Hasselt, Belgium7 Tips for Living in Hasselt
Summary: Advice for people moving to Hasselt or thinking about moving there.
This is a must read if you're moving to Hasselt or thinking about moving there.
Belgium is a country known for its rich history, delicious food, and beautiful architecture. Hasselt, a city in the province of Limburg, is no exception. If you're an expat or digital nomad considering making Hasselt your home, here are seven key tips to help you settle in and make the most of your time in this charming city.
1. Learn the Local Language
While English is widely spoken in Belgium, learning the local language can greatly enhance your experience. In Hasselt, the primary language is Dutch. Taking the time to learn even basic phrases can help you connect with locals, navigate the city more easily, and immerse yourself in the culture. There are numerous language schools and online resources available to help you get started.
2. Explore the City's Neighborhoods
Hasselt is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. The city center, known as Centrum, is a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Kuringen, on the other hand, is a quieter residential area with plenty of green spaces. Runkst is a multicultural neighborhood known for its vibrant community. Spend time exploring each neighborhood to find the one that feels like home to you.
3. Enjoy Local Cuisine
Belgium is famous for its food, and Hasselt is no exception. Be sure to try local specialties like stoofvlees (a hearty beef stew), waffles, and of course, Belgian chocolate. Hasselt is also known for its jenever, a type of gin. There are many excellent restaurants in the city where you can sample these delicacies. Some popular ones include De Kwizien, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and Het Smaaksalon, which offers a modern take on traditional Belgian cuisine.
4. Take Advantage of Public Transportation
Hasselt has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city and explore the surrounding areas. The city offers free public buses within the city limits, and there are also trains and trams that connect Hasselt to other parts of Belgium. This makes it easy to take day trips to cities like Brussels or Antwerp.
5. Immerse Yourself in the Culture
Belgium has a rich cultural history, and Hasselt is a great place to experience it. The city is home to several museums, including the Fashion Museum and the Jenever Museum, which offers insight into the city's gin-making history. Hasselt also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Hasselt Carnival and the Jenever Feesten, a festival dedicated to jenever.
6. Enjoy the Outdoors
Hasselt is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, making it a great place for outdoor activities. The city is home to several parks, including the Japanese Garden, the largest of its kind in Europe, and the Kiewit Nature Domain, a large nature reserve with walking trails and a petting zoo. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or simply relaxing in nature, there's plenty to do in Hasselt.
7. Get Involved in the Community
One of the best ways to feel at home in a new city is to get involved in the community. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer in Hasselt, depending on your interests. Whether you want to help out at a local charity, join a sports club, or participate in a cultural event, there's something for everyone. Research groups and organizations in the city to find one that aligns with your interests and can help you connect with locals.
Living in Hasselt as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding and enriching experience. By taking the time to learn the language, explore the city, enjoy the local cuisine, and get involved in the community, you can truly make the most of your time in this charming Belgian city.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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