HAPPY EXPAT NEW YEAR 2026

Lake covered in snow

One highly consequential yet fascinating aspect of #relocating to a new country is that of accommodation. Standards, styles, designs, sizes and quality of property vary enormously from country to country.

The primary choice between a metropolitan or rural environment for solo expats or families is just the beginning. If urban preference, does an inner city neighbourhood location or a suburb suit our lifestyle better? Vibrant or more peaceful neighbourhood?

Detached or semi-detached house, town house, apartment or studio? With garden, terrace or balcony? Even the number of rooms are declared differently in listings, depending upon the country. If renting, a classic decision is with furniture or not. Do I ship my own beloved items or should I purchase anew with local design options?

Expat groups on social media are packed with such questions. The quality of building and noise from neighbours and streets is especially big in Spain. In Germany the lack of a fitted kitchen and not even a sink is often astounding.

The size to cost ratio can also have consequences. Some international residents are used to maintaining a dedicated guest bedroom. When moving abroad, this can, for many, become a serious topic. Where do visiting family members sleep?. Especially when gathering “en masse” for the festive season. Camp down together or depart to a hotel bed for the night. This can be a daunting decision.

I’m reminded of the latter topic whilst currently visiting various family and friends abroad. As an extensive traveller and used to sleeping in different beds, I have ‘roughed it” a little to be able to immerse myself in the whole experience. As we say: ‘In for a penny, in for a pound!”.

Memories

As this year’s peak of celebration ebbs, the usual lull before a new year offers me two strong recollections. I’m reminded of returning home long ago to be with my dear mum and dad. Our family home was perfectly sufficient for fifty-one weeks of the year. I had driven to the UK from Germany for those remaining days of this particular one. It also saw the arrival of my grandmother, an aunt, my sister and her two daughters.

Pre-Christmas partying was a big deal in those days. I met up with friends and evenings were lively. We danced, we partied late. Even on December 24. My temporary bed was upstairs on the landing. I crawled into it at 5 am. Three hours later, my two darling young nieces enthusiastically leapt on top of me, shook me and exclaimed that Santa had already been. I considered the hour incredibly respectable, especially since, as a child, I would usually wake my parents at 5 am.

We had a tradition of really, really long woven socks filled with small items and fruits that St Nick had delivered. Still inebriated, I perused my gifts with them and was forced to arise to then live my day in a haze. Such fun!

Until it wasn’t. Our favourite watering hole was also where we met friends on Boxing day evening to flee from our families. The motivation was more that of escape than a joyous get together! The atmosphere throughout the pub seemed accordingly subdued for all in attendance.

So possessing enough space for visitors (or not) can offer advantages as well as disadvantages. A hotel room with a comfortable bed may be wonderful but, for me it has almost always been a preference of vicinity over comfort. Fast forward to this year and I’m finding myself in a few unique situations, yet sleeping well, thankfully.

Whether the choice of a new home follows the heart or logic, a multitude of other decisions concerning the new life abroad follow in very quick succession. Rationality is key. Help is often needed and that is my mission.

The New Year

While members of all religious faiths celebrate, it has long been the Christian tradition that dominates. Interestingly, the dawning of a new year and tonight’s revelry has also grasped the imagination of a vast majority of people across the globe. Especially for #expats busy discovering the new norms of local cultural behaviour.

Since the foundation of our calendars was impacted by planetary aspects, the interest in celestial and astronomical influence may not be so surprising. Take the concept of #numerology. Some say we are influenced by a belief system whether we believe in it or not. Others remain more sceptical.

The year 2026 breaks down to the numeral one. And if the interpretation of that holds true, we are in for quite a ride, as my Google search revealed.

We are told to expect new global leaders, innovative shifts in culture, and movements emphasising freedom and creativity. We should focus on strengthening our confidence and listening to our intuition. And that it’s a powerful time for starting new goals, taking risks, and pursuing what you believe in. Sounds good to me! You too?

As a reminder, 2025 signalled a powerful year of completion, endings, transformation, spiritual awakening and letting go of what no longer serves you. So the stage is set.

If you are an expat, enjoy your journey of discovery. If local citizen, find pleasure in embracing new perspectives of life that foreigners bring with them. Having just been invited to experience warm Sri Lankan hospitality in the heart of Finland, I can vouch for that. Compassion is a marvellous foundation that I am fortunate to have experienced it in all of the 70 countries visited.

Sincere wishes that your new year overflows with joy, laughter and perfect health. As well as a solid portion of love. Of both the universal and personal kind, including that of oneself.

May your dreams come true in 2026.

In joy,

Garry & #AmazingCapitals

Join Amazing Capitals.

By Vincent Green, Dec 31 2025

GREEN SPACES

Throughout the city, there are places where people meet, relax, connect, reflect, or enjoy the fresh air. However, many of these places are anything but inviting. They appear neglected, are often littered, and large areas may be paved over. The initiative platzgrün! wishes to change the status quo, tackle the issue together with individual residents and create space for greenery.

