Aaaargh! Culture Shock!

Culture shock is a bit like regular shock – sometimes you can’t identify it once you’re suffering from it, which makes it very hard to cope with.

Signs
Writing “symptoms” felt a little contrived, as culture shock isn’t really a disease or mental illness, more just a feeling of being lost, out of your depth (remember trying to put your foot down in a swimming pool and having that moment of utter panic as you gurgled and spluttered under the surface?), isolated or simply unable to grasp onto any little culture-related life-raft like familiar road signs or Marks and Spencers. Don’t’ panic though; culture shock is only temporary, so moving to France, moving to Switzerland, moving anywhere can become home with a little patience.

Coping
Culture shock is very much fear-based – the shock of the new and unfamiliar. Upon relocation (moving to France, Germany etc.) people tend to split into two groups – those who embrace the new culture over their own, and those who reject it and try to keep their own country alive. Neither of these is the right or wrong choice. Allowing you and your family to each develop your own tactic for dealing with a great move is crucial.

Of course the best way to cope is to be prepared. For example, when moving to Switzerland, have everyone take an interest in the new culture –the food, the hobbies, what the schools tend to look like, what are the common modes of transport, how do you swear in Swiss-German?

The important thing is to be patient, brave and regain control.

Moving and Culture Shock

Some folks flit around the world without a care – moving to Germany, California, Paris, Okayama, even moving to Switzerland to herd Ibex through the Alpine winters – they’re fine! It’s all about the ride apparently, but not everyone finds the ride quite so smooth.

The strange quality of culture shock is that you never know who might be affected by it, or in what context. Perhaps you’ve seen everything the length and breadth of Europe has to offer – enjoyed a few years in Barcelona, moving to Germany for a few months to indulge the Stuttgart automotive passion, a year in Hammerfest; fast-forward to Asia and you’re struck down by the unexpected blight of culture shock.

The signs of culture shock can be very frustrating to single out without the help of someone not suffering from it. Symptoms (although culture shock isn’t a disease or illness) often emerge due to jet-lag, general tiredness and so on. Essentially, travellers feel out of their depth, invisible, lost and scared.

The fantastic thing about culture shock is that is tends to pass quickly and can help you understand some of the more central fundamentals to keep in mind next time you travel. It’s based around the sensation of fear, which usually culminates in one of three emotional responses – rejecting the new culture (seeking out familiar traits), embracing the new culture (rejecting native habits) or a bespoke mix of native and foreign (the most common response). Never be put off moving to Switzerland, France, or any of Europe’s other fascinating spots simply because of culture shock; usually the best remedies are patience, organisation, communication and pleasure.

Woman chases Olympic dream by moving to Germany

A woman has revealed she is moving to Germany to chase her Olympic dream.

According to reports in the Leicester Mercury, Jenn Taylor is determined to compete in the 2012 games, to be held in London. She is part of Great Britain’s women’s volleyball team.

As well as getting ready to head to foreign shores, the sporting enthusiast has also given up a well paid job working in schools in order to try to achieve her goal.

The reason she has decided to make the transition to another country is so she can ensure she plays in enough games before the deadline for the Olympics.

She said: “It means I will be playing week in, week out, getting matches on a regular basis, which is what we all need. The level is far higher than we can find in England.”

Commenting on the prospect of moving to Germany, she added: “It is a massive challenge for everyone. For me, I’ll be taking a huge pay cut and living in a country with people I’ve never met.”

The original plan was to send Ms Taylor and all her team mates to one country to prepare. However, this fell through due to a lack of funding.

Instead, they are being sent to a number of different nations – potentially meaning some will be moving to France.

Meanwhile, talking about her dedication to the task ahead, Ms Taylor remarked: “The sacrifices are huge and I have not underestimated them, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance.”

She added she would regret it if she did not put in the maximum effort to achieve her aim. This may well be a sentiment shared by the rest of the team, including those moving to France and other countries.

According to its organisers, the London 2012 Games have been the catalyst for the transformation of a section of east London.

Moving to Europe

If you are moving from Britain to another country in Europe due to your work or to a new life in retirement, you will want to make sure your furniture and other household items are transported safely and securely by a company experienced in this line of work.

Here at European Removal Experts we have years of experience when it comes to helping people who are moving to France, moving to Germany or moving to Holland. In fact, it doesn’t matter where in Europe you are planning to move to because the staff and management at European Removal Experts have helped people move from the UK to most countries on the continent.

We are a London based removals company which provides everything from European removals, student removals and home removals in the UK itself.

