Newcomer
Lost in Belgium?
BRUSSELS BELGIUM EUROPE 5 euro
THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO ENJOYING LIFE AND WORK IN BELGIUM
Welcome home
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
Call VOO and keep in touch with home.
INTERNET: enjoy a powerful, fast and very stable Internet connection, even when your television is switched on. TELEPHONE: experience the freedom of being able to call 51 countries, from landline to landline, at the best rates, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
PAY TV: its premium services and packages are also exclusive to VOO. Enjoy the best movies and television series in the original language, as well as top sporting action. You don’t need to worry about a thing! An installer will do all the work for you and will visit you as soon as possible. All you need to do is call 0800 800 25 or visit www.voo.be. Both are available in English. Do you have any questions? Send us a message at www.voo.be/en/contact-form
Call 0800 800 25 or go to www.voo.be We take care of the rest ! * conditions apply. For more information call 0800 800 25, go to one of our retailers or to www.voo.be
220312_NEWCOMER_VOO_XPAT.indd 1
02/03/12 11:49
HOME
. Find the right neighbourhood . Move in and settle down
FAMILY
. Tie the knot and start a family . Send your kids to the perfect school
LEISURE
. Learn the local languages . Enjoy the culture and lifestyle
WORK
. Manage your career and money
DEPOT BRUXELLES X
VOO’s Trio Packs (TV NET TEL) bring you the simple solutions you need, whether you live in Wallonia or Auderghem, Evere, Ixelles, Saint-Gilles, Uccle or Woluwe-Saint-Pierre.
TELEVISION: the VOOcorder not only brings you the full range of interactive functionalities such as pausing and rewinding live TV, recording programmes and selecting from a catalogue of more than 2,000 films on VOD, it also allows you to watch more than 70 international channels, including 13 in high definition.
Spring 2012 – Newcomer
For an expatriate, there is nothing worse than the feeling of being cut off from your family and country, unable to make contact by telephone or over the Internet.
BMW Diplomatic Sales
Sheer Driving Pleasure
JOY KNOWS NO BOrDerS.
As a member of the Corps Diplomatique, a European institution or an international organization, you know that things can be quite different from one country to another. One thing we want to keep unchanged, is your joy of driving a BMW. Our dedicated team perfectly understands the constraints of your mission and is used to finding the best solutions in the shortest laps of time and providing you with a full service. This includes delivery of your personalized car anywhere in the world while respecting local specifications. And in addition, we offer you particularly attractive sales conditions. Because we just love to push back frontiers.
BMW DiPLOMatic SaLeS. BMW EfficientDynamics
Less emissions. More driving pleasure. BMW Brussels Quartier Louise Branch of BMW Belux Boulevard de Waterloo 23-24 1000 Brussels Tel. 02 641 57 11 info@bmwbrussels.be www.bmwbrussels.be
Jean-Michel Martin east Rue Franรงois Desmedt 96 1150 Brussels Tel. 02 772 08 20 info.woluwe@jmmartin. net.bmw.be www.jmmartin.bmw.be
Davo nv Maastrichtersteenweg 529 Afrit 32 - E313 3700 Tongeren Tel. 012 23 71 55 info@davo.net.bmw.be www.davo.bmw.be
BMW Brussels evere Meiser Branch of BMW Belux Avenue L. Mommaerts 2 1140 Brussels Tel. 02 730 49 11 info@bmwbrussels.be www.bmwbrussels.be
Ginion Overijse Brusselsesteenweg 403 3090 Overijse Tel. 02 687 91 40 info@ginionoverijse. net.bmw.be www.ginion.bmw.be
Philippe emond s.a. Route de Bastogne 394 6700 Arlon Tel. 063 23 05 60 info@emondarlon.net.bmw.be www.emond.bmw.be
Environmental information (RD 19/03/04): www.bmw.be
Novauto Mons Z. I. Artisanal Rue des Sandrinettes 48 7033 Mons-Cuesmes Tel. 065 40 02 00 info@novautomons.net.bmw.be www.novautomons.bmw.be
6,8-12,9 L/100 KM โ ข 178-299 G/KM CO2
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 3
Content Contributing Editors: Marie Dumont, Robyn Boyle, Emma Davis, Tamara Gausi, Kimberly Trathen, Pierre-Michel Doutreligne, Philip Curran, Thomas Buytaert Art Director: Patricia Brossel, Gunther Bernaerts (www.nadruk.be) Photographs by Corbis & Shutterstock, unless indicated otherwise Founder Monique Ackroyd OBE Editeur responsable/ Verantwoordelijk uitgever/ Publisher John Stuyck Managing Publisher Joske Plas Advertising Helena Vreedenburgh, Sabine Vermeiren (Sales Executive), Evelyne Frégonèse (Account Executive), Ros Burnaby-Atkins (Real estate ads & classifieds) advertising@ackroyd.be Accounts Patricia Banza Events and distribution Annika Strasser UK representatives Stuart Smith, SSM Global Media Ltd, First floor, SSM House, 1 Cobden Court, Wimpole Close, Bromley, Kent BR2 9JF, tel 0044/208.464.55.77 or email stuart. smith@ssm.co.uk Subscriptions subscriptions@ackroyd.be Belgium 1 year €90 / 2 years €165. You can pay by bank transfer (ING 310-0883533-46 or KBC 4322012231-12), or by sending a cheque or your Visa/Eurocard number and expiry date to Ackroyd Publications sa/nv. Contact us for details. Ackroyd Publications, A. Gossetlaan 30, 1702 Groot-Bijgaarden, fax 02.375.98.22
1. Moving The Belgian regions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Countdown to departure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Getting legal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 The Belgians have a word for it . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Making the move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Finding a home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Country living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Renting and buying property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Switching on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Making your move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Channel hopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Sorting out the waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
2. Living Health matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 A sense of belonging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Getting married . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Starting a family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 The crèche conundrum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Divorce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
3. Working Labour laws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Belgium: high-tax hell or tax haven? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Your pension rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 The right bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Setting up as a freelancer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
4. Getting around Getting from A to B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Car facts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Weathering the elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 All about the bike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Getting your wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Will I survive on Belgian roads? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
5. Education A guide to schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 The next step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Talk like a native . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
6. Culture & Lifestyle Art attack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 The spirit of Magritte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Meet the world in Brussels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Secret gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Happy hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Reading matter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Brussels is really boring, isn’t it? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Quiz + Dates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
7. BRUSSELS A-Z Know your Brussels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
GENERIS-APROPOS – © PICTURES: TOMASZ GULLA, DREAMTIME - ANDRÉ STEVENS - RYAN MCVAY, PHOTODISC - BRUNO BALSAMA - ARCHITECTS: P. VAN DER STRAETEN & SIGMA 3, PH. SAMYN
Create
> Exchange/ >B eGrow lgium
Wallonia > The assets for growth
Financial incentives for exports and investment, lower business taxes, easy access to capital – all boosting growth in Wallonia.
> A culture of partnership
Wallonia’s excellence draws on an extensive network of highly skilled workforce and R&D units dedicated to innovation
> A competitive region
Transport and logistics, aeronautics and aerospace, agribusiness, mechanical engineering, life sciences, environmental technologies: 6 competitiveness clusters and several other high-tech clusters put Wallonia at the forefront of progress.
Excellence at the heart of Europe
1. Moving
Getting settled
Nobody likes red tape. But when moving to another country it’s unavoidable, and Belgium is certainly no exception. Between gathering the right paperwork (and all the stamps, translations and notarisations that may or may not go with it) and spending a lot of time queuing up at your local commune, getting settled can seem like a real daunting and tedious process. Add to that the complexity that comes from living in a country with three official languages, and you’re in for a ride. We’re here to help you through it, though, with loads of information on preparing for the move and surviving those first few months.
Newcomer
6 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 7
Moving
Moving
The Belgian regions
|
One country, several languages, three very distinct areas Belgium is a federal state consisting of three regions: the officially bilingual Brussels Capital Region, the Flemish Region, where Dutch is the main language, and the Walloon Region, where French and some German are spoken. The three regions have acquired increasing autonomy: each is responsible for its own economic policy, trade, employment, housing, agriculture, environment, energy and transport, while the federal state takes care of foreign affairs, defence, justice, health and social security. Education, welfare and
culture are the responsibility of the language communities. Belgium’s borders are a 65km-stretch of North Sea coast; to the north we cross into the Netherlands, in the east is Germany and the southern borders reach Luxembourg and France. In the middle lies Brussels, the capital, within easy reach of London, Paris, Amsterdam and Frankfurt. Brussels’ international airport in Zaventem is a growing hub of European air travel, while Liège and Charleroi are major bases for freight and lowcost airlines.
de Louvain. All offer courses in English. Ambitious economics students can apply for the prestigious francophone Solvay Brussels School in Economics and Management, while a number of English-language universities also have a base in Brussels, including Boston University, the University of Kent and the Open University.