Since 2019, the Pro Düsseldorf e. V.  project has been committed to making neighbourhoods greener, more climate-friendly, and more communicative and is active in over 80 locations across Düsseldorf. When people approach concerning a particular location that deserves more greenery, they enquire if they are ready to get involved andif a small team has already been assembled. They then support the preparations, planning, and liaising with relevant authorities.

Making public spaces greener

It’s nothing less than a fundamental right, even if it’s not enshrined in law, that every city dweller should be able to reach a green space that offers recreational value within a 500 metre radius. In these challenging times of climate change, these places are becoming increasingly important, especially for older people or those with limited mobility. But how do we create these unique spaces beyond large green corridors and urban gardens?

By walking through the city with open eyes, discovering potential and taking action. With the help of Platz Grün.

Circumstantial Change

Crucial questions are key to solutions. Who will take care of the space? What are the site’s requirements? What should be achieved? Should it offer blooms or also the ability to harvest? When it comes to making a place greener, more diverse, and richer in species, there are always several solutions.

Flower beds

Ground-level beds are generally easier to create and maintain but can also be more susceptible to contamination. If edible plants are to be cultivated, a raised bed is recommended.  Often, both can be effectively combined and appeal to different target groups.

Mini gardens

Abandoned planters can be found in many places around the city with withered contents and forgotten. However, these containers from the 1970s offer excellent conditions for sustainable planting with perennials.

Tree pits

Sustainable planting of tree pits
Tree pits are the smallest unit for urban gardening and perhaps also the most challenging. Hardly any other area is subject to such high pressure from dogs, cars, and bicycles. Sustainable planting can transform these spaces into insect-friendly hotspots.

Park Maintenance

Public spaces are available to those without a personal garden but would like to garden outdoors. The professionals in two listed public gardens in the city centre are supported. Volunteers are very welcome.

Climate Adaptation

Homeowners are offered support in finding and implementing the perfect solution for creating green facades for their buildings. in particular, could make a significant contribution to reducing urban heat islands. These actions in particular could make a significant contribution to reducing urban heat islands.

Feeling Inspired?

International residents can be frustrated by a variety of unique topics even long after relocating. Especially when dealing with societal and bureaucratic interaction. A particularly poignant example could be starting a local initiative. Imagine you live near a neglected and untidy public space and would like to invest time and effort to improve the situation.

The Hermannplatz neighbourhood initiative Hermann Blüt Auf in the district of Flingern is a fine example of how individual initiate, a sense of community, determination and longevity can improve surroundings for the greater good of all. It is exemplary for such activities in Düsseldorf. Their slogan translates to “Let’s plant, water, and tinker for a vibrant neighbourhood!” and can be a great source of inspiration.

Expat individuals or groups who wish to make a difference to their new place of residence are invited to get in touch with Platz Grün to discover where to begin, the hows and whys as well as avoid any possible pitfalls. Those from Hermannplatz show that it’s worth it by far.

By Vincent Green, Dec 29, 2025

THE BLUE BAND

Sea of colourful flowers in park

An impressive sea of colour can be seen each year in Düsseldorf during the lead up to early spring. The so-called Blue Band comprises millions of blue-violet crocuses blooming cheerfully along roughly two and a half kilometres of the Rhine frontage. It is truly a heartwarming sight to behold.

Beginning on the the Rheinwiesen near the Theodor Heuss Bridge where 1 million bulbs it extends to the Rheinpark with 5 million blossoms, and the Hofgarten, which also boasts 1 million. Almost a million can also be seen at the Kaiserpfalz in Kaiserswerth as well as up to a 1 million in various other green spaces across the city.

The meandering sweep of colour echoes the waves of the Rhine to attract walkers, photographers, residents and visitors from across the region. Since 2008, wide support enables maintenance and expansion, as shown with the latest additional planting in October 2025 to restore it’s full splendour.

Spring in Blue

The Spring in Blue non-profit photo competition instigated by Pro Düsseldorf e. V. highlights both the uniqueness and vulnerability of this annual spectacle. The activity invites residents to capture the Blaues Band in imagery to raise awareness for the respectful treatment of this natural resource.

Designed to encourage citizens to engage creatively with urban nature, it will create a unique image archive of the Spring in Blue, Frühling in Blau, as a visual heritage of the city. Furthermore, it strengthens awareness for the protection of green spaces and resources in Düsseldorf.

The blue ribbon of crocuses shapes the cityscape and attracts many people every year. Spring in Blue makes these moments visible. Not just as a beautiful motif, but as an opportunity to reflect upon our environment, resource conservation, and the management of public green spaces.

Join the Initiative

The project is open to individuals as well as companies. Those wishing to enter the competition can expect the competition platform to be published online from mid February 2026. Entries are possible during the month of March. The initial jury phase takes place during April, while online voting and final prize allocation with an award ceremony will follow in June.

Any company wishing to support the competition benefits from the environmental education project for Düsseldorf. Beyond strengthening urban nature, it raises awareness and fosters community spirit, while credibly demonstrating a corporate commitment to the city.

Photo © Pro Düsseldorf e. V. 

