Embracing a Slower Pace: Family's Affordable Mortgage and Life Redefined in Belgium

For many, the draw of an international move is often the allure of a different pace of life and the promise of a cultural shift. One such tale is of Marine and her family, who relocated from the U.S. to Brussels, finding not only a more relaxed lifestyle but also a surprisingly affordable cost of living. In Belgium, Jessica van Dop DeJesus highlights the balance struck between work and personal time, noting the strong cultural emphasis on nurturing friendships and valuing vacation time.

Affordable Living in Belgium's Capital

In the heart of Brussels, Marine's family secured a mortgage that remains comfortably below $3,000 a month, a figure that is often unheard of in many American cities for a comparable standard of living. This affordability has offered the family more than just financial leeway; it has opened the door to a lifestyle where stress doesn't revolve around high living costs.

Cultural Richness Over Work-Centric Lifestyles

The shift to Belgium has brought into focus the possibility of leading a life less dictated by work. Jessica van Dop DeJesus emphasizes the redefined priorities that include placing as much importance on personal enrichment, through time with friends and holidays, as on professional achievements. The experience in Belgium contrasts sharply with the hustle culture often experienced in the States, bringing to light different global perspectives on work-life balance.

lifestyle, mortgage, culture