Brussels-Capital region bb
Belgium’s central position has made it a sort of mini-Europe: the Dutch-speaking north, in many respects, resembles northern Europe, while the French-speaking south has a touch of southern Europe to it. In Belgium, 23 percent of the population are of non-Belgian descent. In Brussels, that figure is almost double, at 40 percent, making it an ideal location for the European institutions and Nato, whose headquarters are split between Brussels and Mons.
www.brussels.irisnet.be
The Brussels-Capital Region was created in 1989. It is made up of 19 communes, one of which is also named Brussels. Brussels is the capital of Flanders and officially bilingual, although French is the language that is used most. Six Flemish communes on the outskirts of Brussels offer flexible linguistic arrangements to the non-Dutchspeakers who make up the majority of their residents. These communes à facilités/faciliteitengemeenten are Wemmel, Kraainem, Wezembeek-Oppem, Rhode-Saint-Genèse, Linkebeek and Drogenbos.
Doing business
The political importance of Brussels as ‘the capital of Europe’ attracts a large number of lobbying firms, and many international companies have chosen Brussels as their European headquarters. It is a major meeting place for international conferences, and was rated the fourth most attractive business location after London, Paris and Frankfurt The European by the biggest European companies. Parliament in Brussels The Brussels employment agency is AcCulture and education tiris, which offers retraining courses and Brussels boasts many cultural centres, in- An introduction to the political and cultural chances for people to brush up their language cluding Bozar and Flagey, which host mul- history of the Flemish in Brussels can be skills. Employers can advertise jobs there tilingual exhibitions, concerts and films in found at www.brussels.info, which is available and jobseekers are helped to sharpen their techniques to find employment. The agency historic buildings. Opera can be seen at La in English. Monnaie/De Munt, while the National Thea- There are five universities in Brussels: the can also help you set up shop as a freelancer, tre offers primarily French-language produc- Dutch-language Vrije Universiteit Brussel in cooperation with the Brussels Enterprise tions. Passa Porta organises literary seminars and Hogeschool Universiteit Brussel, and Agency. and authors’ evenings, and Kaaitheater and three French-language institutions, Univer- | www.actiris.be KVS are the best known theatres offering sité Libre de Bruxelles, Saint-Louis and the | www.abe-bao.be Dutch-language productions. medical faculties of Université Catholique Tourism hub Visit Brussels provides comprehensive information on what to see and do in the city, including nightlife, food and drink, museums and galleries. The Uit in Brussel website gives a good introduction to the cultural programmes on offer in Brussels, and it is available in English and French as well as Dutch. The Muntpunt building, which will open in 2012, will represent Flanders in Brussels and Brussels in Flanders. A lively meeting place with a modern library, it will provide multilingual information about what goes on in Brussels, although its focus will be Dutchlanguage culture.
| | | | | | | |
www.visitbrussels.be www.lamonnaie.be www.theatrenational.be www.flagey.be www.muntpunt.be www.uitinbrussel.be www.passaporta.be www.bozar.be
Brussels’ airport at Zaventem is an international hub
Newcomer
8 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 9
Moving
Moving
For investors, the Brussels Investment Agency may be of help. There is also a yearly weekend event organised where start-ups and investors can get together.
| | |
www.investinbrussels.com www.brussels.startupweekend.org www.brussels.angloinfo.com
The National Employment Office (Onem or RVA) is responsible for unemployment benefits, the system of cheques for buying household services and retraining schemes. The website is also in English.
|
www.onem.be
Settling in
W_FURNITURE_16-NB
8/02/06
9:52
Page 1
The region has an elaborate welcome structure for newcomers and information in English for most services. The BrusselsEurope Liaison office is a general source of information but also a useful facilitator if you encounter problems such as disagreements with your landlord. The office works closely with the welcome offices of the European institutions.
|
• Low rental rate • Fast delivery • 3,000 m2 showroom from the ultraluxurious to the strictly functional • Ask for a free colour brochure.
www.blbe.be
www.ond.vlaanderen.be/english
Flanders is also home to some prestigious educational centres. Vlerick Leuven Gent, for example, is a top-rated management school, which also organises events and programmes for expats.
|
www.vlerick.com/expats
Innovation
www.maisondelafrancite.be www.huisnederlandsbrussel.be
More on www.thebulletin.be
Flanders has a lot to offer in the field of education. Visit www.studyinflanders.be for an overview, while general education information can be found at the site below. The National Academic Recognition and Information Centre in Flanders is responsible for recognising the equivalence of foreign certificates with a corresponding Flemish degree.
|
In this city of a little over 1.8 million people, more than 180 languages are spoken. Multilingual families feel at home, and both language communities are keen for newcomers to learn their respective languages. The official window of the French-speaking Community is Maison de la Francité, next to the metro stop Arts-Loi. The Flemish counterpart in Brussels is Huis van het Nederlands, which also has offices in Jette and Ixelles and can advise on where to find Dutch language courses. The government of Flanders also edits a brochure called BRU Brussels For You, which offers tips on how to make the most of your life in Brussels. It can be ordered from brussel@ vlaanderen.be.
| |
225-231 Chaussée d’Helmet, 1030 Brussels - Fax: 02/216.03.33 E-mail: furnitrent@skypro.be
It is a story of cutting-edge craftsmanship – in the past and present, as well as in the future. “Situated within 500 km of the major EuBoth communities offer languages courses, ropean capitals, Flanders is the gateway to conversation tables, conferences and help Europe. It shares its own capital with the EU, desks for translation. Around 10 percent of Nato and numerous other international insti the 350,000 people living in Brussels’ Flem- tutions and companies. Its renowned sea ish suburbs are non-Belgian, but in some ports, its dense railway and road network, its communes, such as Kraainem and Wezem- productive and highly-educated population, beek-Oppem, that goes up to a third. The its excellent healthcare and R&D-friendly non-profit Flemish organisation de Rand is climate, combine to make Flanders a unique in charge of cultural programming and is place in Europe. It is also a front-runner in the geared towards newcomers in the communes international cultural scene, from fashion surrounding the Brussels-Capital Region. and design to architecture, fine-arts, film, By organising coffee mornings at commu- theatre and music.” nity centres for young parents with babies, de Rand tries to create meeting places for both Famous names the foreign community and locals. Flanders is known for its dynamic design and | www.derand.be (also in English) fashion industry. Some of the greatest names in Belgian art and performance are from Karl Musschoot, Head of the Communica- Flanders, such as painter Luc Tuymans, art tion Division of the Flemish Authorities, polymath Jan Fabre, choreographer Anne describes what makes Flanders special. He Teresa de Keersmaeker, not to forget fashion says: “Flanders is a region of creators; hands designers Dries van Noten, Martin Margiela -on, determined, sustainable, professional and Ann Demeulemeester. and helpful people who have been passionate | www.artsflanders.be about knowledge and expertise for centuries.
Flanders bb
The Port of Antwerp is one of Europe’s largest sea harbours
Plenty of innovative businesses are based here, too. Thanks to Eyetronics, a spin-off of the University of Leuven, the James Bond and Star Trek franchises have been provided with credible visual effects. The hi-tech company also designs computer games with a 3D dimension. Flanders DC, the organisation for entrepreneurial creativity, houses a centre for creativity and innovation in Flanders. The Flanders Fashion Institute is part of this and promotes Flemish fashion on a global stage.
|
www.flandersdc.be (also in English)
10 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
Newcomer
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 11
Moving
Moving
Where else but in cycling-obsessed Flanders | www.vlao.be would a company come up with the idea of | www.iwt.be/english/welcome creating a carpet made entirely from used | www.unizo.be bicycle inner tubes? Associated Weavers is | http://english.voka.be/english one of Europe’s major carpet producers, with | www.vdab.be production sites in Ronse and Kuurne (as well as in France and the Czech Republic), 1,200 employees and a turnover of €270 mil- Many of the country’s big industries are lion. Their Cyclo carpet won the prestigious based in Flanders. The biggest employer is Red Dot Design Award for 2011. the business services sector, followed by the health and education sectors. The website of Flanders Investment and Trade is an efficient Welcome to Flanders tool if you are considering investment, offerThere are eight welcome offices in Flanders, ing English-language consultation. which offer integration programmes for for- | www.flandersinvestmentandtrade.com eigners. Antwerp, Ghent, Brussels and the | www.investinflanders.com five provinces each have their own office. See the website below for a comprehensive introduction to the integration policies. Public transport in Flanders is operated by De Lijn, and their online route planner | www.inburgering.be/inburgering/en is available in English. Antwerp is one of Europe’s biggest ports, with the docks For families, Kind&Gezin is the institu- reaching far into the river Schelde. The port tion that provides services and guidance connects the North Sea with Europe’s inland throughout pregnancy and early childhood. waterway network and has even opened a rail connection with China for freight trains. | www.kindengezin.be With a freight volume of 187 million tonnes in 2011, Antwerp is the second largest port in Two non-profit organisations, VOKA and Europe and one of the largest in the world. It UNIZO, support entrepreneurs, while the is the European market leader for handling Flemish employment agency, VDAB, has steel, project cargoes, fruit, forest products, information in English on its website. Enter- coffee and tobacco. prise Europe Network is the contact for start- | www.delijn.be ups for everything a company needs where | www.portofantwerp.com it comes into contact with the government. | www.flandersportarea.be (only in Dutch)
Daily life When it comes to finding a home, the Flemish Social Housing Company can help you find affordable housing (to rent or buy), or a loan to cover the costs. Preferential loans are available to households with at least one child.
