Buying a House in France

Prior to moving to France it goes without saying that you’ll need a place to live. However, especially for a non-French speaker, getting on the Gallic property ladder can be a very difficult ask, and can involve reams of legislation. Nevertheless, with a bit of common sense and some quality time spent planning, moving to France can be as easy as un deux trio.

First of you’ll need to know where to look for properties, and this was once a fairly difficult and would involve a lot of foreign country and language research – and a heavy load at that. Luckily, however, today we have the internet; which is bursting with foreign properties just waiting to be snapped up for people relocating to France.

Once you’ve arranged to see a home, you’ll need to ensure its up to scratch. Remember – buying a property can be very exciting, so don’t let your eagerness or get the better of you and always buy to the same standard as you would in the UK. Also, if you’re moving to France on a permanent basis or moving to France on a seasonal basis, you will be looking for different characteristics. For example, if you are looking for permanent home, you need to ensure that it it well-equipped to endure the winter.

If you are relocating to France in particular, be prepared for some hefty legislature. You will most likely need advocates, due to the fact that the French government is basically a legislature-based government. With the amount of legislature involved, if you don’t know how to speak French then the entire transition can be difficult, and you will probably end up hiring an interpreter.

For all of the technicalities involved with moving to France to be handled in the most simplistic way possible, contact European Removal Experts’s removal service today for great prices that don’t compromise on a quality service.

Moving to France Beware of Local Traditions

If you are one of the many Britons who are thinking of moving to France to begin a new life, the chances are you will have already spent many years taking holidays there. This is usually how people form an attachment to a particular town or region, but before you rush headlong into buying a property there are some important factors you should take into account before moving to France. We have to be realistic about this, because there have been many stories of people leaving Britain to set up a new home in a rural idyll only to find that the reality can be very different to the dream.

Ten years ago, a friend of mine moved with his family to the Limousine region and was initially delighted by the reception they received from the locals. Everyone was very friendly, to the extent that when my friend mentioned he was carrying out some building work on the property he had bought his new friends immediately offered their help. The thing is, a couple of weeks later when he was relaxing in the afternoon sun, his neighbour arrived at the front door and demanded that he come and help with some work at his home.

You could argue that this kind of thing will happen if you were planning on moving to Holland or moving to Germany, but apparently this is the local tradition in Limousine. If someone does you a favour, they can demand ‘repayment’ at anytime, so be warned!

Some Advice on Moving to Switzerland

Moving to Switzerland from the UK is not as straightforward as – for example – a move to France or any other European Union member State, but it is possible for British Passport holders to make the move. If you are lucky enough to be classed as wealthy, relocating to Zurich or any other part of Switzerland will be a lot easier as Phil Collins and Lewis Hamilton have proved.

If your move is connected with work this should make things a little easier, but before you pack up your belongings and prepare to make the move there are some important factors which you should take into account. If you are successful in your application to move to Switzerland, you will become a tax resident when you are in the country for a minimum of thirty days if you are employed. This rises to ninety days if you are not working.

A Swiss Residence Permit is essential if you want to live in the country permanently, and the good news is that people from EU countries stand more chance of getting this document. Once you receive this, you have to live in Switzerland and if you are not able to live there for 180 days each year you must make sure that you are not spending more time in any other country. If you do, you will fail to make the status of Swiss resident, so bear this in mind when you are planning your move.

Make your move to France that bit easier

If you’re planning to move across the Channel to France, you might be feeling a great sense of anticipation and excitement. However, let’s face it, making the transition to a new life abroad can be tricky, so it’s important you plan the details carefully.

As long as you’re organised in your approach, you can minimise any stress and starting your adventure to pastures new should be a straightforward process. For example, arranging reliable and good value furniture removals to France is crucial.

You’re not alone

One thing’s for sure, you’re not alone in relocating to France. Lots of Brits are opting to swap Blighty for our neighbour’s scenic and culturally rich shores. This is no great surprise. After all, as well as enjoying a better climate, the nation is only a short journey away from home, meaning expats can return to see friends and relatives within a few short hours.

