Strasbourg, France

"Before retiring in Strasbourg, expats should be aware that it is the capital of both Alsace and the Grand Est region of France. The city is bilingual with both French and German being official languages. The city has extensive public transportation, but residents need to get a Carte de Sejour (residence permit) if they wish to benefit from reduced fares. Health care is of a high standard in Strasbourg and is partially covered by the state via social security deductions. Expats will enjoy a variety of traditional food and culture in Strasbourg, but should be aware that the cost of living is significantly higher than the French national average," commented one expat who made the move to Strasbourg, France.

"I would be brutally honest and say it's not a place for a young person and is more suited to someone with a family...but if you're a student or stagiere, then you're sorted," remarked one expat living in Strasbourg, France.

"1. Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region in France and is close to the German border. 2. The city's main language is French but there are a large number of German speakers in the region as well as several other languages. 3. Strasbourg is an important economic and political center, and is home to several European institutions. 4. Strasbourg is well connected with the rest of Europe by freeway, train, and air. 5. The cost of living in Strasbourg can be high, so it is important to budget correctly when making the move. 6. Strasbourg offers a wide range of cultural activities, from music and theatre to museums, galleries and festivals. 7. The climate in Strasbourg is mainly temperate, with warm summers and cold winters. 8. Strasbourg is a great place to experience traditional French cuisine, with a wide variety of restaurants, bistros and cafes. 9. The city has a good public transportation system, which includes trams, buses and bikes. 10. There are plenty of activities to pursue in Strasbourg, including outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking, as well as shopping and nightlife," explained one expat living in Strasbourg, France, France.

"The first step to finding a place to live in Strasbourg is to consider what type of housing you are looking for. If you are interested in an apartment, you can search online for a variety of apartment rental sites that provide listings for different size apartments throughout the city. You can also look for rental postings in newspapers and online forums for more information. Additionally, you can also look for real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Strasbourg, or contact local business or university housing offices for help. If you prefer living in a shared apartment, you can find many options on websites such as roomlala.com and Easyroommate.com. Before signing a lease, it is important to navigate the laws and regulations around the tenancy in Strasbourg to ensure your rights as a tenant are respected," explained one expat living in Strasbourg, France, France.

"Expats who live in Strasbourg typically reside in charming apartments or houses, often located in the heart of the city. The homes are often equipped with a modern kitchen, comfortable living room, and furniture to make the space inviting and cozy. Many apartments are designed with the French standard of functionality in mind and feature wooden parquet and tiling, as well as elegant fireplaces which add to the French charm. Other apartments are tailored to meet the needs of expats, with modern amenities and large balconies overlooking the city centre," said one expat in Strasbourg, France.

"The average cost of housing in Strasbourg is generally regarded as higher than the national average. Housing in Strasbourg can range from basic apartments to luxurious villas and high-end properties. Prices vary depending on the size, condition, and location of the property. On average, one-bedroom apartments outside of the city centre start at around €550 per month, while luxury apartments within the city centre start at around €1,000 per month," remarked one expat who made the move to Strasbourg, France.

"Even after being here for 21 months, I am still finding it hard to meet people. The students only seem to mix with students and people seem very clicky and not willing to let you into their established 'group'. Have joined a gym and am a member of the English Speaking Community, but they hold events during work hours, which is a bit of a dead end for me," said one expat in Strasbourg.

"Expats in Strasbourg, typically join clubs or activities related to their interests in order to meet like-minded people. Examples of popular clubs include book clubs, film clubs, language exchange clubs, and sports clubs. Social events such as concerts, art exhibitions, and festivals also offer excellent opportunities for expats to get to know their new city and culture. Expats can also join international, multilingual forums and attend meet-ups to make new friends and contacts. Additionally, taking classes in French can be a great way to practice the language, learn about the culture, and meet new people," said one expat who made the move to Strasbourg, France.

"When moving to Strasbourg, it is important to pack items of all shapes and sizes. Essential items to pack include clothes for all seasons ranging from light summer wear to heavy winter items like sweaters, coats and boots. Don't forget to bring toiletries, essential documents, comfortable walking shoes, umbrellas, sunhats, and sunscreen as well. Electronics such as laptops, phones, and chargers should also be packed to stay connected. Additionally, remember to bring along your favorite local delicacy or two so you can enjoy a bit of home while in your new locale," said one expat who made the move to Strasbourg, France.

