Europe has long been a dream destination for many aspiring expats, yet the challenges of adapting to a new culture, securing housing, and finding work can be daunting. With an intricate tapestry of languages, traditions, and socio-economic landscapes, Europe offers both opportunities and challenges for those looking to call it home.
To shed light on these intricacies, we sit down with Ludvig Hoel, founder of ExpatEuropa, a platform designed to assist expats across the European Union. From his personal journey to the mission behind his platform, Ludvig gives us a unique insight into the European expat experience.
Ludvig, can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your personal journey as an expat in Europe? What inspired you to create ExpatEuropa?
I started with the website scandianvia.life to help everyone moving to (eventually) the Nordic countries. I did this because of my own challenges moving to Denmark first and then Finland. The demand for answers made me think that this is a common problem that can be extrapolated to the whole of EU.
In addition, I have gotten to know a lot of people (from inside and outside EU) that had the same challenges and we partnered up with the philosophy: why not guide them all!?
How would you describe the main mission of ExpatEuropa to someone unfamiliar with the platform? There are many expat blogs out there. What sets ExpatEuropa apart from the rest?
ExpatEuropa might be like many other sites but be specialize in the whole of EU – not too many that do that. We focus on what you need as a newcomer and understand the challenges that might arise. So, in that respect we differentiate, because we guide you from a-z without any prior knowledge our readers might have. We don’t expect you to have any prior knowledge about the country you move to.
On the other hand, we also focus on travelers and those who are just curios – which are relatable. That’s why we give you advice to the best restaurants in Barcelona or the like – that’s something you would want to know – whether as an expat, traveler or just as a curious being.
Can you share a memorable story or testimonial from an expat who found your resources particularly helpful?
Yes, I can give you this later today.
Based on your experience, what are the most significant cultural differences expats encounter when moving to Europe?
Work culture. If you come from outside of EU a 12h (plus) workday are the norm in many countries. You have to be readily available 24/7, some experience discrimination as expats and I even heard about violence in the workplace.
Else, obviously the language. Yeah, maybe English, German, Polish, French, or Spanish is most spoken languages, but what if you speak Dutch or Icelandic – or even Mandarin only? Or speak Hindi only in Poland? Well, then you have a problem in the long run. My advice to anyone moving to a new country in Europe (or anywhere in the world) is to learn the local language as fast as possible. That way you integrate with lighting speed! You can always survive speaking English in France, but you will never feel like you really live there before you can discuss current politics (or any topic) in the native language. All other “cultural differences” will be enrichment in the conversation as long as you have the ability to conversate.
What are the latest trends in housing and job opportunities for expats in Europe?
Mortgage interest is going up, together with inflation, so you can expect that rental prices is on the rise but on the other hand there will always be a demand for skilled workers – and the salary will naturally follow that trend.
If we are looking at the long-term trend Europe is the best region you can live in, because of the including work culture, social safety-net and the best healthcare in the world.
What are your future plans for ExpatEuropa? Are there any new features or expansions in the pipeline?
We have been thinking about a video-call service in the native language, but let’s see – it demands a technology and organization that is not developed as of now.
Lastly, what has been your most rewarding experience since starting ExpatEuropa?
We get emails all the time from people asking questions. Nothing is more fulfilling than answering them! To know that there is a person out there relying in you answering demands responsibility to give the correct answer and show that we have the right to exist as a service.
The expat journey, like any grand adventure, is filled with highs, lows, surprises, and lessons. Through ExpatEuropa, Ludvig Hoel has taken his personal challenges and turned them into a resource for countless others navigating the same path. The European continent, with its rich history and diverse cultures, offers a unique experience for every newcomer.
While the challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, with the right guidance and mindset, the rewards are immeasurable. As Ludvig aptly puts it, the joy lies not just in answering questions but in the genuine connections formed and the sense of community fostered. Whether one is moving to Europe out of necessity, ambition, or simple curiosity, platforms like ExpatEuropa serve as invaluable compasses in the exciting journey of discovery and integration.
If you would like to follow up with Ludvig Hoel, visit ExpatEuropa’s website here: https://expateuropa.com