Moving home is always a stressful experience, and if you are moving to France or moving to Holland the stress levels are bound to be increased. So let us take some of the strain out of your life when you are moving to France. We will take care of every aspect of the move, leaving you to concentrate on other important issues which are sure to arise when you are moving to France or moving to Germany.

All of our removals vehicles are fully insured, and have a cubic capacity of either 15 metres or 30 metres, depending on how much furniture you have to take with you when you are relocating to France. And to make sure you have complete peace of mind, all our house removals are covered with a goods-in-transit insurance of up to £10,000!

Moving to Nord-Pas-de-Calais

Nord-Pas-de-Calais or just plain Nord is another one of the many regions of France. Nord-Pas-de-Calais is composed of the Pas-de-Calais and the departments of Nord and the region borders Belgium and UK. Although now Nord-Pas-de-Calais is part of France, before 1477 the region was part of the Southern Netherlands. The Nord-Pas-de-Calais gradually become part of France between 1477 and 1678. Nord-Pas-de-Calais has several historical provinces such as Boulonnais, Cambraisis, French Hainaut, Calaisis, Artois and French Flanders along with other parts of northern Picardy. There is also the Minidn Basin which regional name is even now used as a sign of civic pride for the inhabitants of Nord-Pas-de-Calais.
Wikipedia mentions that “With its 330.8 people per km2 on just over 12,414 km2, it is a densely populated region, having some 4.1 million inhabitants—seven percent of France’s total population, making it the fourth most populous region in the country—83% of whom live in urban communities. Its administrative centre and largest city is Lille. The second largest city is Calais, which serves as a major continental economic/transportation hub with Dover of Great Britain 42 kilometres (26 mi) away; the White Cliffs of Dover are visible from Calais on a clear day. Other major towns include Valenciennes, Lens, Douai, Béthune, Dunkirk, Maubeuge, Boulogne, Arras, Cambrai and Saint-Omer.” As a result we can say that Nord-Pas-de-Calais it’s quite highly populated of an area.
Another thing you should know if you ever want to move to Nord-Pas-de-Calais is that the regions official language is French but it also has two smaller communities which have their specific languages, namely the Flemings which talk West Flemish that is a Dutch dialect and the Picard which speak the Picard language. There are several areas around Nord-Pas-de-Calais that recognize both these languages such as Belgium and a couple of city-level governments.
If you decide to move to Nord-Pas-de-Calais it is always best to remember these details and figure out which part you want to move to.

Europe Remove is specialised in Removals to France with door to door deliveries. We offer Storage and Removal Services at attractive prices and will ensure your moving will take place as a fast paced and secure operation.
We provide a cost effective and reliable service to you. Be it a small or a large number of boxes that needs moving, we can arrange collection of your belongings and relocation, as well as Storage, all only under the best conditions and with highly Qualified Professionals Removers.
You can even leave the Packing to us. We will make sure everything will be Packed Securely with only the best Packing Supplies available. If you’re not convinced just use our Free Quote service.
You can contact us for any questions you might have. +44 020 3150 2668

Author: Madiba

Let Someone Else Help You When Moving to France

It doesn’t matter where you’re based in the UK, if your immediate or possible future plans are for relocating to France then this can cause untold pressure on yourself as all of your possessions are transported over what will be several hundred miles. Cutting out this stress and pressure is just a step away for we have extensive experience of how to help people just like you. If you believe your query is too troublesome to answer, we do not as every effort will be made to make you moving to France as painless and as enjoyable as possible.

Depending on the number of items in your possession, the size of the van or vehicles required for if you’re relocating to Paris or any other area in this picturesque country differs. The vans used allows for a dedicated service to be provided as this will be taken into consideration long before the vans actually arrive when the move is to take place. For multiple furniture removals to France, a larger van would be required as this means that more space can then be provided.

Van service is not sporadic too as a steady stream of traffic from our vans is supplied and this means that we are not stuck to helping your relocation on one particular day but we can provide several convenient options.

For all relocation requirements to any area in France, our highly professional and customer-focused service is more than ready to be provided which results in a positive experience for all.

Some Advice if You are Moving to Germany

Moving to Germany: A Comprehensive Guide

Germany, with its robust economy, rich culture, and high quality of life, is a top destination for many looking to relocate. Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities, the charm of its cities, or the beauty of its countryside, moving to Germany involves careful preparation. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to making your transition smooth and successful.

Planning Your Move

Relocating to Germany involves logistical and administrative challenges, so starting early is crucial.

Hiring a Professional Moving Company

The process of moving your belongings to Germany requires professional expertise. Select a moving company that:

Specializes in international relocations.
Offers insurance for your possessions.
Is familiar with customs regulations and requirements.

Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can help you choose a trustworthy provider.

Managing Logistics and Paperwork

Before moving to Germany, ensure you’ve handled all necessary paperwork:

Obtain a visa or residency permit if required.
Register your belongings for customs.
Ensure you have health insurance that meets German requirements.

These preparations will help you avoid complications when you arrive.

Choosing the Right Location

Germany offers diverse living environments, from bustling cities to tranquil countryside villages. Consider your lifestyle preferences and practical needs when deciding where to settle.

Urban or Rural?

Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt are ideal for those seeking vibrant cultural scenes and career opportunities.
Rural areas and smaller towns offer a quieter lifestyle and lower cost of living.

Accessibility and Amenities

When choosing a location, think about:

Proximity to public transportation, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Commute times to work or study.
Availability of leisure activities and social opportunities.

Navigating the German Housing Market

Finding a home in Germany requires understanding the local housing landscape.

Renting: A Practical First Step

Renting is often the best choice for newcomers. It allows you to:

Get to know the local area before committing to a property purchase.
Learn about German tenancy laws, which favor renters.
Avoid the complexities of the home-buying process until you’re more familiar with it.

Helpful Resources

For more information on renting and buying properties in Germany, visit:

German Real Estate Guide

Legal and Administrative Considerations

Germany’s legal system is known for its thoroughness, making it vital to familiarize yourself with the basics or hire professional assistance.

Key Steps

Register at the Bürgeramt: All residents must register their address with the local citizens’ office within a few weeks of arrival.
Understand Tenancy Laws: German laws offer significant protections for renters, so ensure you’re aware of your rights and responsibilities.
Tax and Employment Laws: If you plan to work in Germany, research income tax obligations and employment regulations.

Adapting to German Culture and Lifestyle

Germany’s culture is rich and varied, and adapting to it can make your experience more fulfilling.

Language Skills

While many Germans speak English, especially in urban areas, learning German is essential for deeper integration. It will help you:

Build relationships with neighbors and colleagues.
Navigate daily activities and administrative tasks.
Feel more connected to the local community.

Enroll in language courses online or locally to improve your proficiency.

Cultural Norms

German culture values efficiency, punctuality, and structure. For example:

Arriving on time for appointments or social events is expected.
Recycling and environmental consciousness are integral parts of daily life.

Healthcare in Germany

Germany has one of the most efficient healthcare systems in Europe. To access it:

Register for public health insurance (Krankenkasse), which covers most medical services.
Consider private insurance for enhanced benefits or specialized care.

Learn more at Germany Health Guide.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Germany is a significant step that offers immense opportunities. By planning carefully, understanding the legal and cultural landscape, and taking the time to adapt, you can create a fulfilling life in this dynamic country. For more resources, visit:

Germany Info Guide

Embrace the adventure and enjoy your journey to a new life in Germany!

Moving to Belgium to further your career

The EU has created new jobs in the international market, and none more than its central administrative bases in Belgium – both in Brussels and Strasbourg. Whether you’re an intern working for a few weeks to earn some international experience, or if you’re a fully qualified bilingual worker who is an essential cog in the wheels of the EU or EC, then you’ll need to work out how you’re going to get you and your belongings across to Belgium.

Belgium is quite unique in that it has many long, straight roads, so many people choose to move by car. However it’s a long, tiring and arduous journey if you choose to do this yourself, and you’ll have several borders to cross and customs declarations to complete if you set off from the UK towards your new home .

Removals to Belgium can be made less stressful and more productive if you use a specialist removal company. You can leave at the last minute as your belongings go ahead of you, rather than having a stressful time packing and then launching yourself at a new job.

Another consideration is that most people live in small apartments in Brussels in the main cities, and you may need to scale down your belongings so it all fits. If not, you’ll be paying for storage on top of removals, which only adds to your costs in addition to the fluctuating Euro. At least by using a specialist removal service to Belgium, that’s one piece of the move puzzle already solved for you.