| |
www.vmsw.be (in English) www.vlaamswoningfonds.be (not in English)
Flanders also offers a variety of leisure activities and cultural events. The sites www. cultuurnet.be and www.uitinvlaanderen.be (only in Dutch) provide a complete leisure agenda, while www.sweetflanders.eu focuses on food and drink. Tourists from all over the world make use of the site www.visitflanders.com. Flanders’ historical and cultural heritage, modern art initiatives, rich food culture and dynamic fashion scene illustrate the craftsmanship burgeoning in its cities. With a biking network across its green regions, it is a pioneer in opening up biking and walking routes and paths. The Flemish coastal region is distinguished from neighbouring coastal areas by its promotion of events and festivals, museums, heritage treasures and authentic regional dishes, and the numerous small lodgings are reputed for their hospitality. should aim for in 2020. It is parallel to the EU 2020 strategy to generate smart, sustainable and inclusive growth in the EU but reaches The future further in its aims to develop Flanders into a In 2009, organisations of entrepreneurs, more friendly, humane and liveable region. politicians and civil society signed a pact as Their goal is for Flanders to become one of the part of an ambitious plan for what Flanders top five regions in Europe by 2020.
Our tips bb
Our tips bb
Bed in Brussels
Home Dating
In-Lease
Need to spend some time in Brussels but can’t face the anonymity of a hotel room? You might like to check out this online accommodation booker, which lists hundreds of rooms in private homes. From simple bedsits near the South Station to regal suites in Uccle and Woluwe, the system is a perfect way to meet locals. It also works out much cheaper than hotels: prices start at €34 per night for a single, and discounts are available for children and long stays.
Buying a house or apartment takes time – you often need to read hundreds of ads and visit dozens of places before finding one you like One solution is to ask these house hunters to do that for you: tell them what your budget is and which area you covet and they’ll leave no stone unturned to help you locate your dream home. They can also push the price down for you, which makes investing in their services a win-win.
You’ve found the flat and signed the lease. Before you rush to Ikea to buy the obligatory wardrobe and sofa, you may want to check out what this furniture rental company has to offer: tables, beds, televisions, lamps, even crockery and bedlinen are available for rent in a wide range of prices and styles. A savvy solution if you’re only planning to stay in the country for a few months, or while you wait for your things to be shipped from overseas
|
www.bnb-brussels.be
|
www.homedating.be
|
www.in-lease.com
The pact lists 20 goals including better air quality and healthcare, cutting poverty and developing infrastructure that avoids congestion. It aims to create an edge to Flanders’ economy, by aggressively concentrating on innovation and knowledge-based industries.
|
www.flandersinaction.be
Newcomer
12 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
Moving
Gosselin Moving and Belgian chocolatiers have one thing in common: a reputation for quality above all else. Just like that memorable first bite of a Belgian chocolate, your first contact with your dedicated Gosselin specialist will show you right away that all of your relocation needs will be handled flawlessly. Whilst the Belgians have spent decades refining their chocolates, Gosselin has more than 80 years of experience relocating people around the globe (or around the corner), immediately making everyone feel comfortable in their new surroundings.
Wallonia bb
|
The master Belgian chocolatiers are renowned for their extensive selection of delectable chocolates for every taste. Similarly Gosselin Moving, through its 48 offices, offers a comprehensive à la carte menu of moving services for every type of relocation, removal and storage need.
www.wallonie.be
We care for our clients like family and are always looking for that extra ingredient to make your move as smooth as possible.
Gosselin Moving ... savour the excellence.
The capital of Wallonia is Namur, and the region prides itself on its strategic location and expanding transport network. Wallonia has two international airports: Charleroi (Brussels South), specialising in low-cost passenger traffic, and Liège, which is growing into a leading cargo hub. It has excellent road, rail and waterway connections with the neighbouring countries of the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg and France. The region is also home to a small but very active German-speaking community on the German border.
Scan this QR code or check on www.moving.gosselingroup.eu/bulletin for your exclusive offer!
GOSSELIN MOVING, CONSTANTLY CARING Belcrownlaan 23 | B-2100 Antwerp – Belgium T +32-3-360 55 00 | T +32-2-772 34 87 | F +32 3-360 55 79
New image
WWW.MOVING.GOSSELINGROUP.EU | MOVINGGOSSELINGROUP.EU
Wallonia Investment Agency has offices in Brussels and Namur, and is working hard to shed the region’s image of old, uncompetitive industries. The agency strives to portray the region’s industrial heritage – ‘the cradle of the industrial revolution’ – as its strength, revamped by high technologies. Wallonia is the base for a large number of international corporations active in various sectors, including pharmaceutical, aeronautics, logistics, distribution and chemistry. SMEs are the main employers. ` ` page 14
NewComer-11_Mise en page 1 24/02/11 11:32 Page1 GOS008_TheBulletin_122x185_LE02.indd 1
3/02/12 14:46
Picturesque Dinant stretches along the Meuse
Our tips bb
To all those who do not want to become a lawyer, a pharmacist, an engineer, a surgeon, a teacher, a judge, a physiotherapist, an optometrist, a bishop or a footballer . . .
Brussels Card
but who still wish to make a brilliant career.
Whether you’re just visiting Brussels or are planning to take a couple of days off to show relatives around your city of adoption, this all-inclusive card could be for you. Costing €24 for 24 hours, €34 for 48 hours and only €40 for 72, it gives free access to STIB metros, trams and busses and some museums, as well as discounts in many shops, bars and restaurants. Buy it online or from the Brussels Info Place on Place Royale. Tourist offices, some museums and Fnac stores also sell it.
|
www.brusselscard.be
COLLEGE OF ADVERTISING & DESIGN INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN • ADVERTISING • GRAPHIC & WEB DESIGN • 3D DESIGN & ANIMATION 25, rue Roberts-Jones 1180 BRUSSELS T.: + 32 (0) 2 640 40 32 www.cad.be
Newcomer
14 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
Moving
Invest in Wallonia promotes the new Wallonia. Its website is available not only in French, Dutch, German and English, but also in Japanese and Chinese, as befits its global outreach. With offices across the region, Wallonia Export Agency AWEX promotes investment in Wallonia by providing a dedicated support system to help companies export and develop internationally. A major initiative since 2005 is the Marshall Plan, which aims to stimulate the economic development of Wallonia and the Frenchspeaking Community. A second green version of the plan focusing on sustainable development was launched in 2009.
| | |
www.wallonia-international.be www.investinwallonia.be www.awex.be
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 15
Moving
Countdown to departure 6 months before departure Living the life in the Ardennes
international scene, while Liège is a candidate city for Expo 2017. Wallonia also has its fashion-conscious side, The new Wallonia revolves around six com- with WallonieBruxelles Design Mode helppetitive clusters with a tripod organisational ing designers export their creations. Liège structure (academies, companies and train- has emerged as a breeding ground for upand-coming young designers. The famous ing centres); centres of excellence such as the Gembloux faculty for agribusiness and watch brand Ice-Watch comes from the town the Liège centre for space sciences, while 200 of Bastogne. business parks and a dozen science parks are | www.wbdm.be fostering new start-ups. AMOS is a spin-off from Liège University that develops advanced optical instruments Natural beauty for the space industry; pharmaceutical giant GSK has a vaccine research base near Genval; The Ardennes is a swath of forests, rolling Google set up its first European data centre hills and river valleys, including the Meuse, in Wallonia; and Microsoft’s first innovation Lesse, Ourthe and Semois rivers. The activicentre opened three years ago in Mons. ties in the region are extensive, including The University of Mons has emerged as a ma- cycling, kayaking, hiking and downhill jor force in materials science and chemistry, and cross-country skiing. In the east, the while the city of Mons itself is now a hotbed Hautes-Fagnes National Park is a boggy of hi-tech research. Designated European area of moorland that features the highest Capital of Culture for 2015, the city is gearing point in the country at 652m. Hotels and up to show off its cultural credentials on the bed and breakfasts capitalise on the region’s bucolic nature, offering walking, painting and relaxation vacation packages, while the town of Spa harnesses the nearby natural springs in its glass-and-wood sanctuary. The water itself is also a global success story, with Groupe Spadel exporting it around the world and leading the way in recycling initiatives. The Spa Francorchamps circuit is one of the most challenging race tracks in the world, mainly due to its fast, hilly and twisty nature, and is a favourite of many racing drivers and fans. Wallonia is also home to many regional gastronomic specialties and a burgeoning
organic and artisan food business. It is renowned for its folklore, from centuries-old carnival celebrations to annual festivals and Christmas markets. Though Belgium is known for its food and beer, a handful of artisan vineyards in Wallonia are produc ing great wines, while Belgian Owl whisky is garnering praise from its home base just outside Liège.
