Belgium, home to slightly over 10 million people, is famous for many things, including the European Commission, the European Parliament, and NATO’s headquarters, but especially for its waffles, chocolate, and beer. In spite of its high population density, the country is divided into three linguistically distinct and politically independent areas. Those are northern Flanders (spoken in Dutch and Flemish) and southern Wallonia (spoken in French) and capital Brussels (officially recognised as being bilingual). If you’re considering a move to Belgium but aren’t sure where to start, this piece is for you.
Antwerp
One of the most hip places to live in Belgium, Antwerp welcomes expatriates from all over the world. There are several foreign schools and English-speaking organisations and groups in the city. It has a port, and because to its rising industrial growth, it also gives space for a wide variety of businesses to thrive in the city’s dynamic and varied environment. Many foreign students have flocked to the institution because of its excellent facilities, and they have found that the city’s employment prospects are improving. As a result, there are plenty of places to eat, drink, and dance for the city’s large youth population. Mainly residential areas may be found in the city’s northern reaches, while single expats tend to prefer more costly downtown flats. Berchem, Het Eilandje (a dockside neighbourhood recognised as the “hippest location in Belgium”), and Sint-Andries are all neighbourhoods that give off a more bohemian vibe; the latter even manages to give off the impression of being a hamlet inside the metropolis. Other noteworthy areas are Den Dam and Park Spoor Noord, both of which include a summer terrace bar, fountains, and outdoor grills, and Zurenborg, in the city’s southeastern part, which features unique houses, lively squares, and a multicultural community. Mechelen is a district in the province of Antwerp, but it is also a tiny city with a burgeoning youth population. The city’s low crime rate and open-door policy have helped it become a thriving centre where people from all walks of life may flourish.
Ghent
Ghent, Belgium, is a major city with a large student population and widespread acclaim as Belgium’s most stunning metropolis. It’s a bustling metropolis that manages to feel both urban and small-town friendly. Throughout the city’s various canals may be found a wide variety of dwellings situated on riverbanks. Muinparkwijk, on the other hand, is one of the most central areas for expats because of the low prices of its homes. A magnificent river runs through the gardens of the town of Coupure. The University of Ghent is attracting and keeping a growing number of young professionals in the city, opening the path for it to develop into a major research hub. Visserij, a residential area along a canal in Ghent, is well-known for its “bicycle first” policy. It’s a nice spot to reside because of the ancient townhouses and tree-lined quays, and it’s close to the old city centre.
Genval
Genval is a hamlet in the “Flemish belt” that is mostly populated by French speakers but is located outside of the Brussels metropolitan area. A five-star hotel, water sport facilities, and a waterspout in the style of Geneva drive up the cost of living in this village, but the village’s proximity to Brussels by train (only 20 minutes away) makes it an attractive option for those who want to live in the country while still being close to the city.
Liege
Liege’s historic district is well-known for its lively nightlife and folk music celebrations. To put it simply, this is the largest city in the region where French is spoken. Along with its many unique stores, the university district of Sart-Tilman, Cointe, and Embourg makes Liege a must-visit city. Apartment complexes in the city centre are a popular option for expats, who cluster in areas such the Boulevards Frere-Orban and Piercot, the Rue du Mont St. Martin, and the Rue de Jardin Botanique.
Waterloo
Waterloo is a tiny town outside of Brussels, with an expat population of about 20%. It’s a more wallet-friendly alternative to the nation’s capital, with plenty of amenities suitable for raising a family. There are malls and stores on the main drag, as well as cheap apartments and foreign language schools. It’s a tiny French-speaking city with six distinct neighbourhoods: Faubourg Ouest, Faubourg Est, Chenois, Joli-Bois, Mont-Saint-Jean, and the downtown area.
Bruges
Bruges, with its outstanding architecture, ancient canals, and cobblestone streets, has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The eastern Burges neighbourhoods have more going on than just the Markt, including the Belfry Tower, the town hall, and a variety of museums. Enjoy the many dining options, coffeehouses, chocolate stores, and, of course, horse-drawn carriage rides. The residential neighbourhoods of Sint-Jozef, Sint-Pieters, Sint-Andries, and Sint-Michaels may be found on the outer ring beyond the canal, where the noise level is lower. Buy or sell property in Beglium fast online
