Community Blogs

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Jan 15

Americans can buy Dutch property without citizenship, but the real challenge is securing financing and navigating taxes in two countries—not the purchase itself.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Jan 15

The Cito exam is a standardized assessment taken by 167,000 Dutch children annually that informs secondary school placement, though teacher recommendations remain decisive.

Brussels, Belgium

• Jan 15

Multi-currency USD accounts in Belgium let you hold dollars alongside euros with low fees and competitive rates—ideal for US expats and frequent US travelers.

Sophie

71

Madrid, Spain

• Jan 15

Spain invented the original spacesuit, modern cigarettes, sherry, automated chessboards, acoustic guitars, and table football—innovations that shaped our world.

Emily Johnson

64

Berlin, Germany

• Jan 15

Germany offers diverse family entertainment from Europa-Park and LEGOLAND to Neuschwanstein Castle and chocolate museums—exciting attractions for all ages.

David Miller

63

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Jan 14

Yes, you can buy, import, and sell cars in the Netherlands—with 8.9 million cars nationwide and growing ownership, this guide covers everything expats need to know.

Bern, Switzerland

• Jan 14

Buying Swiss real estate requires understanding Lex Koller restrictions, high prices (CHF 1-2 million in cities), 20-40% down payments, and stricter mortgage criteria for foreigners.

Ingrid

102

Global, Global

• Jan 14

Finding expat jobs requires networking, researching target markets, contacting recruitment agencies, localizing your CV, learning languages, and strategic job-seeking trips.

The Expat Collective

104

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Jan 14

Best ways to receive money in the Netherlands include multi-currency accounts (fees from 0.47%), SEPA transfers (free, 1-2 days), Revolut, N26, and traditional banks.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Jan 14

Best GBP accounts in the Netherlands include multi-currency services (fees from 0.47%), Revolut, N26, ABN AMRO, and ING with varying fees and UK account details.

Paris, France

• Jan 14

Getting news in France includes English sources (The Connexion, The Local France, France 24), French newspapers (Le Monde, Le Figaro), TV, radio, and news apps.

olivia

143

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

• Jan 13

Women's healthcare in Saudi Arabia offers modern facilities with gynecological care, maternity services, and cancer screenings, though cultural restrictions apply to contraception and abortion.

Fatima Hassan

91

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Jan 13

Best USD accounts in the Netherlands include multi-currency services (fees from 0.47%), Revolut, N26, ABN AMRO, and ING with varying fees and features.

Vienna, Austria

• Jan 13

Living sustainably in Austria includes using green energy (36.4% renewables), public transport (€365/year in Vienna), thrift shops, composting, and comprehensive recycling.

viennalife

64

Lisbon, Portugal

• Jan 13

Portugal offers comprehensive sexual and reproductive health through SNS including free contraception, maternity care, legal abortion up to 10 weeks, and LGBT+ inclusive services.