"Strasbourg is an ideal retirement destination for expats. Expats should consider their healthcare options, and make sure their medical insurance covers them in France. They should research the climate and decide if it suits their lifestyle, and ensure they have a valid visa and knowledge of the local language. Expats should also familiarise themselves with the cost of living in Strasbourg, explore the city's neighbourhoods and culture, and decide if they would prefer public or private healthcare. Finally, it is important to understand the local taxation rules and regulations, and make sure to register with the local government," wrote a member in Strasbourg, France.

"Due to the nature of my work, it seems mainly as though the Court of Human Rights, Council of Europe and European Parliament are the main career paths. It's difficult to find work if you don't have the French/German language skills, but there is (limited) work around," said one expat who made the move to Strasbourg.

"Foreigners commonly occupy positions in the hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, and bars. They may also work in administrative roles in multinational companies, as well as teaching language or cultural courses. Other opportunities are available in finance and banking, as well as academic or research work in the universities and research centers in the city. Additionally, some foreigners may find roles in various art and cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year in Strasbourg," explained one expat living in Strasbourg, France, France.

"Strasbourg is a great destination for expats and digital nomads. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many attractions, such as the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, the picturesque Petite France district, and the lively Place Kleber. The city also offers a wide range of activities, from shopping and dining to outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transportation and easy access to other cities in France and Europe. Expats and digital nomads can also benefit from the city's low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad," remarked one expat who made the move to Strasbourg.

"Work and family...though they seem to be fitness mad too - you can't walk down a main street without seeing a jogger," explained one expat living in Strasbourg, France.

"Expatriates living in Strasbourg appreciate the city's rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as its unique architectural features. The city also boasts a vibrant social scene, with numerous bars, restaurants, and cafés for locals and visitors alike to enjoy. The city is also renowned for its festivals, including the Christmas market, and its beautiful natural parks which offer plenty of ways to explore the countryside. Additionally, the city is known for its devotion to education with numerous local universities offering students great opportunities to further their studies. All of these features make Strasbourg an attractive destination for expats and a great place to live," remarked one expat who made the move to Strasbourg, France.

"Expatriates in Strasbourg often find it challenging to adjust to the social norms of the local culture, as there is a significant emphasis on politeness, etiquette and formality in interpersonal interactions. They may also struggle to adjust to the slower-paced lifestyle, as there is a strong local focus on relaxation, leisure and savouring life's most mundane activities. Furthermore, expats may find it difficult to keep up with the cultural nuances of a society that regards manners, politeness and reserve as aspects of a higher moral quality. Lastly, mastering the language barrier can be particularly difficult, as nearly all interactions in the city are conducted in the local dialect of the Alsatian language," wrote a member in Strasbourg, France.

"Strasbourg is generally considered to be a relatively safe and secure city. While the crime rate is relatively low, the city still experiences some criminal activity, such as pickpocketing and other petty thefts, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Violent crime is uncommon in Strasbourg, though it is recommended to use caution when travelling in the city at night," said one expat in Strasbourg.

"Yes, Strasbourg has a diverse population from around the world and is known for being very welcoming to those from different backgrounds. Strasbourg is a historically multicultural city which celebrates its different cultures, and is committed to creating an inclusive, diverse and tolerant environment for all. People of different origins, religions and sexual orientations are accepted in Strasbourg and can live together in harmony," remarked one expat living in Strasbourg, France, France.

"They seem to accept differences - I've not come across anything other than that," wrote one member in Strasbourg.

