The best festive activities for the Christmas vacations in Luxembourg.jpg

The winter vacations in Luxembourg will start on December 24, 2022 and end on January 8, 2023. Yet, you may be wondering what you can do to make the most of your vacation and festive season. Luckily, we've done the legwork to find you the best places to celebrate Christmas and have a memorable vacation.

## Activities to do with your family in Luxembourg for a merry Christmas vacation

While many activities have been cancelled, others, such as children's art workshops, will go on as planned so you can have a wonderful Christmas vacation in Luxembourg.

But before attending a workshop, be sure to contact the organizers to find out what precautions are being taken due to the current health crisis.

## Entertainment options at home

Don't panic if the workshops you want to attend are full or already over! Many fun things can also be done at home. All you have to do is break out of your routine! Say it's time for a game night. Or, plan a movie night for some quiet time.

## Winter strolls in Luxembourg

Perhaps you can take advantage of the Christmas break to go on a nature walk. The towns of Hesperange and Walferdange border the city of Luxembourg; do you know their treasures?

These suburbs have a lot to offer to the big city, despite their proximity to the countryside. From their city center or nearby, you can go on hiking and educational trails that will allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of the region. A Roman aqueduct, for example, may be waiting to be discovered.

If you prefer to explore nature on foot, grab your hiking boots and a good coat and go on an expedition! For example, there are many attractions to discover in the Guttland.

The best festive activities for the Christmas vacations in Luxembourg!

4 tips for successful decorating with small means.jpg

If you want to update your home decor but can't afford it, what can you do? Don't give up! Change the furniture in a room, change the lighting and re-evaluate your goals... All of this can be done without having to undertake major work or spend a lot of money. Okay, so here are some solutions!

## Luckily, laundry is a panacea

Changing the look of a room simply by changing the fabric can be very satisfying. You can make a room more comfortable by using colors and patterns. Linens allow you to do either of these things, as it's like having a closet full of ready-made clothes that are perfect for your home. Changing the look of a room is as simple as replacing the carpet. Curtains are a great way to dress up your windows and brighten up the room. You guessed it: new linens can refresh the look of your home and even your furniture. Again, linens can save you from having to spend a lot of money on a brand new couch if you find the one you have is uncomfortable or just plain outdated. 

## Add decoration to the walls

If you don't want to paint your walls, there are other ways to make them stand out. Once again, fabric will be a big help. By simply hanging a large piece of fabric or an old rug, you can transform the look of the entire room. Greening your interior with natural materials and small touches of greenery is also very trendy, so baskets and hanging plants are becoming increasingly popular.
If you want to be unique, try painting on old canvas with leftover paint from your old paint cans. A poster, tapestry, photos or a small paper collage can also serve the same purpose. Create a space for yourself here, whether you are a single person or a group.

## Suitcases filled with curiosities

We tend to imagine monumental works and high prices when we think of decorative items. Keep in mind the little things that can make a big difference when you're trying to revamp a space on the cheap and in a hurry. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to change your decor frequently. The grid can be anything from a shelf to a door. 

Place a variety of household or yard sale finds in it. The personality of the space can be influenced by the items placed in it. Again, the potential is huge. Arrange a vintage bottle, a vase adorned with dried flowers from your grandmother's garden, an antique piece, or even your most treasured headwear and shoes. It's up to you how you decorate, so go ahead and take chances. 

However, if you feel like there's too much stuff in your home, it's time to do a little sorting and purging. Clean out your space by getting rid of anything you don't need to start thinking about things with a clean slate.

## Each color represents a different set

If you want to create a unified aesthetic in your home, choose a single hue for all your linens and accessories. All elements of a decorating scheme, from the bowl to the cushion, should coordinate with each other. Therefore, to stay on trend, it's important to decide ahead of time what color will serve as the focal point of the room.

In the end, it doesn't take much to make a big difference. The only changes you need to make are to the lighting and the placement of the furniture. The most important thing is to take your time. Don't rush into anything until you've thought through the layout of the room, its furnishings and your personal preferences. Once we've finished decluttering the room, optimizing the available space, getting creative and coordinating everything, you'll feel like you've stepped into your ideal environment.

4 tips for successful decorating with small means

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You decide to make some improvements to your home, either shortly after you move in or several years later. You have probably worked with a bank in Luxembourg to obtain a loan to finance the purchase of your property in that country. You can turn to the bank again for this renovation work. The bank can provide you with financing, and you can choose from various loan options, such as home loans and personal loans.

