Bonjour from Brussels

[belleabroad]

Hello all, just wanted to introduce myself. I'm Heather, originally from Raleigh NC, and have been in Brussels for about a month. I've been sort of a professional "trailing spouse" for several years now. We first lived in London for a few years in the mid-2000s and did a previous short stint in Brussels in 2009-2010. 

I actually found this board because I used to be on the International Nesties board in the early London days and went back there to see if it was still active but saw things had changed a bit! Not sure how active this one is...haven't had a chance to snoop around yet

Anyway, just wanted to say hello!

[GilliC]

Hello!

I was in Oslo when we left TN, and I'm still in Oslo. I can't believe how long I've been here!

[belleabroad]

Hi ladies! Thanks for the welcome.

RockNVoll (haven't figured out how to link names as you did above) - I'm not working. Trying to figure out exactly what I'm going to do besides my French lessons... I'm struggling to find volunteer opportunities for an English speaker. We'll likely be here for about a year so I'm determined to find my niche.

The last time we were in Brussels was a bit of a disaster because it was supposed to be a very short three month assignment so we came over with only a few suitcases worth of clothes - i.e. without our cat and without any personal effects that make a corporate furnished apartment feel more like a home. And I didn't bother with trying to meet people or looking for classes or volunteer jobs because what's the point for just a few months? Then his company kept extending bit by bit. "Can you stay one more month?" then "We need you for just a few more weeks." and on and on like that until it was 9 months. So we were excited for a Brussels do-over to get it right this time! The only good thing about that previous assignment was that we did manage to travel a ton and explored so many of the small towns around Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

[gigem]

Welcome! I am in southern Africa so can't help you out with Brussels but happy to have you here and share in your adventures!

[G22]

Hi! I mostly lurk here, but currently live in Germany. Brussels is only a few hours from us, but we haven't made it over there yet. One day soon hopefully!

[mrsukyankee]

Welcome! I am in London. Good luck with finding your niche. I would definitely look for expat groups and all - that helped me in London.

[Linie]

Hello, I'm Belgian and work and live in Brussels. I would be very happy to help you with any questions you may have. I also travel a lot around Europe, so don't hesitate!

Ciao!

[doctoranda]

Hi belleabroad! Welcome. I am Dutch and currently live in Colorado. When I came on this board I was living in the Netherlands with my American husband (we had just returned from the US).

[belleabroad]

Thanks everyone! Apart from learning French, my number one priority is trying to make some friends here. I'm struggling to find expat groups and ways to meet people. The American Women's Club is unfortunately located way out in the suburbs so, without a car, it seems it's not really accessible. I've joined InterNations online but at first look, it feels overwhelming and just a bit "much" to wade through to find those I may have something in common with. Plus, you have to have a paid membership to participate in the smaller, targeted get-togethers and something about that doesn't sit well with me. Maybe I'm being weird about that? I don't know...

At any rate, if anyone has suggestions for groups to look into I would appreciate it immensely! Linie, since you're a Belgian local you may not be the best resource for this but I figure it can't hurt to ask?

[Linie]

Nov 8, 2016 3:53:12 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Thanks everyone! Apart from learning French, my number one priority is trying to make some friends here. I'm struggling to find expat groups and ways to meet people. The American Women's Club is unfortunately located way out in the suburbs so, without a car, it seems it's not really accessible. I've joined InterNations online but at first look, it feels overwhelming and just a bit "much" to wade through to find those I may have something in common with. Plus, you have to have a paid membership to participate in the smaller, targeted get-togethers and something about that doesn't sit well with me. Maybe I'm being weird about that? I don't know...

At any rate, if anyone has suggestions for groups to look into I would appreciate it immensely! Linie , since you're a Belgian local you may not be the best resource for this but I figure it can't hurt to ask?

Most of my friends here are non-Belgians. I also work for a US company, so I will ask around. If there's an event, I will let you know. May I ask how old you are? Are you going somewhere this evening for the election?

[belleabroad]

Nov 8, 2016 4:19:42 GMT -5 Linie said:

Nov 8, 2016 3:53:12 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Thanks everyone! Apart from learning French, my number one priority is trying to make some friends here. I'm struggling to find expat groups and ways to meet people. The American Women's Club is unfortunately located way out in the suburbs so, without a car, it seems it's not really accessible. I've joined InterNations online but at first look, it feels overwhelming and just a bit "much" to wade through to find those I may have something in common with. Plus, you have to have a paid membership to participate in the smaller, targeted get-togethers and something about that doesn't sit well with me. Maybe I'm being weird about that? I don't know...

At any rate, if anyone has suggestions for groups to look into I would appreciate it immensely! Linie , since you're a Belgian local you may not be the best resource for this but I figure it can't hurt to ask?

Most of my friends here are non-Belgians. I also work for a US company, so I will ask around. If there's an event, I will let you know. May I ask how old you are? Are you going somewhere this evening for the election?

Thanks so much, I wold appreciate that  I was too nervous for the outcome to do anything for the election. (And at the risk of potentially alienating people here, I now know I was nervous for good reason. I'm completely horrified at what I'm watching right now.)