Day-to-day Wallonia is also known for its lovely landscape, quality of life, friendly locals and cosy villages, some of which are within commuting distance of Brussels. For families, the Office de la Naissance et de l’Enfance may play an important role. It is a one-stop shop for all questions regarding pregnancy, birth and child health. It also certifies and monitors childcare centres. The website is only in French, but it can be a valuable resource when starting a family or moving to Belgium with young children. The Ligue des Familles is another useful and extensive resource.
| |
www.one.be www.liguedesfamilles.be
The Walloon employment agency is Le Forem (in French only). Public transport is operated by TEC, whose website features an English route-planner.
| |
www.leforem.be www.infotec.be
More on www.thebulletin.be
Begin collecting income tax records. These may be useful when filing your first Belgian tax return, particularly if you have worked part of the current tax year in another country. Gather bank statements, cheque and credit card records.
2 months before departure - Check if your passport and/or ID are up for renewal. Enquire from the Belgian Embassy or Consulate in your country if you need a visa. On average, it takes about four weeks after all the information is sent to receive a visa by post. - Contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your home country to find out about bilat- - Have all pets checked for rabies. Rabies 2 weeks before departure eral arrangements it may have for citizens certificates dated no less than one month living abroad. and no more than one year before arrival - Get a statement from your local police to are necessary for the pet to enter into Beltestify to your good moral character. You gium. From certain other countries (but not may need it once you arrive in Belgium to the US, Canada or Australia), further tests get a residence permit. are required, so allow more time. Check - Contact your medical insurance company with your vet for details. to make sure you’ll be covered until you sign up for the Belgian system. EEA nationals are well advised to obtain a European 1 month before departure medical insurance card which will cover their medical costs while they complete the - If you are a non-EU citizen, apply for the necessary formalities here. Know that there correct work permits. Talk to your future is a six-month trial period from the moment employer, as there is paperwork to be comyou sign up for a Belgian health insurance pleted at their end as well. fund before you qualify for reimbursement - Make copies of birth, adoption, marriage and other services. and divorce papers and certificates to bring with you, to avoid having to file for them while abroad. 1 week before departure - Alert your bank that you will be going abroad. Either arrange to close your ac- - Buy French and/or Dutch dictionaries and count or to have them monitor your cards phrase books. Remember to get closely. - Gather and make copies of dental and medi pets vaccinated - Obtain school certificates and letters of refcal records, immunisation records and soerence from your children’s schools. It may cial security numbers and records . make it easier to find a school in Belgium. More on www.thebulletin.be
Newcomer
16 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
Moving
Getting legal Whatever your country of origin, there are formalities to be completed if you plan to move to Belgium. Visas
- For all non EEA nationals, a visa is needed to move to Belgium in order to work, study, get married or cohabit, or be reunited with one’s - Citizens of the European Economic Area family. Apply for one at the Belgian consu(EEA) do not need a visa to enter Belgium. late or embassy that is competent for your A valid identity card or passport is enough. place of residence. The documents required - Citizens of a few non-EEA such as the US, are a passport valid for at least 15 months, a Canada or Japan can also travel to Belgium certificate of good conduct issued no more without a visa as long as their stay doesn’t than six months earlier, a medical certificate exceed 90 days within any six-month peand a work permit or other documentation riod. explaining why a visa is necessary. - If you are a citizen of another non-EEA country and plan to stay in Belgium for For those wanting to come to the country for reasons other than work, proof of having the less than 90 days, you will need to obtain financial means to support themselves and a Schengen visa. The Schengen zone their families must be obtained. guarantees free movement between signatory countries including Belgium, which means that you will be able to travel to other Schengen countries during your stay on Work permits the basis of that single visa. Likewise, non EEA-nationals who are legal residents in Non EEA-nationals looking to be employed a Schengen country will be able to enter in Belgium need to apply for a work permit. Belgium without having to apply for a new There are several types to suit different situvisa. ations and professions. Those looking to set
up shop as freelancers should apply for a carte professionnelle/beroepkaart instead. Work permits and professional cards are not required for EEA nationals, except for Bulgarians and Romanians, who still need them until December 31, 2013. Visit the websites below for details of the procedures for each region, and also see our explanation of Belgium’s regions on p. 6.
Formalities in Belgium Foreigners moving to Belgium need to report to their commune of residence. For EAA nationals intending to stay long term, this has to be done within eight working days of moving. Some communes give you an appointment; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arm yourself with an ID, passport photos, some change and a job contract from your employer or proof that you have some means of supporting yourself. You will be given a temporary document and will have to go back a few weeks later to collect your residency card. This is normally valid for five years and allows you to register your children at a school, sign up to a health insurance fund and join a public library. EU staff can avoid this step by registering with the Commission office.
workout
Getting work-ready Flanders www.werk.be Wallonia emploi.wallonie.be Brussels www.bruxelles.irisnet.be German-speaking Community www.dglive.be
More on www.thebulletin.be
Be the best you can be Unique members’ clubs for culture, business, sport & well-being Detach the card on the cover of this magazine to discover everything Aspria has to offer you: energise in the pool, unwind in the spa, improve your mind at a seminar, soak up the atmosphere at a wine-tasting evening. Be part of our club… Be more… Please call the club of your choice to book your visit: Aspria Royal La Rasante (Woluwe): 02 609 19 10 | Aspria Arts-Loi: 02 508 08 12
www.aspria.be
Be More
Newcomer
18 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
Moving Moving 101
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 19
Moving 101
The Belgians have a word for it
The one thing most people know about Belgium is that it’s divided down the middle on the question of language. But there are ways for a newcomer to bridge that divide Belgium has three official national languages: Dutch (not Flemish), French (not Walloon) and German. Dutch is the language of Flanders, which includes West and East Flanders, Antwerp province, Flemish Brabant and Limburg. French is spoken in Wallonia – Hainaut, Namur province, Liege province, Luxembourg province and Walloon Brabant, while German is spoken in a small part of eastern Wallonia.
In Flanders, it’s better to take a chance on case, becoming the most popular second people understanding English than French: language, especially among younger people. even the ones who do speak French may not The same goes in Wallonia. take kindly to being asked. English is, in any
The region of Brussels-Capital is officially bilingual. Although the language you’ll hear most by far is French, Dutch-speakers have full language rights, and can insist on using their language in any official situation, whether it’s in the offices of the local municipality, in the police station or at the emergency room. There are also several “municipalities with facilities”, where residents of one language area are permitted the use of the other language in official situations. Around Brussels, these are Kraainem, WezembeekOppem, Linkebeek, Drogenbos, Wemmel and Sint-Genesius-Rode. If you live in one of these towns, you’ll be allowed to use French for official communications, but only after making a specific request.
English is widely spoken and understood
Generally, don’t expect local people to speak or understand English, though many of them do. The rule here is the same as in any foreign country: ask politely first (Parlezvous anglais/Spreekt U Engels?). In business, English is more and more the lingua franca, if only because it avoids the Dutch-French problem. When calling a large company, it’s reasonable to ask to be put through to someone who speaks English. Many international businesses have offices here, and they deal with each other more than they deal with members of the public, so English in the office is much more current than it is on the streets.
English is widely spoken in the larger towns and cities, in shops and restaurants, though never officially. While you may find a sympathetic official at your local town hall who will be willing to help you by switching to English, that’s not to be expected. If you have to deal with official matters and don’t master enough French or Dutch, get someone to help you. You will have to use French or Dutch in official situations
More on www.thebulletin.be
Learning the language When it comes to learning one of the languages of Belgium, the choice is vast. If you live in Brussels, your local municipality may offer French or Dutch classes at low cost. In Brussels, the main contact is the House of Dutch (www.huisnederlandsbrussel.be), which can provide smaller classes better tailored to your level. French classes are offered by the Alliance Française (www. alliancefr.be). There is also a host of private language schools such as Amira (www.amira.be) and Berlitz (www.berlitz.be), but those can be quite expensive. Once you have some notions of French or Dutch, the best way to make progress is to speak the language with native speakers, in real situations. It’s intimidating and bewildering at first, but it’s how you learned your own language, and progress can be rapid. Resist the temptation to allow your conversation partners to slip into English when words fail you; if that happens once it’ll be the rule from then on. If you don’t know any native speakers yet, there are “conversation tables,” organised locally, where foreigners are brought together with native speakers for the purpose of practising the spoken language. Examples include Café Combinne, a Dutch chat café (www.cafecombinne.be), and the more advanced tables organised by Cercle Royal Polyglotte (http://users.swing.be/polyglot. be). For others, try searching on www.xpats.com, or posting a question, to find one near you.