## A loan is a convenient substitute for traditional project planning

Taking out a home loan is the best option, as it allows you to plan for necessary maintenance and improvements before you can relax in your home. However, a consumer loan may be the best choice for some borrowers.

Borrowing money allows you to think more broadly about the scope of your project, as the costs can be amortized over a longer period of time.

## What distinguishes a home loan in Luxembourg from a personal loan?

The funds for this project can be raised in two ways. To begin with, many homeowners immediately consider applying for a personal loan to finance the renovations. You won't have to pay too much attention to the paperwork when applying for this type of financing. Individuals can borrow up to their financial limits with a personal loan, which is more than enough to consider completing most renovation projects. In addition, the repayment terms are relatively short.

Whether you're considering building a new home from scratch or renovating an old one, a home loan in Luxembourg can help. Particularly useful for large-scale projects that require the disbursement of significant funds, it has a wide application. It is a procedure that allows you to spread your payments over as many years as you wish, depending on your budget. Banks usually require a mortgage registration, which comes with a high fee, for home loans.

## Which is better, a home loan or a personal loan?

You don't have to think twice about applying for a home loan once you've made the decision to buy a home. However, you may need to think about your financing options.

The amount you borrow is the main factor that determines whether you get a home loan or a personal loan. We suggest that you get a home loan for a larger project. Personal loans are still an option for those whose credit score is below this threshold.

A home loan in Luxembourg is a good option if you want to expand your home but do not have a large emergency fund. The term of your loan can be extended and the rates improved to your advantage... The amount you owe on a monthly basis will soon decrease. However, a consumer loan is your best bet if you only want to insulate one room or renovate a single room.

Speaking to a home loan expert at your bank is the easiest way to go.

How to choose your home loan to renovate?

How to spend a good vacation near Luxembourg.jpg

The ups and downs of 2022 may have ruined your usual vacation plans. There are still ways to have a memorable vacation without breaking the bank. The options available to you as a resident of Luxembourg are vast. Is it better for you to travel to the region via Germany, Belgium or France? Below are some suggestions for finding the right vacation spot for you!

## The history of Germany

You, Luxembourgers, are only about 40 kilometers away from Rome. Trier, a city in Germany, is home to many Roman ruins, including the Porta Nigra, baths and an amphitheater. A true historical artifact is at hand.

## Germany still has some pleasant surprises in store for those looking for a less intense vacation or something to entertain the kids

The city of Merzig is only an hour away from Luxembourg, and it has much to offer that the whole family will never forget. Those who want to learn more about wolves and their unique culture can do so at the Werner Freund Wolf Park, located in this town. There is also the concept of "Gardens without Limits", which is sure to awaken your senses. The Losheim lake is not only an ideal place for swimming and water sports, but also offers many other attractions.

Finally, the Eifelpark in Gondorf is a fantastic place for children of all ages, with rides, animals and shows of all kinds.

## Enjoy the natural environment of Belgium

If Germany is too far away, Belgium is a good alternative. In Durbuy, just over an hour away, you'll find the Adventure Valley theme park, which offers a wide range of activities suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds, including caving, tree climbing, laser games, escape rooms and more. If you visit Durbuy, you can also get lost in a corn maze. You can have endless fun in this 11-hectare theme park, where comedians and games and puzzles are the attractions.

In the Roche-en-Ardenne, you can take a leisurely stroll through the town's picturesque landscape, which is lulled by the sound of flowing water. The lyrical ruins of the feudal castle will offer you a restorative break and an opportunity to gain some height. If you haven't finished your walk yet, go to the Parc in Gibier, where you can enjoy the outdoors and meet a wide variety of animals. You will join the likes of Victor Hugo, Oscar Wilde and many others who found inspiration in this city.

## France, home of the arts

In just two hours, you can enjoy the beauty of the Madine lake, not far from Luxembourg. Numerous water activities, such as scuba diving, boating and a visit to an aquapark, can be enjoyed simultaneously. But there are also many land-based activities, such as horseback riding, tree climbing and even a bird observatory.

Nancy, famous for its art new architecture, is a short distance away. Few other cities have so many buildings decorated in such an original and eye-catching way. Walking around Nancy in search of these works of art will certainly be a magical experience. In addition, the city is home to the Nancy School Museum, a former school that displays art new glassware. You can be swept away by vivid, moving and narrative objects that honor the memory of historical figures like Louis Majorelle and Emile Gallée.

