Now that you have arrived, there is some important information that can help you thrive while you are living here in Belgium.
For starters, MFSE operates differently than MFRCs back in Canada. Due to how we are funded, we cannot provide some of the services you might be accustomed to receiving from MFRCs back home, like childcare for example. However, while we may not be able to provide childcare, we can absolutely assist you in finding the right fit for your family.
In terms of shopping, unlike Canada, every store has their own opening hours. Don’t assume that if one Carrefour opens at 0830, that all Carrefour’s open at 0830. And, if the store opens at 8, the employees will not likely be quite ready. If the store closes at 1900, don’t try to get in at 1845. A 1900 closing time means the employees will be gone by 1900. It’s not unusual to arrive at your favourite restaurant to find it closed for 3 weeks in August without warning… well perhaps a hand written note on the door ;) It’s always a good idea to check opening hours before leaving; some stores even close at lunch time. Grocery stores are usually closed on Sundays (except for Carrefour Express or Proxy, which is similar to a corner store back home). Stores that are always open on Sundays are; bakeries, nurseries, furniture stores, car dealers. As well, smaller stores will close down for holidays.
A great alternative to grocery stores here in Brussels are farmers markets. Each commune has different days for markets, you should figure out what days and where the market is since they offer many different produce items and fresh food. Click here to see a map of communes and the markets each commune offers along with their hours.
Each commune also has different rules and regulation for waste management. To ensure your recyclables are picked up, have a look at this website. Click here for a list of collection days based on your location.
The Public Transportation in Brussels is very efficient and easy to use once you get the hang of it. Using the metro, bus, or tram, you can get almost anywhere within the city. Just by the tap of your MOBIB card you can access all of these modes of transportation. Each card can be tapped for up to three people in one trip and is reloadable at most underground stations. Click here for a website with all of the network maps of Brussels.
And remember you are always welcome at Maison Marquis! We tend to have weekly programming for spouses such as coffee mornings and monthly activities to facilitate bonds between the members of our community. MFS office hours are 0900 – 1500 Monday through Thursday. Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you have.