How flexible you need to be with dates of loading of smaller orders? All services to the European continent are provided using large vans with a total loading capacity of up to 15 cubic meters (up to 1200kg). This weight limit for 15m3 loads however, differs for Austria and the non-EU nations of Switzerland and Norway. The weight limits for these three nations are...

Customs & Immigration Policies when moving from the UK to Switzerland Customs & Immigration Policies So you’ve made the big decision to move to Switzerland. It’s a lovely country and we’re sure you’ll love it. Switzerland boasts one of the highest standards of living in the world and its cities regularly top the list of the most...

The United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, commonly referred to as Brexit, marked a significant shift in Europe’s political and economic landscape. Finalised on January 31, 2020, with the transition period ending on December 31, 2020, Brexit has had profound implications for customs policies, affecting individuals and institutions alike. For the staff and students of Imperial College London, a leading global university with a diverse international community, the changes in moving...

What not to do with piano removal Once I decided to relocate, I knew I had to prepare for moving abroad....

What not to do with piano removal When we relocated abroad, we found that preparing our piano removal was one of the most daunting tasks facing us. We have an old – and exceedingly heavy – upright piano. It probably weighs almost half a ton and is top-heavy to boot. Even a small spinet style of piano weighs around 300 pounds. It was...

Packing Tips – prepare yourself for moving abroad Tips for packing your house to move. Imagine – relocating from a big four bedroom house – FULL OF STUFF- to a one bedroom flat in a foreign country – but...

10 tips to make your moving to Switzerland easy Whether you are relocating to Switzerland to work, to retire or simply to enjoy the beautiful countryside, some preparation will make your move run smoothly. If work is your object, first find employment if it is not already arranged, since that will determine where you settle.Be aware that Switzerland has four...

Swiss customs regulations The Swiss have customs regulations they want travellers to abide by. It is imperative to declare any taxable merchandise. Import taxes are usually inexpensive mostly for small quantities. However failure to declare your merchandise will result in paying the duty plus a fine that is generally two times the TVA (sales tax) on the goods. Flying is the one of the most common modes of transportation to Switzerland, upon arrival at the Swiss airport you...

Cantons of Switzerland The word canton means district or a section or part of a country; in total there are 26 cantons in Switzerland. Not all cantons speak the same language, some cantons are French speaking, German speaking and Italian speaking, while in other cantons like Graubünden: German, and Romansh are spoken. Switzerland has become the international hotspot of choice for wealthy Britons looking to relocate abroad. There are many established British...

Moving with pets to Switzerland Moving with pets to Switzerland can be not that easy as it seems to be, because Switzerland is not a member of EU. Pets, especially dogs are considered to be a man’s best friend. As a result, you need to put your pets into consideration when moving to a new location. If you intend to move to Switzerland with...

Moving to Sweden from The UK Trick or Treat — it’s Easter in Sweden When you’re moving to Sweden from The UK you may find it quite odd to observe a halloween setting during Easter. Folklore states that Easter was the time when witches stole the household brooms and flew to the (imaginary) Blue Mountain (somewhere in Germany) to consort with the devil. Now, children dress up as Easter witches. They paint their...

Health Care in Sweden Pensions in Sweden Before describing the state of health care in Sweden, you should know that, if you plan to retire to Sweden, make sure you have sufficient funds, as it is quite an expensive place to live. High taxes on your income and pension contribute to that state. You also have to budget for private health insurance. You have to have an income at least as great as the Swedish pension (around 6 850 SEK (£620.50)) per month...

Want to Find Out The Best Place to Live in Spain for Expats? Embarking on the journey of moving abroad can be exhilarating yet daunting, especially when it comes to the right destination. Spain, with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm climate, has become a top choice for expatriates from around the globe. This...

Driving in Sweden Public Transportation in Sweden Driving in Sweden is not the preferred way to get around, since public transport is heavily subsidised and very efficient. There are 24 regional networks and an over-system where one ticket is valid on both buses and trains. In the south there are express buses where you do not have to reserve a seat, and there may be discounts for seniors and students. Buses and trains are often well integrated, with little difference...

Social Life in Sweden Language Learning Swedish might be useful for establishing a social life in Sweden. It is the official language, spoken by the vast majority of the population. It is similar to both Danish and Norwegian. There are five minority languages, including Finnish and Sami, which is spoken in the far North. English is widely spoken, followed by German and French. In fact, Sweden has been ranked “best in the World” at...

Living in Sweden Cost of living in Sweden is rather similar to what you’re used to in UK. Except for groceries, which are much more expensive and rent prices which are significantly lower in Sweden. Buying a house in Sweden In 2013, Sweden’s housing market recorded its strongest performance in three years, although economic growth was slow. In Sweden there are no legal restrictions for foreigners buying property. It can be easy and fast to buy...

Facts about Sweden Facts about Sweden Stockholm is very similar to any major UK city, unless of course you arrive in winter when the temperature is -20°C and a thick layer of snow covers everything. In my article I describe basic facts about Sweden which can be very helpful once you move to this country. The signs at the central train and bus stations are in English and the streets are...

Accommodation in Stockholm How to find accommodation in Stockholm? Stockholm is not that different from any major UK city, unless of course you arrive in winter when the temperature is minus 20°C and everything is covered in a thick layer of snow, but looking for some accommodation for the first time can be very weird experience. Finding a Flat Finding accommodation in Stockholm, and generally in Sweden,...

Social Life in Spain Language Learning national language may be one of crucial points of diving into the social life in Spain. The only language with official status throughout Spain is Spanish or Castilian. Various other languages have co-official status in specific parts of Spain and there are also a number of other unofficial languages and dialects spoken. Nearly everyone can speak Castilian either as a first (89%) or second...

Living in Spain Cost of living in Spain If you exclude the popular tourist destinations in the season, you’ll find that the cost of living in Spain is much lower than in the UK. To compare Barcelona and London: Consumer prices are around 30% lower in Barcelona. Rent prices are nearly 70% lower in Barcelona. Groceries are around 20% cheaper in Barcelona. Apartment prices are around 80% lower in Barcelona. And...

Healthcare and Pensions in Spain Healthcare and Social Insurance Once you are registered to work in Spain and make National Insurance contributions, you’ll be entitled to state-run healthcare on the same basis as a Spanish national. For further information, visit the Seguridad Social website (http://www.seg-social.es/Internet_6/index.htm) which...

3; What is it like to live in Brazil? Insights and Main Concerns Brazil has always been prosperous, and its treasures go way beyond the...

Transportation in Spain Driving in Spain Driving can become your favourite mean of transportation in Spain. There is spectacular scenery and little, or no congestion, but speed limits often change. Don’t even consider drink driving, unless you like the thought of incarceration in a Spanish prison. The blood alcohol level is 0.5 per mg ( which equates to one small beer), dropping to 0.1 mg for drivers who...

Moving to Spain from The UK Can 87 880 people be so wrong? There are around 90 000 fewer UK nationals registered in Spain in 2013. This means that nearly a quarter of Britons who dreamed of a life in the sun have had their dreams shattered. The rising cost of living, the loneliness, and possibility of losing a partner, together with the seemingly endless struggle to legalise the ownership of their homes, has...

Relocating to Spain Spanish Customs Britain is not a member of the Schengen area, and therefore customs formalities apply. However because UK is a member of the EU, there is little of consequence to concern the average Briton relocating to Spain. You will need prior permission if you wish to bring arms in, and there is no free import of technical drawings. Otherwise you can bring in most things, with no currency restrictions. That’s...

Are you moving from UK to Spain? Tips about Buying a House in Spain Emigrating is a serious decision so take your time before deciding to relocate your family to Spain. Every year holidaymakers return home in love with Spain – but what would it be like to actually live there? The article describes common traps you should avoid when buying a house in Spain. Although the process of buying a house is relatively...

3; International Moving Navigating its Pitfalls: A Cautionary Tale As an international moving company, we know that moving across borders comes with challenges, from ensuring you have the proper documentation to coordinating with multiple parties. One of the stories that exemplifies the complexities of such an endeavour involves a

Moving to Spain Real Life Guide to Living and Working in Spain Moving to Spain is an exciting prospect for many but it can also be a huge culture shock. However if you are prepared to embrace the culture, lifestyle, people and customs, and immerse yourself in it then you can reap so many rewards. Here’s what I found… First Experiences – Culture Shocks Shopping – Some of the best seasonal produce in the world is grown, caught, or sourced here, but if you are looking...