If you still have an appetite for culture after visiting the Centre Pompidou in Paris, you can satisfy it in Metz, thanks to the Centre Pompidou branch. 

Therefore, it is clear that a world tour is not necessary to have a satisfying vacation. 

How to spend a good vacation near Luxembourg ?

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You and your family have decided to spend your vacation entirely within Luxembourg's borders, so it's only logical that you'd like some suggestions for local activities to enjoy together. The landscape of our territory is conducive to exciting discoveries, and that's good news. We can attest to this with the variety of cultural and recreational options available: there is truly something for everyone. Check out these ideas to get you excited for your next vacation...

## The Corniche and the Pfaffenthal Panorama Lift are worth the trip to the top

The Corniche, which runs along the Alzette valley, is the most beautiful balcony in the world. It invites visitors to climb the magnificent ramparts built in the 17th century and to enjoy a breathtaking view. You will get great shots of the Alzette valley, as well as the lower town of Grund and the Rham Plateau.

If you don't feel like taking too long a hike, take the Pfaffenthal panoramic elevator, which connects the Pfaffenthal district and the Pescatore Park. You can climb to an altitude of 71 meters in a glass cabin, at no cost to you. For young and old alike, this is a memorable experience.

## Discover for yourself the beauty of the Wonder Park and its model trains

The Parc Merveilleux is a popular destination for visitors because of its beautiful scenery and its proximity to Luxembourg (only 20 km away). Adults and children alike will be amazed by the 200 animal species from the five continents that make up the site and by its attractions, playgrounds in the undergrowth.

In Esch-sur-Alzette, you can take a ride on a vintage and whimsical little train that will take you on a journey. Two tracks that stretch for a little over a kilometer along the street of Dr. Emile Colling make up this miniature railway.

## Museums of all types offer educational entertainment

There are a plethora of museums in Luxembourg that are sure to quench your intellectual hunger. The National Museum of Natural History is a great place to take your kids as it is both educational and entertaining. Themes of animals, plants and the cosmos are explored in the permanent exhibition "natur musée". Whether you're in the mood for a walk or a serious study, plan your trip according to your interests.

Discover the city of Luxembourg and its fascinating history through the ages at the Luxembourg City Museum. The role of the city in the political management of the territory, especially since the independence of the Grand Duchy, as well as the life of its inhabitants through time, from medieval craftsmanship to industrialization, will be explored (mid 19th century).

At the regional office in Clervaux there is a toy museum which is a real paradise for all those who are interested in dolls or other small trains. And if you are tired of sitting in the dark, the Cinema offers unique alternatives with its international selection of films and related lectures.

3 Ideas for a family vacation in Luxembourg ?

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The dream of an at-home spa where you can indulge in thermal treatments at any time without leaving home is becoming less and less illusory as more and more affordable options become available. But how will you implement this completely outlandish plan at home? What do you need to watch out for, and how can you ensure that your equipment is adequate? Here are some tips that should help.

## 1. Finding the Right Spa for You

You can find a home spa for any budget. If you're on a tight budget, check out inflatable spas, for example. Easy to install and move, they can be placed anywhere. They are widely available and sold at low prices.

However, the conventional rigid spa is the best option if you're looking for a more complete setup, as it generally has more features and greater versatility. As with the inflatable alternatives, you can find a wide range of equipment in this category. Depending on your needs, preferences and finances, you can choose a portable or fixed system.

## 2. What factors drive the price up or down

Spas range in price from a few hundred dollars for the simplest models to well over €10,000 for the most luxurious. If you want to make an intelligent decision, you need to calculate the impact of each variable.

Naturally, a swim spa, which is both larger and more complex, will cost more than an inflatable spa. The cost is also influenced by the materials chosen. Compared to natural materials such as wood or mosaic tiles, the cost of synthetic or concrete alternatives is significantly lower. The cost of an installation is heavily influenced by a number of factors, including the number and type of features offered, as well as the size of the system.

Keep in mind that there may be additional expenses associated with installation. For built-in spas, it is always advisable to have a professional install the equipment to ensure proper operation.

## 3. Plan for spa and room maintenance

Installing a spa in your home will make that room more humid, so be sure to plan accordingly. Choose a room with a window if you want access to fresh air throughout the day. If not, it may be time to re-evaluate the ventilation and adapt it to the new use.