Newcomer
20 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 21
Moving
Moving
Making the move
Finding a home
Preparation is the key to an easy and successful move to Belgium.
From lofts in Molenbeek to quaint old terraced houses in Boitsfort, Brussels has accommodation to suit all tastes and (nearly) all budgets. This overview of the 19 communes should help you track down your dream neighbourhood.
Relocation agencies
well-equipped to see you through the first few weeks or months. Though by no means a necessary step, hir- It’s still important to do some preliminary ing a relocation agency can help insure a research, as accommodation can range from basic to lavish. The most upmarket ones may smoother transition. The European Relocation Association have a Jacuzzi in the bathroom and a gym and (EuRA) offers listings of companies ap- sauna in the building, while others offer a proved to help you make the move. Compa- full range of business services such as wirenies belonging to ErRA pay to be affiliated less internet connections, fax and secretarial and are forced to follow a strict code of con- services. duct. A relocation service can help movers Once settled in, you can take advantage of find out about visa, work and residence your new home. Most of these rented places permits, as well as other administrative will feel warm and welcoming but, unlike in formalities. Many can help look for schools hotels, you are normally allowed to rearrange or day-care centres and assist with house- furniture and add personal touches, such as hunting. However, when house-hunting, family pictures and favourite posters. be aware that some agencies may accept commission from landlords for steering Here come the movers newcomers in their direction. www.eurarelocation.com. When moving, you may need to book a parking space in front of your house or flat. This is done at the commune for a fee several workA temporary home ing days ahead of the move. You may need to If you have nowhere to stay when you ar- go there in person, although some communes rive in Belgium, an apartment hotel may be accept via fax or email. Movers sometimes cars using the space on the day you move. the solution. These don’t come cheap but include it in their services. Make sure you Some moving companies provide checkare generally comfortable, well-located and have a number to call in case there are still lists for customers. If yours doesn’t, see the website for the Federation of International Movers: www.fidi.com. Give yourself plenty of time to complete all the items on the list. When you move into your new house, make sure your name is on the doorbell. The police will check this after you apply for a residency permit, and may even pay you a short visit.
Getting good advice
Several organisations offer advice to foreigners, including the American Women’s Club, the British & Commonwealth Women’s Club and the Community Help Service. www.awcb.org bcwcb.weekly.com www.chsbelgium.org
More on www.thebulletin.be
Anderlecht Shunned by most expats, this is a commune best known for its industrial estates and rough neighbourhoods abutting the South Station. To its credit, it also has placid residential areas, several parks, and an excellent metro connection to the city centre.
Auderghem/Ouderghem With a third of its land covered by the Forêt de Soignes/Zoniënwoud, this is one of Brussels’ most desirable and expensive areas, offering quiet residential streets, good shops and schools and several metro stops.
Berchem-Sainte Agathe/ Sint-Agatha Berchem Cows in Brussels? About 100 of them can still be seen grazing in this highly contrasted commune, which also includes large thoroughfares and a busy shopping centre. Lovely old neighbourhoods sit alongside recent housing developments.
or overpriced studios, but attractive properties can still be snapped up around Places Jourdan, Saint-Pierre and Saint-Antoine.
Evere
Essentially a farming area until the 1950s, it is now awash with supermarkets, large Bruxelles/Brussel apartment buildings and office blocks, not Stretching from Avenue Louise to Laeken least of which are the Nato headquarters. Its and from Rond-Point Schuman to the canal, post-war terraced houses and quiet, affordthis is the largest and most populated com- able lifestyle make it a choice destination for mune in the Brussels region. Many single families who don’t mind the trek to the city expats elect residence here, either in the ever- centre. more fashionable city centre or closer to the European institutions. Forest/Vorst
Etterbeek
A two-faceted commune: the areas around Parc Duden and Place Altitude 100 (BrusA central commune with a homogeneous, sels’ highest point) boast leafy streets, many urban feel. Bordering the Schuman district, Art-Deco buildings and offer excellent value it is home to the gorgeous Cinquantenaire for money. Down the hill is an industrial museum and park as well as the elegant district and neighbourhoods that are more Rue des Tongres. Many of its 19th-century run down. The commune is also home to the townhouses have been converted into offices popular Forest-National concert venue.
Ganshoren A peaceful residential commune north of Brussels with unbeatable property prices.
Ixelles/Elsene Stylish and lively, Ixelles is where many expats and well-to-do Belgians dream of settling one day. Property prices are skyhigh around the Place du Châtelain and Rue Américaine, and more reasonable around the recently renovated Place Flagey. With a large student population owing to the presence of Brussels’ two universities (the VUB and ULB), Ixelles is also home to Matongé, Brussels’ sizzling hot Congolese neighbourhood.
Jette Savvy expats are busy snapping up property in this pleasant northern commune, which has plenty of green spaces, good shopping areas and a new European School about to open nearby. Get there before everyone else does.
Newcomer
22 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 23
Moving
Koekelberg
Moving
Uccle/U kkel
Overshadowed by one of the largest Roman Catholic churches in the world, this diminutive commune has a newly renovated park and beautiful old townhouses at knock-off prices.
Once a rural retreat for noble families, Uccle today is full of charm and highly prized by French families, who gravitate around the Lycée Français. Dense urban areas to the north and west give way to opulent residential neighbourhoods as you near the Forêt de Soignes, which fringes the commune’s Molenbeek south-eastern border. On the down side, The name means “mill” and “brook”, but property prices are among the highest in there is trace of neither in modern Molen- Brussels and traffic can be a nightmare. beek, a bustling and ethnically mixed district to the north-west of Brussels. In recent years, Watermael-Boitsfort/ warehouses along the canal have been con- Watermaal-Bosvoorde verted into trendy lofts, attracting a cosmopolitan crowd. The commune is also known A pretty commune with a laid-back, villagefor its left-field cultural scene. like atmosphere and its feet in the Forêt de Soignes, Boitsfort is popular with families and expats in search of quiet and authenticity. Saint-Gilles/Sint-Gillis Houses can be tiny but by no means cheap. Another commune with two sides to it. The The International School of Brussels has its elegant upper part around the town hall has beautiful campus there. grand Art-Nouveau mansions with prices to match. The once derelict lower part near the South Station is slowly being gentrified due to its closeness to the high-speed train hub. Between the two, the Parvis de Saint-Gilles area cultivates its bohemian allure, with bars and pubs aplenty and a mixed international population.
Woluwe Saint-Lambert/ Sint-Lambrechts-Woluwe One of the most popular expat districts, WSL boats some pleasant neighbourhoods, various parks, excellent metro connections and, most famously, the Woluwe Shopping Centre, a shopaholic’s paradise. Despite the commune’s efforts to boost its cultural life, however, much of it is commuter land with endless and charmless alignments of apartment blocks.
Woluwe-Saint-Pierre/ Sint-Pieters-Woluwe Posher and prettier than its neighbour Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, this commune breaks all records in terms of property prices. Its focal point is Place Dumon, which is conveniently situated at the end of the metro line to Schuman and the centre – although with everything on hand including a cinema, who needs to go to town?
Country living If city life doesn’t appeal, you can always look further afield. Here are some of the Brussels suburbs you might want to make your home.
Flanders bb Tervuren
Wezembeek-Oppem
Nestling in the Forêt de Soignes, Tervuren is best known as the seat of the Africa Museum and its magnificent park. It also happens to be a bustling little town with a strong expat community. The British school is there, as are several Montessori schools. A picturesque tram ride connects it to Rond-Point Montgomery in central Brussels.
The presence of the Deutsche Schule makes this suburban community popular with German families, while its rural charm attracts people from all over. Parts of the commune are within walking distance of the Stockel metro station, while others rely on buses and a tram. Airport noise can affect houses here, too.
Overijse
Hoeilaart
This town’s most famous son is Justus Lipsius, the 16th-century humanist whose name lives on in the headquarters of the EU Council building in Brussels. Housing prices are reasonable, though public transport is scant.
Just beyond the Ring lies this pretty rural town, a short drive from the city through the stands of beech trees. It was once known as the “glass village” due to its many greenhouses used to grow grapes. A “druivenfestival” (grape festival) still takes place every September. There is a train station with hourly connections to Brussels Luxembourg and Schuman.
