Guides, stories and insights for internationals building a new life abroad.
Chinese food is one of the most diverse, regionally varied, and culturally significant culinary traditions in the world. What most people know as Chinese food outside of China is a very small window into something far bigger, far more varied, and far more interesting than a single takeaway menu could ever suggest. For newcomers and […]
by Maksym Plewa
Brussels is one of the most international cities in the world. It is home to the European Union institutions, NATO headquarters, hundreds of international organisations, and thousands of multinational companies. And yes there are genuine, plentiful English speaking jobs in Brussels, even if you do not speak a word of French or Dutch. But there […]
by Gauthier Thopart
Understand kimono, yukata, hakama and other Japanese garments, with practical advice on occasions, accessories and respectful wearing.
by Maksym PlewaIf you are moving to Sweden, understanding Swedish culture for newcomers will make your transition much easier. Life in Sweden is calm, structured, and built around balance, equality, and respect for personal space. One of the most important ideas in Swedish culture for newcomers is lagom, meaning “not too much, not too little — just […]
by Priyal Kothari
When you tell friends you are moving to Brussels, Antwerp, or Liège, the reaction is usually the same: “Oh, the chocolate!” or “The beer is amazing!” While these are world-famous, relying on them to define your new home is like looking at a postcard instead of walking through the city. To truly thrive as an […]
by Gauthier Thopart
Silence in German communication is one of the cultural differences that surprises many expats when they move to Germany. In some countries, silence during a conversation feels uncomfortable. People may rush to fill quiet moments because silence can seem awkward, emotional, or even rude. In Germany, however, silence often means something very different. A pause […]
by Mario Garcia
If you’ve just moved to Paris or you’re planning to, here’s one thing locals will tell you early: the best markets in Paris are where the real city lives. Not the big department stores. Not the chain supermarkets. The markets. Paris has hundreds of them. Food markets, flea markets, antique markets, flower markets, book markets, […]
by Gauthier Thopart
Paris is a city of dreams, but for many newcomers, the dream needs a paycheck. If you are moving to the French capital, you might worry that your French isn’t perfect yet. The good news is that the demand for English speaking jobs in paris has never been higher. Whether you are a student, an […]
by Gauthier Thopart
Making friends in Germany is something many expats struggle with, especially during their first year in the country. A lot of internationals arrive expecting work, university, or shared apartments to naturally lead to friendships. But after a few months, many people start noticing the same thing: German colleagues are often polite, reliable, and professional, yet […]
by Mario Garcia