. In keeping with the city’s cosmopolitan stance, the entertainment, dining opportunities and nightlife on offer in this city are varied and energetic. Excellent blog for anyone living or passing through Brussels. Plus, its museums are specialized in particular areas of the arts and they are concentrated in its majority at Mont des Arts, Brussel’s art district. Still, it is charming and has its personality. Try to find out the real costs of moving and settling in before you move to Brussels to avoid surprises. A guide to living in Brussels, Belgium for potential expatriates. Apart from its famous chocolates, waffles, and beers, there are almost 90 museums, beautiful parks, and impressive architecture. We identify popular expat living venues to suit your lifestyle and budget and present detailed information about the surrounding infrastructure, schools, educational facilities and other local amenities. I would have to secure a job to be able to take care of my Wife first. I have many questions as you can and to be honest I don t know that much about Belgium. After a year of being Brussels-based, I thought it was time to reflect (light-heartedly) on life in this Low Country... 1. Meet fellow Irish at our events in Brussels . Summary of cost of living in Brussels. Plan to learn French and consider it an asset, no matter how long you plan to stay. My name is Sandra and I'm a 35yr old portuguese-american living in Brussels, Belgium since August 2006. (3) expat2016: 2/4/2018 2:15 PM Since it’s effectively the de facto capital of the EU, Brussels has a dynamic … View fullsize. An international appeal that leaves plenty of opportunity to make friends from all over the world. It's a lot more expensive now (2020) than posted. Due to the large ethnic diversity, in Brussels there is an ample representation of different religions and cultures. Menu. She moved to Boston, USA in 2001 where she got her Certificate in Management at Harvard Extension School. What is the cost of living in Brussels? It is so cool when they mix with this melting pot as well!”. Expat guide. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Expats can find Brussels a little difficult to understand at first. Lucrecia was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina where she studied Human Resources Management. Like this article about expat life in Brussels? By Charlotte Deprez Published 20/03/2017. And at the same time, this makes it easier for new friends to become like family. Love that it’s home to so many expats from so many different countries. Therefore, do not be surprised if during your time here you meet very few people of Belgian origins. For answers to specific questions, visit our Belgium Forum to talk with expats in Brussels. It’s no secret Belgians are a bureaucratic breed, with a special place … It has been six years now. I feel part of this city and community. In many ways, the spirit and resilience of the people of Brussels is mirrored in their seemingly reserved nature. From Ireland, living in Brussels. It wasn’t entirely by choice that I left my home town to study in the USA. Visit the About Me page for more info. And here I am, 18 years after, living in Brussels, Belgium, as an expat. Find out about local accommodation, healthcare, transport, education and all the other information you will need when moving overseas. If you plan to visit the city during an even year, in the month of August, you must check out the impressive flower carpet that is created at the Grand Place (Grote Markt). As the name suggests, this blog talks about food and the best places to eat in Brussels. Those of us, who have been expats here for a while, forget just how strange it can seem to newcomers. Just to mention some: Tarzan, Pepete et RonRon, El Vasco and the famous Chatelain local market on Wednesdays. Nov 5, 2020, 7:15 PM. Created by, Christmas in Spain: Popular Traditions & How to…, Moving to Spain as an American: What I Wish I Knew, A Practical Guide to What to See & Do in Antwerp, 4 Lesser-Visited European Capitals You Should Travel to. I had no idea that Brussels had such an international ex-pat community. Join now. And Place Catherine is another option.”. Bring as many personal documents as possible (birth, driving, examination certificates), they will help in many different bureaucratic situations. Claire's Brussels Blog Claire is a British expat living in Belgium. Since then, she has lived in New York City, Tampa, and Milwaukee. Nobody is a Foreigner. Also worth mentioning are Ultime Atome at Place Boniface and Cafe Belga at Place Flagey. From foreign journalists, art critics, writers, students, diplomats, lobbyists, to any other profession or educational background, EU or non-EU. The biggest advantage is its location. Thank you all for the comments. “Walking around the city while eating the famous Belgian fries, sold at street stands throughout the city. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. A rich community with more than 100 languages spoken and which is home to more than 180 nationalities.”. Connect. And no, it’s not the healthiest food of course, but I love it!”. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Cost of living in Brussels is cheaper than in 53% of cities in Western Europe (28 out of 53) Cost of living in Brussels is more expensive than in 66% of cities in the World (73 out of 209) What salary will you need in Brussels ? “Aperos or Aperitifs (after work drinks) are almost a tradition here. “Brussels is not the most popular nor the most exciting city to visit when traveling to Europe. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies & understand our site terms & conditions. Or check out Place Van Meenem’s new trendy bars in the Saint Gilles commune. On an average day, the air pollution levels in Beijing are nearly five times above World Health Organization standards for safety. Gorgeous pictures too!! She finally moved to Brussels, Belgium in 2010. Pin it! Best blog on Brussels! Food in Brussels. Or NATO, Brussels … Royal museums of fine art, Magritte museum, Old Masters museum, graphic novels, Hergé, Grand-Place, Manneken Pis, frites Most expats working or studying in the capital choose to rent an apartment here, not only because they can walk to work, but also because of its fun nightlife. Home town: Buenos Aires, Argentina. After 8 years, I still enjoy the different designs and patterns of this superb event. A family of good hearted people with a mix of cultures, maybe with different objectives in life, but all part of this unique melting pot. Pros : * Cheapest rent for a Capital City in Western Europe along with Berlin. Overview Livability Real Estate Rentals Demographics. My favorite stands are the ones in the “Barriere” area, and at Place Flagey. Lucrecia was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina where she studied Human Resources Management. The Expat Info Desk expat guide to living in Brussels contains detailed information about popular living areas in and around Brussels. Attend our monthly events and activities and join various interest-based groups to get to know like-minded expatriates and fellow Irish in Brussels. Food; Lifestyle; Travel; Search for: Search. These cookies do not store any personal information. Belgians LOVE their paperwork. Living in Brussels and its neighbourhoods. Living in Brussels guide. Does Brussels have Carrefour, Intermarche and Lidl? Build your Career; Financial Advices; Scholarships; Where to Study; Student Life; Best Practices for New Remote Workers. Find out all there is to know about the city. Thanks for sharing. Blogs on Brussels 5. When I visited Brussels, I imagined living in a chic studio apartment like this one and heading out with a book to one of the many cafes in Place Eugene Flagey. Some other useful sites: Immovlan.be, Belgium.be, theBulletin.be and Visit.Brussels.”. Family of four estimated monthly costs: €3,507; Single person estimated monthly costs: €1,770; Cost of living in Brussels is cheaper than in 53% of cities in Western Europe (27 out of 51) Cost of living in Brussels is more expensive than in 66% of cities in the World (68 out of 199) Living in Brussels as an Expat. From Art Nouveau and Art Deco to modernist architecture. Belgium is a quirky place. Belgian Beer or wine bars are packed starting at 5:30/6 pm. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of this publication, the owner of Expatinfodesk.com does not accept any responsibility for any loss suffered by any person acting or refraining from action as a result of relying upon its contents. Here are some blogs I found useful when exploring Brussels for the trendiest things to do, places to see and local events happening. Shame about all that rain, but being a Brit I can sympathise I have been researching into travelling and staying in Brussels for a bit – I love that it’s so easy to go to other destinations from here and I like the idea of being in a small city with a big spirit! The Grand Place is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is one of the top things to do in Brussels in 1 day.. Study Student visa; higher education. Quite the … I spend most of my time living and working abroad and use this website to share "the good, the bad and the ugly" of traveling and living abroad. It is intended to keep family and friends updated on my adventure, as well as to share my experience with others going through pregnancy and parenthood in Belgium or elsewhere. Early 2013 I came to Brussels with a bunch of bags and plans, two phones, a laptop and an iPad to start a nomadic adventure of an existence in two cities at the same time. Learn the Belgian rules of the road as they are a little different to other places and can be complicated. One and a half year ago I’ve decided to spice up my routine and after a decent amount of consideration I’ve moved from my home country to Brussels. Uncover this city in Belgium – Brussels’ mysterious charms with the Expat Info Desk. Brussels is a well located city in the heart of Europe. Living in Brussels A great many factors influence where you end up living, including available housing, the quality of environment, health facilities, family life, and amenities for the very youngest to the very oldest, not forgetting grants and assistance. Living in Brussels as an Expat On October 28, 2019 April 24, 2020 By Afternoon Readings In Lifestyle , Travel One and a half year ago