Words Pro Düsseldorf, story Vincent Green, Dec 27, 2025

MERRY EXPAT CHRISTMAS 2025

Department store window with Christmas scene

Living in Germany may feel like a blessing at this time of year. Naturally the northern hemisphere grows darker and central Europe cloudier. Precipitation respects no borders, even if it can, at times, feel highly selective.

At the airport this morning, I met a woman from Spain returning home after eight years. Not to join the festivities, but to escape the country’s inclement weather. Since we are unable to alter aspects of our location, we change our environment. With all that entails.

Cultures everywhere celebrate the season in wonderfully different ways. The United States, for example, is famed for its festive ambience. Private homes shine so brightly they seem visible from space. Indoors, another sea of lights glows as stockings hang on mantelpieces in anticipation of an old bearded guy who will, hopefully, descend through the chimney.

Saint Nick

Dressed in red and widely known as Santa, Father Christmas is embraced across the globe. Finland, however, proudly claims Joulupukki as their own and he is said to reside in Rovaniemi when he’s not busy guiding his sleigh around the globe.

Meanwhile, Germany elevates another beloved Yuletide tradition. The country is filled with Christmas markets. Some cities scatter smaller markets across neighbourhoods while others present grand, cohesive gatherings. All are cherished by locals, expats and visitors alike.

The air is rich with the scent of glühwein, a mulled wine served hot, spiced and sweet. The white version is a touch lighter than the red. A favourite appetiser known as flammkuchen is a delightful cross between a crepe and a pizza.

Wherever one finds themselves, this season can stir deep emotions for those living abroad. Some travel very long distances to be with family and friends. Others miss a familiar drink from home such as eggnog. Yet more international residents settle in with a VPN to watch classics such as Miracle on 34th Street, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Home Alone, It’s a Wonderful Life, Die Hard or Love Actually yet again.

Reflections

Childhood memories can help hold us high during one of the most sentimental times of the year. Especially for foreign citizens. They reveal the true spirit of Christmases past and cause us to reflect deeply upon our personal circumstances.

So spare a thought, if you will, for those among us who have chosen the calling of international life. A path that sees professionals offering their expertise to an employer abroad, embracing new cultural experiences and adapting to unfamiliar surroundings. Sometimes even years after leaving their place of origin.

Settling into a new country and culture, while absorbing a new language and navigating a different societal system, is a unique journey. Access to reliable, in-depth knowledge about one’s location and acquiring trustworthy insights are essential for a smooth relocation and lasting success. All year round.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

In joy, kindest,
Garry

Join Amazing Capitals.

By Vincent Green, Dec 19 2025

FILTH AWAY DAY

People beside river

Anyone who has been to a funeral may know the phrase “Ashes to ashes, dust to dust”. Wait long enough and we all become earth, whether cremated or not. Which is good, because the life force of this planet is the soil.

In contrast to our decomposing bodies, we humans are great at inventing things that seem to never disappear. Consumption has increased exponentially as has the quest for convenience. Thus the use of packaging has skyrocketed. Unfortunately though, the paper bags and plain cardboard boxes of other lifetimes have long seen better days.

So many items are sold in plastic and most are destined for human consumption. Sadly, more convenient portions require almost as much wrapping as their larger counterparts. In addition, while the use of glass bottles has been reduced, that of plastic, styrofoam and bubblewrap has not.

Furthermore, while waste separation and recycling have improved, our ability to stem the tide of troublesome habits has declined. To use the term “to throw aware” makes light of the fact that our “away” is somebody else’s “here.” To dispose of trash does not imply a more meaningful solution either.

Dramatic Situation

The resulting drama should be obvious to us all by now. When rivers rise to their flood plains and beyond, they leave not only logs and branches behind when waters recede. They pass other people’s rubbish on to us. Quid pro quo. Literally.

The best of intentions and inventions are almost meaningless in light of the bigger picture that is unfolding each and every moment around the globe. Seen collectively as a species, homo sapiens are generally disrespectful of their environment. We’ve all noticed media reports about swathes of non-decomposable items in the tropics. Some of our own countries even pay others for permits to allow export of their societal garbage.

The sad reality is that, in spite of methodical waste disposal, more needs to be done.

Helping Hands

Enter the Dreck Weg Tag, a movement that was started already in 1999, and originally designed to remove rubbish from the riverbanks of the majestic Rhine in Düsseldorf. The so-called Filth Away Day has grown way beyond its humble beginnings and nowadays positively affects other areas of the city too.

This organised cleanup event has grown in popularity year after year, attracting seventeen thousand registrations in 2025. This year, the event is expected to surpass that number of volunteers when it celebrates its twenty-fifth anniversary. on Saturday March 21 2026.

Literally everything can be discovered blemishing our natural landscapes. From bottles, packaging, shopping trolleys, bikes and toys to portable grills or bags of trash left behind by inconsiderate picnickers. Some half buried, others scarring the surface. Even crutches and walking sticks have been collected. Maybe false teeth too? Meanwhile, stories have been told of volunteers focussing on single items such as cigarette stubs and filters.

Expat individuals and groups who wish to join in can be supplied with various items such as bags and gloves as long as stocks last. Attendees are also requested to register by March 19 2026 using the official link.

By Vincent Green, Dec 8, 2025