Digital Nomad Life in Hasselt, Belgium

"Finding a place to live in Hasselt, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a single room in a shared apartment to a family-sized house. Next, you should start your search online. Websites like Immoweb, Zimmo, and Realo are popular real estate platforms in Belgium where you can find listings for apartments, houses, and rooms for rent in Hasselt. You can filter your search based on your preferences such as location, price, size, and type of property. Another good resource is local newspapers and their online versions. They often have a section dedicated to property listings. Social media can also be a useful tool. There are Facebook groups such as "Expats in Hasselt" or "Housing in Hasselt" where people often post available rooms or apartments. If you're a student, you can check with your university's housing office. They often have resources to help students find housing, and they may have listings for rooms or apartments for rent. You can also consider hiring a real estate agent. They can help you navigate the housing market, arrange viewings, and handle negotiations with landlords. Once you've found a place you're interested in, you should arrange a viewing. This will give you a chance to see the property in person, check its condition, and ask any questions you might have. Finally, if you decide to rent a property, you'll need to sign a lease agreement. Make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms before signing. It's also a good idea to have a lawyer or a knowledgeable person review it. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," explained one expat living in Hasselt, Belgium.

"Expats in Hasselt, often appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene, which includes numerous festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. The local cuisine, particularly the Belgian chocolates, beers, and waffles, is another aspect that expats love about living in Hasselt. They also appreciate the city's cleanliness and the high standard of living. The ease of travel, both within the city and to other parts of Belgium and Europe, is another factor that expats in Hasselt value. The locals' respect for work-life balance and the emphasis on family time is also something that many expats find appealing about the culture in Hasselt," said one person in Hasselt.

"Expats in Hasselt often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. While many locals do speak English, the official languages are Dutch, French, and German, which can make everyday tasks like shopping or using public transportation difficult for those who do not speak these languages. Another challenge is the Belgian attitude towards punctuality. Belgians are known for being very punctual and expect the same from others. This can be a difficult adjustment for expats from cultures where time is viewed more flexibly. Belgians also tend to be quite private, which can make it challenging for expats to form close relationships. It can take time to be accepted into Belgian social circles, and this can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation. The local cuisine can also be a challenge for some expats. Belgian food is rich and hearty, with a focus on meat and dairy products, which may not suit everyone's tastes or dietary needs. Finally, the weather in Hasselt can be a challenge for some expats. The city has a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool, rainy winters. This can be a big adjustment for those used to warmer, sunnier climates," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Hasselt.

"If you are planning to stay in Hasselt for a period longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa (D visa) before you arrive in the country. This visa allows you to enter Belgium and stay for more than three months. Once you arrive in Belgium, you must register with the local municipality (Stad Hasselt) within eight days of your arrival. You will need to provide your passport, visa, and proof of your local address. If you are a non-EU citizen, you will also need to apply for a residence permit. This can be done at the local municipality office. You will need to provide your passport, proof of sufficient financial means, proof of health insurance, and a medical certificate. If you are an EU citizen, you will need to register with the local municipality and apply for an E card, which is a document that certifies your right of residence as an EU citizen. If you are planning to work in Belgium, you may also need a work permit, depending on your nationality and the type of work you will be doing. Please note that the requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it is recommended to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most accurate information," explained one expat living in Hasselt, Belgium.

"In Hasselt, it's important to avoid discussing personal matters with people you've just met, as Belgians tend to be private people. It's also considered rude to interrupt someone while they're speaking, so try to wait for your turn to talk. Belgians are known for their punctuality, so make sure to arrive on time for any appointments or social gatherings. If you're invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a gift such as flowers or chocolates for the host. When dining, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows), and remember to say "smakelijk" before you start eating, which is the Belgian equivalent of "bon appétit". Avoid making jokes about the country's linguistic divisions or political situation, as these can be sensitive topics. Also, don't compare Belgium to its neighboring countries, especially the Netherlands, as Belgians are proud of their unique culture and identity. Lastly, remember to greet people with a handshake, and to say "please" and "thank you" in the local language, which is Dutch in Hasselt. These small gestures of politeness are highly appreciated in Belgian culture," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Hasselt.