Moving to Vienna, Austria

"Vienna is known for its stunning architecture, cultural attractions, and high quality of life making it a popular destination for expats. Before moving to Vienna, expats should research the city's transportation system, especially the public transport and bike rental systems. Additionally, expats should learn the language - while English is widely spoken, German is the official language and understanding basic phrases will go a long way in helping to integrate into the local culture. Moreover, expats should note that Vienna is a relatively expensive city, with costs of living somewhat higher than other major cities in Europe. Finally, Vienna has a rich entrepreneurial and technology start-up scene and is known for having a highly educated and international workforce," replied a member in Vienna, Austria.

"Vienna is not such a friendly place if you come from America - very "provincial and suspicious nature abounds here. If you are staying a long time...+5 years consider to try and integrate, if less than 5 years then move to 18th or 19th districts, expats slums. In the 18th & 19th you have lots of Eng speaking temp families with which you have things in common," commented one expat who made the move to Vienna.

"If you are seeking a place to live in Vienna, you may want to begin by researching popular neighbourhoods, such as the 7th District which is known as Neubau and is home to many of the city's art spaces and bars. A great place to start is Wohnungsmarkt.at, which allows users to search for apartments in a variety of Vienna's neighbourhoods and compare prices. Additionally, WG-Gesucht.at is another popular website in Austria that helps match tenants to rental properties. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can meet with landlords or real estate agents to arrange a viewing in person. Be sure to also explore government-subsidised housing for students, interns and refugees as well as short-term furnished rentals," commented one expat who made the move to Vienna, Austria.

"Expat homes and apartments in Vienna are often situated within the city's inner districts which offer a unique blend of hip, modern style, historic grandeur and centrality. Expat apartments typically feature open plan living spaces, with plenty of natural light and contemporary amenities. High ceilings, parquet or tile flooring, tiled bathrooms, and balconies are also common features in expat apartments in Vienna. The majority of properties are situated in neighbourhoods that are easy to access by public transport," said one expat who made the move to Vienna, Austria.

"The cost of housing in Vienna is generally quite high, with the average rentals for apartments ranging from about 900 EUR to 1600 EUR per month for a one-bedroom apartment and from 1,200 EUR to around 2,100 EUR for a two-bedroom apartment. Many apartments also come with additional fees such as a utility charge and a furnishings fee. Additionally, buying a home in Vienna is not a cheap endeavor; the median price of a home in Vienna as of May 2019 was 5,360 EUR per square meter," remarked one expat who made the move to Vienna, Austria.

"Whether one should buy or rent a home in Vienna depends entirely on the individual's personal and financial situation. Buying a home in Vienna may provide more stability for those looking for a permanent place to live, as well as potential appreciation in the value of the home. On the other hand, renting can be a more flexible and cost-effective option that could offer some advantages, such as avoiding the hassle of necessary home maintenance and repairs. Ultimately, the decision of whether to rent or buy in Vienna should be based on individual preference and what best serves the individual's specific needs," replied a member in Vienna, Austria.

"When moving to Vienna, it is important to remember to pack comfortable, warm clothes for the cooler months, such as sweaters, scarves, and jackets. An umbrella is also a necessity as Vienna is often subject to frequent rain. Basic toiletries and medication should also be brought, and if staying long-term, it is recommended to bring enough supplies to last a few months before needing to restock. Documents such as passport, visa, birth certificate, and other important papers should be brought and kept in a safe place. You should also remember to pack any important items that can’t be replaced, such as sentimental belongings. Finally, don’t forget to bring a knife, fork, spoon and other basic kitchen items, as well as some paper products for the kitchen," explained one expat living in Vienna, Austria, Austria.

"It is important to be aware that Vienna has a variety of culture and customs that are important to the local people, so it is helpful to take the time to learn about them before visiting. It is considered rude to be overly loud in public places, and in some places, like museums and churches, it is best to remain silent. Furthermore, it is considered offensive to take photos of people without asking for their permission first. When out to eat, leave restaurants in Vienna a small tip, as this is expected and considered proper etiquette. Additionally, when in public spaces, such as cafes or bars, be sure to be respectful with your choice of language and avoid conversations related to politics, race or religion, as these can be sensitive topics to some," said one expat who made the move to Vienna, Austria.

"When first here I rode the Tram and wanted to stop. Not knowing what the red handle was for, I chose to pull it, thereby stopping the tram abruptly. The driver came back and scolded me in German. You get the idea," explained one expat living in Vienna, Austria.

"Vienna is an attractive destination for expats due to its high quality of life, excellent public transportation system, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful parks and gardens. Vienna also offers a wide range of job opportunities, with many international companies based in the city. Additionally, Vienna is a safe and secure city, with a low crime rate and a strong sense of community. With its high standard of living, Vienna is an ideal place for expats to settle down and enjoy all that the city has to offer," replied one expat when asked about moving to Vienna.

"Healthcare services in Vienna, are known for their high quality and accessibility. The city boasts a well-developed public healthcare system, which is funded through social insurance contributions and taxes. This system provides comprehensive medical care to all residents, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services. Vienna is home to numerous hospitals and medical centers, including the renowned Vienna General Hospital, which is one of the largest and most advanced hospitals in Europe. The city also has several specialized clinics and research institutions, such as the Medical University of Vienna, which is a leading center for medical research and education. In addition to public healthcare services, Vienna also offers a range of private healthcare options. Many residents choose to supplement their public healthcare with private insurance, which can provide access to additional services and shorter waiting times. Private clinics and hospitals in Vienna offer a wide range of medical services, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments and surgeries. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, and many are open 24 hours a day. They provide prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as advice on minor health issues. In case of emergencies, Vienna has a well-coordinated ambulance service, which can be accessed by dialing 112. Overall, healthcare services in Vienna are of high quality, with a strong emphasis on prevention and early intervention. The city's healthcare system is designed to ensure that all residents have access to the medical care they need, regardless of their income or social status," stated one expat who made the move to Vienna.

"Well worth the money, which is affordable, and no such thing as pre-existing conditions, for the insurance to give you a reason to be denied," remarked one expat in Vienna.

"Medical services in Vienna, are known for their high quality and efficiency. The city has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics available to residents and visitors. Public healthcare is funded through a social insurance system, which covers most medical treatments and services, including general practitioners, specialists, and hospital care. Vienna is home to several renowned hospitals, such as the Vienna General Hospital and the Medical University of Vienna, which are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and staffed by highly skilled medical professionals. Many doctors and healthcare providers in Vienna speak English, making it easier for international patients to communicate their needs. In addition to hospitals, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city, where prescription and over-the-counter medications can be easily obtained. Emergency medical services are also readily available, with ambulances and emergency rooms operating 24/7 to provide prompt care in urgent situations. Private healthcare options are also available in Vienna, offering a wider range of services and shorter waiting times for appointments. However, these services can be more expensive, and may not be covered by public health insurance. Overall, medical services in Vienna are of high quality, easily accessible, and cater to the needs of both residents and visitors," said one expat living in Vienna, Austria.