Removals to Eindhoven - Removals to Holland from UK

Moving to Eindhoven

In the province of North Brabant a city called Eindhoven is located, in the southern Netherlands. The city was originally centred at the joining point of the streams Gender and Dommel. Later on, in 1950, the Gender stream was dammed, leaving only Dommel still free to run through the city centre. Together with Veldhoven that is adjacent to the city, Eindhoven reaches a sum of 260,000 inhabitants more or less, which ranks the city as the fifth largest one in the Netherlands and is ranked as the first largest in North Brabant.
There are several neighbouring towns and cities which you must be aware of if you’re ever in Eindhoven, such as Geldrop-Mierlo, Heeze-Leende, Nuenen, Eersel, Oirschot and Best. The metropolitan area’s number of inhabitants reaches to almost 750,000, this including Helmond, and Eindhoven is also part of the metropolitan area of Brabant Stad that has a number of inhabitants of over 2 million. The town was nicknamed as the world’s most intelligent community back in 2011 by the Intelligent Community Forum.
From a cultural and recreational part of view, it can be said that Eindhoven is based on two major forces; that of being a major university city and because the town was home to the main location of the Philips company. This together contributed to the growth of Eindhoven and made the town stand out numerous times.
Because Eindhoven is such an important university city, a large number of its inhabitants are students and young people. The people from the Eindhoven University of Technology and several other undergraduate schools always keep a high supply of young inhabitants which in turn have needs who need to be catered to by things such as festivals or clubs. These activities in turn generate a youthful energy and contribute to the development of Eindhoven.
Another important part of Eindhoven is the fact that Philips main company was located in the city for a long time and it contributed greatly for the cultural development of the city. The Philips company offered their workforce cultural institutions along with sporting institutions that can cater to both mind and boy. Some of the cultural institution that the Philips company was founder of were the Muziekcentrum Fritz Philips and the former POC; while regarding the sport institution, Philips founded several out of which the most famous one being Philips Sport Vereniging which was also abbreviated as PSV.
As a result of the influence the Philips company had in Eindhoven, the city is sometimes called as the City of Light due to the projects the company developed that involved lightning up the city buildings. There is even a festival during the Carnaval which is called Lampegate or Hamlet of Lamps, which can also be interpreted in an ironical way for the purpose of the carnival as Hole in the grounds with lamps. This has also been influence by the activity of the Philips company in Eindhoven and it actually refers to its importance in the Eindhoven community.
Although there are numerous other cultural institution that are around and in the city, the two mentioned before had such a big influence over the development of the town that the others have a hard time comparing to them. Nevertheless there are some famous museums which can be found here such as the Centrum Kunstlicht in de Kunst and large public places which are used for open air art such as the Stadswandelpark that has more than 30 modern art pieces.
Even for recreational purposes the Eindhoven has a rather large scene which includes the bars on the Market square or the two cinemas that are located in the centre of the town, namely the Pathe Eindhoven and the Servicebioscoop Zien.
There are several regular festivals that take place in Eindhoven and that offer entertainment for the inhabitants along with the visitors, young and old, while raising the points of culture throughout the year. Such festivals are the Carnaval, the Koninginneddag which is a national holiday or the Marathon Eindhoven which commemorates the liberation of the Eindhoven along with many others that make the city a wonderful place to live in. The time for hesitating has past, now is the time to take action and move to the place of your dreams, move to Eindhoven. Don’t worry about all that packing, we can manage that and we’ll help with all your move so you can just go ahead and enjoy the colourful and youthful life Eindhoven has to offer.

Europe Remove is specialised in Removals to Holland with door to door deliveries. We offer Storage and Removal Services at attractive prices and will ensure your moving will take place as a fast paced and secure operation.
We provide a cost effective and reliable service to you. Be it a small or a large number of boxes that needs moving, we can arrange collection of your belongings and relocation, as well as Storage, all only under the best conditions and with highly Qualified Professionals Removers. You can even leave the Packing to us. We will make sure everything will be Packed Securely with only the best Packing Supplies available. If you’re not convinced just use our Free Quote service.
You can contact us for any questions you might have. +44 020 3150 2668

Photographer: Lempkesfabriek

Moving to Switzerland – Some Facts

If you are moving to Switzerland, the chances are that this is a career related move unless you are in the millionaire bracket and you are about to join Lewis Hamilton, Roger Moore and Phil Collins. As Switzerland is not an European Union member, the process is a little different from moving to Belgium or moving to Holland, but it is possible. If you are from Britain there is an agreement between Switzerland and the EU which makes it comparatively easy when compared to non EU nationals. The regulations regarding moving to Switzerland to work were relaxed eight years ago, and it is planned that by 2014 quotas for work permits issued to people from the EU will be dropped.

For those who come from outside the European Union, moving to Switzerland is a lot more difficult. Work permits will only be issued if you can prove that you have a particular skill which an employer cannot find within the country, which means that very few people from outside the EU actually get the chance to emigrate to this country.

Assuming you fit the criteria, what will you need to do when you are moving to Switzerland? Perhaps the most important thing is to find a company which has plenty of experience when it comes to transporting your furniture and belongings. With this in mind, you are in the right place because the people at European Removal Experts have the knowledge and experience to make your move a smooth one.