Relocating to Slovenia from UK Customs Although Britain is not a member of the Schengen Area, and therefore customs formalities apply, because we are members of the EU, there is little of consequence to concern the average Briton when relocating to Slovenia from UK. Within the...

Pensions and Health Care in Slovenia Social Insurance and Health Care in Slovenia In Slovenia the health care service is funded by public health insurance and is generally very good. Private insurance can cover extra medical treatments. However, you would be well advised to update your tetanus and diphtheria injections and consider vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies. This is...

Slovenian Culture Social Life in Slovenia Slovenia has everything – beautiful countryside, cultural heritage, plenty of sporting opportunities and great food and wine. And the people are friendly and helpful. And although they may appear reserved when first meeting them soon you’ll find out that establishing a social life in Slovenia is a breeze. Also be careful when using self-depreciating humour – in Slovenian culture it may be mistaken as...

Living in Slovenia Buying a house in Slovenia There are no restrictions to buying a house and living in Slovenia, but there are if you want to buy farm land. Ensure you understand everything before signing anything, if necessary, employ the services of a translator. Make sure you have your tax number and EMSO number from you local authority. You need to employ an estate agent even if you have found...

Driving in Slovenia Public transport Slovenia can be entered by air, land or sea. In the summer months catamarans offer services to link Venice and other parts of Italy and Slovenia with the capital. Buses are often the most popular form of transport linking the towns and are a fair alternative to driving in Slovenia. The main International border crossing points are open 24 hours and access to the country can be made by car or...

Moving to Slovenia Are you fit enough to get married? Fancy getting married in the little church on Bled Island? It’s a beautiful place, but the groom will need to be fit as he has to carry his bride up the 99 steps to ensure a long and happy marriage. Festivals are fun here, too. Food is important – witness the Saltmakers’ Festival, Bean Day, Chestnut Sunday or, of course, the Cabbage festival. Slovenia...

Living in Slovakia Buying a House One of the crucial points of living in Slovakia is buying a property. There are no legal restrictions on buying buildings in Slovakia, but you are restricted if you want to buy agricultural or forest land. Note that houses use the number of rooms, not bedrooms, for sale descriptions. Be sure you understand everything before you sign anything — if necessary use the services of a translator....

Do I Need Visa to Go to Slovakia If you’re asking yourself “do I need visa to go to Slovakia?” the answer may depend on where you’re coming from. If you’re coming from the EU country then most likely you’ll need just your ID. More details about registering essentials are provided below. Travel along the river Styx and visit Paradise — and Hell Twelve of...

Slovakia Culture Language In Slovakia they speak Slovak, which is the official language, although a significant minority speak Hungarian or Czech. Slovak uses the Latin alphabet. Most people under the age of about 35 will be able to speak at least some English — and may be eager to practise it. In the larger cities and tourist areas, English will be understood by many of the workers. In rural areas, Russian or German may be...

Driving in Slovakia Public Transport If you don’t want to be driving in Slovakia, you’ll be glad to know that it offers buses, trains and taxis. In Bratislava and Kosice there are trams, and also trolleybuses in some towns. There are regular trains and buses with neighbouring countries, and taxis are available in every town. Buses — you can buy the tickets from newsagents, ticket dispensers at the bus...

Medical Care and Pensions in Slovakia Medical Care and Social Insurance Although Slovak State healthcare is poor and may not be easy to access everywhere, attempts are being made to improve the service. Meanwhile, expats should get private medical insurance, or even use neighbouring Vienna for healthcare. If you move to...

Moving to Slovakia Beautiful women, great food and an easy-going atmosphere: that’s how short term visitors usually describe their impression of the small central European country of Slovakia. But aside from fun-seeking spring breakers, the Slovak Republic also attracts many long-term visitors due to its rapid economic growth, which provides appealing business and working...

Public Transport Timisoara Romania The Public Transport Timisoara consists of extensive network of trams, trolleybuses, buses, designated cycling paths, taxis and very efficient network of Uber drivers. Most Romanians from Timisoara, especially those in their 20’s and 30’s speak good English and are very helpful. The good thing about Romania is that you don’t feel intimidated or somehow...

Relocating to Romania from the UK Several fun facts, tips and go-to locations for you, if you consider moving to Romania. Anyone for Supper? Vampires are said to hang around the crossroads at certain times – and driving along the winding roads, over rugged mountain terrain and through deep dark forests, one can almost believe it. The idea of Dracula was inspired by Vlad the Impaler, ruler of Walachia in...

Romanian Culture Social Life and Traditions in Romania Romanians are known for their hospitality and generosity, and the patriarchal family is the basis of their social structure, members helping each other out in times of need. And Romania is a poor country, its wealth plundered for many years. Twenty-two per cent of the population live below the poverty line. To survive many have to resort to the black market. Yet guests are always fed, manners are polite...

Driving in Romania Public Transport in Romania Before deliberating about driving in Romania it’s worth to mention that it has an extensive and modern public transport system, which is state owned and administered by the Ministry of Transport. The River Danube is an important waterway with the port of Constanta. Bucharest airport is a major international airport hub. Air travel within Romania faces competition from the state owned CFR railway...

Living in Romania Let us briefly deliberate on all the issues of living in Romania, most notably two main ones, namely buying a house and finding a job. Buying a House in Romania House prices in Romania have declined in recent years, but there are no restrictions on house sales. Be sure you understand everything before you sign anything – use an interpreter if necessary. The usual steps are as follows:...

Health Care in Romania Pensions in Romania If you are a pensioner, you need to inform the IPC (International Pension Centre) to prevent problems with your pension payments (tel. 0191 218 7777). It may also help managing the formalities of receiving health care in Romania. Romania has double taxation agreements with the UK so you will not be taxed twice – provided you ensure that the tax offices are aware of your...

Moving to Romania The People’s House – now The Palace of Parliament, was the height of communist architecture. Its colossal size makes it second only to the Pentagon as it has 1,100 rooms. But 70% of it is empty.  

Social Care and Pensions in Portugal Medical Care and Social Insurance Before we raise a question of pensions in Portugal, let’s talk about social insurance in general. Once you have your registration certificate, you may register with your local health centre, and receive free state healthcare. You must obtain a National Health Care Service “User Card” in order to take advantage of the...

Transportation in Portugal Driving in Portugal Choosing a car as a mean of transportation in Portugal can be quite safe, as alcohol levels permitted are up to 0.05% and the penalties for exceeding this are severe. Hence you don’t usually see many drunk-drivers. Beware the priority from the right rule, and watch out at roundabouts as the Portuguese signalling is not always what we...

7 Cheap places to live in Italy: Spotting Gems for UK Citizens Best Place to Live in Italy for Foreigners From Monarchies, Republics, Empires and all the legacy. Literature, architectural marvels, and legal systems still echo, finally, the civilisation we know today. It’s...

Social Life in Portugal Language Portuguese is practically universal in Portugal, but there are some special dialects. Nonetheless it helps greatly with establishing a social life in Portugal to learn at least a few words in Portuguese. The Southern and Central dialects: these include the dialect of the capital, Lisbon, which however has some peculiarities of its own. Although the dialects of the...

Buying a House in Portugal If you consider buying a house in Portugal, you’ll do well to know that since it is a popular tourist destination, cost of living there may be a bit high in the season. It also reflects on the property prices. Buying a House in Portugal There are no restrictions to buying a house in Portugal and the process is not difficult. Once you have found a...

Moving to Poland Marzanna and Wianki If you are moving to Poland from UK you should know about two traditions of Poland.  A Marzanna is a straw doll about 3 feet tall, dressed in rags, a striped shirt and lots of ribbons. When spring arrives and the snows start to melt, the people dress in costume and escort the doll to the river – where they throw her in, thus killing the winter. Legend goes that once there lived a young man,...

Health Care in Poland Pensions in Poland If you are a pensioner, you need to inform the IPC (International Pension Centre) to prevent problems with your pension payments (tel. 0191 218 7777). Public health care in Poland is organised in such a way that healthcare premiums are subtracted from pensions. Poland has double taxation agreements with the...

Moving to Portugal from UK Comfortably nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Spain, this small coastal country has long proved an intriguing prospect for tourists, visitors, people moving to Portugal to start a life there, and other travellers from all over the world. Whether it’s the clear blue waters of Figueira Da Foz, the verdant...