I'm 39 by the way...

[rupertpenny]

Nov 8, 2016 3:53:12 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Thanks everyone! Apart from learning French, my number one priority is trying to make some friends here. I'm struggling to find expat groups and ways to meet people. The American Women's Club is unfortunately located way out in the suburbs so, without a car, it seems it's not really accessible. I've joined InterNations online but at first look, it feels overwhelming and just a bit "much" to wade through to find those I may have something in common with. Plus, you have to have a paid membership to participate in the smaller, targeted get-togethers and something about that doesn't sit well with me. Maybe I'm being weird about that? I don't know...

At any rate, if anyone has suggestions for groups to look into I would appreciate it immensely! Linie, since you're a Belgian local you may not be the best resource for this but I figure it can't hurt to ask?

I met my two best friends in HK at an InterNations event. It was overall a weird experience and we never went back, but it is absolutely worth trying out!

This was at a newcomers event which was free.

[belleabroad]

rupertpenny - Good to know! Perhaps I can overcome my crippling distaste of introductory small talk and give it a go. I have a really hard time with large get togethers where I don't know people but am a different person in a small group of friends.

[rupertpenny]

Nov 10, 2016 2:55:35 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

rupertpenny - Good to know! Perhaps I can overcome my crippling distaste of introductory small talk and give it a go. I have a really hard time with large get togethers where I don't know people but am a different person in a small group of friends.

I know, it is excruciating! But you may get lucky like me. 

[gigem]

Nov 10, 2016 2:55:35 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

rupertpenny - Good to know! Perhaps I can overcome my crippling distaste of introductory small talk and give it a go. I have a really hard time with large get togethers where I don't know people but am a different person in a small group of friends.

Ugh yes I dread this everytime we arrive in a new country.....I am terrible at small talk but there is always someone you will click with, I promise! Good starter questions usually involve something like "where were you before here?" Good luck!

[gigem]

Eta sorry i forgot that you've already been on expat! But this is the first time in a country primarily speaking a language new to you right? Defi put effort into the French lessons, you will probably make friends in those classes too.

[Linie]

Nov 8, 2016 3:53:12 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Thanks everyone! Apart from learning French, my number one priority is trying to make some friends here. I'm struggling to find expat groups and ways to meet people. The American Women's Club is unfortunately located way out in the suburbs so, without a car, it seems it's not really accessible. I've joined InterNations online but at first look, it feels overwhelming and just a bit "much" to wade through to find those I may have something in common with. Plus, you have to have a paid membership to participate in the smaller, targeted get-togethers and something about that doesn't sit well with me. Maybe I'm being weird about that? I don't know...

At any rate, if anyone has suggestions for groups to look into I would appreciate it immensely! Linie , since you're a Belgian local you may not be the best resource for this but I figure it can't hurt to ask?

I just saw that there is a "Autumn Apéro After Work" event by Brussels Expats tomorrow evening. There's a post on facebook with all the details. Free entry and I know people who attend these. It seems to be very nice. I won't be able to make it, but maybe you would like to try?

Or we could try to attend a future one together?

[belleabroad]

Linie, Unfortunately, I just now saw this but thanks so much for thinking of me! I've been off FB for quite some time now but looked up the group... It's a bit confusing though because the main page for Brussels Expats (https://www.facebook.com/BrusselsExpats) doesn't have anything about the event (the most recent one is a Bolligner party) but there is a separate closed group with the same logo (https://www.facebook.com/groups/brusselsexpats.be/) which I requested to join. So maybe after I'm accepted, I'll see events? Not sure how it works, which makes me feel old and dumb to say

Regardless, I would absolutely love to give it a go. It's so nice of you to offer to go as well. Even if we can't make it work for one of the events, I'd also be up for even just meeting for a coffee or drink sometime?

[Linie]

Nov 17, 2016 11:06:01 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Linie , Unfortunately, I just now saw this but thanks so much for thinking of me! I've been off FB for quite some time now but looked up the group... It's a bit confusing though because the main page for Brussels Expats (https://www.facebook.com/BrusselsExpats) doesn't have anything about the event (the most recent one is a Bolligner party) but there is a separate closed group with the same logo (https://www.facebook.com/groups/brusselsexpats.be/) which I requested to join. So maybe after I'm accepted, I'll see events? Not sure how it works, which makes me feel old and dumb to say

Regardless, I would absolutely love to give it a go. It's so nice of you to offer to go as well. Even if we can't make it work for one of the events, I'd also be up for even just meeting for a coffee or drink sometime?

I was just thinking of you when I saw this event on FB : hdm.voiretdirebruxelles.be/en/interior-visits

There are private visits to the wonderful Art Nouveau houses Brussels is so famous for. I can't go tomorrow, but maybe something to look into?

I'm always up for a drink! I know some really wine nice bars and I could always invite another English native as well. Somewhere in early December? In which commune of Brussels do you live? I'm in ***, but it's not a big city anyway!

Let me know, ok?

