Why Just Go Abroad Once A Year?

If you love to travel and love to see the world then it may seem like heading abroad once a year is much too little, and offers you nowhere near as much of a glimpse at different cultures – as well as what the sun actually looks like – as you would like.

So for those who like to get away as much as possible, why only travel abroad once a year? If you love to get out of Britain and move around then why not simply get out of Britain for good?

Moving to Switzerland – or anywhere else in Europe for that matter – will not only offer you a chance to be abroad all year round, but also a much easier way to travel on a very regular basis. Suddenly, heading to another new country will be as simple as jumping in your car and exploring another new place. One of the great benefits of moving to Switzerland is that you are surrounded by five countries, meaning there is always the chance to head off to somewhere exciting any time you feel like it.

Moving to France also offers a great range of benefits, not least that the weather down in the south is much better meaning that those sun-seekers who crave the sun all year can now enjoy it pretty much all year. Moving to France also offers a quick way home to visit family and friends with the channel tunnel being a quick and easy way to get back whenever you like.

Finding the Right Removals Company

Relocating abroad can be one of the best decisions you ever make, but to really make the most of it it’s important that you deal with the right people. Removals will surely be at the top of your agenda, so to make the whole process as easy as possible, whether you’re moving to Germany or anywhere else, make sure to find the right removals company.

This doesn’t have to be as difficult as you might think. A quick search on Google will be able to present you with numerous options, and it won’t take long for you to read their websites and weed out the inappropriate choices. This is certainly preferable to looking through the phonebook, as by going online you’ll be able to find reviews of your potential company as well to help you make the right decision.

Make sure you read the small print though, as not all UK removals companies will be able to help you when moving to Germany, Switzerland or elsewhere on the continent. You need to make sure they can deliver the service you’re looking for, and if you’re after anything additional (such as storage space) always ensure they can accommodate.

So, finding the right removals company when moving to Germany or anywhere else will simply require a bit of research. But, why not save yourself the hassle and come straight to us here at European Removal Experts? We’ll have no problem getting your possessions to anywhere on the continent whether you’re moving to France, Germany or just about anywhere else, so make sure to get in touch today to see how we can help.

Moving to Belgium to Improve Sporting Prowess

There are many reasons why Britons are planning on moving to Belgium, most of them connected with work. However, there is a small group of young athletes who are moving to Belgium to pursue their aims of racing with the best cyclists in the world. Belgium has long been seen as the place to go to hone the skills which are necessary of you want to reach the top ranks of the professional cycling scene. Even if you are connected with cycling and you are moving to Belgium, it won’t be long before you realise that cycling comes second only to football in terms of popularity among Belgian people, which is why there is a growing number of young Brits who want to get involved.

Between February and November just about every town and village in the country will host a bike race which will attract more than 200 competitors. With lucrative prize lists and a fantastic atmosphere – enhanced by the carnival which usually accompanies these races – it soon becomes clear why Belgium is the place to be for aspiring racing cyclists. Of course, many young British riders come to the conclusion that moving to France or moving to Holland will help them reach the top of the sport, but over the last sixty years Belgium has been at the top of the list for young Brits. If you are planning to join them, make sure that your furniture and belongings – especially those valuable bikes! – are entrusted to the experts at European Removal Experts.

Comprehensive Guide To Moving - Rules Of Residency In France

Some Advice if You are Moving to France

Moving to France: A Comprehensive Guide

Relocating to France is a dream for many, offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in a country renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class cuisine. However, moving to a new country involves more than romanticizing the experience. It requires detailed planning, pragmatic decision-making, and a willingness to adapt to a new culture. Here’s a complete guide to help make your transition to France as smooth as possible.

Planning Your Move

The foundation of a successful relocation lies in meticulous preparation. Moving internationally involves unique challenges, so having a well-thought-out plan is essential.

Hiring a Professional Moving Company

Transporting your belongings across borders requires professional assistance. A reputable moving company will handle packing, loading, and transportation, ensuring your possessions arrive safely. When choosing a moving company:

Look for one experienced in international relocations.
Confirm they offer insurance for your items.
Read reviews and get recommendations to ensure reliability.