Moving to Portugal “Half the World belongs to Portugal” One fun fact that sets you in the right mindframe when moving to Portugal is this: In 1495, the Treaty of Tordesillas was signed – this gave the eastern half of the New World to Portugal. It included Brazil – and China. Portuguese is still the national language of Brazil. And Portugal and England have the oldest diplomatic alliance in the world, signed in 1373, and still...

Driving in Poland Public Transportation in Poland Despite its long coastline, Poland has few passenger ferries. Driving in Poland can be troublesome, so trains are likely to be your main means of transport for any distance. They are not expensive and usually prompt. There are likely to be queues at the ticket office, so leave time to buy your ticket. If you haven’t managed to buy one before boarding the train, find the...

Social Life in Poland Language Learning the language may be a great help in developing a social life in Poland. The official language of Poland is Polish and 98% of the population speak it. The other 2% speak one of the minority languages – German, Ukrainian or Belarusian. Polish originated in the areas of present-day Poland from several local Western Slavic dialects, and shares some vocabulary...

Living in Poland Cost of Living in Poland In proportion to avarge income, the cost of living in Poland is one of the highest in the European Union. For a British national however, both day-to-day costs and property prices will seem extraordinarily affordable. Buying a House in Poland There are no restrictions on buying a house for permanent residence and land up to...

Relocating to Poland from The UK Customs Although Britain is not a member of the Schengen area, and therefore customs formalities apply, because we are members of the EU, there is little of consequence to concern the average Briton relocating to Poland from the UK. There are no restrictions on the amount of currency you may bring in;...

Health Care in Norway Pensions in Norway One more thing worth attention, before we move on to discussing health care in Norway, is the pension issue. If you are a pensioner, you need to inform the IPC (International Pension Centre) to prevent problems with your pension payments (tel. 0191 218 7777). Norway has double taxation agreements with the UK so you will not be taxed twice, provided you ensure that...

Public Transportation in Norway Driving in Norway Personal car can become your favourite mean of transportation in Norway, since Norwegian traffic is one of the safest in the world. People tend to obey the rules which are strictly enforced. Any kind of aggressive driving, like risky overtaking, is regarded as an offence. In fact you may only overtake on long straight roads with good visibility. You must give way to...

Social Life in Norway Language The most widely spoken language in Norway is Norwegian, which is the main official language and basic knowledge about it may greatly improve your ability to quickly establish a social life in Norway. Norwegian has two separate written standards: 

Living in Norway Cost of living in Norway After finishing with the relocating process, soon you’ll find that life in Norway can be a bit costly. To compare London and Oslo: groceries and public transportation are nearly twice as expensive in the latter. The one thing that may be much cheaper in Oslo is rent and apartment prices, which are on average 45 and 60 percent lower than in London. Buying a House in Norway...

Moving to Norway Cold but beautiful After moving to Norway you’ll soon be under the impression that it must surely be one of the most beautiful countries in the world if you like mountains and lakes. There are almost half a million lakes in Norway plus the fjords. They own the deepest and second deepest lakes in Europe. They also made the longest road tunnel in the world – 15 miles long with three large caves with...

Moving to Norway from the UK Registering Essentials http://www.udi.no/en/want-to-apply/the-registration-scheme-for-eueea-nationals/ – This website is easy to use and easy to understand. It tells you exactly what you need to do to register depending upon why you are moving to Norway from...

Customs & Immigration Policies when moving from the UK to Norway Norway has some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe, and some of the friendliest people too. Add to this a booming economy and a very high standard of living and you couldn’t have picked a better place to move. In fact, the 2012...

Transportation in Malta Driving A taxi driver once explained Maltese driving in a nutshell to me. He said, “The English drive on the left, everyone else drives on the right – but in Malta we drive in the shade”. I found that to be true –although the rules say that they drive on the left, like us. You would be well advised to take out comprehensive insurance. There are speed limits of 80km/h (48mph) on the...

Pensions in Malta Medical Care and Social Insurance In Malta you need not register with a doctor or dentist. You may have to make a patient contribution to the cost of your care. Make sure that you are treated by a state healthcare provider as you will not be covered for private healthcare. People receiving UK state retirement pensions in Malta, or long-term incapacity...

Malta in a Nutshell No matter if you consider visiting Malta on vacation, moving there for a season or permanently relocating. The homeland of one of the oldest and most famous knight orders offers plenty of delightful experiences. Malta in a Nutshell Malta is a group of seven islands in the Mediterranean Sea. Only the three largest islands – Malta, Gozo and Comino – are inhabited. The terrain is low and rocky with coastal cliffs....

Social Life in Malta The Language of Malta Many Maltese also speak Italian but the national language is Maltese, which is part of the Semitic language family that includes Arabic. Maltese is one of the hardest languages to learn, but luckily English is also recognised as an official language, so taking part in social life in Malta won’t require breaking any tongues. Malti is the only Semitic language written in Latin characters...

Buying a House in Malta Registering Essentials When you’re moving to Malta from UK you may apply for residency in person or by post. There is no charge, but you need to collect the permit in person. The address is: Department of Home Affairs Evans Building St Elmo’s Place Valletta Tel:  25904800 or 25904801 You will...

Moving to Malta from UK Planning on relocating to Malta? You might be wondering about some of the most important things for an expat to do after relocating. You have your suitcase packed, your flight booked, but you’ll still want to make a final check before moving to a whole new country, right?

Living in Luxembourg Starting off living in Luxembourg usually consists off buying a house and finding a job. Luckily fine and thorough state institutions make both of this things exceptionally easy. Buying a House After a short-lived drop in 2012, Luxembourg’s property market is surging again, amidst a recovering economy. During 2013, the average selling price of houses soared by 10.32%. There are no...

Social Life in Luxembourg Language in Luxembourg Luxembourgish, the national language, is similar to German. German is the first foreign language for most Luxembourgers and the media use German. French is the administrative language, and English is widely spoken and often the basic language of social life in Luxembourg. Being a multicultural country, the children spend half...

Social Insurance and Pensions in Luxembourg Medical Care and Social Insurance Luxembourg enjoys an excellent healthcare system with a high standard of state-funded healthcare. You may also choose private healthcare. The Caisse de Maladie collects healthcare contributions, and all employed people pay into this. If you are not working you must...

Driving in Luxembourg Public Transportation Luxembourg has a good public transport system, easy to use and accessible — the buses in the city are in multicoloured stripes, and the buses make an excellent alternative to driving in Luxembourg. The traffic is very heavy and many lane changes in the capital. You can reach almost anywhere in the country within an hour using trains and buses. Most buses pass the...

Relocating to Luxembourg Luxembourg Underground 963, the year Count Siegfried built a fortified castle on the Bock promontory. This became the heart of the city of Luxembourg. Mighty walls were added, and Burgundians, Spanish, French and Austrians all added to the core making this one of the strongest fortifications in the world. It included 23km of casements, which could shelter thousands of soldiers and their...

Moving to Luxembourg from UK Registering Essentials You must make a declaration of arrival at the Municipal Office in your locality within eight days of moving to Luxembourg from UK. You will need: Identity card or passport Certificate of marriage or partnership, or a family record book Birth certificates for the children You may request...

Medical care in Lithuania Social Insurance and Medical care in Lithuania Lithuania’s National Health Insurance Fund (VLK) oversees medical care in Lithuania. A European Health Card (EHIC) holder can receive medical care provided by general practitioners or specialists, hospital treatment and subsidised medicines prescribed for out-patient care. You can apply for medical care...

Social Life in Lithuania Social Life in Lithuania Family comes before any other aspects of social life in Lithuania and, together with religion forms the basic structure of life here. The catholic religion helped to maintain he countries heritage during the Soviet years. It also accounts for the importance of observing name days (your own saint’s day) rather than birthdays, and...

Going native in Lithuania Finding a job in Lithuania as a foreigner might be difficult, but it most certainly is (next to buying a house) one of two things you would want to do to really immerse yourself in the local culture. Buying a house Lithuania’s property market is now improving, amidst healthy economic growth. House prices continue to fall, but at a slower...

Public Transportation in Vilnius Lithuania Driving Driving in Lithuania is not unlike driving in the UK. Drive defensively, expect the unexpected. The alcohol level permitted is 0.04%. You will need winter tires for Dec 1-March 1, but dates can change according to the weather. Headlights must be used from 1 November to 1 March. Carry with you: Original registration...

