Thursday, June 10, 2021

How do you feel about living in Brussels?

Let's just say that it takes A LOT of getting used to, especially if you're new to Europe. Things to take note of:

The good:

Myriad options for food and bars around the city and its pretty decent quality

Excellent chocolate and French fries and beer - if that's what floats your boat

Museums, lovely architecture, several parks and green areas, pedestrian zone (though this one in the centre is hideous)

Various cultural (oftentimes free!) activities in which you can participate, either solo or with your family throughout the year

Decent public transportation

A large, diverse/multicultural international community

A very vibrant summer - lots of outdoor gatherings in the parks or on terraces, street and other music festivals

Close proximity and ease of movement to other major cities/countries in Europe - Amsterdam, London, Paris, Rome, Germany, Spain - offering you a plethora of choices when you need an escape from:

The not-so-fantastic:

The weather - you need to always have a coat, an umbrella, your sunglasses and maybe a scarf within reach. It's not only the rain, but sometimes everything is just gray; and it can last days or weeks at a time (makes you appreciate the sunny days even more!)

Customer service - it doesn't exist here. Don't expect it, don't demand it, don't be offended if you don't receive it. IT'S JUST NOT HAPPENING! Just choose to spend your money in establishments where the proprietors and staff value your business - these are few and far between, which again, makes you ever more appreciative when you find this precious commodity.

Bureaucracy - anything having to do with the government or administration is sheer hell. Accept it, prepare yourself to deal with it, it doesn't get easier. Not speaking the language makes it doubly difficult. Choose your commune (district where you live) carefully.

Traffic and traffic interruptions - one of the worse I've seen and Brussels is famous for having one of the worse traffic jams in Europe

Almost everything closes during lunch time (banks, pharmacies, post office). Supermarkets close at 8 pm and most other shops close at 6 - plan, plan, plan!

It's a challenge to make friends with locals - especially if you're from a “warm” culture. People tend to be aloof and cold and it's difficult to be accepted into social groups.

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I'll stop here for the simple reason that I've learned the art of acceptance and adaptation by living here. It's fruitless to complain; just know how things work and work around them. It's best for my sanity!

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