Digital Nomad Life in Brno, Czechia
Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Brno, Czech Rep. Get tips from others living in Brno about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Brno and more.
Where should I live in Brno?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Brnoublic involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a shared apartment to a single-family home. Next, you should research different neighborhoods in Brno to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include the city center, Veve?í, and Královo Pole. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rentals in Brno. These include websites like Sreality.cz, Bezrealitky.cz, and Expats.cz. You can also consider hiring a real estate agent to help you in your search. They can provide you with expert advice and access to listings that may not be publicly available. When you find a place you're interested in, contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. Be sure to ask about any additional costs such as utilities or service charges. Finally, once you've found the perfect place, you'll need to sign a lease agreement. Make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so start your search well in advance of your move," remarked one member in Brno.
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Brno?
"Expats in Brnoublic, often appreciate the city's rich history and architecture, which is evident in its many well-preserved buildings and landmarks. They also enjoy the local food and beer culture, which is deeply ingrained in the Czech lifestyle. Many expats appreciate the slower pace of life in Brno compared to larger cities, as well as the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals. The city's vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues, is another aspect that expats often find appealing. Additionally, the ease of access to beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor activities is highly valued. Lastly, expats often appreciate the high quality of life in Brno, including excellent healthcare and education systems, at a relatively low cost of living," explained one person living in Brno, Czechia.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Brno?
"Expats in Brnoublic often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Czech is a Slavic language and can be difficult to learn, especially for those who are used to Roman languages. Another challenge is the reserved nature of the Czech people. They are known to be polite and respectful, but they can also be quite private and reserved, which can make it difficult for expats to form close relationships. The bureaucracy in the Czech Republic can also be a challenge for expats. Dealing with government offices and paperwork can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for those who are not fluent in Czech. The Czech Republic has a very distinct culture and traditions, which can be difficult for expats to understand and adapt to. This includes everything from social norms and etiquette, to food and drink, to holidays and celebrations. Lastly, the weather can also be a challenge for some expats, especially those from warmer climates. The winters in Brno can be quite cold and long, and the city does not get as much sunshine as some other parts of Europe," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Brno.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Brno for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in Brnoublic for a while, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your purpose of stay and your nationality. If you are a citizen of a non-EU country and you plan to stay in the Czech Republic for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-term visa. This visa is issued for various purposes such as study, business, employment, scientific research, family reunification, etc. If you are planning to stay for more than one year, you may need to apply for a long-term residence permit instead of a visa. This permit is also issued for various purposes and requires different documents depending on the purpose of your stay. If you are an EU citizen, you do not need a visa to stay in the Czech Republic. However, if you plan to stay for more than 30 days, you need to register with the Foreign Police Department. If you plan to stay for more than 90 days, you should apply for a certificate of temporary residence. In all cases, you will need to provide proof of accommodation in Brno. This can be a rental agreement or a confirmation from a hotel. You will also need to provide proof of travel medical insurance and sufficient financial resources for your stay. Please note that the requirements may vary depending on your specific situation and the current immigration laws. Therefore, it is recommended to check the latest information from the official website of the Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic or consult with an immigration expert," said one expat in Brno.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Brno?
We asked people in Brno if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"When visiting Brnoublic, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Czech people value their personal space, so avoid standing too close to someone or touching them unless you know them well. It's also considered rude to interrupt someone while they're speaking, so wait for your turn to talk. Czechs are generally reserved and may not respond well to loud or boisterous behavior, especially in public places. They also appreciate punctuality, so make sure to be on time for any appointments or meetings. When dining, remember that Czechs usually keep their hands on the table and pass dishes with their left hand. It's also customary to say "Dobrou chu?" (Enjoy your meal) before eating. In terms of tipping, it's customary to leave around 10% of the bill if you're satisfied with the service. However, always check the bill as some restaurants include the service charge. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as religion and politics unless you know the person well. The Czech Republic has a complex history and these topics can be sensitive. Lastly, Czechs are proud of their language and although many speak English, making an effort to learn a few basic phrases in Czech will be appreciated," explained one expat living in Brno, Czechia.
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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