FAQ

The FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS page is a little something we put together to help future expats and tourists. There are many questions that we had coming over to Europe and were very blessed to have people answer them for us. As we hope to do the same, we thought what better place to put them than brusselsprouters.com. Learn and enjoy!

I miss American television. Do you have any recommendations?

We do in fact. As I see it, there are three options. None of them require you to have cable here in Brussels, but both require internet connection obviously. 

Option 1 (Highly Recommended): Buy a monthly VPN client. I recommend www.unblockvpn.com. That is who I have used since we got here. Purchase the Dynamic Package for $4.99 a month and enjoy Hulu, CBS, NBC, ABC, etc. Easy as that. If you like it, upgrade to a Hulu Plus membership. Sports Fan? Check out coverage packages on ESPN.com. The only negative to watching television on the internet is that you must have an unlimited internet transfer option through your provider. Otherwise, it's awesome!

Option 2 (Only for the American Idol Fans): Buy a Slingbox at www.slingbox.com. Jamie and I have one of these as well and we use it for.......you guessed it.....American Idol only. The Slingbox is unreliable on wi-fi connections, often pausing throughout the television show. With the advancements in major channel's websites, I think Slingbox will be a thing of the past quicker than imagined. 

Option 3 (Only for the Rich and Famous): Buy an Apple TV and purchase television shows as they appear on Itunes. So, if you enjoy buying things as opposed to getting them free, this is a great option. I would save your money for a mini Mac though.  

How long did it take you to adjust to driving on the left side of the road?

No time at all, but it helped that people don't actually drive on the left side. Don't worry, we asked the same question, but were pleasantly surprised to find that backwards driving occurs in parts of the United Kingdom. We would however suggest you pay attention to your right at all times. In Europe, drivers to the right have the right away. This means they can pull out in front of you. Pay attention!

What is the traffic like in Brussels?

Between the hours of 3:00 AM and 3:07 AM the traffic is great. Otherwise, walk.

Did they quarantine your dogs?

Thankfully no, but that is true in some European countries. When it comes to traveling with the pets, be sure to ask your vet for information prior to researching yourself. Most vets in big cities have experienced international pet travel before. Utilize their past experiences and be sure to double check with your airline as to their private restrictions. Bringing our dogs was the most difficult part of our move, but we wouldn't change it for the world.

What is the food like?

Awesome and full of carbohydrates are the first answers that come to mind. Everything you hear is true in regards to food. Waffles, crepes, beer, chocolate, mussels.... they are all very good in Brussels. The few surprises for me where ice cream and eggs. Oddly enough, they are both so much better over here. Must be a fresh thing. One of the main dishes over here is made of raw ground beef with a raw egg mixed in. I haven't tried it yet and I doubt I ever will.

Is it true there are no speed limits?

No that is not true. We have been asked that question several times, so I assume it is because people hear of the Autobahn. Other than the occasional European highway in Germany or Austria, European speed limits are actually enforced more so than in the US. Traffic cameras are very common and we hear that mail-to-the-home tickets are quite common. One bit of advice, do not talk on your cell phone while driving. It is highly illegal here and Jamie learned the hard way..... in the first week.

Do they actually eat horse in Europe?

Unfortunately, I have seen a horse package in the grocery store, but it is not as common as you may hear. Eating horse crosses my humanity line so I can't even think about it much.

What are the homes like?

European homes are tall and skinny as opposed to short and fat like in the US. In other words, they build up instead of out and it is very common to see a home with 4 stories. Gardens (what we call yards) are more common than you would think.

What do you miss the most from the US?

Mexican food, stop signs, macaroni and cheese, football, Hagen, family

Does it rain a lot in Brussels?

Light rains are common. Very similar to Seattle, so we hear. The rain is more tolerable and pleasant here might I add. 

What are your favorite things about Brussels?

Public transportation, minimal cell phone use, peaceful, markets, fresh foods, ability to walk places, waffles, crepes, Grimbergen, Champagne (the drink), mandatory recycling

What will Robert do?

Most definitely, the most frequently asked question. So much so that the answer has its own page. Click HERE.