AS OF 2023 IT IS CURRENTLY NOT POSSIBLE TO TRAVEL FROM WARSAW TO MINSK BY TRAIN. THIS IS LIKELY TO REMAIN THE SAME AS LONG AS THE POLITICAL SITUATION IN BELARUS CONTINUES DETEORIORATING. 

If you are planning to travel by train from Warsaw to Minsk, this post will bring all the information you will need to have an comfortable journey. It includes information on how to buy tickets and directions from and to the railway stations in Warsaw and Minsk.

Minsk Train Station Photo by Artem Svetlov

If you are planning to travel by train from Warsaw to Minsk, this post will bring all the information you will need to have an comfortable journey. It includes information on how to buy tickets and directions from and to the railway stations in Warsaw and Minsk.

The Warsaw to Belarus route is relatively busy. The Warsaw – Minsk leg is usually part of longer trains from different European cities enroute to Moscow. As Warsaw is the capital and Minsk is the capital of Belarus, this route is used by tourists and locals, and Belarus citizens working in Poland.

Jump to Section:
Warsaw to Minsk by Train: Overview
Train Stations in Warsaw
Train Stations in Minsk
Traveling time from Warsaw to Minsk
Buy Tickets / Prices from Warsaw to Minsk
Train Travel Resources

How to Travel by Train from Warsaw to Minsk: Overview

There are basically two options to travel from Warsaw to Minsk. One is more more comfortable, but more expensive. And the other involves connections but is much more affordable

Option 1: Direct Train from Warsaw to Minsk

There are a few trains traveling daily from Poland to Belarus. Some of the trains passing from Poland to Minsk travel on the routes from Budapest to Moscow, Paris to Moscow and others.

These trains normally have couchette and sleeping cars, as they are intended for long journeys. Unfortunately it is not possible to buy tickets on this route online. The routes and timetables also constantly change, depending on the time of the year, you can check them at the Bahn Reiseauskunft or Tutu.ru website.

Option 2: Using Domestic Trains

This option is much cheaper than the previous, but it is more time consuming. You can travel from Warsaw to Terespol at the Belarusian border with a domestic train. In Terespol, there is a regional train on the route Terespol (PL) to Brest Centralniy (BY). Brest is the first city after the border.

From Brest (Brest Centralniy Station) you can take a domestic train to Minsk. But the connection times especially in Terespol might be far from optimal.

Train Stations in Warsaw

There are three stations from which you can start your train ride from Warsaw to the Belorussian capital.

They are Warszawa Wschodnia (Eastern Station), Warszawa Centralna (Central Station) and Warszawa Zachodnia (Western Station). There is no price difference regardless the station you start from, so ideally you should start somewhere near your accommodation.

Train Stations in Minsk

There is just one main station in Minsk (Minsk Passazhirski) and it will be your point of arrival in the capital of Belarus. It is quite a big station with an information desk, however do not expect that all Belarusian Railways employees will understand English. From the station you can easily take a taxi or use the Minsk metro to your destination.

Traveling Time by Train from Warsaw to Minsk

If you take a direct train from Warsaw to Minsk, in optimal conditions the ride will take 10 hours. At the Polish-Belorussian border the wait is quite long, as the gauges are changed and passports are checked. If you opt for using domestic trains the ride can easily reach 20 hours.

How to Buy a Train Ticket from Warsaw to Minsk

Currently there is no way to buy a train ticket from Warsaw to Minsk online. The ticket price starts at around 100 € for direct trains.

If you opt for traveling using domestic trains you can buy the Warsaw to Terespol leg online from the PKP website. The Belorussian part of the journey can be purchased at tutu.ru.

Train Travel Resources

Booking.com: the most complete website for finding hotels and accommodation anywhere.

Trainline buy train and bus tickets in Europe.

World Nomads: if you are travelling abroad, you can get insurance from World Nomads. With a vast coverage in number of countries and activities, World Nomads is a great option for any kind of traveler.

Jetradar: The best place to compare flights for your next trip.

Train Travel Guide: in our railway travel guide, you will learn how to choose and ride the most scenic train routes around the world, always in the most comfortable way with optimal prices to enhance your travel experience.

