Best European cities for expats

Europe is becoming more and more popular with expats from the US who found many cities to call their new home. The cities in Europe are particularly interesting, and there are a plethora of reasons for that. Many cities have rich and preserved history, while also maintaining an urban identity and always moving forward. Additionally, most Europeans are fluent in English, so it’s much easier to adapt than in some other parts of the world. If you’re thinking about moving overseas, we’ll help you narrow down some of the best European cities for expats. Furthermore, we’ll help you understand how Transparent International Movers can assist you and what it takes to move overseas.

What do you need to know before moving to one of the best European cities for expats?

Moving overseas requires heavy preparation and much research before you’re ready. You’ll need to get a considerable amount of paperwork and get other kinds of clearance before moving to another country. If you plan to work and live in Europe, you should also be registered to be able to use some of the public services. Besides paperwork, you’ll also need to organize shipping your items overseas. While some items can fit into your traveling bag, heavier items will have to go separately. Moving such items overseas is a big logistical challenge, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Many companies offer top-quality international services and are well experienced with supply chains and transport overseas.

How to move your car when moving internationally?

Not everyone decides to take their car with them. It takes much time and effort to do it, and it is almost certainly going to be subject to some fees and duties. However, professional movers and their partners can help you move your car around the globe easily. There are different options for international car transportation, varying in security they provide, and in price.

Most people consider closed car transport one of the most secure ways to transport your car. However, others argue that it may be unnecessary, especially because it increases the cost of transportation significantly. The cheaper alternative is to go with open car transport, which can take more cars in one go, making the transport cheaper. You should only use closed car transport to move luxury and custom-made cars, while others are well off without that extra protection. Your car may be exposed to rain and other types of bad weather, but it won’t get damaged, making open car transport a cheaper, but reliable alternative.

Is France a good place to move to as an expat?

Before New York became the self-proclaimed cultural center of the world, European cities held the same status. Different historical eras highlighted different cities, but it’s safe to say that Paris remains one of the cultural capitals of the world.

Many great things happen in France, and not just Paris. However, it’s one of the most expensive countries to live in Europe. That’s why it’s best to double-check if your budget fits into French prices before moving to France from USA. Local salary would be enough to supply the cost of living, but expats often already have developed businesses and regular clients outside of the destination country. That’s why it may not fit everyone moving here. But, if it fits your budget, you shouldn’t miss the history, culture, and art that the country is famous for.

Best European cities for expats

Besides Paris and France, there are also other great places you could move to as an expat. Depending on what you like, different cities might interest you more. For example, Berlin is known as one of the urban centers of Europe. It hosts a famous nightlife scene as well as much street art and contemporary art. The city is shaped by the younger generations and seems to fit them best, while the rest of the country is a little bit different.

Another European city for expats is Wien in Austria. It’s rich in history and has beautifully preserved architecture featuring many styles. It also hosts a rich urban culture, but the focus is on history and arts. You’ll find many world’s best history museums here and you’ll enjoy everyday life. The city earned and held the award for the best city to live in several years in a row, highlighting the standard of living and the healthy environment.

Finally, Amsterdam in the Netherlands is another great city to move to as an expat. The city is teeming with tourists all around the year, so you can expect to engage with the international community here. Canals and specific architecture you’ll find in Amsterdam are sure to amaze you, but you should know that it is not a large city. Most of the buildings are low-rise and the population is pretty low for a European capital. This may fit some people excellently, while others may prefer larger cities hosting different communities.

How to fit in in Europe as an expat?

After all the logistical planning and preparing paperwork, things will suddenly slow down. Once you settle in, you won’t have to deal with the stress from moving. The time will come to relax and absorb your surroundings.

Don’t expect to find a universal social formula in Europe, as many different cultures mix and blend into what is Europe today. However, you can follow a few tips to try and make some friends. After meeting a few people, things will start to develop naturally. But, that first contact is often hard to make, especially when you’re all alone in a new country.

One of the best ways to make first contact with the surroundings is to visit a few local bars and engage with a volunteering group. Working with people towards the goal they hold important is sure to catch some sympathies. And, you’ll better understand the local perspective. If you like people you’re working with, ask them to go out for a drink. Spend some time with them off-duty to try to get to know them. Don’t be too pushy but don’t be afraid to make contact either.