Saint-Josse/Sint-Joost
Kraainem
Brussels’ densest commune is a shining, if chaotic example of multi-cultural and multipurpose city living. International hotels rub shoulders with ethnic neighourhoods and office towers, all a stone’s throw from Schuman and the city centre.
One of few suburbs with metro access to the city, this is a popular place for expats, lead ing to higher house prices than you might find elsewhere. The nearby airport can cause disruption.
Schaerbeek/Schaarbeek
Waterloo Famous for its battlefield, modern-day Waterloo is now home to a multinational community, thanks in part to several international schools. The town is well served with shops, banks, parks, luxury villas and a train station.
Don’t be put off by its bad reputation: Schaerbeek offers great value for money if you know where to look. While the streets around the North Station and Place Liedts may not be – how shall we put it – ideally suited to the needs of expat families, there are also plenty of elegant and perfectly safe tree-lined avenues, some of them a few minutes’ walk from Schuman. The lovely Parc Josaphat is another bonus. More on www.thebulletin.be
Wallonia bb
Rixensart
The Koekelberg basilica is one of the world’s largest churches
Prices here are lower than in Waterloo, and the old village retains a real charm, helped by the presence of its castle and quiet residential roads. Two nearby stations connect it with Brussels in the north and Louvain-la-Neuve in the south.
Genval A truly enchanting spot, Genval has a lake and a striking early 20th-century château, now a five-star hotel. Houses here can be hard to find and fetch high prices. Trains conveniently link the town with BrusselsSchuman twice an hour.
Braine l’Alleud Quiet suburban town about 20km south of Brussels. Most houses here are large and modern, with price tags to match. Much of the Battle of Waterloo took place here, and the town’s church was used as a field hospital.
Lasne Between Waterloo and Rixensart, Lasne is green and quiet and has several working farms. It is known as the richest commune in the country, though it is poor in public transport . More on www.thebulletin.be
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 25
Moving
or FOR RENATLE FOR S
UCCLE – Unique villa in prestigious location for rent or for sale.
I.B.P more than 25 years of Real Estate Experience !
We are located near Schuman and most of our clients are from the international community, the EU Institutions and N.A.T.O. We register many requests for houses, apartments and flats. If you would like to rent or sell your property, don’t hesitate to call us. We guarantee to sell or rent your property within the shortest possible time.
Sale or Rent?
E T WOLUW FOR R5E%N RENTED
FOR SALE
8
80
IXELLES – apartments, 2-3 bedrooms
WOLUWE – luxury apartments, 2-3 bedrooms
10 MINUTES WATERLOO. Villas for sale. € 465,000
Uccle SOLD
FOR SALE
WOLUWE – Unique, charming house
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
Etterbeek SOLD
RHODE ST. GENESE – magnificent villa - €450,000
Ohain-Lasne
SOLD
- FOR SALE
La Hulpe - Magnificent villa
the first three years). The rent is fixed for nine years, apart from annual increases linked to the Belgian cost-of-living index. The shortterm lease may be set for any period up to three years and may not be broken by either tenant or landlord. It may be renewed once only, up to a maximum of three years.
Deposits
The lease will require you to put down a security deposit equal to two months’ rent against any damage caused to the property Renting during your lease. On moving in, tenants Belgium has two common rental lease op- are obliged to perform a detailed examinations: a standard flexible lease for a period tion of the property, called an état des lieux/ between three and nine years, and a short- plaatsbeschrijving, together with an expert designated by themselves or by the landlord. term lease for contracts up to three years. The nine-year lease allows the tenant to break This step shouldn’t be taken lightly: be sure the lease with three months’ notice (and pay- to record all defects in the property to avoid ment of a penalty when this happens during being charged for them when moving out. If you want to renovate a rented place, you can draw up a ‘renovation lease’, whereby the landlord charges a cheaper rent in exchange for the renovations you plan to make. Such contracts can be tricky to negotiate and call for legal advice.
Buying
IXELLES - CHATELAIN. UNIQUE top floor.
La HULPE
The beautiful and spacious accommodation is one of the joys of life in Belgium. Here are a few things you should know before you decide to rent or join in the national pastime of buying and renovating. In spite of a spectacular price hike in the early-to-mid 2000s, property in Belgium is still plentiful and relatively affordable to rent or buy. The most popular websites for viewing houses and apartments on the market are www.vlanimmo.be and www.immoweb.be. You can also contact an estate agent or simply stroll around the area where you would like to live, looking out for the distinctive black, orange and white signs on doors and windows.
Free estimate within 48 hours T IXELLES FOR RE%NRENTED
Renting and buying property
LE
IXELLES - FOR SA
3 charming apartments - From €150,000 - €330,000
OOSEVELT IXELLES –RRSALE FO
IXELLES – ROOSEVELT Luxurious villa, 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 garages
Brussels 02/743 03 80 • Lasne 02/653 55 99 • Wavre 010/45 45 72 www.ibp.be • bulletin@ibp.be • Fax: +32 2 734.86.68
Do you want to join our dynamic team of Real Estate Experts and our uncontested experience and successful way of working ? Are you a real estate agent ‘IPI’ or do you want to become a specialist of the Belgian Real Estate environment ? Do you have a car, do you speak French & English, are you dynamic and sales-minded ? If so, don’t hesitate to come and join our Sales Team Dept at I.B.P. at Brussels and at La Hulpe ! Send us your resume asap at clara@ibp.be
Buying a house or apartment is a sensible option if you plan on settling in Belgium for a long time. Every sale has to go through a notary, so finding one you get on with before you even start looking for a suitable property is a good idea: he or she will be able to steer you through this long and treacherous process. You have found your dream home: congratulations! Now’s the time to bargain. Belgium, on the whole, is still a buyers’ market, and it is often possible to knock 10 percent or more off a building’s asking price. If in doubt as to the property’s worth, have it assessed by a chartered surveyor. Bear in mind that you will end up paying
substantially more than the agreed price as buyers are liable for additional fees and taxes. Depending on the type of property, expect to add between 15 and 21 percent to the purchase price. Soon after a deal has been made, the two parties meet to sign the sales agreement, which is traditionally drafted by the seller’s notary and requires a 10-percent down-payment. This agreement is legally binding: should you change your mind after that, that sum will be lost. Special clauses exist that can let you out on certain conditions. Try negotiating for one if you are not sure of securing a mortgage loan. Closing follows within four months with the final sales agreement, when the outstanding amount changes hands. Upon signing, the buyer becomes responsible: he or she must insure the property and becomes liable for the annual property tax.
Old or new? Both options have their pros and cons. New properties are liable for 21 percent VAT but usually (one hopes!) end up costing less in upkeep. They also come with a 10-year guarantee. Older properties are not susceptible for VAT but for a registration tax which, in Brussels, amounts to 12.5 percent of the purchase price. A rebate on the first EUR 60.000 (amounting to EUR 7.500) can usually be obtained if this is your main residence and only property . If you have the patience and stamina, buying a house that needs renovating is a costeffective option chosen by many Belgians. Works on buildings that are older than five years are only susceptible to six-percent VAT and are often tax-deductible when aiming for better energy-efficiency. More on www.thebulletin.be
Newcomer
26 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
Moving
Moving
Switching on Even if you’ve found the best house on the block, it’s no use if the utilities inside don’t work. Here’s how to get connected. Gas & electricity
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 27
Contact the relevant gas or electricity company a week before moving in and request a transfer form. The form needs to be filled in by both the old and new tenants, and a meter reading must be provided. If the property has not had gas or electricity connected, call the company that best suits your needs.
Belgian gas and electricity markets began to be deregulated in 2003; Brussels was last to achieve it in 2007. This means the consumer can choose the supplier that offers the best deal for what they need. When moving into a property, it may be possible to transfer the supply from the name Water of the previous owner or tenant to the new occupier, should you wish to use the same In Brussels, water is distributed by the Insupplier. tercommunale Bruxelloise de Distribution
d’Eau. Details for water suppliers can be found in the Yellow Pages, or by asking a landlord, the town hall or even a neighbour.
Power supply The electricity supply in Belgium is at 220 volts on a 50hertz cycle. This means that newcomers arriving from the rest of Europe, where the supply is normally 240 volts, will not have a problem with their existing appliances.
Those coming from other countries, though, may have problems using their equipment. Transformers to convert 110 volts to 220 volts are available in hardware and electri cal stores throughout Belgium, and generally in the country of origin. Check with the retailer to ensure it has the capacity to run your appliances.
Bills, bills, bills Once you’ve figured out how to power up your home, you need to choose how to pay. Bills – which may be estimated based on a previous occupant’s usage – generally arrive on a monthly or bimonthly basis. Typically, tenants have two to three weeks to pay each bill. Speak to your bank about setting up standing orders and direct debits. Gas and electricity meters are generally read about once or twice a year so unless you check the meter yourself, you could be in for an expensive surprise when a new reading is taken .
