Living in Milan as an Expat: A Guide to City Life for Americans
Living in Milan is an experience like no other, offering a unique lifestyle that caters to various interests and passions. Milan, often referred to as the fashion capital of the world, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. Whether you’re planning to move to Milan or just curious about life in this iconic city, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Get ready to embark on a journey through Milan, exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, cultural gems, culinary delights, and much more.
Living in Milan
Milan’s Unique Charm
Living in Milan is an exhilarating experience. The city exudes a unique charm with its stylish residents, historic architecture, and a passion for innovation. Many expats that move here say there is no place in the world like it. This blend of tradition and modernity creates a dynamic environment that appeals to a diverse range of people from expats to native Italians alike. Milan’s growing cultural importance brings many expats here for both work and pleasure, which makes it a very appealing destination for staying a long period of time.
Popular Neighborhoods in Milan
When living in Milan, there are many different distinct areas you may want to consider. Depending on your preferences, you are sure to find something that fits your desired lifestyle. Here are a few of the most famous places that people choose to live when moving here.
Brera
Brera is a picturesque, bohemian neighborhood known for its artistic ambiance. This district is home to numerous galleries, boutiques, and some of the best cafes in the city. It is both popular to expats and locals alike, making it a great place to be able to experience new culture while being easy to fall back on old styles.
Navigli
If you love a lively atmosphere, Navigli is perfect. It’s famous for its canals, vibrant nightlife, and a plethora of restaurants serving authentic Italian cuisine. This has become a very trendy place to live and popular amongst the younger people who want to live in Milan.
Porta Nuova
Porta Nuova has become one of the most popular areas to live in, especially for expats. This area has high-rises, great transportation, and many of the city’s biggest businesses. It is more akin to city life you may know from the states, with many modern amenities you’ve come to expect with city life.
There are many other amazing places to live in Milan, but those three are regarded as some of the most popular to live in.
Cost of Living in Milan as an America
One of the most popular questions for expats is “What is the Cost to Live in Milan?” Unfortunately, the answer to this can vary from person and it gets even more complicated for expats. Though there are some expenses that will be the same for citizens or expats. For example, a 1 Bedroom you can expect around 1000-2000 Euros a month which is around +/- 10% with the US dollar. Generally, many expats have told us the cost of living in Milan is around the same as most major American cities.
Exploring Milan’s Culture
Art and Museums
Pinacoteca di Brera: This renowned art gallery houses an impressive collection of Italian art, including works by Caravaggio and Raphael. It is the major museum in Milan and considered one of the best museums in the world.
Visit Pinacoteca di Brera
The Last Supper: This masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci can be found in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance. The convent isn’t really a museum as there is only the single defining work that brings people in. Though there are other historic and beautiful pieces to see there.
Visit Santa Maria delle Grazie
Music and Opera
Milan is synonymous with opera. Don’t miss the chance to attend a performance at the famous La Scala, one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. Founded in 1778, the opera house is almost as old as America!
Visit Teatro La Scala
Culinary Delights
Risotto alla Milanese: Savor the city’s signature dish, a creamy saffron-infused risotto. Its simplicity is deceiving as there is a plethora of flavors while seemingly few ingredients.
Aperitivo: Experience the Italian tradition of aperitivo, where you enjoy drinks and appetizers at local bars. Starting with a traditional spritz or negroni, the aperitivo helps people relax after work and start unwinding. For an expat living in Milan, aperitivo is much like a happy hour in the states.
Lifestyle and Entertainment of Milan
Fashion Capital
One of the things Milan is most known for is its importance in the fashion world. Some call it the fashion capital of the world with many shows that bring pros from all over the world. Take a stroll through the Quadrilatero della Moda, the city’s fashion district, where you can shop for luxury brands and the latest trends. The Milan fashion week takes place in late February, so look out for this if you’re interested.
Sports
If you’re a football enthusiast, attending an AC Milan or Inter Milan match at San Siro Stadium (Stadio Giuseppe Meazza) is a must. Milanese residents are passionate about their football. The San Siro can fit 80,000 people and has tours of the facilities and a museum with historic memorabilia.
Conclusion
Living in Milan as an expat is an experience that blends rich history, modernity, and cultural diversity compared to your times in the USA. This bustling metropolis offers a unique way of life that caters to various interests and passions. Whether you’re attracted to art, fashion, or simply the joy of living in a vibrant city, Milan has something to offer everyone. Embrace the Milanese lifestyle and enjoy the enchanting journey in the heart of Italy’s fashion and cultural capital.