Moving to Lithuania Lithuania – land of the storks! There are around 30,000 pairs of storks – and the myths surrounding storks and babies are ever present. The land is mainly flat so you will see them decorating any vantage point. Lithuania has 758 rivers and over 2,800 lakes as well as 61 miles of Baltic Sea coastline. Lithuania gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1990 and joined the EU...

Relocating to Lithuania Registering Essentials When relocating to Lithuania you need to lodge an application for the issue of a residence permit with the diplomatic mission or consular post of Lithuania abroad. Documents shall be submitted personally to the Lithuanian Embassy in alien’s home country or to the Lithuanian Migration Office directly if alien is legally in the Republic of...

Living in Latvia As a British person relocating you might notice that the cost of living in Latvia is relatively low. Rents and apartment prices are nearly ten times lower than in UK. Buying a house If you are moving to Latvia from UK there are no restrictions on buying a house in Latvia. However, if you wish to buy land you need the permission of the local municipality, although you may lease land for up to 99 years without restriction. You will require...

Unskilled Jobs in France...

Driving in Latvia Public Transportation in Latvia Latvia has a good, reasonably priced, rail service. There is an even wider bus network, mostly with modern buses; comfortable seating and air conditioning. Tickets can be bought at the time or on line. This causes the fact that driving in Latvia will not be your preferred way of getting around. Taxis come in different colours. From Riga International Airport, the green taxis are said to be cheaper,...

Health Care in Latvia Health Care in Latvia You will need to contact the VOAVA (State Agency for Compulsory Health Insurance and the body that takes ‘runs’ the health care in Latvia). You can find a list of doctors on the VOAVA website. There is a standard fee for seeing a doctor. If you receive a UK state retirement...

Social Life in Latvia Language in Latvia Latvian or Lettish is the official language, but English is also understood in Riga and other tourist locations. Russian and German are also spoken, and at times Russian may appear to be predominant. If you intend to live in a rural area, you should try to learn a little Latvian at least as it will definitely help you with establishing a social life in Latvia. The great thing is that...

Relocating to Latvia from The UK Moving to Latvia from the UK At 312 metres (1,024’), Gaizinkalns is the highest point in Latvia. Not high enough – look at neighbouring Estonia. Their highest point is Suur Munamagi at 318 metres (1,043.47’), a whole 6 metres (20’) higher. So the Latvians started to build a tower so that they could be higher, but...

Why Should You Know Moving Services from the Inside? Today, I’d like to discuss an issue that often happens to our clients. Let’s suppose someone wants to move to Poland from the UK. When they planned...

Moving to Latvia Moving to Latvia: the land of medieval castles and a mysterious 267-year-old herbal balsam; handwoven linen fabrics and honey-like amber; unique baroque style wooden buildings and one-of-a-kind desserts. Getting there There are many travel options for people relocating to Latvia from the UK. You can get there by car, ferry, train, bus, and of course by air.

What is Sanremo famous for? Sanremo is situated in Italy and it is famously referred to as the City of Flowers, so probably this could be the shortest answer for question “What is Sanremo famous for”. Sanremo was initially established by the Romans, soon after the fall of the Roman Empire, different groups and tribes occupied the area such as the Saracens and Normans. Sanremo has a long rich history, during the 18th and 19th century, the town was a popular social...

Pension plan in Italy Pensions are often associated with retirements and old age citizens, in essence a pension can be described as an efficient way to save money that will provide you with an income in later years. There are different types of pension packages, some schemes are facilitated by the government while others are run by private companies, so always you can find pension plan in Italy tailored to your expectations. An important change in the latest...

Active volcanoes in Italy Mount Etna is famed for being Europe’s tallest  at 10,922 feet high at its summit; it is situated on the East coast of Sicily. Over the past 3,500 years Mount Etna has erupted constantly. Although, volcano eruptions can be said to be catastrophic, with the disruption caused by the thick blanket of smoke in the air, which can adversely affect air travel, the most recent eruption from...

Food in Italy – Italian cuisine If you are moving or relocating to Italy, it is important to know about the different cuisines the country has to offer. By way of comparison, Southern Italy is poorer that the Northern and the Central parts. As a result, The Southerners subsisted mainly on vegetarian diet such as greens, pasta and bread. The South is also associated with cattle rearing and shepherding. This doesn’t mean that rich, healthy meals can’t be enjoyed in other parts...

Moving to Italy with a Family Visit the lovely hill town of Marostica, about 1½ hours from Venice, to see a re-enactment of a live chess duel. In 1454 Lord Tadio Parisio held a living game of chess to decide between two noblemen who wanted the hand of his beautiful daughter, Leonora. The loser had to make do with his younger daughter, Oldrada. He held a grand parade with fireworks, flag-throwing and a great feast. Every...

Living in Ireland Cost of Living in Ireland It shouldn’t be surprising that living in Ireland is considerably less costly than it is in UK. The difference in prices is especially visible in rent and property prices. For instance – buying an apartment in the centre of London will cost you £16000 per square meter, same kind of apartment in Dublin you can buy for £4000 per square meter. Buying a House in Ireland There are...

Transportation in Ireland Public Transportation in Ireland Ireland has three major airports, Dublin, Shannon and Cork, and a number of regional ones. There are frequent services to the UK. However the buses are the main method of transportation in Ireland; intercity connections are fast and reliable, although in rural areas, they may run less frequently. Trains are less frequent and more expensive...

Social Life in Ireland Language Thankfully you won’t need to learn a new language to have a social life in Ireland, as Irish and English are both the official languages of Ireland, with Irish being the first national official language, and the language used in the EU. It is a Celtic language and a compulsory subject to study in school. Around 10% of the population are fluent in Irish, as English is the mother tongue...

Health Care in Ireland UK Pensions in Ireland Using the public health care in Ireland while having public insurance in other country works on the similar basis as pension system. If you are a pensioner, you need to inform the IPC (International Pension Centre) to prevent problems with your pension payments (tel: 0191 218 7777). Ireland has double taxation agreements with the UK so you will not be taxed twice, provided...

Moving to Ireland Ireland – Land of Myth and Legend St Patrick’s Mountain tempts you up — but beware! The path gets steeper and steeper, such that even a sheepdog takes one step back for every two steps up. The stones are a brilliant white, and very...

ving to Ireland from UK   Known internationally as a land of rich culture, ancient folklore and live music, the Emerald Isle is an attractive expat destination. With its thriving economy, excellent education system and striking natural beauty, moving to Ireland will be a wonderful chapter in your life. From tales of warrior battles to pirate...

Driving in Hungary Public Transportation in Hungary Public transport in Hungary is both efficient and not too expensive. There are trolley buses and trams as well as buses in some cities and a three line metro in Budapest. Outside of Budapest you will find that buses tend to meet long distance trains, and may not be very frequent in the town itself – but the towns are small enough to go by foot. You need to buy your tickets before...

Living in Hungary Cost of Living in Hungary The cost of living in Hungary may vary. For instance rents in Esztergom for one bedroom flat are £100 per month, while in Budapest you’ll pay nearly £200 for the same kind of apartment. There are no restrictions on buying a house in Hungary. You need to do this by a purchase agreement countersigned by a lawyer. You also need approval from the Administrative Office (AOB). The permit takes around two or three months to arrive. To circumvent...

Health Care in Hungary Social Insurance and Health Care in Hungary Health care in Hungary covers every citizen and resident. That’s due to tax-funded healthcare system – Országos Egészségbiztosítási Pénztár (OEP). Treatment is free for children, pensioners, students, disabled people and priests, but only from doctors within the system. However, there is a fee of HUF 600 (£1.60) per visit and HUF 1 000 (£2.67)...

Language Language One of the unique features of social life in Hungary is experiencing one of the most unique languages in Europe. The language for Hungary is Hungarian, spoken by the vast majority, although there are about 15 languages spoken, including Arabic, Chinese, Russian and Vietnamese. The Hungarian language is...

Relocating to Hungary from the UK If you like it big then come to Hungary The fact that is surely moving to Hungary nationals is that their homeland is one of the top 15 holiday destinations in the world, with a capital city reckoned to be one of the most beautiful on the planet. So what else is on the offer? The Hungary is a proud...

Moving to Hungary My Hungarian wife and I, a mere Englishman, moved “back” to Hungary after four years in the UK. While we had the advantage of having Hungarian family, and so were not quite alone, we still had to do all the things a person moving to Hungary would normally do — get legal help, find a job, buy a house.  Half the fun of moving somewhere new is that things...