The post Train from Warsaw to Minsk – Price, Tickets and Stations appeared first on Check in Price.

Revolut has become a popular choice for many individuals globally, owing to its sleek debit card and impressive multi-currency account. Furthermore, users can access a stock and cryptocurrency marketplace, as well as travel benefits, savings opportunities, and a mobile app that facilitates budgeting and purchase tracking.

Nonetheless, there are Revolut limitations that are unique to particular nationalities, such as the inability to access bank account information, which means direct deposits from employers or friends are not possible. Additionally, the neobank does not accept cash deposits.

Fortunately, there are many alternatives to Revolut available in the market that offer comparable core banking services, with their own unique advantages and drawbacks. This guide will examine some of the top neobanks and banking apps that provide a compelling substitute to Revolut.

Wise

4.5/5

For those seeking a reliable alternative to Revolut, Wise Account is a notable option to consider. Founded in the UK, Wise has made a name for itself through its speedy and cost-effective international money transfer services. Beyond this, Wise offers a multi-currency account that provides users with access to a debit MasterCard and allows them to hold money in over 50 currencies. Furthermore, users receive account details for 10 currencies, including USD, EUR, and GBP, making it a versatile option for those who frequently conduct transactions across borders.

One of the standout features of Wise Account is that it charges no monthly fee, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious users. Moreover, the account does not offer an overdraft, which can be beneficial for those who want to avoid accruing debt. Although the account does not offer interest on balances or savings, its ability to hold money in multiple currencies can potentially save users from incurring foreign exchange fees, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers.

In addition to its multi-currency account, Wise Account also partners with FSCS-insured Barclays UK, ensuring that users’ funds remain safe and secure. Overall, Wise Account’s commitment to offering low-cost international money transfers and providing users with an easy-to-use multi-currency account with a range of features and benefits makes it a compelling alternative to Revolut.

Click here to open your TransferWise (now Wise) account now

• Allows users to hold money in over 50 currencies, with account details for 10 of them
• Charges no monthly fee and does not offer overdrafts, making it an affordable choice for users
• Offers fast and low-cost international money transfer services
• Partners with FSCS-insured Barclays UK, ensuring users’ funds remain secure.

Payoneer

4.2/5

Payoneer is an excellent option to consider for SMEs and self-employed professionals. This cross-border digital payment system provides users with a free business account that is available to numerous nationalities around the world. One of Payoneer’s key features is its access to local bank accounts in nine countries, including the US, the UK, and various European countries, allowing users to withdraw their revenue in local currency and avoid costly international wires.

Another notable aspect of Payoneer is its integration with payment systems like Stripe and Amazon’s check-out system. This can broaden users’ international market reach, potentially increasing their revenue and saving them money on transaction fees. Furthermore, Payoneer charges no monthly fee and does not offer overdrafts, making it a budget-friendly choice for businesses looking to save costs.

In addition to its standard account, Payoneer also partners with FDIC-insured US banks, ensuring that users’ funds remain secure. Overall, Payoneer’s range of features, affordability, and focus on catering to businesses and self-employed professionals make it a strong alternative to Revolut.

Click here to open your Payoneer account now

• Provides a free business account with access to local bank accounts in nine countries
• Integrates with payment systems like Stripe and Amazon’s check-out system, broadening users’ international market reach
• Charges no monthly fee and does not offer overdrafts, making it an affordable choice for businesses
• Partners with FDIC-insured US banks, ensuring users’ funds remain secure.

N26

4.2/5

N26 is an online bank that offers numerous benefits to its customers, making it a worthy alternative to Revolut. One of the significant advantages of N26 is its accessibility to anyone who owns a smartphone, as it allows them to open an account easily and start depositing funds immediately. Customers can also enjoy fee-free ATM withdrawals across Europe, making it easier for them to access their money. Moreover, with a debit card that has zero international transaction fees, N26 customers can enjoy hassle-free transactions when traveling abroad.

Another factor that makes N26 a good alternative to Revolut is its budgeting tools and savings pots, which customers find very useful. The bank’s budgeting tools help customers track their spending and stay within their budget, while savings pots enable customers to set money aside for specific goals. Additionally, N26’s integration with Wise makes it possible for customers to send and receive low-fee international money transfers with ease.