Spa maintenance is something you should consider at the end. Although filters and protective covers are an added expense, they are well worth it because they increase the usability of the equipment and extend its life. Cleaning an outdoor spa is a more complex process than cleaning an indoor spa because of the increased likelihood of dirt and the need to regularly remove leaves and other debris.

You can increase your satisfaction with your home and your life in general by installing a spa. Don't overlook any of the steps necessary to choose and install it properly!

3 tips for installing a spa at home

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You and your family have decided to spend the winter vacations at home and are looking for activities to do. There are many ways to relax and unwind in the comfort of your own home, so don't worry. Here are a few ideas to get you through the next few days with a healthy dose of fun, togetherness and originality.

## Try setting up a tent in your backyard for a change of pace

Camping at home, if you're lucky enough to have one, forces you to abandon the routines you keep all year. Pitch a tent, inflate the mattresses, plant some sardines and spend the night under the stars.

Feel free to have an appetizer or even a picnic in the backyard to enhance the realism and fun of your experience. An outdoor picnic, with the carpet on the ground instead of the table, and the winter salads you crave is another option if you don't have access to a garden space.

## Consider a yoga and gym session

Being mentally and physically fit while never leaving the house is totally doable. Get in shape with friends or family and have fun with real mini workouts at home.

It can be fun to link gymnastics moves, and you can even have the kids compete in rollovers and handstands. Don't be afraid to schedule some yoga or stretching to relax. If you modify the activities to suit the level of the children, everyone can have fun.

## Have contests in areas such as magic, hairdressing and taste

Kids can learn while having fun with family and friends at one of many different events. Modify the program to suit your preferences and the interests of your young charges. Magic contests are a great way to test skills and creativity, and are sure to be enjoyed by trick-or-treaters.

As an added challenge, hold a blind tasting contest to see who can rate the best dishes without the benefit of sight. This is also an opportunity to teach kids something new in a fun setting. You can have a contest based on anything from hair and makeup to a sporting event or a mental challenge.

## On vacation at home, I simply relax

Recharge your batteries at home even if you can't go on vacation. Give yourself permission to relax when the kids are busy and your partner is watching them. Anything that helps you get your energy back!

You should try something new and shake up your routine. Chances are, it will influence how you spend your next vacation. But first, you need to stop wasting time running around and start looking around. Have fun, recharge your batteries, and return to the school routine with renewed vigor.

4 ideas for a relaxing vacation at home

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We wonder how long it usually takes to find an occupant for a studio. As a landlord, what steps can you take to reduce the risk of vacancy? It makes sense to consider these logistical questions if you're considering renting a home in Luxembourg. We have the answers you are looking for.

## Rental periods tend to be shorter for properties with fewer rooms

A studio apartment can be rented in much less time than a large two or three bedroom house. A roommate is not difficult to find in Luxembourg City.

Studios / T1 are in high demand but the supply is low on the rental market in Luxembourg, especially in the larger cities. There is a high demand for affordable housing, but the supply of apartments is insufficient.

According to all mathematical estimates, a fully furnished studio apartment that is currently vacant can be rented quickly. However, keep in mind that the majority of applicants for these units are students or young professionals. Nomadic behavior is typical for them. Although you can easily find a tenant for a small apartment, you may have to replace them more frequently than for a large apartment.

## Large apartments may take longer to rent, but they tend to be more reliable in the long run

If you are considering buying a rental property in Luxembourg, be aware that the types of tenants you can expect to find depend on the specific property you are buying. Studios and one-bedroom apartments (T1) are popular with students and young professionals who are not tied to a specific location. They are constantly on the move and their leases usually last no more than a few years.

On the other hand, long-term leases are common for large apartments with multiple bedrooms. Because of their layout, they are best suited for families with several children. For the mental health of their children, it is best that they continue to reside in the same place. They are looking for stability, which is good news if you are looking for a long-term rental.

## Use a real estate company to manage the property

Your target audience for renting your property in Luxembourg will vary depending on its size, location and amenities. Depending on the size of the property, it may take longer to find tenants, but long-term leases are more likely.

With proper planning, any investment in rental property in Luxembourg has a good chance of being profitable, as demand is high in all areas, from studios to T3 and T4 apartments.

