How to Meet the Locals in Brussels

Belgium is a beautiful country to move to for expats and students. Also, a tourist hub, Belgium attracts people from all over the world. However, moving into a new country and trying to fit in with the locals is not an easy thing. This is because there are barriers such as language and culture to consider.

You have to be ready to get out of your comfort zone to go out there and mingle with the locals. One of the best cities in Belgium where you can move to and fit in easily with the locals is Brussels. It is not automatic and you have to work on meeting and creating friendships with them. How do you do that?

·      Check the local websites for accommodation

One thing that makes it difficult in a new city is finding the right accommodation especially if you are a student with a tight budget. Brussels attracts many people some of who stay for short periods while others settles into the city for long-term projects and business. To find international student accommodation in Brussels, you can also use social service organizations, and talk to the locals about the most affordable neighbourhoods. The good news is that Brussels is an affordable city and no matter where you chose to stay, transport facilities are excellent and the infrastructure is one of the best in the world.

·      Meet and greet

This may seem almost impossible especially if you are the shy type but it is one of the best ways to connect with the locals. Fortunately, Brussels has immense networking events all based on several themes. You can join any of the events that range from cooking classes, dancing classes to sports activities.

Visiting the local restaurants, art galleries, recreational parks and museums is also another way of getting to know the locals. Attending local events and going deeper into the village to find out how the people live is another way of connecting with the locals.

·      Learn the local languages

The most popular languages in Brussels are Dutch and French. If you are not very conversant in either of them, learning both or at least one of them is a sure way of meeting the locals. Interaction becomes easier and you can share ideas and ask all the questions you want about the city without any difficulties.

·      Book a meal with the locals

There is no better way to meet the locals than to share a meal with them. If you find it so hard doing that personally, you can use a service such as Bookalokal that pairs you with people that love to cook and eat. This helps you to get a local to host you and share their food culture and tips on how to cook and get along in a foreign country with ease.

Such services also give you a chance to meet with other internationals holding cook and eat meet ups. You not only learn about the local food couture, but you also learn more from other people from other parts of the world.

Wrapping it up

Making friends and making lasting relationships with new people is not an easy feat and can be very intimidating for some people. Socialising and learning everything there is to learn about the locals is the best way to start the lasting relationship journey. Fortunately, Brussels has friendly people and many opportunities that make you fit in easily if you are willing to give it a go.