An Expat Talks about Moving to Parma, Italy

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

Parma

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

Things I wish I brought:

1. Toll House chocolate chips

2. Asian food supplies (Hot and Sour soup mix)

3. Mascara (horribly expensive here)

Things I wish I had left behind:

1. garden furniture (no garden)

2. extra furniture that doesn't fit

3. hair dryer, curling iron - don't work here even with adapters.

Allianz Care
Get Quote

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

Allianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
Get Quote

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

Start early and look at everything that you can. You cannot tell what a place is like from pictures or even from the outside. Also, try to find a local that can help you.

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

Apartment. Apartments and houses in the country.

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

We were desperate as we couldn't find anything to fit our needs so we just took the one we could find. It is not a great fit for us and we have continued to search for another apartment to no avail. Italy is a place where you have to know someone and we are just now finding those connections after 2 years.

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

Much higher. 1500 - 2000 euros a month.