Things I Wish I Knew Before Living In Europe

I have loved my time living in Europe. It has been challenging and beautiful. But, not everyone’s experience as an ex-pat in Europe is the same! This is coming from the perspective of an American who has lived in Austria and France. Two very different countries. In fact, all European countries are different! So keep that in mind :)

Stores close.

Grocery stores close at like 6, maybe 7 PM, and are never open on Sundays. Random stores might be closed on Mondays. They might be closed during lunch. And don’t forget about public holidays (they are plentiful). You just learn how to adapt…but it is quite the learning curve at first. Especially when you forget something essential on a Saturday night.

Live small

Europeans know how to make the most out of their small historical spaces. And they just own less stuff. Partially because there’s nowhere to put it, but they also don’t consume as much. It’s taught me how to be ok with living more minimally and how to maximize space.

Shop local

People really pay attention to where things come from. Could be clothing, produce, cosmetics, etc. and most will try their best to support local businesses. And it is made so accessible! Especially, in Austria. My friends and I have our favorite local shops and they always have the best inventory.

Talk quietly

This is mainly for the Americans in the room. Sorry, but Americans are a loud bunch! We know how to have fun, which is great. But please don’t yell in the street or answer a phone call on a quiet bus. Tone down the volume to a 5 instead of a 9. Europeans are very respectful of privacy and public spaces and this includes speaking at normal volumes. (At least walking around daily life. Can’t speak for rowdy bars lol)

Learn the language

It’s SO hard. I am in no way fluent in German. And my French is definitely rusty. But when living somewhere, you will not get the full experience unless you try and learn the local language. And it takes effort. Some days you might cry cause you have to call the bank (speaking from experience). But there will be days when you feel like a rockstar. Just do it. It’s worth it.

I didn’t know what I was getting myself into when I moved here. But I wouldn’t change it for the world. There’s a lot to learn but honestly loving people and being open will get you really far. So who’s coming over to see me? ;)