Community Blogs

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Mar 22

13% of Dutch births occur at home, highest in developed world. Safe for low-risk pregnancies under midwife supervision. Transfers happen in 15-20% of first births.

Bern, Switzerland

• Mar 22

The Switzerland of today might be known for its banking industry and favorable tax system, but the country’s wealth is actually rooted in innovation. Still, ...

Ingrid

55

Paris, France

• Mar 22

The Dordogne, in the southwest region of Aquitaine, has been attracting expats ­since the 1960s – not just vast numbers of les Anglais (hence the ‘Dordognesh...

olivia

47

Singapore, Singapore

• Mar 22

If you are an international resident or new citizen in Singapore, you may want your spouse or children to immigrate and live with you long-term. Your family mem...

sglife

99

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

• Mar 22

Call 112 for all emergencies in Luxembourg (police, ambulance, fire). English operators available. Healthcare covered by CNS insurance with 80-88% reimbursement.

Thomas W

66

Global, Global

• Mar 21

CV vs resume depends on country: US prefers 1-2 page resumes, UK/Europe uses 2-3 page CVs. Photo requirements vary. Match format to target country expectations.

The Expat Collective

42

London, United Kingdom

• Mar 21

Only 20% of Britons live in the countryside despite 80% dreaming of it. Village life is warm, eccentric, centered on pubs and post offices. Expensive property.

Priya

52

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Mar 21

Dutch children start primary school at age 4, with compulsory education from 5. Eight-year cycle through multiple pedagogic approaches. Free state-funded education.

Bern, Switzerland

• Mar 21

Yes, foreigners can open Swiss bank accounts with proper documentation. Standard accounts cost CHF 5-15/month. Process takes 1-4 weeks. Easier to open in person.

Ingrid

51

Canberra, Australia

• Mar 21

No, Australia doesn't have inheritance tax, but estate taxes are paid before distributions. Expats may owe taxes in their home country on Australian inheritances.

James O

47

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Mar 20

The Cost Challenge Global costs have risen significantly in recent years, and the Netherlands is no exception. Inflation has stabilized around 3% but remains el...

Brussels, Belgium

• Mar 20

A GBP account can be useful if you’re paid in pounds, need to support family in the UK, or want to hold GBP alongside euros. Belgian banks and international pro...

Sophie

51

Tokyo, Japan

• Mar 20

If you live in Japan, whether on a work visa, with permanent residency, or as a naturalized citizen, you may want your family to join you indefinitely. If they ...

tokyolife

64

Brussels, Belgium

• Mar 20

Belgium is an ideal place to experience a diverse European life. As it borders France, Germany, and the Netherlands, its unique culture enjoys elements of ea...

Sophie

43

Berlin, Germany

• Mar 20

Opening a bank account in Germany is vital to setting up your new German life. You need to arrange utilities for your new home, arrange German TV and internet s...

David Miller

53