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An Expat Talks about Moving to Bruges, Belgium

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Bruges

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

Wish I'd brought my friends, my family and my local pub.

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Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

I wish I'd moved to Bruges years ago. It's a tiny place and all neighbourhoods seem very safe, clean and friendly. I'm not sure about the surrounding areas, but I'd definitely suggest the centre of Bruges or at least within the 8000 postcode. Also, I'd advise paying the estate agent's commission. They'll help you with translation of documents and with setting up your utility bills, etc. Well worth the fee.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

I live in a rented studio. I'm not sure about where or in what type of housing other expats are living.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

I visited estate agents and one of them introduced me to my gorgeous furnished flat. It's difficult to find furnished properties for rent in Bruges. They're mostly unfurnished. I paid the commission and administrative charges happily. The rent is ludicrously cheap.

William Russell

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Lower, much lower. I had been living in London and I would say that this flat would be worth at least twice as much in London.

Traveling Mailbox
Traveling Mailbox

Traveling Mailbox lets you view your postal mail online anywhere and it's is affordable, simple, and flexible.
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Traveling MailboxTraveling Mailbox

Traveling Mailbox lets you view your postal mail online anywhere and it's is affordable, simple, and flexible.
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