Remember, Milan isn’t just a city; it’s a lifestyle.
We also have a page dedicated to Moving to Milan if you would like to get started or fill out our quote form at the top of the page. If you are interested in moving anywhere else in Italy, take a look at our Moving to Italy Guide.
Introduction
Denmark, an enchanting Nordic nation renowned for its opulent historical backdrop, breathtaking landscapes, and remarkable standard of living, has emerged as an alluring destination for those contemplating relocation. Nevertheless, akin to any other location, living in Denmark entails a set of advantages and disadvantages unique to the region. Within the confines of this article, we shall delve into the pros and cons of living in Denmark, providing a comprehensive overview of the experiences that await those who choose to embrace this captivating Scandinavian haven as their home.
Disclaimer for Pros and Cons of Living in Denmark
As a disclaimer, there are variations in living in different places within Denmark. For instance, living in Copenhagen is different than living in Aarhus or Odense. In this article, the differences between Denmark and USA should be taken as more as a broad stroke, especially since each person can experience a completely different Denmark from each other.
Pros of Living in Denmark
Exemplary Quality of Life
Denmark consistently attains top rankings in terms of quality of life, boasting exceptional healthcare provisions, high educational benchmarks, and a robust social welfare system. Residents revel in a well-established infrastructure, pristine urban areas, and a profound sense of community. Denmark consistently ranks in the top 5 happiest countries in the world, which shows just how nice this is for the citizens here.
Prominent Focus on Work-Life Equilibrium
One of Denmark’s key advantages lies in its emphasis on achieving a harmonious work-life equilibrium. Danes truly value leisure time and prioritize personal well-being. With a condensed workweek and ample vacation entitlements, individuals have an abundance of time to indulge in hobbies, spend quality moments with their loved ones, and relish recreational pursuits. Many will find the minimum time off from a full-time job will be 4 weeks, which is much from than the USA. Some may even find themselves with over 3 months off during a year.
Top Tier Education System
Denmark has garnered a stellar reputation for its education system of the highest caliber. From the formative years of primary school to the expanse of university education, students are privileged to be part of a comprehensive and inclusive learning environment. The pedagogical focus on critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills equips students with the tools necessary for future triumphs.
Sustainable and Ecological Lifestyle
Denmark remains unswerving in its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. Spearheading the charge in renewable energy production, the nation’s landscape is adorned with wind turbines. The emphasis placed on cycling as a mode of transportation, the efficiency of public transit systems, and the cultivation of eco-friendly practices renders Denmark an idyllic haven for conscientious individuals passionate about the environment.
Safety and Security
Denmark consistently secures a place among the world’s safest countries. Low crime rates, efficient law enforcement agencies, and a prevailing sense of social cohesion contribute to an atmosphere of safety and security for all residents. Whether navigating the urban streets or venturing into the countryside, one can traverse with confidence, reassured by personal well-being. Some American expats feel so safe, they leave their doors unlocked for their friends to come and go.
Cons of Living in Denmark
Cost of Living in Denmark
One primary concern associated with living in Denmark pertains to the elevated cost of living. The nation upholds a high tax rate, and everyday expenditures, such as housing, groceries, and transportation, can prove rather dear. Therefore, meticulous budgeting and preparedness for comparatively higher prices vis-à-vis other countries are imperative. If you retain your US citizenship, you’ll actually need to pay taxes to both governments which can make living in Denmark very expensive for Americans.
Language Barrier
While many Danes possess a fluent command of the English language, Danish remains the official language of Denmark. For those intending to live and work in Denmark, acquiring proficiency in the local language bears inherent advantages for everyday life and seamless integration. Though Danish might present challenges on the path to mastery, the effort expended serves to enrich one’s overall experience.
Climate
Denmark experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild summers and chilly winters. Unpredictable weather patterns, frequent rain showers, and overcast skies are par for the course. Those inclined toward warmer climes or susceptible to colder temperatures may encounter some adjustment hurdles when acclimatizing to the Danish weather.
Limited Employment Opportunities
The Danish job market exhibits a competitive landscape, particularly for non-Danish speakers. Fluency in the Danish language is often a prerequisite for certain professions, consequently limiting opportunities for expatriates. Thorough research of the job market and a careful assessment of one’s skills and qualifications are essential steps before embarking on a relocation journey.