According to new research from the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies, Britons for the first time make up the highest number of foreigners in the south-west of France. It revealed there are now around 16,000 Brits in Aquitaine, and this could be doubled if the neighbouring areas of Gers, Charente and Charente Maritime are taken into account.

Many of the new wave of immigrants are younger families who are keen to work in France and to forge strong roots in their new communities.

No surprise

Commenting on the findings, chief executive of Leggett Immobilier Trevor Leggett said: “I’m not surprised by the findings – our agents in south-west France have seen sales rise by around a third over the last couple of years and many of these have been to young families who are moving to France to escape the rat race and to see their children grow up in a safe, sunny and peaceful environment.”

He added: “Schooling and integration into the community are a big positive to come out of the findings, The Sud Ouest ran a case study of an expat who runs a Franco British club, teaches English in the local schools and is also involved in local life with the Lions Club.”

How we can help

Here at European Removal Experts we understand the appeal of this beautiful country and offer specialist removal services from the UK to France. We’re committed to providing superb value for money, which may be welcome news. After all, you might have a lot of expenses to contend with during this frenetic period, so the last thing you want is to pay over the odds for your removals to France.

We are flexible in our approach and can offer part loads or full loads, depending on your requirements.

Find out more

So, if you’d like to find out more about our European removals, just take a look around the rest of our website or get in touch with our friendly and professional team by phone or email. With our help, getting over to your destination should be that bit easier and less stressful.

Removals to MUNSTER- Removals to Germany from UK

Moving to Münster

Moving to Münster has never been easier!

In the North Rhine-Westphalia, in Germany, there is an independent city called Münster. The name Münster is derived from the Greek word meaning monastery. The city is said to be the cultural centre of Westphalia and is located in the northern part of the state. Münster is also the capital of Münsterland governmental region. In this city took place the Anabaptist rebellion which was during the Protestant Reformation and also it is where the Treaty of Westphalia was signed in 1648, ending the Thirty Years’ War. In modern times, Münster is well-known as the bicycle capital of Germany.

Münster is considered a major city since 1915 because of the high number of people living in it. Now-a-days the number of people staying in Münster are around 270, 000 of which a lot are students.

When visiting Münster there are several well-known locations you must go to. One such location is St. Paul’s Cathedral which is built in mixture of late Romanesque and early Gothic styles and that was constructed in the early 13^th century. During World War II, the building was heavily damaged but was later fully restored. The building has an astronomical clock decorated with zodiac signs painted by hand and that reproduces the movements of the planet. The clock also plays a Glockenspiel tune every day at noon.

The main shopping street in the town’s centre, the Prinzipalmarkt is adorned with a Gothic style Town Hall built in the 14^th century. This is where the Peace of Westphalia treaty was signed.

A more morbid history has the St. Lambert’s Church, built in 1375 and that has three cages suspended from its tower where corpses of Jan van Leiden and other leaders of the Münster Rebellion were displayed. These people used to promote polygamy and renunciation of all properties and were prosecuted for that.

Münster has a palace named the Schloss which as build in 1767 and was finished in 1787 and which used to be the occupied by the prince – bishops and that was designed by the Baroque architect Wilhelm Ferdinand Lipper and Johann Conrad Schlaun. The palace is now the administrative centre for the university.

When you have time you can also visit the Botanicher Garten Münster which was founded in 1803.

Used from the 18^th century until the 20^th as a prison, the fortress “Zwinger” was built in 1526. The fortress was also used by the Gestapo during the World War II as an execution ground.

During the signing of the Peace of Westphalia treaty, the old guild house named Krameramtshaus which was built in 1589, housed the delegation that came from the Netherlands.

Strarting from 1743 and until 1749 Johann Conrad Schlaun built a country estate situated in Nienberge that should be visited by everyone. He also built Erbdrostenhof in 1749 and it took until 1753 to finish the residence of Droste zu Vischering noble family. The Baroque palace was the birthplace of Blessed Mary of the Divine Heart.