Dutch Culture Language Dutch, the official language, is spoken by around 90% of the population. Around 453,000 people, or 2.2% of the population, speak Frisian as their first language, mainly in the northern province of Friesland, where it is recognised as an official language. There are several dialects of Low Saxon, recognised as regional languages, in the north-east and...

Medical Care in The Netherlands Social Insurance and Medical Care Medical care in The Netherlands is funded by the Dutch Health insurance, which is obligatory. Failure to obtain it may lead to retroactive bills as well as fines. But you may choose who to go with, and the level of cover you would like. To register you need: ID Proof...

Public Transportation in The Netherlands Driving Driving in The Netherlands is one of the easiest ways of transport. The country is quite small so you can discover a lot of cities just by driving through. Did you know that The Netherlands only has two...

Social Life in Netherlands It is of course very interesting to take a look at someone’s social life to see how they live. In the Netherlands, you do not even have to look through the keyhole, because the curtains are usually wide open. So you can shamelessly stare inside the house as you pass by. That is a sign that most people in the Netherlands are very open. It is...

Relocating to Holland from UK Will Schiphol Airport Become a Harbour? When moving to Holland by plane you may land below the sea level. With ¼ below sea level and ½ less than 3’ above, the Netherlands are flat and low. The airport is 14 ½ feet below sea level. The city of Amsterdam is built entirely on poles; there are around eleven million poles holding the city up. The average house needs ten poles but the Royal Palace has 13,659 poles. These are fixed on a sandy layer beneath the clay, around 35’...

Buying a house in the Netherlands Buying a house in the Netherlands To properly start off settling in Netherlands you would most likely want to get a place to live in (perfectly one of your own) and find a job. Luckily there are no restrictions on buying a house in Holland. The process is easy and quick, but be sure you fully understand any documents before you sign them, as...

Moving to Holland Moving to another country can be very nerve-wracking. Can you pick up a foreign language? How hard will it be to find a house there? And will you feel at home in general? These are all valid concerns, but with a little guidance, moving to Holland might actually become an adventure you will never...

Moving to Holland with Pets When you are moving you want to keep your most precious possessions close to you. Moving with your pet to Holland doesn’t have to be difficult. Coming in by plane? In some cases, your pet can come as baggage, but in most cases, your pet will be placed in cargo. The animals go into special cargo compartments...

Living in Greece Because of the Greek crisis you’ll find that – despite surprisingly low rents – overall cost of living in Greece is actually pretty high and almost reaching UK level. Buying a House in Greece Apart from a few designated areas near the borders, you can buy a house anywhere in Greece. In recent years house prices have risen as more people are relocating to Greece or buying second homes. You will find a lot of new buildings – and a...

Social Life in Greece Language In Greece, the official language is Greek, spoken by 98% of the population. The largest minority language is Macedonian, spoken by 1.8% of the population. Others include Albanian, spoken in the centre and the south, and Turkish, spoken by Muslim communities around the Aegean. These minority languages do not have official status. There are some minority dialects also spoken, like Cypriot Greek...

Transportation in Greece Driving in Greece After trying to drive in Greece you may opt to use public transportation instead. You may be the only person on the road who has actually taken and passed a driving test, as many people simply use bribes to save themselves the trouble. So drive defensively. In the mountain areas there are narrow roads, blind curves, and unprotected embankments sometimes on...

Medical Care in Greece Medical Care in Greece IKA is the largest Social Security Organisation, which covers the expenses for medical care in Greece. The Greek social security institute (IKA-ETAM) will be able to provide information: IKA-ETAM Odos Agiou Konstantinou 8 Athens Greece Telephone: +30 21 5200 555 -64 or -184...

Relocating to Greece Ancient Wisdom but Modern Day Myopia You may have birthplace of philosophy in mind when you’re relocating to Greece, but the fact is that even though the ancient Greeks had wisdom, in modern Greece they have lived for the present. Entire generations have eluded the tax inspectors – or paid them off. Unemployment soars -16.5%....

Moving to Greece from the UK   Ah, Greece… A land replete with historical treasures, as well as magnificent natural beauty. A land “chosen by the Gods”, as a campaign by the Greek Tourism Organisation aptly puts it. But visiting a country for a short period of time as a tourist is one thing, and moving to Greece for a longer stay is entirely another. Life in Greece involves challenges – some...

Black Forest in Germany The Black Forest is a beautiful, scenic area located in South-Western Germany. The area is abound with loads of footpaths and cycle routes. Furtwangen im Schwarzwald is one of the cities in the Black Forest, in 1873 Furtwangen was given the right to be called a city. One of the major attractions in Furtwangen is The Breg, it’s a small stream which,...

Finding job in Germany despite high unemployment rate The rate of joblessness in Germany is immensely high, the lingering unemployment rate has been on the increase for a prolonged length of time. According to statistics new figures show rates grow to a total of 2.806 million. The amount of unemployed people rose to about 5,000 in a single month. So, finding job in Germany seems to be rather difficult...

Weather in Germany Being in continental Europe means Weather in Germany is prone to experience a maritime climate. With the different seasons in Germany, foreigners and locals alike can enjoy various sports like cascading down the slopes in the Alps or for the winter sports lovers. Also you can ski one of Germany’s highest peaks or ski through popular locations like the Black Forest. After the Alps, the Black Forest...

Learning German in Germany The best way to learn a new language is to immerse yourself in the society and build rapport with the indigenes or locals of that country. The official language in Germany is German. Therefore Germany is a very suitable location to learn the language and learning German in Germany seems to be the best choice. Generally, most people have a good...

Moving to Germany Checklist Angela Merkel Upstages Them All. She is tall, blonde and curvaceous with cornflower blue eyes – and yes – she’s a Barbie doll, modelled on the current German Chancellor. Mattel celebrated the  50th anniversary of Barbie with version modelled on German chancellor and she was the highlight of the German...

10 tips for cheap removal to Germany Saving money When you move to Germany will no doubt be an important consideration – no one likes to spend more than they need to. However- moving on the cheap can prove to be more expensive in the long term unless you plan carefully – or are just extremely lucky! Planning your move with care could not only save...

Read before relocating to Germany – British Expats Living in Germany Relocating to Germany has always been popular with the British, as it is one of Europe’s most dynamic countries, offering a nice mix of modernity and diversity. Thanks to the various monarchies and earldoms that emerged during its history, each German city and town has its own distinct personality. Three most important...

How to Get Social Insurance in Germany After You Move from UK When you move to Germany, you will find a well ordered, clean country to live in, and if you fit in with the regulations they will also help you. This article explains how to get social insurance in Germany. Anyone who’s interested in relocating to Germany has to learn how to get social...

How to get job in Germany – British apprentices in Germany Germany is providing young Brits with a mouth-watering package to serve apprenticeships in the country. Germany is faced with a shortage of skilled workers, in a bid to tackle the drought of skilled workers for the future, the German government is enticing...

Moving to Germany from Ireland It is common knowledge that moving to a new country can be stressful and daunting, so it is important to be aware of what it entails to start the relocation and how to go about the move. Firstly, there are different routes and modes of transportation you can use to get to your destination this includes flying,...

Moving to France with a dog Would you miss your bacon? Most people who relocate to another country have some regrets at some time. Among the regrets for the British in France was the loss of English food! Bacon sarnies and crumpets? France was a founder member of the EU in 1952, and is a member of the Schengen area. The capital is Paris and the currency is the...

Retirement in France for UK citizens Many Brits have retired in France. The country is extremely popular with the Brits because of its close proximity to England. France is separated from England by the English Channel. Paris is the most populous city in France and also the capital. There is a large community of British expats in Paris. As a result, the Cote d’Azur is an Anglophone or English speaking area, as well as...

Before you relocate to France – houses for Sale in France If you are moving to France and thinking of buying a home, you are in luck since buying houses in this country is fairly straightforward. The registration system is clear, and anyone, even expats, should find it easy to understand. Even so, there are certain things you need to know, pitfalls to avoid and rules to follow. This...

Tips for people moving from UK to France – British Communities in France Thousands of Brits consider moving to France every year, and that is not surprising considering the beauty, tranquility, food, wine and climate of this country. Being British it is only natural to want to look for communities in France where you can share time with your fellows, so here is a guide to...