[Linie]

Nov 17, 2016 11:47:49 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Nov 17, 2016 11:28:15 GMT -5 Linie said:

I was just thinking of you when I saw this event on FB : hdm.voiretdirebruxelles.be/en/interior-visits

There are private visits to the wonderful Art Nouveau houses Brussels is so famous for. I can't go tomorrow, but maybe something to look into?

I'm always up for a drink! I know some really wine nice bars and I could always invite another English native as well. Somewhere in early December? In which commune of Brussels do you live? I'm in ***, but it's not a big city anyway!

Let me know, ok?

Linie , Oh wow! That Art Nouveau event looks amazing! It's one if my favorite things about Brussels. In fact, the last time we lived here, I mapped out my own Art Nouveau walking tour and spread it out over several days. 

It appears you and I are neighbors...I'm also in the ***. Just near ****. Early December sounds great. Being so new here and knowing no one and having no job, I'm sure your schedule is far busier than mine so just let me know when you figure out sometime that might work for you!

Are you living in my building? the white one with the new wine shop on the corner? I'm dead serious...

Then we could meet at ****, have you been there?

[belleabroad]

Nov 17, 2016 11:52:49 GMT -5 Linie said:

Nov 17, 2016 11:47:49 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Linie , Oh wow! That Art Nouveau event looks amazing! It's one if my favorite things about Brussels. In fact, the last time we lived here, I mapped out my own Art Nouveau walking tour and spread it out over several days. 

It appears you and I are neighbors...I'm also in the ... Early December sounds great. Being so new here and knowing no one and having no job, I'm sure your schedule is far busier than mine so just let me know when you figure out sometime that might work for you!

Are you living in my building? the white one with the new wine shop on the corner? I'm dead serious...

Then we could meet at ***, have you been there?

Oh my God, this is hilarious. Not quite in your building but I think literally across the street! We're in the *** and I assume the new wine shop is the one that we've been to several times. We've not been to *** yet but I looked it up and it looks great!

[Linie]

Nov 17, 2016 12:04:21 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Nov 17, 2016 11:52:49 GMT -5 Linie said:

Are you living in my building? the white one with the new wine shop on the corner? I'm dead serious...

Then we could meet at ****, have you been there?

Oh my God, this is hilarious. Not quite in your building but I think literally across the street! We're in the **** and I assume the new wine shop is the one that we've been to several times - at the corner of ****? We've not been to *** yet but I looked it up and it looks great!

Ok, you live opposite me. How small the world can be! I'm free next Monday and next Tuesday (after 8 pm). Otherwise, the week after that - on Thursday and Friday I have class. Let me know ok?

BTW, I'm 46 and single with no kids (and a lawyer). One of my best friends now lives in Charlotte, NC, so I have been where you come from.

[belleabroad]

Nov 17, 2016 12:09:49 GMT -5 Linie said:

Nov 17, 2016 12:04:21 GMT -5 belleabroad said:

Oh my God, this is hilarious. Not quite in your building but I think literally across the street! We're in the *** and I assume the new wine shop is the one that we've been to several times. We've not been to *** yet but I looked it up and it looks great!

Ok, you live opposite me. How small the world can be! I'm free next Monday and next Tuesday (after 8 pm). Otherwise, the week after that - on Thursday and Friday I have class. Let me know ok?

BTW, I'm 46 and single with no kids (and a lawyer). One of my best friends now lives in Charlotte, NC, so I have been where you come from.

That really is crazy. We have family in Charlotte so we've spent lots of time there. Very small world indeed!

How about Tuesday or Wednesday the week after next? My husband mentioned something about some co-workers from home possibly coming into Brussels the early part of next week so I may be obligated to drinks and/or dinners if it's people I know... 

[Linie]

Yes, that week is fine too: Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.
I felt a little funny yesterday evening when I entered into my building and looking at yours: perhaps we have seen each other in passing in the street.

Looking forward to meeting you!

[Linie]

Nov 18, 2016 4:51:32 GMT -5 RockNVoll said:

Linie and belleabroad , you might want to delete the specifics about where you live. We've seen more than once how this isn't always a safe place.

I love that you guys are connecting though Fellow GBCNers have been a much-needed life line in my expat experience.

You're right, I thought about that yesterday.

belleabroad, let's use PM's, ok?

[belleabroad]

Nov 18, 2016 5:35:04 GMT -5 Linie said:

Nov 18, 2016 4:51:32 GMT -5 RockNVoll said:

Linie and belleabroad , you might want to delete the specifics about where you live. We've seen more than once how this isn't always a safe place.

I love that you guys are connecting though Fellow GBCNers have been a much-needed life line in my expat experience.

You're right, I thought about that yesterday.

belleabroad, let's use PM's, ok?

Oh yikes! Sorry about that. I'm way too trusting in this world... I've edited/deleted as necessary.

[Deleted]

Hi belleabroad, and welcome back to this side of the pond. I hope you like Brussels much better this time around. We've actually met - though it's been a while since we have been in contact. DM me if it's not immediately obvious who I am.
Anyway, good luck in Belgium, I know you'll make tons of friends because you are a fun person to be around.