"Strasbourg is a city renowned for its beautiful architecture, riverside surroundings and its rich history, making it an ideal place to raise a family. International and bilingual schools provide education that covers a wide range of subjects, as well as a strong emphasis on language learning. The best international schools in Strasbourg are the Strasbourg International School and the Lycée Grand Ducal de Schirmeck. Strasbourg International School is a private, non-religious institution that offers education for children from the ages of three to nineteen, both from Strasbourg and from abroad. The school provides an excellent English-language education, with an emphasis on world cultures, current affairs and global issues. The Lycée Grand Ducal de Schirmeck, on the other hand, is a public French school that offers a bilingual, immersion-style education, designed for French speakers who wish to learn English. The school focuses on personalised learning, allowing students to develop their own potential, as well as an emphasis on language acquisition. Both Strasbourg International School and Lycée Grand Ducal de Schirmeck offer unique, culturally-relevant educational experiences, perfect for both international and local students," wrote an expat with kids at in Strasbourg, France.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Strasbourg appreciate the city's rich cultural heritage, its picturesque architecture, and its vibrant nightlife. They also enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, its proximity to other European cities, and its low cost of living. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city's weather to be too cold and wet for their liking, and may also find the language barrier to be a challenge," commented one expat living in Strasbourg, France.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Strasbourg typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people and make friends, such as attending local events, joining clubs and organizations, and taking part in activities like sports, music, and art. Strasbourg is also home to a large international community, so expats, retirees and digital nomads can easily find people with similar interests and backgrounds. Additionally, Strasbourg is a great place to explore the culture and cuisine of France, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to visit," wrote one expat living in Strasbourg.

"Strasbourg is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural activities and events. The city is also home to a large student population, making it a great place to meet new people and make friends. Strasbourg is also known for its nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening out or a wild night of partying, Strasbourg has something for everyone," remarked one expat living in Strasbourg.

"When looking for housing in Strasbourg, it is important to research neighborhoods thoroughly. Expats should consider both long-term and short-term rental options when searching for a place to stay. One should also make sure to budget for additional expenses such as utility bills, internet access and renters' insurance. Working with a local real estate agent is highly recommended as they can provide valuable insight and advice on the best areas of Strasbourg to live. Finally, if you plan to buy a property in Strasbourg, be sure to consult with a lawyer who is familiar with the French legal system," said one expat.

"Strasbourg offers a wide range of medical services for its citizens and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores, as well as a number of specialized medical centers for specific conditions. Additionally, Strasbourg is home to a number of medical research centers and universities, which provide access to the latest medical technologies and treatments," commented one expat living in Strasbourg, France.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Strasbourg can be expensive. The cost of healthcare in France is generally higher than in other countries, and health insurance premiums can be costly. However, the French government subsidizes healthcare costs for those who are eligible, and there are also a variety of private health insurance plans available. Additionally, many employers in Strasbourg offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of healthcare," mentioned an expat living in Strasbourg.

"The cost of living in Strasbourg is known for being moderately high compared to other cities in France. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment can cost approximately $945 USD per month and a nice 2 bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200 USD per month. When it comes to dining out, a moderately priced meal at a restaurant can cost anywhere between $13 to $20 USD," remarked one expat in Strasbourg.

"In order to visit or live in Strasbourg, you must apply for a visa from the nearest French Embassy or Consulate. The visa application process will require you to provide documentation such as your passport, proof of sufficient funds, and proof of medical insurance coverage. Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may also have to provide identification such as an employer letter, a marriage or birth certificate, or documents proving that your stay in Strasbourg is for educational or business purposes. In order to apply for residency in Strasbourg, France, you can apply online from your home country or from Strasbourg itself. Depending on the reason for your stay, you may be required to submit several documents such as a valid passport, proof of address and proof of a valid rental agreement, proof of sufficient funds, and proof of health insurance coverage. When applying, you may also need to provide a certificate of good conduct and other proof of identity, including a birth certificate and an employment certificate. For non-EU citizens, it is necessary to apply for a residence permit and provide proof of employment," said an expat in Strasbourg.

"Strasbourg is known for its rich and vibrant culture, which is attractive to expats. The city is also renowned for its relatively low cost of living and high quality of life. Strasbourg is an important center of European politics and is home to the European Parliament, making it a desirable destination for those seeking professional opportunities in international institutions. Additionally, the natural beauty of the region, intimate atmosphere, and abundance of historic sights make it a great place to live and explore," commented one expat living in Strasbourg, France.