What is It Like
Moscow
Moscow is Russia’s business, political, scientific and architectural centre, and yet one of the most beautiful cities in the world, rich in history and culture.
What is the cost of living
In 2007 Moscow was named the most expensive city for the second year in a row.
The cost of living is very high however supermarkets and local produce are readily accessible and at a reasonable price.
This is also offset by the very high expat salary packages and the low personal income tax rate.
Transportation is usually excellent in terms of availability and price. You can take your pick of the trolleybuses, metro, taxis, and marshrutka (shuttle buses).
Accommodation is not cheap and in Moscow, the average cost for a two bedroom apartment is at least US$3,000 per month.
What is the weather like
Winter months in November to February can be very cold and as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius. Although very cold, it is very beautiful. June to August are the warmer months.
What is the local currency
Russian Roubles
Frankfurt
Frankfurt is the financial and transportation centre of Germany and one of the two largest financial centres in continental Europe. It is home to many of the largest banks in the world. The city is rich in history and culture.
What is the cost of living
Food in general can be quite expensive but there are many good eateries in Frankfurt.
Public transport in the city is expensive but efficient, consisting of an integrated network of fast, modern underground U-Bahn lines, S-Bahn city trains, trams and buses that operate to early hours.
Rent and housing-related costs are the biggest expenditure and can take up over one third of net income. An unfurnished two bedroom apartment in a good area can set you back 400 to 550 Euros per month.
What is the weather like
June to August is the best time to travel to Frankfurt as the temperature ranges from 10 degrees Celsius to 23 degrees Celsius. December to February are the coldest months.
What is the local currency
Euro
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the largest city and the capital of The Netherlands. It is famous for its “coffee shops” and red light district, however the museums are also a main tourist attraction and the number of canals has led Amsterdam to be known as the “Venice of the North”.
What is the cost of living
The cost of living has increased since the introduction of The Euro. An unfurnished two bedroom apartment in a good area can cost from 900 Euros per month.
What is the weather like
Summer in Amsterdam can be quite amazing or strange as you enjoy long hours of daylight, up to 15 hours! On average, February is Amsterdam's coldest month. Snow has been known to fall there, but it is usually just a dusting.
What is the local currency
Euro
Paris
The romantic iconic architecture and the rich cafe culture is what this city is famous for. Paris, France’s capital city, is today also one of the world's leading business and cultural centres, and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion, and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the world's major global cities.
What is the cost of living
Paris is quite expensive as cities go, but not as expensive as other European nations and if you know where to go, it can be quite reasonable.
There are a plethora of great restaurants offering the best cuisines made only of the finest ingredients. Dining out will cost more but expatriates can also find a good deal of affordable meat, fish, milk, herbs, fruits and vegetables in markets and nearby ports.
Transportation is well covered and the metro here is one of the least expensive in the world.
An unfurnished two bedroom apartment in a good area can cost 1,000 to 2,000 Euros per month
What is the weather like
December to February, the cooler months of the year, ranges from 4 degrees to 8 degrees Celsius. In June to September, the weather is very pleasant ranging from 12 degrees to 27 degrees Celsius.
What is the local currency
Euros
Brussels
Brussels is the largest city in Belgium. Serving as the centre of administration for Europe, Brussels' economy is largely service-oriented. The architecture in Brussels is diverse. The vibrant and active cultural life adds a cosmopolitan flavour to its atmosphere.
What is the cost of living
A recent survey by Mercer Human Resources ranked Brussels as one of the most pleasant places to live on the continent and one of its cheapest cities.
Food and general necessities are priced competitively. The Brussels Capital Region and even decent restaurants are very reasonable. The cost of public transport is not as costly as it would be in London or other major European cities.
Brussels is viewed by some as the “most affordable Western European capital.” Rent for a decent one bedroom apartment in a good area can cost around 600 Euros per month or less. A meal at a good restaurant which includes a starter, main course and a drink or two can cost 30 Euros per person.
What is the weather like
Like other European cities, the favourite months are between June and September with temperatures from 12 to 25 degrees Celsius. The coolest period is between December and February ranging from -1 to 6 degrees Celsius.
What is the local currency
Euros
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