Bern, Switzerland Switzerland’s multilayered government is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. But whether you’re voting, following the news, or just wondering what is up wi...
Expat Life
Showing 15 of 470 blogs
Bern, Switzerland 
Mexico City, Mexico Build expat community by hosting parties-person who hosts controls social life. Start with 4-6 person dinner parties, simple food, low stakes. Regular hosting builds reputation as connector and creates friendships.
Lisbon, Portugal Whether or not you’re a resident in Portugal, you’ll need a tax number, or Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF), if you’re carrying out any official or leg...
Mexico City, Mexico Mexico City lives up to the hype: world-class museums (rivals British Museum), 7 Michelin restaurants, safe walkable neighborhoods (Roma, Condesa), affordable ($5 Ubers, $15 meals).
Mexico City, Mexico Settle in Roma Norte or Condesa (safest for newcomers, walkable, English-friendly, 15k-25k pesos/month for 1BR), learn survival Spanish (basic phrases week 1, then classes at 200-400 pesos/hr), build routine around coworking spaces/parks/cafes. City is massive (9M people, 7,350 ft altitude) but manageable focusing on central neighborhoods.
Adapting to expat living the right way
Expat Life
Global, Global Getting caught in an expat bubble can be frustrating. Looming paperwork and red tape in a foreign language can take its toll. Even something as simple as receiv...
Mexico City, Mexico LGBTQ+ teens in Mexico City: affordable healthcare (specialist $70 USD, US insurance often covers), but social acceptance nuanced-conservative culture, machismo, less awareness than US, hate crimes exist. Gen Z more open, growing LGBT community, geek spaces accepting. Healthcare access ≠ social acceptance.
Crime and the legal system in France
Expat Life
Paris, France A comprehensive guide to crime patterns, safety tips, and the French legal system for expats living in France. Learn how to protect yourself, understand your rights, and navigate police interactions.
Mexico City, Mexico You cannot legally work in Mexico City without proper authorization. Local wages are low (~$14/day minimum), 48-hour weeks standard. Bring remote income.
Mobile phones and SIM cards in Italy
Expat Life
Rome, Italy Moving to another country often entails endless planning, from buying a house or renting an apartment to opening a bank account. After moving to Italy, one o...
Rome, Italy Italy provides €50-€175 per child monthly through the Single and Universal Allowance, with higher amounts for multiple children, disabilities, and mothers under 21.
SIM cards and mobile phones in the UAE
Expat Life
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates The UAE offers 4G/5G networks nationwide with two main operators (du and Etisalat). Getting a SIM card requires just your passport, with plans starting at AED 36 monthly.
Crime and the justice system in Belgium
Expat Life
Brussels, Belgium Belgium ranks 20th globally for safety with comprehensive legal protections. Understanding crime reporting, court systems, and your rights helps you navigate any legal situations.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Set up UAE utilities in 15-24 hours using ADDC (Abu Dhabi) or DEWA (Dubai). Deposits: AED2,000-4,000. Green tariffs available for energy savers.
Global, Global Expat dating presents unique challenges including language barriers, cultural differences, and transient lifestyles. Meet people through expat communities, language exchanges, international dating apps, social events, and shared activities. Navigate cross-cultural relationships by communicating openly about expectations and long-term plans.