Social Insurance in Finland To access medical care in Finland you need a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). You have to pay the same patient contributions as a permanent resident of Finland. Note that workers and civil servants moving to Finland from UK are still covered by the UK national insurance system. Your employer needs to ask HMRC for forms E101 and E106, which prove that...

Jobs and Pensions in Finland Finding job in Finland as a foreigner The European Free Movement of Workers agreement makes finding job in Finland as a foreigner that much easier. It means that you can live and work in Finland without a visa or work permit. You do, however, need a residency permit. When you register residency, you will be asked why you want to live in Finland, and your permit may be based upon your work prospects. It may be...

Social Life in Finland Finns are generally relaxed about dress and manners — but they do not appreciate unpunctuality. If you are running late, let your host or business associates know — but try to be prompt. Finns also have little time for “small talk” and, in fact the language has no word for “please”. And you need not worry about the occasional silences, those are one of several finish trademarks that make...

Finnish Language and Culture Want to learn about Finnish Language and Culture? You must read this article first. Culture Finland might be known for its free schools and the quality of education, but did you know that Finland was also the first country to grant every person the right to have one-megabit broadband connection? It’s no surprise that it has even been...

Moving to Finland The oldest Chewing Gum in the world has been found — it’s 5 000 years old! That finding is especially moving to Finland nationals, as this astounding record now belongs to Suomi. A piece of chewing gum, with tooth marks from the Stone Age chewer belonged to someone who used to live on the area of modern day Finland. Made from birch bark, it contains phenol, an...

Relocating to Finland from UK When relocating to Finland from UK, you will need to take care of several formalities, most prominent of those are passing the customs and registering your...

Moving from London to Rio de Janeiro – Economic and Cultural Facets To begin with, let’s talk a bit about the history of these fantastic cities. London’s history is as rich and varied as the city itself, with its origins stretching back to Roman times, making it a cornerstone of cultural and historical significance in Europe. Its streets echo the footsteps...

Relocating to Finland Settling in Finland Buying a home may be a crucial matter when you’re relocating to Finland. Happily it’s safe and non-problematic. The provisions of the legislation are clear and understandable. Note that to buy in the Aland Islands it is necessary to purchase a special permit from the Finnish government. If you buy an apartment, you are probably buying shares in a housing company. Check what the costs...

Moving to Finland with Pets Moving to Finland with pets is possible, but there are requirements you need to be aware of well before of the moving day. If you’re moving to Finland you’re probably already aware of the fact that a lot of requirements, laws and regulations in place are coming from the EU. This sometimes makes it hard to make any sense of the system. One of the most...

11 Tips for move to Finland Prepare for your travel with 11 Tips for move to Finland Finland – the country where you can roam the wilderness, ski in an unspoilt land and enjoy water sports on one of it 180,000 lakes. Although Finland is the fifth largest country in Europe, it is also the least populated, with around 5.4 million people.While the winters are long and...

Fly Tipping UK, a common problem in the UK Fly Tipping UK Figures released back in 2015 highlighted that more than half of the 10 worst areas for fly tipping UK, illegally dumping rubbish, were in London. Topping that list was Haringey, situated in north London, with a whopping 25,000 cases being reported in 2014. To put that into perspective, this was the equivalent of one fly tipping offence for every 10 people residing in the...

Property renting process in Austria Having just arrived from London to escape the rainy cold winters of the UK to spend the winter skiing in the Austrian Alps, I was lucky enough to move straight into an apartment found by a friend. Therefore, being blissfully unaware of the puzzling property renting process in...

How to get Red White Red Card in Austria Since 2011 Austria has introduced the Red White Red Card which allows workers who meet certain criteria from non-EU countries, to live and work in Austria with the intention of permanently...

Otzi the iceman Undisturbed for 5000 years, his relatives live on. Otzi – entombed in ice, on the borders of Austria and Italy, lay undisturbed for over 5,000 years, yet his relatives, as proved by DNA testing, are alive today. From Otzi to Mozart, Austria is a country with a rich heritage, and a beautiful,...

Education in Austria Austria, otherwise known as Österreich in the German language simply means the ‘Eastern Kingdom/Empire‘. German is the official language in Austria and also the predominant language, other languages spoken in Austria include: Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian, Montenegrin, Turkish, Polish and Hungarian. The seat of government is located in the Hofburg Palace in Vienna which makes...

Facts about Austria Austria is a federal republic, the country is also referred to as ‘Lander’ in German. The main official language spoken in Austria is German. However, one of the less known facts about Austria is that there is a plethora of other languages spoken in Austria such as: Alemannic and Austro-Bavarian Turkish, Czech, Hungarian, Slovene, Turkish, Slovak, Romani among many others. This means that...

British Expats in Belgium – basic information about living in Belgium after you relocation When you move to live in Belgium, you will need to get the administrative forms completed, insurance arranged, car details sorted out – all the little things that go to living anywhere. And when that is done – then it’s time to start really living and enjoying yourself. This article describes how British...

How to get social insurance in Belgium after you move from the UK One of the very first things you need to do when you move to Belgium, is to get your social security card. You must register with a Mutuelle (French) or Ziekenfonds (Dutch) to think about getting social insurance in Belgium. The Belgian health insurance and social security system is administered by the...

Driving in Belgium – basic information for people who moved from UK to Belgium After you move to Belgium, you will probably want or need to drive. Driving in Belgium varies from the pleasant, well maintained rural roads to the nightmare traffic jams around the major cities, and extensive roadworks – not so different from Britain. However, there are some physical and administrative differences you will need to accommodate. To start with...

Life in the Biggest Belgium Cities after moving from UK Belgium is a small country, but do not let the small size fool you as this place definitely has a lot to offer for a potential expat. It is essentially a great place to live in and to get around, especially as the English language is commonly spoken here.  Quite...

Moved from UK to Belgium? Read about social Life in Belgium Belgium, renowned internationally for its beer, mussels and, or course, Jean-Claude Van Damme, is located at Western Europe’s crossroads, surrounded by Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg and France. Full of amazing hidden treasures, Belgium is home to stunning architectural wonders and lively and charming cities where you can fully experience and enjoy Europe at its...

Advice before you relocate from UK – Facts about Belgium Belgium is a small country situated at the cross roads of Western Europe. Belgium became an independent country in 1831. Leopold 1st ascended the throne on 21st July – and we still celebrate with a national holiday on that date. The flag has three vertical stripes:...

Language in Belgium – prepare yourself before you relocate from UK Which Language do they speak in Belgium? For a small country, whose motto is ‘Strength in Unity’, Belgium is a bit of anomaly. It has three official languages, Dutch, French and German, and four official language districts. But written into the constitution, is the freedom to speak whatever language you wish. How did this come about? So, which...

Moving to Belgium with Pets – advice for people relocating from UK Belgium is a country where you can find skilled and experienced vets, so you need not worry about bringing your pets across to live with you. However – you do have to prepare yourself before moving to Belgium with pets. Initial Preparation Your first action should be a visit to your local...

First Steps after moving from UK to Belgium Moving to Belgium is reasonably straightforward, provided you obey the regulations described in this article about first steps after moving from UK to Belgium. Before the Move A little preparation before the move will make things a lot...

Belgium Medical Care Belgium medical care is extremely good, and easy to access, once you know how. If you need immediate medical care get permission before you go get – form SR2 or SR1 if you have not had time to get permission. These can be obtained from the European Cross Border healthcare Team NHS England Fosse House, 6 Smith Way Grove Park, Enderby Leicestershire,...

Moving to Belgium with a dog In 2010 over 4,000 people living in 100 different countries were surveyed about their family life by HSBC International, and Belgium came out top of the poll for a great lifestyle, better education for the children, a feeling of greater safety and a more active, outdoor life. Community spirit is high, the social life is good and there are plenty of opportunities. Belgium was a founder...

Social Life in Bulgaria Language If you really want to dive into the social life in Bulgaria you would do well to familiarise yourself with the national language, which is Bulgarian. They use the Cyrillic alphabet (practically the same as in Russia or Macedonia). Although English and French are widely spoken in towns and tourist areas, this may not be the case in country...

Driving in Bulgaria Public transport in Bulgaria There are several alternative options to driving in Bulgaria available: domestic flights, trains, buses and trams – and fares are very reasonable. In Sofia, there is an excellent underground system. For trains there are discount cards for students, families, and the elderly. And children under the age of seven travel free unless they occupy a seat. For...