Warning: carbon monoxide poisoning
Homeowners and tenants with a gas-fired water heater are legally obliged to have it checked each year by a licensed plumber to avoid the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, not to mention ensuring efficient heat flow. Several people die in Brussels every year as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning due to faulty water heaters and/or inadequate ventilation. Your landlord should be able to recommend a plumber, which you will have to pay for.
GAS & ELECTRICITY BRUSSELS: www.brugel.be FLANDERS: www.vreg.be WALLONIA: www.cwape.be WATER www.ibde.be
More on www.thebulletin.be
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 29
Moving
does everything
Making your move
it can to make
your life in Belgium
As an expat, you won’t be alone in Belgium. Expats from within and outside the European Union make up one-tenth of the population. As home to several EU institutions and NATO, it’s a prime location for anyone with an interest in international affairs while other expats are attracted by world renowned industrial players. Belgium offers a great combination of the cosiness of smaller cities but top flight jobs.
more pleasant!
beautiful useful affordable since Furniture - Tableware - Interior Decoration - Lighting - Bed, table and bath linen Habitat Brussels Woluwe Shopping Center Rue Saint Lambert 198 1200 Brussels Tel.: 02 775 00 00
www.habitat.be Mothercare inlassing
2/7/06
4:24 PM
Habitat Antwerp Grand Bazar Antwerp Beddenstraat 2 bus 44 2000 Antwerp Tel.: 03 205 12 40
Habitat Liège Place de la Cathédrale 14-18 4000 Liège Tel.: 04 223 80 00
Page 1
HAB_140x205_InsertionNewcomer_080312.indd 1
09/03/12 17:31
Everything to satisfy the mother-to-be for 9 months and to spoil her child for 8 years!
Large selection starting from 2,3 kilos (premature) Ask about our flexible and advantageous conditions for baby gift lists. Espace Louise
1 0 5 0 Br u s s el s Tel. 02/514.06.59
City II Center
1 0 0 0 Br u s s el s Tel. 02/218.56.63
w w w. m o t h e r c a r e . b e
Before arrival, there are many things you can do to ease the administrative burden. EU citizens, who under the Free Movement of People principle are allowed to establish themselves in any of the bloc’s 27 member states should ensure their identity documents are up to date. Non-EU citizens should approach the Belgian embassy or consulate in their home country to apply for a visa. Non-EU citizens may also need a work permit of which there are three categories: A, B, and C. The first is unlimited and valid for all employers, the second is for one employer for one year and the third is for all employers for one year and may be renewed. They have to provide a medical certificate and a professional card. Students must also show they have sufficient means to live.
Workers on secondment could be eligible for the country’s generous expat tax status. Essentially, those who qualify are entitled to a tax free allowance for expenses associated with being employed abroad (for example, kids’ school fees) and tax free earnings on any working day spent outside of Belgium. Your employer or accountant must file a request within six months of the start of your contract.
you may be asked to present yourself at the police station. Once the police confirm your address, the commune will process your request for an identity card which will normally arrive within three weeks.
Your employer may also help you find accommodation and, notably in the case of the institutions, introduce you to life in Belgium with information seminars and social gatherings. If not, there are clubs catering to almost every nationality and to every interest from photography to ceilidh dancing. Upon arrival you must register with the commune in the municipality in which you reside. Those staying less than three months must do this within three days. Those who plan to stay longer are obliged to register within eight days of arrival. Anyone resident in Belgium and over the age of 12 is legally required to carry a Belgian identity card at all times. Many an expat has been reduced to tears by administration at the Belgian communes. The queues can be horrendously long (it’s best to arrive early) and often officials ask for extra information. To minimise return trips, take all potentially relevant documents. You will need to take your ID, a copy of your rental lease and possibly your birth certificate. Even EU citizens may also be asked for a professional card. After registering at the commune, the police will visit to check you live where you say you live. If you are not home when they call,
Make it official: signing up at the commune
Find out more Moving to Belgium: www.belgium.be Visas: www.diplomatie.be Long-term residence: https://dofi.ibz.be Living in Brussels: www.irisnet.be Living in Wallonia: www.belgium-tourism.net Living in Flanders: www.visitflanders.com Expat life: www.xpats.com
More on www.thebulletin.be
Newcomer
30 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
Moving
Channel hopping For decades, Belgium led Europe in its provision of TV channels. The country was one of the first in the world to introduce cable TV (trials began in the 1960s) and, as the foreign population grew, TV providers gradually added channels from neighbouring countries. For access to TV, you need to sign up with a cable company, a digital TV provider or a satellite provider. Cable In Brussels, your cable service operator depends on your commune.
They offer a basic package of a couple of dozen channels including those listed on the right, plus a range of optional extras such as digital TV and HD channels.
Etterbeek, Schaerbeek, Jette, Forest, Telenet is the main cable provider in FlanBerchem SaintA gathe, Koekelberg and ders, where in place of French channels in the basic package you get the likes of NickGanshoren: elodeon, Cartoon Network and National | Telenet: 0800/66.046, www.telenet.be Geographic. In Wallonia, you’ll lose out on Flemish channels such as VTM, VIJFtv and Auderghem, Evere, Ixelles, Uccle, Saint- VT4. Gilles and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, plus a large area outside Brussels, mainly in Wallonia: Digital tv
|
Voo: 0800/800.25, www.voo.be
Some cable providers offer additional channels, but, since you can’t choose your Anderlecht, Brussels City, Laeken, Neder- provider, you’re restricted to the extra packOver-Heembeek, Haren, Drogenbos, Saint- ages offered by the company that covers your Josse, Watermael-Boitsfort and Wemmel: area. Digital TV in Belgium is essentially in the hands of Belgacom, BeTV and PRIME. | Numericable: 02/226.52.00, Belgacom offers BBC One and BBC Two as | www.numericable.be part of its standard package. Woluwe-St-Lambert:
|
Wolu-TV: 02/736.77.89, www.wolutv.be
| | |
www.belgacom.be www.prime.be www.betv.be
Satellite
TV channels available in Belgium BBC One: The main British TV channel, which broadcasts soaps, reality TV and CBBC children’s shows. BBC Two: Similar to BBC One, but aimed at a more highbrow audience. Programmes include dramas, documentaries and reality series. RTBF 1: French-language Belgian channel with the news, game shows, sports and documentaries. RTBF 2: French-language Belgian channel with programmes such as Veronica’s Closet, always in French. RTL-TVI: French-language Belgian evening channel with series such as The West Wing (dubbed). VRT-één: Flemish TV channel with Dutch-language dramas and documentaries, plus US and British series and documentaries in English. Ketnet/ Canvas: Broadcasts children’s TV channel Ketnet in the early evening, then switches to Canvas for mainstream programmes. Canvas shows US dramas such as The Sopranos and Six Feet Under, British hits including The Office, and a range of films. VTM: Dutch-language Belgian channel showing popular US and British series in English. 2BE: Dutch-language Belgian channel that
Satellites are hugely popular in Brussels. Oribroadcasts popular US series such as Bones and ented to the Astra 2D satellite, a vast number How I Met Your Mother. of channels can be received, including the VT4: Dutch-language Belgian channel similar BBC’s digital output (for children, art-lovers to VTM. and fans of Parliament), all transmitted free to satellite. US forces channels are popular VIJFtv: Dutch-language Belgian channel for fans of baseball and American football. broadcasting series such as Grey’s Anatomy in English. Cards for decoders from national schemes other than the UK can be used here legally, Télé Bruxelles: Francophone channel with news but there’s some dispute over Sky’s decoder from Brussels. usage. TV Brussel: Flemish local channel with news More on www.thebulletin.be
from Brussels. The channel has a news and lifestyle programme called Brussels International in English on Sunday evenings.
newcomer
32 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
MovinG
Sorting out the waste
JUST ARRIVED IN BELGIUM ? WE TAKE CARE OF YOUR REGISTRATION TO BELGIUM’S SOCIAL SECURITY. Benefit with your family of Belgian’s Health protection.
CONTACT US
Not a load of rubbish Many local authorities in Belgium require residents to sort rubbish by category for subsequent recycling, safe disposal or incineration. In many places, including Brussels, you can be fined if you don’t sort your rubbish properly.
02 549 75 40
Partena has created a specific service to make life easier for expats : • A single point of contact
rue Montoyer 41 • 1000 Brussels
• Priority Treatments of your reimbursements
corporate-relations@partenamut.be
• A large range of advice : registration of the family, administrative organisations to contact, employees obligations, …
www.movetobelgium.be
• Multilingual services • Tailor-made appointments with our adviser at home or at your office
Getting rid of glass
MANAGING YOUR HEALTH IN BELGIUM
Total Design Belgium
Collections vary between communes. Brussels no longer accepts glass in the blue bag. Residents should take old rinsed jars and bottles to one of the many bottle banks around the streets. Many beer, wine and water bottles have a container deposit levied on them at purchase. Return them to where you bought them to get your deposit back. This is the most ecological option for container recycling: a bottle can be washed and reused 50 times on average, which is far less energy-intensive than either recycling glass or making it new from raw materials.