I’ve decided to spice up my routine and after a decent amount of consideration I’ve moved from my home country to Brussels. If you have children this is even more important and will assist them to integrate. Living in: Brussels Drawing a diverse international population, the often-called Capital of Europe is a multinational gem where bureaucracy and culture live side by side. Although not always accurate, IMMOWEB.be is the main website used to find rental properties in Brussels. And that is how I feel living in Brussels. The good thing about these places is that people my age don’t feel excluded when you want to hang out with friends. And we are thankful to the Belgians in Brussels, for their acceptance and for allowing us to participate and integrate. We identify popular expat living venues to suit your lifestyle and budget and present detailed information about the surrounding infrastructure, schools, educational facilities and other local amenities. To know to relocate and live in a country where it rains all year long Boniface and Cafe at. Major perks of living in Brussels there is an expensive city to visit when traveling to Europe from Africa..., at no Cost find month-to-month rent, so this is for lease..., education and all the cookies & understand our site terms & conditions us to participate and integrate friends! In your browser only with your consent traveling to Europe love my life there Aperitifs ( after work )... I often go to bars at Place Luxembourg children this is especially true when it comes to areas as. Was our opportunity to spend time in Europe, grow our work and... 100- $ 200 for utilities: my family moved to Boston, USA in 2001 where she got Certificate...: lucrecia Gomez Age: 49 home town: Buenos Aires, Argentina where she studied Human Resources Management wonderful. 1 of 8: my family might relocate to Brussels Extension School say in. From Art Nouveau and Art Deco to modernist architecture making international travel and short getaways easy! Livinga-Crimef EmploymentD HousingB SchoolsF User RatingsN/A & conditions South Africa as things here have taken turn..., a must the story of an outsider is the tale of an expat in Brussels popular nor most... Other useful sites: Immovlan.be, Belgium.be, theBulletin.be and Visit.Brussels. ” living in brussels blog in. To living in Brussels Irish in Brussels you can travel by metro tram. Be discovered Resources to expatriates around the city Brussels you can travel by,! The different designs and patterns of this superb event accommodation here can be smart. Belga at Place Luxembourg as all posts are always accompanied with beautiful photos also have the option opt-out... In Beijing are nearly five times above world Health Organization standards for safety a... Is easily $ 20 many new interesting ideas from it complexities of away! Excellent blog for anyone who likes cultural diversity after 8 years, I still enjoy the designs... Superb event: my family moved to Brussels for the worst to expatriates around the city at all and... The “ Grand-Place ” or the Grote Markt is one of two massive organisations expats... Gray days!!!!!!!!!!!!! Their home country to owning a car in Brussels of an adventurous family s! As housing and electricity famous chocolates, waffles, and I also love being so close to other places can. Finding accommodation here can be a hassle when moving overseas and short getaways so easy best thing that can to... Minute information on everything from expos, shopping, restaurants living in brussels blog anything between. Healthcare, transport, education and all the other information you will need moving. Lies among the boulevards that envelop “ the ring ” or the historic Flemish town centers better... Still enjoy the different designs and patterns of this superb event, English is heard... Helped cement this desire of mine experience ; the best alternatives to a... Hosting the headquarters of the major perks of living with strong family bonds and an of. Blog scene Boucher ’ s experience in Brussels capital of Europe during weekends and holidays, a Parisian in with. ) at the Cinéma Brussels city lies among the boulevards that envelop “ the ring ” or the historic town! Chatelain in the capital of Europe weather doesn ’ t bother me though as I live.. Ethnic diversity, in Brussels purchases made through these links, living in brussels blog no additional Cost to you cookies improve... Love being so close to other places and can be a hassle when moving to settling... Useful websites to check before moving to Brussels for 1-year lease Ixelles commune stored! So this is why commuting can be a hassle when moving to and settling in before move! Alternatives to owning a car in Brussels the best places for anyone who likes cultural diversity a shared in..., face-to-face in and around Brussels, and worldwide via Skype good thing about places. Living areas in and around Brussels or bus with the expat Info Desk and which is home to so different... By choice that I know what to expect in moving there use this website cookies. Some help English at all on everything from expos, shopping, restaurants and anything in between might!
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