There are many other places to visit and things to see that leave a deep impression on anyone willing to stop and contemplate them. From modern building and high-rise building to old churches constructed in the Baroque style, there is something for everyone. Even the Westphalia State Museum of Art and Cultural History is rather well known for its vast and valuable collections along with other such institutions, for example Westphalia Horse Museum or the Mühlenhof open-air museum and even Pablo Picasso Museum of Graphic Art which is the only museum that’s devoted entirely to the graphic works of Pablo Picasso.

Whether you’re in Münster to study, or just visiting or you plainly like all the history the city exudes if you fall in love with the town you might as well just move to Münster. But don’t worry about the whole hassle of moving, because we are here to help.

Europe Remove is specialised in Removals to Germany 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

Go Dutch with European Removal Experts

Europe has long been a cultural epicenter, and has often been at the forefront of new ideals of liberty and equality. In Holland this is certainly the case and that is why moving to Holland could be a truly life-enhancing decision. Before moving to Holland, however, here are a few things to consider.

Whilst Holland has some obvious similarities with the UK, such as a liberal attitude to most things, there are going to be some differences. Therefore, prior to moving to Holland you should swat up not only on the local culture, but also on things like taxes and housing.

Like with all European destinations, if you are moving to Holland it is possible to take your pets along. This will require a European pet passport, and if you don’t have one upon arrival then your little friend may be quarantined for 30 days, so make sure that you’re as prepared as possible.

Obviously you will also need to consider exactly what you’re going to be taking with you besides your pets. Remember – Holland is a distinctly modern country and is very easy to buy all of your amenities over there, and usually from cheap second hand or “tweedehands” shops.

Of course you’ll need and want to be taking some of your possessions, and that is where European Removal Experts step in. No matter what your requirements, we are proud to offer a ubiquitous European service that can get your possessions exactly where they need to go, and what’s more we can help no matter what the size of the transfer. From part load to full, relocating to Holland is simple and affordable.

Reality Bites

New country – new tasty explorations! The palette is a fickle thing, but few daily thrills compare to good food. Wherever you’re off to is bound to have a unique menu of oddities for your delicious judgement (except the USA, where everything is just… bigger!), and that are likely to be served in some eccentric restaurants!

Relocating to France
Snails! Ew! Has there ever been a different exclamation from a British person? Helix snails are perhaps the preferred snail in most French cuisine. The best snails are between three and four years old. In answer to any issues with their… digestive parts, the snails are strictly fasted for about two weeks before becoming your dinner to ensure all their tubes are clear of… you know!

Relocating to Belgium
You know about the fabulous chocolate of course. But Belgian restaurant concepts are fantastic and include “Dinner in the Sky” (eat whilst suspended with your table in the air!), a number of converted old planes, and the eccentric “’t Velootje” bar (the seats are all bicycles!)

Relocating to Switzerland
Swiss cuisine is influenced by its neighbours; it presents an eclectic old mix. As for restaurants, “Blinde Kuh” is basically Blind Man’s Bluff… but when eating. Dine in pitch darkness, in the care of experienced (usually blind) staff.

Relocating to Germany
Well they certainly love their themed restaurants in Germany! “Bollesje” (prisons theme), “Knoblauchrestaurant” (everything is made with garlic!), and I’m sure you can guess what the decoration theme is at “Klo” when that name is translated into English… “Loo”

A Few Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Belgium

Moving to Belgium: Why This Overlooked Destination Might Be Perfect for You

When planning to emigrate from the UK, Belgium might not immediately come to mind as your destination of choice. However, this charming and dynamic country, located at the crossroads of Europe, offers a wealth of opportunities and unique experiences. From its rich cultural heritage to its exceptional quality of life, moving to Belgium could be one of the best decisions you ever make.

If you’re considering relocating to Belgium, or even if it’s not yet on your radar, here’s a comprehensive guide highlighting why this small but mighty nation deserves your attention.