However, to avoid a mountain of paperwork, you should hire a property management company; that way, you won't have to worry about finding tenants. They will do everything for you, from coordinating multiple occupant changes in a calendar year to advertising widely to fill vacancies quickly.

How long does it take to find a tenant in Luxembourg?

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Renting a home in Luxembourg between individuals is not something to be done lightly. If you own a property, before you put it up for rent or place an ad for a tenant, you need to make sure that you have covered all the bases. Our advice!

## A home with or without furniture?

After purchasing a rental property in Luxembourg, investors have the option to rent it unfurnished or fully furnished. If you want to maximize your money, renting a fully furnished home is a great option to consider. In addition to increasing your rent, you can deduct the cost of any new furnishings from your rental income during its useful life.

However, a bare apartment is the best option for a long-term rental between individuals in your Luxembourg real estate project. This way, you can attract the type of long-term tenants you want: secure people who can bring their own furniture and who don't plan to move out for at least a few years.

## Energy efficiency certification?

When you buy a house in Luxembourg, you receive a EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) which proves its energy efficiency. This certificate remains active for a full decade. If you have exceeded this period, you cannot even consider renting out your property again without a new inspection.

This diagnosis will entail a minimal cost, but compliance with the regulations still requires the rental. Indeed, the tenant should have access to it at any time in order to realize the energy efficiency of the building.

## What is the monthly cost of an apartment in Luxembourg for individuals?

After making a financial commitment in Luxembourg City, renting requires careful consideration of the optimal rental rate. The actual limits of these rents are imposed by the government. There are a number of factors that go into determining the maximum monthly rent for an unfurnished apartment.

- The monthly rent cannot be more than 5% of the total amount spent on the unit.
- The rent is set in part by the cost of living and in part by the age of the building.

Invest some time in researching comparable rental properties. You can also seek advice from a real estate agency if you are having difficulty with this process.

## What to include in the ad, and how to select potential tenants?

Finally, if you want to find good tenants for your Luxembourg real estate rental operation, you should publish an ad in a newspaper or online. Don't forget to highlight the apartment by including as many photos and details as possible in the main text.

Make sure that the people applying to rent your home are serious and have good credit by carefully reviewing their profiles. If the idea of doing all this work is too much for you, a real estate agency is there to take care of it.

4 Advices to individuals for renting real estate in Luxembourg

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In major cities around the world, more and more people are moving into new types of housing based on the co-living model. In Luxembourg too, this alternative seems more than ever adapted to the needs of its occupants, who are generally young and passing through due to a tight rental market and a context in which many people are looking for short-term housing.

## A modest personal space, but a multitude of shared amenities

Co-living is gaining popularity in most major cities, after initially gaining traction in metropolises around the world. These modern dwellings are hybrids, featuring both individual and community spaces.

Specifically, tenants can expect to have a studio or room that is between 15 and 30 square meters in size. They can relax and sleep in peace, with access to a full bathroom and a compact kitchen.

They are also welcome to use all the common areas, which may or may not be the same from one building to another. Some developers include spas, movie theaters, sports courts, libraries and even bars in their rental buildings to attract more tenants. Coworking spaces, shared lounges and ancillary services like self-service bikes and electric scooters are common features of this type of rental housing in the Luxembourg real estate market.

## Who can move into a co-living home?

Finding a rental home in Luxembourg can be difficult, especially if you're just passing through and don't intend to settle down permanently. To a greater extent than usual, young people and transients are ideal candidates for co-living situations.

Although we tend to see more young people and singles in these buildings, everyone is welcome to rent an apartment there. You need to be sociable and open to new people if you want to thrive in this type of rental. But don't worry, everyone has their own private space, whether it's a room or an entire studio.

## What is the going rate for roommates?

Rents in a co-living apartment are lower than average because residents have fewer responsibilities. As with any traditional apartment, you will need to purchase furniture, pay utilities and sign up for internet service. The total cost of a co-living apartment includes everything listed above. Especially if you are only staying for a short time, it may not be more expensive than renting an "empty" apartment.

Co-living is growing rapidly in some countries, including the United Kingdom, where it is serving as the economic base for a number of new construction projects. This investment opportunity is attracting investors as it offers them a way to diversify their holdings. The duration of the lease and the location of the taxpayer are not yet regulated by law in Luxembourg. Ministers have already stated that they are discussing new laws to adapt the rules to the new practices.

Blog and real estate advices