Managing Logistics and Paperwork

Relocating to France involves administrative tasks, including:

Customs declarations for your belongings.
Arranging a visa or residence permit.
Securing health insurance that meets French legal requirements.

Start this process early to avoid unnecessary stress as moving day approaches.

Choosing the Right Location

When deciding where to settle in France, it’s vital to consider more than just your holiday memories. Living somewhere full-time often differs significantly from experiencing it as a vacationer.

Visit During Different Seasons

That charming village where you’ve spent idyllic summers might feel entirely different in winter. Before committing to a location:

Visit during off-peak seasons to understand its year-round vibe.
Assess whether local amenities, such as shops and restaurants, remain open.
Consider the climate and whether it suits your preferences.

Assess Accessibility and Amenities

Ask yourself practical questions:

Are essential services, like schools and healthcare, within easy reach?
Is public transportation available?
How far are you from major cities or airports?

Understanding the logistics of your chosen area can make day-to-day life easier.

Navigating the French Housing Market

One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is finding a home. France offers a variety of housing options, but diving into the property market without proper knowledge can be risky.

Renting Before Buying

If you’re unfamiliar with the French legal system, renting is often the best choice. This approach allows you to:

Experience life in the area before committing to a long-term purchase.
Learn about the local property market.
Avoid potential legal pitfalls.

Engage an English-speaking lawyer or notary to help navigate rental agreements and property laws.

Helpful Resources

For insights into the French housing market, visit:

French Property

Legal and Administrative Requirements

France’s legal system can be complex, especially for newcomers. It’s crucial to understand the basics or seek professional guidance.

Key Considerations

Hiring a Notary or Lawyer: Work with an English-speaking professional to navigate contracts and understand legal obligations.
Tax Implications: Research property and income tax requirements.
Business Regulations: If you plan to work or start a business, ensure you comply with French labor and business laws.

Adapting to French Culture and Lifestyle

Moving to France means immersing yourself in a unique culture. Embrace the differences to make your transition smoother.

Language Skills

Although many urban French residents speak English, learning French will significantly enhance your experience. Fluency helps with:

Building relationships with locals.
Navigating day-to-day activities.
Integrating into the community.

Consider online language learning tools such as Duolingo or Rosetta Stone.

Cultural Norms

French culture values traditions, especially in dining and social interactions. For instance:

Meals are seen as a time for connection and should not be rushed.
Politeness and proper greetings are highly valued.

Healthcare in France

France boasts one of the best healthcare systems in the world. To access it:

Register for the Carte Vitale, which allows you to use state healthcare services.
Consider private insurance for additional coverage.

Visit Ameli for more information on healthcare registration and benefits.

Final Thoughts

Relocating to France is a journey filled with opportunities and challenges. By planning carefully, staying informed, and embracing the local culture, you can make your transition a rewarding experience. For further insights and resources, visit:

French Property Guide

Removal to France - Removals to Basse Normandie- Removals Companies London UK

Moving to Basse-Normandie

Encompassing the north-western departments of Calvados, Manche and Orne is the administrative region of Frace, Basse- Normandie (Lower Normandy). This region was created when the Normandy region was split into Upper and Lower Normandy in 1956.
The region stands out from a historical point of view because it is the birthplace of William I also known as the Conqueror, also its coast was where several landings were done by the Allied troops in 1944, during the Normandy Invasion. These have ultimately greatly contributed to the liberation of occupied France during the World War II. Lower Normandy suffered significant damage during the War, especially its villages and towns were damaged greatly.
The region still has a strong rural character although not many are still working in agriculture. Western lands of the region are used as a permanent pasture or forage crops are cultivated there because the most dominating is the animal husbandry. For example, Perche and Auge are one of the major producers of beef and also Camembert cheese is largely produced in Orne. Other types of cheese are produced in Livarot and Pont. Horses are also raised in both Orne and Calvados in a large number. The farm are mainly small ones and those which are bigger are used to farm cereal and grow apple that’s later used for cider and cider brandy. On the northern side of Mache the farms that are there grow vegetables and near the coast oyster farming takes place along with fishing.
Over in the late 50’s, metallurgical industries and traditional textile have declined, and because Basse-Normandie gained from the effect of decentralisation of firms based in Paris, it led to the growth of industries such as the electronics, electrical and mechanical engineering.
Other industrial activities that have grown are shipbuilding and repair, commercial vehicles and automobile manufacturing along with beverage and food processing. They even touched the topic of nuclear waste processing.
The Basse-Normandie’s main administrative and business centre is located at Caen, and around it is where the concentration o industry related activities take place.
Basse-Normandie is also well-known for its costal resorts areas that frequently attract tourists from all over the place. Some of these are the Deauville, the Granville, the Trouville and Mont-Saint-Michael that has an abbey that is situated high above the sea and which has Gothic style architecture.
Normandy had its own regional language called Norman and it is still in use to this day in Lower Normandy. Even dialects have formed, such as the one in Contenin which stands out the most among all others. Nevertheless French is still spoken and you can get around just fine if you know it.
For those who love to read Basse-Normandie has had its fair share of great authors that were born there, such as Marcel Proust, Guy de Maupassant and Jules Barbey d’Auverilly. And many important Norman-language authors attached to Basse-Normandie in a special way, such as Cotis -Capel, Alfred Rossel and even Louis Beuve.
The region also has several famous people in various cultural fields, such as the Jean-Francois in visual arts and the composer Erik Satie for music.
Basse-Normandie hosts several renowned events such as the Deauville American Film Festival and the Deauville Asian Film Festival.
If you want to move to Lower Normandy, no matter where you go you will be able to fully enjoy picturesque landscapes and buildings together with the rich culture and history. If you’re undecided about how to go about moving to Basse-Normandie let us help you.

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

Photographer: Sandra Lopes Martins

5 Reasons Everyone Should Live Abroad Once

We specialise in moving to Holland, Germany and a bunch of other culturally rich European countries. Here are our top five reasons every person should spend at least a little of their life living continental!

1. Culture is obviously the first thing that springs to mind. Think of the difference between Edinburgh and Devon, Liverpool and Oxford, Rowen (a tiny village in North Wales) and London! Experiencing different culture can open your eyes to the world in a unique way.

2. Expanding your career horizons. Experiencing different cultures isn’t just for students and the super-rich. With a little planning and dedication it’s possible for pretty much anyone to find a job abroad. It may even be a step down the career ladder, but in terms of adding interest to your CV, living abroad depicts a superb strength of character.

3. The thrill of the unknown. Call it “fear” if you like. The thrill/fear of relocating to Germany etc. is something that can be incredibly beneficial in life. Not everyone is OK with getting out of their comfort zone, but even something like a few months relocating to Belgium can have an astounding effect on confidence and mindset.

4. Culinary exploration. Maybe you’re already a well-fed food aficionado, but if you’re more the pie ‘n’ chips type, living another culinary lifestyle can be a wonderful adventure!

5. Appreciating home. Sure, it rains a lot in the UK and our sports teams are frequently embarrassed, but true appreciation for all things British is certainly a wonderful side to living abroad. You’ll be surprised what you miss most!

Dealing with Stressful House Moves

Everybody knows that moving house can be one the most stressful events that you will ever go through. Indeed, for some it can be even more stressful than a divorce or bereavement. Maybe it is because the serious business of moving comes directly after all the fun stuff like viewing properties and making bids ends.

Certainly, few people would say that packing, notifying banks and utility companies of your move, organising the re-direction of your post to your new address and registering your children with new schools is that much fun. However, it needs to be done and, if you’re moving abroad, there are probably many more things that will need to be added to that list as well

At least if you’re relocating to Germany, Spain, France or indeed any European country; moving your furniture and other possessions doesn’t have to add to your worries. Here at European Removal Experts, we specialise in facilitating household and business removals to Continental European destinations so we can take care of all the stress of moving for you.