Why Belgium Should Be on Your Relocation Radar

1. A Beer Lover’s Paradise

Belgium is synonymous with exceptional beer. With over 800 different varieties, the country boasts a brewing heritage that is both historic and innovative. From Trappist ales crafted by monks to fruity lambics and complex saisons, there’s something for every palate.

For beer enthusiasts, moving to Belgium is akin to relocating to heaven on earth. Towns like Bruges and Ghent often host beer festivals, and pubs across the country serve brews with a level of reverence that reflects their cultural importance.

2. The Chocolate Capital of the World

Belgium’s reputation for fine chocolate is world-renowned. Belgian chocolatiers, such as Neuhaus, Godiva, and Leonidas, have set the gold standard in confectionery. Relocating to Belgium means indulging in a treat every time you walk past a chocolate shop—an experience that never gets old.

3. Cultural and Historical Richness

Belgium might be small in size, but it has a rich history and cultural significance that rivals much larger nations.

The city of Huy, for instance, was granted a charter of rights in 1066, making it the oldest free city in Europe.
Belgium is home to stunning medieval architecture, museums housing works by Rubens and Magritte, and UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Grand Place in Brussels.

Every city and town in Belgium has its own unique charm, from the cobblestone streets of Bruges to the Art Nouveau facades in Brussels.

Practical Benefits of Moving to Belgium

1. A Warm Welcome

Belgium is renowned for its inclusive and welcoming culture. Approximately 15% of the population consists of immigrants, making it one of the most diverse countries in Europe. Belgium also grants more new citizenships annually than almost any other country in the world, second only to Canada.

This openness ensures that when you move to Belgium, you’ll feel at home among a population that values multiculturalism and diversity.

2. Central Location in Europe

Belgium is often called the heart of Europe due to its strategic location. Living in Belgium puts you just a few hours away from major European cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and London. With an extensive train network and well-connected airports, travel becomes effortless.

For professionals, Belgium’s central location is ideal for business, with many international organizations and companies, including the EU headquarters, based in Brussels.

3. Excellent Quality of Life

Belgium offers a high standard of living, combining affordability with exceptional infrastructure:

Healthcare: Belgium’s healthcare system is consistently ranked among the best in Europe.
Education: The country provides excellent educational opportunities, including international schools.
Public Transport: Efficient and reliable trains, trams, and buses make commuting a breeze.

Things to Know Before Moving to Belgium

1. Languages and Regions

Belgium is a multilingual country with three official languages:

Dutch (spoken in Flanders).
French (spoken in Wallonia).
German (spoken in a small eastern region).

Brussels, the capital, is officially bilingual (Dutch and French) and widely English-speaking. Familiarizing yourself with the local language of your region will help you integrate more easily.

2. Housing Market

Belgium offers a range of housing options, from chic city apartments to charming countryside homes. Renting is common for newcomers, allowing you to explore different regions before making a long-term commitment. The property market is stable, with prices often more affordable than in neighboring countries.

3. Taxes and Social Contributions

Belgium has a relatively high tax rate, but it’s balanced by comprehensive public services. Be prepared to navigate the tax system, and consider consulting a financial advisor to ensure compliance.

Why Choose European Removal Experts for Your Move to Belgium?

Relocating to Belgium, whether for work, family, or a change of scenery, can be a daunting process. This is where European Removal Experts steps in. We specialize in seamless, stress-free removals to Belgium, offering:

Door-to-Door Service: Whether you’re moving to Antwerp, Brussels, or a remote village, we handle every detail.
Flexible Options: Choose between part-load or full-load removals based on your needs.
Expertise: With years of experience, we ensure your belongings are transported safely and efficiently.

Whether you’re moving permanently or simply need assistance with a large delivery, our team is ready to help.

Exploring Life in Belgium: What Awaits You?

1. Festivals and Events

Belgium is known for its lively calendar of events. From the Tomorrowland music festival to the quirky Binche Carnival, there’s always something happening.

2. Gastronomy Beyond Beer and Chocolate

Belgium is home to Michelin-starred restaurants, hearty stews like carbonade flamande, and, of course, Belgian waffles. Moving to Belgium will undoubtedly expand your culinary horizons.