Cultural Adaptation
Relocating to a foreign land invariably necessitates cultural adaptation. Although Denmark is renowned for its inclusive and welcoming society, individuals hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds may encounter initial challenges. Familiarizing oneself with Danish customs, norms, and social etiquette proves instrumental in facilitating integration and nurturing meaningful connections.
Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Denmark
Is Denmark considered a safe country to call home?
Certainly, Denmark stands tall among the world’s safest countries. The combination of low crime rates, efficient law enforcement, and a robust social fabric engenders a secure living environment.
How steep is the cost of living in Denmark?
Denmark boasts a high cost of living, with expenses such as housing, groceries, and transportation carrying substantial price tags. Meticulous budgeting and preparedness for higher prices compared to other nations are essential for a smooth transition.
Is it necessary to learn Danish to thrive in Denmark?
While many Danes are proficient in English, acquainting oneself with the Danish language proves advantageous for daily life and seamless integration. Danish serves as the official language, and embracing it heightens the overall experience.
What characterizes the Danish education system?
Denmark’s education system is widely acclaimed for its adherence to high standards. From primary school through university, students are nurtured within a comprehensive and inclusive educational environment that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills.
How is work-life balance cultivated in Denmark?
Denmark places substantial emphasis on cultivating a healthy work-life balance. With shorter workweeks and generous vacation entitlements, individuals gain ample time to pursue personal interests, relish family moments, and savor leisurely pursuits.
What are some popular attractions in Denmark?
Denmark presents an array of enticing attractions for both residents and visitors. Tivoli Gardens, the picturesque Nyhavn waterfront, the historically captivating city of Copenhagen, and the enchanting castles of North Zealand rank among the popular destinations.
Conclusion to Living in Denmark Pros and Cons
Living in Denmark unfurls a tapestry of opportunities and experiences. The exceptional quality of life, steadfast dedication to work-life balance, and unwavering commitment to sustainability render this nation an irresistible destination for many. However, it is crucial to consider factors such as the cost of living, language barrier, and cultural adaptation before embarking on a journey of relocation. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, individuals can determine if living in Denmark aligns with their aspirations and goals.
Additional Reading
If you decide that the pros outweigh the cons to living in Denmark, Schumacher Cargo Logistics can help you move there. From your household to vehicles, you can easily ship all your goods to even the smallest towns.
To get started fill out our Online Quote Form and a representative will contact you soon!
There are many reasons for Americans to think about living in the Netherlands. With some of the happiest people to its picturesque cities, more and more expats from the US are living in Holland. We’ve heard back from expats on things they learned during their Dutch expat life. To help with acclimating to life in the Netherlands, we’ve compiled some of the major differences for expats living there.
Read our article on the pros and cons for the differences living in the Netherlands compared to the USA below!
Disclaimer for Living in the Netherlands: Pros and Cons
As a disclaimer, there are differences in living in different places in the Netherlands. For instance, living in Amsterdam is different than living in Rotterdam or Utrecht. In this article, the differences between the Netherlands and USA are broad and may not apply to each city in the country.
Pros of Living in the Netherlands
Happy and High Quality Living
One of the biggest draws of Holland is their happy people and high quality of life. According to the World Happiness Report, the Netherlands ranks as the #5 happiest country in the world. From very friendly people to an extremely good work life balance, it’s no wonder the people living in the Netherlands are so happy.
Very Low Language Barrier
In general, most of the Dutch speak English. Estimates show that around 95% of the Netherlands speaks English, so you can be comfortable knowing that you can communicate with anyone here. It would be difficult to find a place that does not have English signage or accompanying text.
Amazing Public Transit
Public transit in America is not the greatest in the world, so when living in Holland they are completely surprised. The Netherlands can almost entirely be navigated by public transit, whether it be bus, train, tram, or ferry you can get through the whole country. It’s small size means that the transit time from one side of Holland to another would only take 2-3 hours. For quick traveling, a trusty bicycle can be used for everything else.
Cons of Living in the Netherlands
Dutch is Difficult to Learn
Americans regard Dutch as a difficult language to learn. Many Americans don’t even know that the people of Holland speak Dutch or even know that Dutch is a language itself. In this regards, it can be hard to find people to practice with. Technically the Netherlands is a non-native English country, but like the pro listed earlier most can speak English.
