An Expat Talks about Moving to Karlsruhe, Germany

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

Karlsruhe

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

I wish I had brought more: make up and medicine (antibiotics)

I wish I had left the following at home: all my electronic items and my weight set

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BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Take your time. Don't compare it to your current home in the US. If you compare, compare it to others in your similar situation (income, family status, lifestyle). If you would like to take public transportation, which is very popular, economical, and practical in Europe, be sure to live near a bus/train stop.

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

I live on the top floor of a in a three family house/apartment. Most people live in an apartment complex.

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

I asked future co-workers who lived in the area then I visited those areas they suggested.

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

The average cost of housing is 500 Euro per month for a 2 bedroom apartment in a nice neighborhood which is just outside of downtown.