Batteries are disposed of in special containers
where a team of eagle-eyed stewards check over your load and indicate what to put in which skip (and what must be paid for). There If there’s any life left in your cast-offs, think are also a few communal container parks. of the charitable organisations that welcome donated objects for their stores. For truly de- Wood, metal, garden waste, old electrical funct, broken or throw-out household objects goods and other junk are free to dump. Not so – defined as things you could take with you building waste, which costs €3 per 20kg bag when you move, such as mattresses, furni- of rubble, for example. Roofing or asbestos ture, carpets and electrical goods, but not must be collected by specialist companies. window frames, old sinks or building rubble – some authorities offer a free house-to-house Too toxic to toss collection service. For example, Brussels Region will collect a maximum 2m3 without So-called ‘small chemical waste’ can also be charge every six months; beyond that, you taken to the container park, or to mobile colwill be charged €19 per m3. lection points that visit each commune (in Other large objects can be taken to a contain- Brussels Region). Old paint pots and the like, er park, which anyone renovating their home mercury thermometers, photographic fluids or indulging in a spot of DIY will likely get to (but not professional quantities), neon lights know quite well. Rules can vary widely from and medicines come into this category. Pharregion to region. Brussels has two regional macies will also take out-of-date or superflucontainer parks (in Laeken and Forest), ous medicines off your hands.
Too BIG to bag
We go the extra mile
Work Permits & Visas • Schooling Homefinding • Property & Tenancy Management • Help desk • Departure services BELGIUM | NE THER L ANDS | LUXEMBOURG | UNI TED k INGDOM w w w.map -r e lo c ations.c om
BE 185x122 Expat.indd 1
•
c ont ac t@map -r e lo c ations.c om
•
Te l.: +32 2 658 80 80
3/2/12 12:37:03 PM
Newcomer
34 ı SPRING 2012 SPECIAL
The definitive guide to enjoying life and work in Belgium
SPRING 2012 SPECIAL ı 35
Moving
This is designed for an assortment of recyclable packaging materials: rigid plastic, drinks cartons, metal food containers including aluminium food trays and metal lids, and aerosol cans – emptied and rinsed. Tetrapak-style drink cartons can go in here, as well as water, shampoo and cleaning fluid containers; but not lighter plastic used for the likes of margaYellow bag rine and yoghurt pots, salad containers and Paper goes in there and it must be clean and biscuit packaging, nor foil or plastic film, nor dry. Anything from newspapers and phone packaging for toxic or corrosive substances. directories to biscuit packaging and shoe boxes is fine. You may dispense with the bag Green bag and fill card-board boxes with paper, or tie bundles of newspapers or flattened card- This bag is for garden waste – trimmings, board boxes with string, so the collection prunings, old plants, cut flowers, grass and team can clearly see that it’s paper only, but leaves – and the collection is weekly from beware the effects of rain (you’re responsible April to November. Food scraps and other until the moment of collection). kitchen waste are not allowed in this bag – but are perfect compost material, if you More on have space. www.thebulletin.be
White bag This is the bag for most non-recyclable household waste (from nappies and plastic biscuit wrappers to polystyrene and food-soiled paper). What can’t be reused or recycled in Brussels – 500,000 tonnes a year – goes up in smoke at the incinerator along the canal in Neder-Over-Heembeek. About 30 percent in weight and 8 percent in volume remains after incineration. Metal is then removed, while the rest ends up under roads or in other landfill .
Need help? Fostplus is the organisation behind the collection and sorting of domestic packaging waste in Belgium and has plenty of tips and info in English. www.fostplus.be. More info (in French and Dutch) is available from Bruxelles Propreté/ Net Brussel, www.bruxelles-proprete.be, www.netbrussel.be, tel 0800.931.81
Quiz
Dates
1. Congratulations, you’re moving to Belgium! What do you say when people ask you why?
MAY 7 European Quarter, Brussels
A. It’s an enlightened country with excellent quality of life and great cultural, gastronomic and historical riches. It’s also the nerve centre of the European Union, where some of the biggest decisions that affect our daily lives are taken. B. Chips. Beer. Chocolate. C. It’s the home of surrealism, why else?
2. It’s moving day! What should you keep close to hand? A. Passports, essential phone numbers, and a “first day kit” (chargers, adapters, kettle, a couple of mugs, duvet and pillow, toothbrush) B. Valium, cheap chocolate, vodka miniatures and your mum’s phone number. C. A walrus.
3. What should you bring with you to register at the Commune? A. A bucket of herring to distribute to the officials you meet. B. A thermos flask and a sleeping bag, because it’ll be a long wait. C. Passport photos, an ID card or passport, proof of employment for non-EU citizens
4. What is an “état des lieux” or “plaatsbeschrijving”? A. The new Martin Margiela fragrance. B. The vital inventory tenant and landlord need to agree before you can move into a rental property. C. The first phrase of a traditional Belgian rhyme about hare coursing.
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
MAI 23 30 24 25 26 27 28 29
1 2 3 4 5 6
july Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday True colours: you’ll soon get the hang of recycling
Saturday Sunday
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
JUNE 28 29 30 31
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
MAY 23 Le Château Sainte Anne, Brussels
The Duchess of Richmond’s Ball: Meet fellow expats and support The Royal British Legion, Community Health Service, British Charitable Fund and Reine Fabiola’s Children’s Hospital at this charity ball (www.britishinbrussels. com)
27 28 29 30 31 1 2
SEPTEMBER 18 Avenue des Erables, Rhode Saint-Genèse
25 26 27 28 29 30
Hints for Living in Belgium: The American Women’s Club of Brussels starts its Fall 2012 Classes for all English speaking newcomers of all nationalities (www.awcb.org)
september
Antwerp Expat Night: An evening out and a chance to find out about life in Belgium. Feast at the buffet, try your luck with the tombola and enjoy the entertainment. Date to be confirmed.
4 5 6 7 1 8 2 9 3 10
august 23 30 24 31 25 26 27 28 29
Start Your Own Business in Belgium: For budding expat entrepreneurs, consultancy Local Knowledge holds a free half day seminar on how to set up and run a business here (www.localknowledge.be).
Discover Brussels!: Cafe Babel Brussels hosts a speed dating evening where expats and Brusseleers have seven minutes to exchange information on their life, culture, and views on the capital (www.bruxelles.cafebabel. com)
A. Invite him in and confirm that you live there – he’s just checking to complete your registration with the commune. B. Confess to a series of crimes in your panic. C. Introduce him to your walrus.
Monday
MAY 8 Rue de Trone, Brussels
MAY 25 Halles St-Géry, Brussels
5. There’s a policeman at the door of your new flat – what do you do?
APRIL
Open Day: The European institutions open their doors to the public, giving us a glimpse of what really happens in the Brussels corridors of power. (www.fetedeleurope.eu)
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
SEPTEMBER Radisson, Antwerp
Get more dates on www.thebulletin.be
Oplossing Quiz
The sorting guide given here is valid for Brussels. Other towns have similar systems; local waste collection authorities can provide detailed advice. White bags are collected twice weekly in Brussels; yellow and blue bags once a week.
Blue bag
1. A, B & C! 2.A 3.C 4.B 5.A
Colour-coding bb
Moving
Lost in Belgium?
Call VOO and keep in touch with home. For an expatriate, there is nothing worse than the feeling of being cut off from your family and country, unable to make contact by telephone or over the Internet. VOO’s Trio Packs (TV NET TEL) bring you the simple solutions you need, whether you live in Wallonia or Auderghem, Evere, Ixelles, Saint-Gilles, Uccle or Woluwe-Saint-Pierre. INTERNET: enjoy a powerful, fast and very stable Internet connection, even when your television is switched on. TELEPHONE: experience the freedom of being able to call 51 countries, from landline to landline, at the best rates, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
TELEVISION: the VOOcorder not only brings you the full range of interactive functionalities such as pausing and rewinding live TV, recording programmes and selecting from a catalogue of more than 2,000 films on VOD, it also allows you to watch more than 70 international channels, including 13 in high definition. PAY TV: its premium services and packages are also exclusive to VOO. Enjoy the best movies and television series in the original language, as well as top sporting action. You don’t need to worry about a thing! An installer will do all the work for you and will visit you as soon as possible. All you need to do is call 0800 800 25 or visit www.voo.be. Both are available in English. Do you have any questions? Send us a message at www.voo.be/en/contact-form
Call 0800 800 25 or go to www.voo.be We take care of the rest ! * conditions apply. For more information call 0800 800 25, go to one of our retailers or to www.voo.be