Housing is Expensive and Sparse
Finding housing in the Netherlands has been difficult for many American expats. Not only is it hard to find home, but also very expensive once you do find somewhere you want to live in. Since it is such a small and desirable place, the housing market has had a hard time keeping up.
Spouts of Bad Weather
There is occasionally bad weather periods in Holland with cold and rainy seasons. During this time most people stay indoors rather than going out. For an expat, this is not really appealing because you could stay indoors from where they were originally from. The rest of the year is warm and sunny, but those few months of rain will keep you indoors for a bit.
Start Living in the Netherlands Using Schumacher
After taking a look at some of the popular pros and cons of living in the Netherlands, many want to start planning their move. The differences of Holland are definitely bringing more and more Americans every year.
If you are thinking about moving, we at Schumacher Cargo Logistics can help you out. With over 40 years of experience, SCL is a premier moving company. From cars to full households, we can ship your goods door to door from the US to anywhere in Holland.
To get started fill out our Online Quote Form and a representative will contact you soon!
Additional Reading
There are many reasons for moving to a new country as an American. In total, there are millions of US expats all over the world. From working to retirement, there have been enough pros to convince people to make the move. Though not all aspects of life will be the same or better than in the states. Differences in culture and lifestyle can also lead to some cons overseas. This is why it is important to look at the big picture before you leave or you may get an unexpected surprise.
Check out our article on the pros and cons for the differences when moving to a new country!
Disclaimer for Moving to a New Country: Pros and Cons
When thinking about the pros and cons of moving to new countries, it is important to realize that they are all very different. For this reason, the article is broad to encompass the more general pros and cons. These don’t represent all countries, but do give a good understanding of what to expect.
Pros and Cons to Working Overseas as an Expat
Pros to Working Overseas: Better Opportunity and Needs Abroad
Generally when taking work abroad, Americans are given better offers. This is because the foreign company has to go through more effort to hire from the US. These companies usually go above and beyond to provide major benefits to those moving for them. Benefits can include things like traveling stipends or relocation packages. Most countries also have more balanced work cultures than the US, so there can also be improved work/life time.
Cons to Working Overseas: Paying US Income Tax Overseas
Unfortunately this is the case for any new country you may move to. No matter where you choose to travel overseas, you will still owe the US government income tax if you earn money. This isn’t a problem if you work without making any money or renounce your US citizenship, but those are not normal solutions. Though there are a lot of countries that won’t tax you locally, which can offset this negative a bit.
For more information on how taxes work when getting paid overseas, check the IRS page
Pros and Cons to New Cultures When Living Abroad
Pros to New Cultures: Experiences You Can Only Have Overseas
Throughout the world there are experiences you can only have in countries overseas. Many people travel to live in cultures they are unfamiliar with. By integrating into a new culture fully, it is possible to gain a better understanding of the world and appreciate the differences from the USA. Moving to a new country is different to just visiting as you have time to really meet people and live the local way of life.
Cons to New Cultures: Difficulty Assimilating
Expats occasionally move to new countries without the right preparations. Some countries present such a different situation that it can isolate the unprepared. People tend to forget not everyone in rest of the world speaks English or lives like Americans. This can leave expats feeling disconnected from the new country and left to spend time with fellow expats only.
If this situation happens to you, we have some tips on how to adapt to new cultures
Pros and Cons to Product Choices Overseas
Pros to Product Choices: Access to Local Products
America is one of the biggest importers of goods overseas. This allows Americans to access products around the world in one location. However, these import products don’t give the full experience of what is produced locally overseas. By living directly where the product comes from, you can have the freshest and most authentic version.
Cons to Product Choices: Less Access to Global Products
Americans are very fortunate that they can enjoy a variety of products from all over the world. Many other countries do not get as much variation and focus mostly on local products to sell. So while you get a more authentic experience, you do lose out on many things you are used to. For instance, many expats tell us that ketchup and peanut butter are entirely different or not even present in their new countries. Definitely bring some of your favorite American products with you before you get homesick abroad!
Other Pros and Cons for Moving to a New Country
There are many pros and cons of living in foreign countries as an American. There are over 50 million US expats living throughout the world.
Check out our articles below on the pros and cons for differences living in specific foreign countries.