Living in Bulgaria Surprisingly low property prices and equally low wages are two prominent pros and cons when you consider living in Bulgaria. Let’s go trough both of those subjects. Buying a house In the early 21st century, property was cheap in Bulgaria and seen as a good investment. However, as the economy slumped, so did house prices, and it is at present difficult to sell houses. So, now you...

Social and Health Care in Bulgaria Pensions If you are a pensioner, you need to inform the IPC (International Pension Centre) to prevent problems with your pension payments (tel. 0191 218 7777). Bulgaria has double taxation agreements with the UK so you will not be taxed twice – provided you ensure that the tax offices are aware of your circumstances. You can arrange to have your...

Relocating to Bulgaria from the UK An ancient country, with old traditions and customs, thrust into the communist regime and now finding its way slowly in the capitalist market. With a beautiful country, a fascinating history and a generous people,...

Moving to Bulgaria from the UK Bulgaria is a small and versatile country, located in Southeast Europe, which is surrounded by Greece, Turkey, Romania, Serbia, North Macedonia and the Black Sea. A land rich in history, culture and biodiversity, it is a member state of the European Union, NATO and the Council of Europe. This is...

Public Transportation Bus The bus service is one of the many alternatives to driving in Croatia. It’s relatively inexpensive, however, as there are often different bus companies on the same route, note that prices can vary, and you usually have to pay extra for luggage placed under the bus. If you plan a return, you may find it best to buy a single ticket so that you are not obliged to use the...

Registering Essentials Settling in Dubrovnik, Zagreb or any other Croatian city is much less troublesome since the country’s admission to European Union. However, considering that – short of tourism trade – jobs are paying much less than in Britain, cost of living in Croatia in general and prices of properties in particular can be surprisingly high. Buying a house in Croatia Buying a home in Croatia is...

Social Life in Croatia Language In Croatia they speak Croatian (Hrvatski). Although learning this language can be a long and uneasy process, knowing the basics should help in having a social life in Croatia. There are four national standards and four dialects often erroneously termed “Serbo-Croatian” by the British, although some native speakers prefer the term as...

Social and Health Care in Croatia Moving to the country you might want to know that you are entitled to receive your UK pension even while abroad. You’ll also do well to gain some basic knowledge about health care in Croatia. Luckily, that’s what this article is for. UK Pensions in Croatia You will need to check the Pension Service in the UK for up to...

Moving to Croatia              Have you been looking for a pleasant place to live or retire? Maybe you received a business or work opportunity that you just can’t turn down, or perhaps you are looking for a fresh perspective with the potential to give your life a new direction and impulse? In truth, the reason doesn’t really matter: whether your interest is...

Relocating to Croatia from the UK Are Human Beings the only intelligent species to enjoy the beauty of the Croatian coast?...

Health Care in Czech Republic Pension The Czech pension system has three parts – a mandatory basic level, a complimentary part you pay towards through the state. And the third part, which is the voluntary insurance aspect. However, there have been changes and it would be rather advisable for you to check with the Ministry of Labour and Social...

Moving to Czech Republic from the UK Customs Although Britain is not a member of the Schengen area, and therefore customs formalities apply, because we are members of the EU, there is little of consequence to concern the average Briton moving to Czech Republic from the UK. Currency — there are no restrictions. Free import of goods bought from the EU with some restrictions on the...

Relocating to Czech Republic Bohemia, defenestration and castles The random fun fact that sets you in the right mind frame when you consider relocating to Czech Republic is that there are more castles per acre than anywhere else in the world. Considering its situation in the centre of greedy Europe this is hardly surprising. There are more than 2 000 castles today....

Driving in Czech Republic Public Transport in Czech Republic Prague has one of the best public transportation systems in Europe. So you’ll find yourself using public transport more often than driving in Czech Republic. In Prague the main operator is the DPP which operates the metro, trams, buses, the funicular railway and the chairlift at the zoo. The transport is...

Social Life in Czechia Language To help you dive into the social life in Czechia you should learn at least the basics of the official language in Czech Republic, which is Czech. This is a Slavonic language like Slovak, Polish, Serbian, Russian, Croatian and Bulgarian. Although the alphabet used is the Latin one, they use lots of diacritical marks (accents), making one letter for...

Living in Czech Republic Considering that Bohemia is the border between Eastern and Central Europe you get the best of both world. High quality of life and affordable prices. Outside of Prague cost of living in Czech Republic is surprisingly low. Buying a House in Czech Republic A residency permit will enable you to buy property in the...

Moving to Czech Republic First experience in the Czech Republic. Culture shock, how easy it is to find things. Are the locals helpful? Do they speak English? One of the first things you’ll notice about the Czech Republic is the beauty of the old buildings and the rich history. As a country, there is a lot of diversity; Prague is a relatively modern city and finding services and help...

Danish Culture and Language Language One of the predominant components of Danish culture is language. Danish is the official language of Denmark, but there are several minority languages, including German and Greenlandic. Around 86% of Danes also speak English as a second language, and often a third language, German or French. About 13% of Danes can also understand Swedish. Seldomly mentioned but definitely moving fact is that Greenland also has its own language —...

Jobs and Pensions Finding a Job in Denmark as a Foreigner The European Free Movement of Workers agreement makes finding a job in Denmark as a foreigner much easier. Especially from legal point of view. It means that you can live and work in Denmark without a visa or work permit. Your ability to find a job depends upon your language skills. English is a bonus, but it helps to be fairly...

Transportation in Denmark Driving Denmark conforms to European rules and standards. Each year the Danish Road Directorate publishes a leaflet called Motorvej which has maps of the motorways, places to stay, city maps, service stations and important traffic regulations. Documents you MUST carry: Insurance certificate —...

Social Life in Denmark How is it that the Danes have been ranked the happiest people in the world, every year since 1973? This was when the EU decided to set up a “Eurobarometer” to measure happiness. It seems that there are two important contributors to happiness: trusting people you don’t really know and a casual attitude towards money. Rather than buy things, the Danes tend to spend on activities they enjoy. You are...

Formal Steps As an UK citizen, being EU member, when relocating to Denmark, with a residence permit, there are no general restrictions for buying a house in Denmark. You are able to buy a home there, although there are certain specific restrictions in popular holiday areas for foreign ownership. These rules were designed to prevent the coastal areas being overrun by German second home buyers. Be sure you...

Relocating to Denmark The Country of Happy Vikings The Danes are ranked the happiest people in the world (Happy Vikings) — and if your family has lived in Britain for a thousand years or more, you may well be related to them. Between the 8th and 11th centuries the Danes were the Vikings, and many UK citizens have some Viking blood in them. Do you have Viking blood in...

Moving to Denmark from the UK Formalities There are relatively few formalities to consider when moving to Denmark from the UK. If you are an EU citizen, you just have to apply for an EU residence permit within 90 days of arriving in Denmark. You will need...

Social Insurance and Medical Care in Denmark Social Insurance When you move to Denmark you have to register with the Civil Registration Office in your region to obtain a health insurance card and your CPR number. The medical care in Denmark is financed through income tax, and is free. The health insurance card is sent to you by your municipal authority and is proof that you are entitled to public health...

Relocating to Estonia from the UK The World Wife-Carrying Champions Estonian men prove their virility by carrying their wives further than men from other countries which participate in this annual event. The cool way to do so is called the “Estonian Method”. The wife grip the man’s neck with her legs and hangs down his back. The origin of this strange sport lies in gang...

Health Care in Estonia Questions of social insurance, pensions and health care in Estonia are paramount when you consider living there. I hope that you’ll find some useful guidance in the article below. Pensions If you are a pensioner, you need to inform the IPC (International Pension Centre) to prevent problems with your pension payments. (Phone 0191 218 7777). Estonia has double...

Driving in Estonia Public transportation Tallinn International Airport is two miles south east of the city centre; the only domestic flights go to the two islands of Saaremaa and Hilumaa. There are no longer trains between Estonia and Latvia and travelling by train in Estonia tends to be fairly slow. There are regular long distance bus services, including from Berlin and London. Arriving by sea is a popular option, with ferries of various types...

Living in Estonia Buying a house There is a property boom in Estonia, despite slow economic growth. Demand for property is rising, as are house prices. You can access a Detailed Buying Guide (written in 2008) as this includes advice on buying off-plan. If you decide to rent out your...

