Digital Nomad Life in Ghent, Belgium

"Finding a place to live in Ghent, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a studio apartment to a larger family home. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Ghent to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include the city center, Sint-Amandsberg, and Gentbrugge. 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 rental properties in Ghent. Websites like Immoweb, Zimmo, and Realo are popular choices. You can also consider hiring a real estate agent to help with your search. They can provide valuable local knowledge and help negotiate rental agreements. When you find a property you're interested in, contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. It's important to view the property in person to check its condition and ask any questions you may have. If you decide to proceed with a property, you'll need to sign a rental agreement. This will outline the terms of your tenancy, including the rent, deposit, and any other conditions. Make sure you read this carefully before signing. Finally, once the agreement is signed and the deposit is paid, you can move into your new home in Ghent. Remember to register your new address with the local municipality. This is a legal requirement in Belgium and is necessary for things like healthcare and voting," explained one person living in Ghent, Belgium.

"Expats in Ghent often appreciate the city's rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture, which adds a unique charm to the place. They also value the local culture's emphasis on work-life balance, with ample time for leisure and relaxation. The locals' friendliness and willingness to speak English is another aspect that expats appreciate, making it easier for them to integrate and communicate. The vibrant arts scene, with numerous festivals, concerts, and exhibitions, is also a highlight for many expats. Additionally, they enjoy the city's culinary culture, which includes a wide variety of Belgian beers and chocolates, as well as local dishes. The efficient public transportation system and the city's bike-friendly nature are also appreciated by expats. Lastly, the high standard of living and the excellent healthcare system are aspects of Ghent's local culture that expats highly value," remarked one member in Ghent.

"Expats in Ghent often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. While many locals speak English, the official languages are Dutch, French, and German, which can make everyday tasks like shopping or dealing with bureaucracy difficult for those who don't speak these languages. Another challenge is the Belgian attitude towards punctuality. Belgians are known for being very punctual and this can be a challenge for expats from cultures where time is more flexible. Understanding the local customs and etiquette can also be a challenge. For example, Belgians are generally more reserved and private than people from other cultures, which can make it harder for expats to make friends and integrate into the local community. The weather can also be a challenge for expats in Ghent. The city has a maritime temperate climate, with significant rainfall throughout the year and relatively mild temperatures. This can be a big adjustment for people from warmer or drier climates. Finally, navigating the Belgian bureaucracy can be a challenge. The country has a complex administrative system, and dealing with paperwork and official procedures can be confusing and time-consuming for expats," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Ghent.

"If you are planning to stay in Ghent 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. The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your stay. For example, if you are going to work, you will need a work permit or a professional card. If you are going to study, you will need a certificate of enrollment from your school or university. Once you arrive in Ghent, you must register with the local authorities in your place of residence within eight days of your arrival. You will need to provide your passport, visa and proof of accommodation. After you have registered, you will receive a residence permit, also known as a foreigner's card. This card serves as your identification during your stay in Belgium. If you are a citizen of the European Union, you do not need a visa to enter Belgium. However, if you plan to stay for more than three months, you must register with the local authorities and apply for a residence permit. Please note that the requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. Therefore, it is recommended to check the specific requirements with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country," said one expat who made the move to Ghent.

"In Ghent, it is considered rude to not greet shopkeepers, waitstaff, or other service workers when entering or leaving an establishment. It's also important to respect the local language. While many people in Ghent speak English, it's appreciated if you learn a few basic phrases in Dutch, the official language of the region. Belgians value punctuality, so it's considered disrespectful to be late for appointments or meetings. If you're invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a gift, such as chocolates or flowers, but avoid chrysanthemums as they are associated with funerals. When dining, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows), and wait for the host to start eating or drinking before you do. It's also considered impolite to leave food on your plate. Belgians are generally private people, so avoid asking personal questions unless you know someone well. Also, avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and language disputes between the Flemish and Walloon regions. Lastly, Belgians are known for their modesty and don't appreciate bragging or showy behavior. It's best to be humble and down-to-earth in your interactions," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Ghent.

"Public transport is good, services are regular but some are 30 mins or more between buses. Restaurants can be a pain to get into. Book in advance especially in the City centre. ," remarked one member in Ghent.