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Expat Life

Showing 15 of 247 blogs

Luxembourg Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
2d ago

Major Luxembourg supermarkets include Cactus (local), Delhaize (premium), Aldi/Lidl (discount, 30-40% cheaper). Groceries 20-30% more expensive than Germany/Belgium; weekly shopping €80-€150. Most closed Sundays except Howald Belle Etoile (Sunday mornings). International foods in Gare district Asian markets and hypermarket international sections.

Belgium Brussels, Belgium
4d ago

Belgian subsidized childcare costs €30-€700/month based on income (average €200-€400). Private childcare €600-€1,500/month. Waiting lists 6-18 months in Brussels/major cities; register during pregnancy. Free pre-school from age 2.5. After-school care €3-€10/day. All legal residents qualify including expats. Options include crèches, childminders (€4-€8/hour), and au pairs (€450-€600/month).

Netherlands Amsterdam, Netherlands
4d ago

Dutch law does not punish prison escape itself (only crimes committed during escape) due to human freedom instinct principle. Chalk art technically banned in many cities with €50-€100 fines rarely enforced. Face coverings banned in government buildings since 2019. Most weird law violations incur €50-€500 fines with minimal enforcement.

Spain Madrid, Spain
Apr 25

Foreigners can buy cars in Spain with NIE, proof of address, and Spanish bank account. New cars €15K-€40K plus 4-8% transfer tax and registration fees. Annual costs €800-€2K include road tax (€30-€200), insurance (€400-€1.5K), and ITV inspections. Used 2-4 year cars offer best value.