Estonian Culture Language in Estonia Estonian is the official language of Estonia, but the North and South have different dialects. These result from two migrations into Estonia each having different Finnish language. The Northern dialect has taken precedence, but Demark, Germany , Sweden and Russia have all contributed to making Estonian culture equipped with a unique language, unlike the other Baltic languages or Russian....

Moving to Denmark with Pets Pets are generally allowed and accepted most places in Danish society, with cats and dogs being the most popular house pets. Ferrets have become rather popular in recent years as well, and rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, birds and fish are also quite common. There is an abundance of pet shops all over Denmark, and it is easy to get supplies and...

Moving to Estonia   When moving to Estonia one might ask: am I relocating to a Scandinavian country, a Baltic state, or a Russian republic? Will I end up in Northern Europe, or in Eastern Europe? Often, the answer to this question depends on who you ask – and it speaks to the great many cultural influences that make up this small country of barely 1 million residents.

If you are moving from the UK to Europe and only need to move a small proportion of your belongings, then part load removals could be more suited to your needs. With the part load removals we offer, you get an affordable service thanks to load-sharing. We fill our vans with partial loads from several customers at once, and transport goods safely to their destination, so you don’t need to worry about hiring the full van. Part load removals are ideal for people who are moving for work or to study, especially in the short term. You...

A guide to Liechtenstein culture and customs Learn all about the Liechtenstein culture in preparation for your move. VanOne international movers have created a series of guides which will help you get ready for life in a new country. Discover local traditions, holidays, and what to expect from the people and places. This article discusses culture and customs. The Principality of...

Have you recently moved to Portugal? Are you planning to move there? You will need to know all about health care in Portugal for expats and long-term visitors. This guide should help you understand the local health system. Who qualifies for health care services? If you are a legal resident in Portugal, you immediately qualify for the National Health Care System (SNS). The charges incurred when you resort to...

If you are moving to Portugal with your children, you will want to have them registered in the Portuguese education system as soon as possible. Find schools in Portugal for children of all ages with this helpful guide created by VanOne. Educational tiers for all ages: Jardim de Infância (Kindergarten): three to five years old Ensino Básico (‘basic’ or primary education): six to fifteen...

Food Prices in France Compared to the UK: Analysing the Differences Which country treats your wallet better when filling your plate – France or the UK? The...

3; Embrace the Sun: A Guide to the Rio de Janeiro Climate Type Moving to Rio de Janeiro can be the adventure of a...

Is It Safe to Travel to Portugal? Your Complete Guide to a Secure Visit Are you considering a trip to the sunny shores of Portugal or planning a more permanent move? Portugal is a top destination for travellers worldwide with its rich history, stunning...

3; From London to Milan – Why Plan Your Relocation Today? Are you thinking about shifting your life from London to Milan? You’re not alone! Every year, countless...

3; Getting Your Way to the Brazilian Driver’s License and Road Rules Brazil is a...

3; Navigating Inheritance Across Borders: A Comprehensive Guide Moving inherited goods to a new country can be a complex process, especially when it...

3; Living in France vs the UK: A Comparison for Expats and Wanderers The more we dive into the differences between living in France vs the UK, the more we see that they might be fraternal twins. The similarities are as...

3; Safety in Finland: Your Comprehensive Guide to a Secure Stay Finland is often hailed as one of the safest countries in the world, making it a...

3; World of Brazilian Education: A Journey Through Learning and Culture First things first, let’s chat about the basics. The Brazilian education system might initially seem...

313; Are You Looking For The Cheapest Place To Live In Belgium? Looking for the cheapest place to live in Belgium? Moving internationally is hard...

3; Discovering the Cheapest Place to...

Moving to Lisbon from the UK: Your Guide for a Smooth Transition Thinking about

Expat Communities in Spain: Your Guide to Find the Best One Hola! Que pensarias tu de pasar una tarde desfrutando a tu té preferido bajo el sol en España? And even if you’re daydreaming about swapping your usual tea for a café con leche, you’re not alone! Many Brits have leapt, creating vibrant British expat...

The Joys and Challenges of Living in Brussels with Family With a multicultural setting, a wide variety of languages and excellent cultural offerings, it’s hard not to be inspired. This is Brussels. Those considering moving with family there will be fascinated with how unique and enriching their experiences can be. As...

Norway’s Food and Drink Prices: A Comprehensive Guide The Land of the Midnight Sun is filled with intriguing and delicious food. Norway’s food and drink prices are known for hitting hard the list of most expensive places to eat on...

Exploring the Heart of Romania: What is Bucharest Like Ever wonder, “What is Bucharest like?” If you’re planning a trip or considering

Best Paid Jobs in Brazil: A Dive into The Popular Professions Welcome to our dive into Brazil’s job market. If you’ve ever wondered, “What are the best-paid jobs in Brazil?” stay with us. We’ll also shed some light on the average professions...

Discover the Culinary Delights: How Much is Food in Prague? Are you moving to The Czech Republic for good or planning a trip...

British Expats Living in Bulgaria: Hidden Gem You Were Looking For Bulgaria hints at a bit of magic, often given by its untouched landscapes and enchanting beaches. The 2504.75 kilometres that separate Brits from Bulgarians seem insignificant compared...

Learning French to Work in France: A Complete Guide for Job Seekers Is mastering French a prerequisite for thriving in the French job market? This question looms large for international professionals eyeing opportunities in France. While the necessity of French proficiency varies across industries and roles, its importance cannot be overstated. In this article,...

The Cheapest Cities in Germany: Live Close to the Metropolises for Less  Moving to Germany for a dream or a specific necessity brings excitement and challenges. One of these challenges is...

Can I Live in Portugal but Work in the UK? Navigating Remote Work Have you ever considered swapping your view of the grey British sky for the sunny horizons of Portugal, all while keeping your job in the UK? You’re not alone! The question, “Can I

Discovering the Wealthiest Cities in Italy: Your New Destination Guide Many factors can influence a particular place’s relative wealth and earning potential. Moving to Italy, a country known for its rich history, stunning...

Discovering Unique Places to Live in Belgium: Finest and Popular Stops Living in Belgium as a newcomer means being among its 11.8 million easygoing people, to be...

Navigating the Belgian Language Landscape: A Guide for Expats Belgium’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and...

Is The Netherlands a Good Place to Live? Life in the Netherlands for Expats First, the motive you’re moving to The...

What Does Bulgaria Look Like? A Hidden Gem in Europe One of the oldest countries in Europe, nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Bulgaria is...

How Much Time Do You Need to Move Abroad? Know the Process Shifting to a new country is an adventure filled with excitement and challenges. If you’re planning an international...

Is Copenhagen Expensive to Live? Surfing Prices in Denmark’s Capital Is Copenhagen expensive to live in? This question often arises for individuals considering a move to the Danish capital. Copenhagen, known for its quality of life and vibrant culture, has various financial considerations that potential residents...

What is Expat Guilt? Emotional Challenges of Living Abroad Moving to Brazil from the UK y is a significant life decision filled with excitement and opportunities. However, it often comes with unexpected emotional...

Finding the Cheapest Place to Live in Ireland: A Guide for 2024 Everybody can deduct “Big places, big rents, small places, small rents.” Even though most of us wish to go to a big city when thinking of moving abroad, primarily for professional or educational reasons, we also know that affordability can become the real...

 Is Oslo a Safe City? Insights for Newcomers and Tourists When considering relocating or travelling to a new city, one of the...

How to Move to Denmark Without a Job? A Comprehensive Guide Are you moving to Denmark but still...

Is Dublin More Expensive Than London? Understanding Living Costs When planning a move to one of these European capitals, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “Is Dublin more expensive than London?”. This question is crucial for anyone considering relocation between these two thrilling cities. As an international European removal company, we understand the importance of budgeting and financial planning for such moves....

Where is the Best Place for Expats to Live in Europe? A Guide for Britons Deciding on a new...

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Hamburg for a Family? Hamburg, a city located in one of the richest countries in the world,...

Is Cannes a Good Place to Live? Exploring Life in this French Riviera Gem If you have ever thought about moving to France, save a spot for Cannes in your heart....

Moving to Finland from the UK: Is Finland the Happiest Place on Earth? Are you considering moving to Finland? Have you heard that it might be the happiest place on earth? Its...

Is It Safe to Ship Musical Instruments? International Transportation Guide Shipping musical instruments safely is a significant concern for musicians and vendors alike. Whether you’re an artist heading...

Explore Opportunities: Jobs in Norway for UK Citizens Norway offers many job opportunities for UK citizens seeking a...