3. A Love for Cycling

Belgium is a cycling enthusiast’s dream. With scenic bike paths, an active cycling culture, and a deep love for the sport, it’s a great place for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts: Why Belgium Is Worth Considering

Moving to Belgium might not have been your first thought, but it could turn out to be the perfect destination for you. With its vibrant culture, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional quality of life, Belgium offers a unique opportunity to embrace a new lifestyle.

At European Removal Experts, we’re here to make your transition to Belgium effortless. Whether you’re relocating your household or arranging a delivery, we handle every detail so you can focus on starting your new chapter.

Contact Us Today!

Ready to make the move? Get in touch with us at European Removal Experts for a free quote and personalized service.

Moving to Belgium
Relocating to Belgium
Belgium relocation services
Living in Belgium
Belgium expat guide
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Reasons to move to Belgium

Moving to Franche-Comté

Freedom is the name of the game in Franche-Comté, as evidenced by the English translation of the name of this province, which literally means “Free County”. From an administrative point of view it is a long-standing province in the eastern half of France, encompassing the departments of Doubs, Jura, Haute-Saône, and Territoire de Belfort. Covering an area of over 16,000 square kilometres, this administrative province known in the past as the Free County of Burgundy is home to a population of about 1,168,208 people (as per a 2009 estimate), concentrated mainly in such urban areas as Montbéliard, Belfort, and Besançon. In fact, the latter also constitutes the capital city, closely followed in terms of size and development by the other two above-mentioned cities. Among other urban establishments of note it’s worth mentioning Dole – which was actually the historical capital of the province up until the end of the 17th century, Vesoul, Arbois – famous for its wine-making – and Lons-le-Saunier.
Historically, the region has been inhabited since literally forever, but it didn’t reach its current shape and gain its actual name of Franche Comté until 1366. Possibly the most interesting aspect of its history was the fact that its economic life relied heavily on serfs and, as such, it ended up being one of the last parts of France to abolish serfdom, which only happened in 1787.
In terms of geography, landscape and culture, Franche Comté has quite a lot in common both with the neighbouring French provinces of Rhône-Alpes, Burgundy, Champagne-Ardenne, Lorraine and Alsace, and with its eastern neighbour, Switzerland. The most striking feature of the landscape is the Jura mountains which, while dwarfed by the nearby Alps, are still attractive to locals and tourists alike due to the fact that they are easier to reach and they provide a wide array of places to ski or hike. The rural landscape that is predominant in this province is a genuine treasure of picturesque views, including such rare feats as the timber houses in the Doubs and Loue valleys, built upon wooden stilts in the actual river, and the renowned Région des Lacs, an area of tiny villages spread between spectacular gorges and waterfalls. Other points of interest are the famous “yellow wine”, as well as the wide array of delicious-sounding and definitely delicious-tasting cheeses, such as Cancoillotte, Comté, Metton, or Munster, to name but a few.

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: Ludovic Péron

Make Moving to France Easy

Just about everyone has dreamt of moving abroad, and moving to France could well be at the top of a lot of wish lists. There are numerous advantages, and here are just a few reasons that it could be so beneficial.

Moving to France allows people to live their dream, and being so close to the UK it doesn’t seem like such a big move. It’s still easy to see friends and family as it simply requires a quick trip across the Channel, but it’s far enough away to feel like the start of a whole new life.

Property prices are often a lot better than they are here in the UK, and you’ll often find that you can get a lot more for your money. The way of life is also known to be quite relaxed, and you could well find yourself a lot happier with the lifestyle over there.

Moving to France doesn’t have to be as difficult as you think, either; particularly if you consult the relevant experts. Professional removals services will be essential to consider, and you can’t get better than us here at European Removal Experts. We can pick up your possessions from anywhere in the UK and can safely deliver them to your new home, giving the perfect way to start your new life.

As you can see, moving to France really can be the best decision you ever make. It offers a great new way of life, and as long as you contact the experts it can be completely hassle-free so you have nothing to do but enjoy your new adventure.