If you’re looking for removals to Germany, we can provide you with door-to-door deliveries to and from a wide range of German destinations such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne and Stuttgart. Similarly, we can provide comparable services to locations in Spain, France, Italy and beyond.

So, if you want one less stressful aspect to deal with when moving to Germany, France or wherever; look no further than us here at European Removal Experts.

Something in the Water?

Our phone rings – “Hi, I’m moving to Holland soon…” and we’re only too happy to help! “I’m moving to Holland…” enquires are amongst our most numerous requests. But just what is it with tulip country that’s causing all sorts of British folks – young, old, graduate, retiree – to make the jump to the nation of windmills?

Fitting in
Relocating to Holland is arguably one of the safest options in terms of culture shock. Roughly 12% of the Amsterdam’s population is made up of expats, making the expat community in Holland one of the most prolific in Europe.

Culture
The façade of windmills, clogs and tulips belies a thriving contemporary culture. The Dutch are people who LOVE their festivals! Everything from flowers and windmills to cycling and the Dutch locales themselves are lovingly honoured with upbeat festivals throughout the year. Art and music festivals such as the wonderful “Festival aan de Werf” in Utrecht are well-run, safe and attracting more patrons every year.

Work and Study
Moving to the Netherlands for educational purposes is a huge trend amongst the UK’s high school and university graduates. Similarly, increasing numbers of jobseekers are finding the Dutch balance between work and play all too irresistible!

Travel
They say travel broadens the mind. The reality for most folks is that they don’t want to stray TOO far from home. Nobody says you HAVE to love the country you’re born too though – Just look at Anglophile Gwyneth Paltrow, tennis ace Greg Rusedski, literary father Ernest Hemmingway or fabulous fashion designer Tom Ford!

Enjoy the Transition by Learning the Language

We live in an incredibly multi-national society, and as such the lines between different countries in the EU can often seem blurred. We’re all very accommodating of each other and relocation is on the rise, but while we may think that everyone else speaks our language it isn’t always the case. So, whether you’re moving to France, Germany or anywhere else, make sure that you learn the language.

Learning the language of the country you’re relocating to will give you numerous benefits. It will make the whole process of moving to France or elsewhere far simpler as you won’t have to worry about language barriers when trying to arrange important details, and as we all know, failure to understand each other can be incredibly frustrating.

Not only does it make the general necessities easier, but it also means that the locals will be more accommodating. Moving to France or anywhere else can be a big decision and you want to be able to adjust as quickly and as easily as possible, and learning the language will be one of the best ways to blend in.

This is even more important if you’re relocating to somewhere in the countryside, as although a lot of people will know English they’re often less likely to in areas with fewer citizens. This is often because they won’t have been in contact with so many tourists so have never needed to, and by learning the language they’ll be more likely to accept you as part of their culture.

So, to really enjoy moving to France, Switzerland or anywhere else on the continent, make sure to learn the language to make the transition as smooth and as stress-free as possible.

Dutch Dreams

Holland is a wonderful country with a very rich culture, a liberal and enlightened attitude to life in general and friendly locals who are proud to welcome visitors and immigrants alike. It is no wonder that moving to Holland is a very attractive option to many British citizens. However, the thought of transporting all of your possessions to a new apartment in Amsterdam, relocating to Rotterdam or deploying in Den Haag can seem daunting.

At European Removal Experts, we can guarantee that relocating to Holland will be a pleasurable and positive experience. Our well maintained fleet of vehicles and professional drivers and removals men will carefully pack and transport all of your items at any location in the United Kingdom and make sure that every single piece of property arrives safely and securely in you new Dutch home. The decision to relocate should not be taken lightly, but once you made a well considered decision in moving to Holland, the last thing you need is any added stress over the thought of possessions and properly being damaged in transit or going missing. Our vast experience of the European transport system allows us to plan all of our routes precisely and ensures that we always choose the quickest but safest routes from A to B, whether you move to Holland or indeed, anywhere else in Europe. We feel confident that you will experience Dutch delights before you know it and any stressful thoughts will quickly evaporate in the ether once you choose to trust our prestigious firm with your removals requirements.