The TRUTH about Luxembourg - how is it to live in Luxembourg? Is it that expensive?

Summary

In this video, Magda shares her personal experience of living in Luxembourg for over two years. She discusses both the positives, like the tight-knit community, free public services, and career growth in finance, as well as the challenges, such as high rent prices, limited job opportunities in certain sectors, and a high turnover of residents. She emphasizes that while Luxembourg may be seen as boring by some, it’s all about making an effort to get involved. Magda also highlights the country's efficient healthcare system and relatively mild summers, making Luxembourg a unique place to live for those willing to adapt.

Takeaways

• 😀 Luxembourg can be considered boring if you don't make an effort to engage or socialize; like anywhere, it depends on your attitude and perspective.
• 😕 Many people in Luxembourg only stay temporarily, often due to short-term contracts or internships, leading to high turnover in the population.
• 🤝 Luxembourg is a small country where everyone seems to know everyone else, creating a tightly-knit community with strong networking opportunities.
• ☔ While the weather in Luxembourg can be rainy and cold, the summers are pleasant and mild compared to hotter regions like Italy or Spain.
• 💸 Rent prices in Luxembourg have risen dramatically, making it an expensive city to live in, but groceries and dining out are more affordable than in many other major cities.
• 🏢 Luxembourg offers high salaries, especially in sectors like banking and finance, compared to other European countries like France and Italy.
• ⚙️ Career growth opportunities are strong in specific industries like banking and finance, but other fields, such as IT, have fewer opportunities for highly specialized roles.
• 🚗 Public transportation in Luxembourg is free, and there are many services available online, such as document requests, making life convenient and cost-effective.
• 🏥 Healthcare in Luxembourg is excellent, with doctors and hospitals easily accessible. Health services are affordable, and a significant portion of medical costs are reimbursed.
• 🛑 Certain jobs, particularly in specialized IT fields, are difficult to find in Luxembourg due to the lack of large tech companies, like those in other European cities.

Q & A

Is Luxembourg really boring as some people claim?

Magda argues that Luxembourg can be boring if you choose to make it so. If you're not socializing or exploring the city, it may feel dull, but this can happen in any city, including larger ones like New York or Paris. Luxembourg offers a lot, especially for those who seek to engage with the local community.

Why do people leave Luxembourg after a short time?

Many people come to Luxembourg for temporary work contracts, internships, or short-term opportunities. Some find better job offers elsewhere, while others simply decide that Luxembourg isn't the right fit for them, which leads to a high turnover of residents.

Is it true that everyone knows everyone in Luxembourg?

Yes, Luxembourg is described as a small village where networking is strong, and people tend to know each other through shared work experiences, parties, or mutual connections. It’s not unusual to meet someone and discover they know someone you know.

How is the weather in Luxembourg?

The weather in Luxembourg is typical for this region of Europe, with cold, rainy winters and relatively mild, pleasant summers. Magda emphasizes that while it may not always be sunny, the weather is comparable to other nearby cities like Paris, Brussels, and Munich.

Why is rent so expensive in Luxembourg?

Rent in Luxembourg has been rising dramatically in recent months. Magda notes that finding affordable housing can be challenging due to the high demand and limited availability. However, other living costs, such as groceries and dining out, are relatively on par with other major European cities.

What are the career prospects like in Luxembourg?

Luxembourg offers excellent career opportunities, particularly in the banking and financial sectors. Many companies in these industries offer opportunities for career growth. However, job options in other sectors, such as IT or research, are more limited, and finding highly specialized roles can be challenging.

Are there any unique benefits to living in Luxembourg?

Yes, Luxembourg offers a number of benefits, including free public transportation and low-cost municipal services. There are also a lot of free or low-cost services available online, such as tax advice and document processing, which makes bureaucratic processes easier for residents.

How does the healthcare system work in Luxembourg?

The healthcare system in Luxembourg is highly regarded. Residents pay their taxes and usually pay a small upfront fee when visiting a doctor, which is then reimbursed (typically 70-80% depending on the situation). Medical services are generally very accessible, though specialized services like dermatology can have longer waiting times.

Can you easily switch doctors in Luxembourg?

Yes, in Luxembourg, you are not assigned to a specific doctor, and you are free to switch doctors at any time. This flexibility allows you to seek second opinions or change doctors if needed without needing to explain why.

What are some of the challenges of living in Luxembourg?

Some challenges include the high cost of rent, which can make it difficult to find affordable housing. Additionally, while Luxembourg offers career opportunities in finance, jobs in other sectors, particularly specialized fields like IT or research, may be harder to find. The relatively small size of the country can also lead to a sense of isolation for some residents.