Digital Nomad Life in Waterloo, Belgium
Summary: Waterloo, Belgium is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its convenient location, affordable cost of living, and vibrant culture. Located just outside of Brussels, Waterloo is a great place to live for those who want to be close to the city but still enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. The best neighborhood to live in Waterloo is the city center, which is close to all the amenities and attractions. The approximate population of Waterloo is 30,000. The weather in Waterloo, Belgium is mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Waterloo is relatively low, with basic expenses such as food, transportation, and entertainment costing around $1,000 per month. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Waterloo is approximately $1,000 per month in US dollars.
How do I meet people in Waterloo?
When we asked people living in Waterloo about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats living in Waterloo can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining a local church or volunteering with a local charity. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups for expats in the area, which can be a great way to meet people and learn more about the local culture," said one expat in Waterloo.
What is life like in Waterloo?
When we asked people living in Waterloo what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Waterloo is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live. The city is known for its vibrant culture, excellent public transportation, and beautiful parks and gardens. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of activities to do in the city, from exploring the historic sites to enjoying the nightlife. The city also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury apartments to budget-friendly hostels. The cost of living in Waterloo is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. Additionally, the city is home to a diverse population, making it a great place to meet people from all over the world," said one person in Waterloo.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Where should I live in Waterloo?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"If you are looking for a place to live in Waterloo, there are a few options available. You can search online for rental listings, or contact a local real estate agent to help you find a suitable property. Additionally, you can look for postings on local bulletin boards or in newspapers. You can also ask friends and family if they know of any available properties. Finally, you can visit the local town hall or other government offices to inquire about housing options," explained one expat living in Waterloo, Belgium.
What do I need to know before moving to Waterloo?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Waterloo, they said:
"Expats considering retiring in Waterloo should be aware that the city is located in the French-speaking region of Wallonia, and that the official language is French. It is important to have a basic understanding of the language before moving to the area. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Waterloo is relatively high, and that the city is well-connected to the rest of Belgium and Europe by public transport. Additionally, expats should be aware that the city is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Lion's Mound, the Wellington Museum, and the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History. Finally, expats should be aware that the city is home to a vibrant expat community, and that there are a number of expat-friendly services and activities available," explained one expat living in Waterloo, Belgium.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Waterloo?
"Expats in Waterloo appreciate the city's rich history and culture, which is evident in its many monuments, museums, and galleries. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, restaurants, and clubs. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's friendly and welcoming atmosphere, as well as its excellent public transportation system. Finally, expats enjoy the city's proximity to Brussels, which allows them to easily explore the capital city and its many attractions," explained one person living in Waterloo, Belgium.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Waterloo?
"Expats in Waterloo often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. As French is the primary language spoken in the region, many expats find it difficult to communicate with locals and to access services. Additionally, expats may find the local customs and traditions to be unfamiliar and difficult to navigate. Furthermore, the cost of living in Waterloo can be high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy," explained one expat living in Waterloo, Belgium.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Waterloo for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Waterloo for a while, you will need to apply for a long-term residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a Schengen visa. You will need to provide proof of your identity, proof of financial means, and proof of accommodation in order to apply for either of these documents," said one person in Waterloo.
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We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.
We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Waterloo?
We asked people in Waterloo if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Waterloo. It is considered impolite to be loud or disruptive in public places, such as restaurants or shops. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to try to use it when interacting with locals. Finally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and to avoid making jokes or comments about them," explained one person living in Waterloo, Belgium.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are healthcare services like in Waterloo?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Waterloo, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Waterloo, are of high quality and easily accessible to residents and visitors. The town has a range of healthcare facilities, including public and private hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. General practitioners and specialists in various fields, such as dentistry, physiotherapy, and mental health, are available to cater to the diverse healthcare needs of the population. Emergency medical services are prompt and efficient, with ambulances and paramedics ready to respond to urgent situations. Pharmacies are well-stocked and can be found throughout the town, providing prescription and over-the-counter medications. In addition to the local healthcare services, residents of Waterloo can also access the broader healthcare network in the nearby city of Brussels, which offers a wider range of specialized treatments and medical facilities. Health insurance is mandatory in Belgium, ensuring that everyone has access to affordable and quality healthcare services," said one member in Waterloo.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Waterloo?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Waterloo, often appreciate the town's rich history, including its connection to the Battle of Waterloo. They also enjoy the high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, education, and public transportation systems. The town's proximity to Brussels makes it convenient for work and leisure, while its smaller size offers a more relaxed, suburban atmosphere. The local community is welcoming and diverse, with many international residents and a variety of cultural events and activities. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Waterloo to be relatively high, particularly when it comes to housing and dining out. The weather can also be a downside, as Belgium is known for its frequent rain and overcast skies. Additionally, while many locals speak English, it can still be challenging for expats to navigate the language barrier, especially when dealing with bureaucracy and official paperwork. Finally, some may find the job market to be competitive, particularly for those who do not speak French or Dutch," said one foreigner in Waterloo.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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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.
Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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