Start Moving to a New Country with Schumacher
With the pros and cons of living in a new country, there are definitely reasons to try somewhere abroad. Even though there are some downsides, nowhere is perfect. There are so many American expats starting lives in new countries for a reason!
If you are moving to a new country, we at Schumacher Cargo Logistics can help you out. With over 40 years of experience, SCL has established itself as a premier moving company. From cars to full households, we can ship your goods door to door from anywhere in the US.
To get started fill out our Online Quote Form
Schumacher Services for Moving to a New Country Reviews
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There are many reasons for living in Greece as an American. Ultimately, it offers a great experience to both expats looking to retire and returning to a home country. Greece is known for its rich cultural history as well as one of the best countries to relax. However, there are pros and cons of living in Greece vs USA to look at first. Not all aspects of life will be the same as America and it is worth it to compare the differences.
Check out our article on the pros and cons for differences living in the Greece below!
Disclaimer for Living in Greece: Pros and Cons
One disclaimer to start with is that there are differences in living all throughout Greece. Living in Athens, will be different than living in Mykonos, Piraeus, Santorini, etc. For this reason, the differences between Greece and USA are broad and may not apply to every area in the country.
Pros of Living in Greece
There are many pros when living in Greece vs the USA. The fact that there are so many American expats living in Greece right now should be a testament to that. Here are some of the things that people choose as pros compared to the states.
Low Cost of Living in Greece
The cost of living in Greece is one of the major selling points. It is one of the lowest in the EU, where almost everything is cheaper. If you come here with a remote job or a retirement pension, your money will stretch further than in the USA. This does present an issue if you work locally, as salaries also reflect the lower cost of living.
Incredible Food
Greek food is know for it’s incredible health properties and freshness. With a major component to dishes being olive oil, tomatoes, and yogurt, Greek diets are supposedly why many people live so long there. Almost every ingredient can be found fresh and grown locally. You can find these quality ingredients at almost every restaurant and store. Some have said that there is little diversity in the type of food, though there is a large range of different Greek foods.
Robust Weather and Seasons
Many people write in about how much they enjoy how the seasons change in Greece. As the months move, people can actually see the seasons shift gradually rather than a sudden switch. The Mediterranean weather keeps the temperature warm and sunny, though the summers can be a bit hotter. Though the heat is avoidable with by taking a trip to one of the local islands and beaches the country has to offer. The winters are mild where the sun will still be shining, though it does get pretty cold.
One of The Longest Lasting History
One of the biggest pros Americans choose as the reason to live in Greece is their lasting history. America’s history only spans around 300 years, while Greece still has standing buildings from the BCE. There is so much to see that an expat could spend years there and not see it all.
Cons of Living in Greece vs USA
Unfortunately, there are also cons when living in the Greece vs the USA. When living here, many Americans have experiences that are unappealing and detract from the overall experience. We’ve listed some of the many cons expats have told us they experienced while staying here.
Small Language Barrier
There is a small language barrier in Greece for Americans. Almost all people in Greece speak Greek, while some also speak English. If you aren’t going to live in one of main cities like Athens, the English speaking rate goes drastically down. We definitely recommend brushing up on some Greek before coming to live here.
Employment Issues
If you are plan on living here before employment you may have a hard time. Many spouses of expats try to look for work, but struggle to find jobs in Greece that meet their skill sets. This is made worse by the fact that speaking Greek is usually a necessary skill. People retiring in Greece don’t have to worry about this issue, though it does end up being a big problem for some. If you learn Greek while living in Greece, this issue becomes much easier.
Expats Still Pay US Taxes
Given that you are an American expat in Greece, you still have to pay income tax to the USA if you have a job here. You can get rid of your US citizenship and become an Greek citizen, but that is a drastic way to avoid this. Most expats pay the taxes to both countries as many want to return in the future.
Want to Live in Greece
With the pros and cons of living in Greece, there are definitely reasons to move here. Even though there are downsides, nowhere is perfect. Greece has had a large influx in Americans living there for good reason.
If you are moving or thinking about moving, we at Schumacher Cargo Logistics can help you out. With over 40 years of experience, SCL is a premier moving company. From cars to full households, we can ship your goods door to door from the US to anywhere in the country. There are definitely more differences between Greece and the US, but we’ll let you experience the rest while you’re there.
To get started fill out our Online Quote Form and read our guide on moving to Greece.