In conclusion, N26 is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly alternative to Revolut. With its accessible account opening process, fee-free ATM withdrawals, zero international transaction fees, and budgeting tools and savings pots, N26 offers a wide range of features that cater to the needs of its customers.

Click here to sign up for a N26 account

• Accessible to anyone with a smartphone
• Fee-free ATM withdrawals across Europe
• Zero international transaction fees
• Budgeting tools and savings pots for customers to manage their finances better

Starling Bank

4.0/5

Starling Bank is a standout option among the alternatives to Revolut when it comes to banking. As a fully-authorised bank in the UK, Starling offers a comprehensive range of financial services, including a fee-free current account. This account is one of the most complete in the UK, providing users with access to services like overdraft, loans, joint accounts, pensions, and more. As a result, Starling is an excellent alternative to both traditional high-street banks and neobanks like Revolut.

A standout feature of Starling Bank is its Saving Spaces feature, which enables users to allocate money towards specific goals or expenses within their account. This feature assists users in budgeting more effectively and saving money towards their objectives, making it an ideal option for those who want to manage their finances more efficiently. Starling also offers a pension scheme, youth card, and interest on balances, providing users with a wide range of benefits and features to choose from.

In summary, Starling Bank provides an outstanding banking experience for those seeking a comprehensive and feature-rich alternative to Revolut. With its fee-free current account, extensive financial services, and unique features like Saving Spaces, Starling is an excellent option for anyone seeking to manage their finances effectively.

Click here to sign up for a Starling bank account

Key points about Starling Bank and its strong points for users include:

• A fee-free current account with a wide range of financial services
• The Saving Spaces feature, which allows users to save money towards specific goals or expenses
• A pension scheme, youth card, and interest on balances for added benefits
• A comprehensive and feature-rich alternative to traditional high-street banks and neobanks like Revolut.

Chime

4.0/5

Chime is a popular mobile finance app in the US, offering a range of services that are easy to use and accessible to anyone with a social security number. One of the standout features of Chime is its current account and high-yield savings account, which offers a competitive 2.00% APY on savings. In addition, Chime also provides an interest-free credit builder called the Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa Credit Card, which can help users build credit history.

Chime is also known for its vast network of over 55,000 ATMs, allowing users to make fee-free withdrawals across the country. Furthermore, Chime does not charge any international transaction fees, making it an excellent option for frequent travelers abroad. With its simple and user-friendly interface, Chime is a great choice for those looking for a hassle-free banking experience.

Another significant advantage of Chime is that it is FDIC-insured, giving users peace of mind that their deposits are secure. The Chime Checking Account also does not charge any monthly fees and offers overdraft protection, providing users with a reliable and cost-effective banking solution.

Click here to sign up for a Chime account

Four bullet points about Chime’s strong points for users are:

• Offers a competitive 2.00% APY on savings through the Chime High Yield Savings Account
• Provides an interest-free credit builder called the Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa Credit Card to help users build credit history
• Boasts a vast network of over 55,000 ATMs for fee-free withdrawals across the US
• Does not charge any international transaction fees, making it an excellent option for frequent travelers abroad.

Remitly

4.0/5

Remitly is an excellent alternative to Revolut for those who need to send larger sums of money internationally. Remitly is specifically designed for international money transfers, and it offers lower fees and strong exchange rates compared to Revolut, especially for larger transfers. While Revolut is a multi-functional financial app with many features, Remitly’s sole focus on international money transfers makes it a more specialized and reliable option.

Remitly is highly recommended by many comparison engine websites, which consistently ranks it as the best choice for international money transfers from the UK, the US, and the Eurozone. Remitly is known for its competitive exchange rates and its low fixed fees, which can save you a significant amount of money compared to other providers. Additionally, Remitly provides a user-friendly and secure platform, which offers a range of payment options, including bank transfers, debit cards, and credit cards.

Remitly has earned a reputation for providing excellent customer service, and it offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the service, Remitly will refund your transaction fees. Moreover, Remitly offers fast delivery times, which range from instant transfers to 3-day delivery, depending on the destination and payment method. Remitly is also available in many languages, which makes it accessible to people from different backgrounds and countries.

Click here to sign up for a Remitly account

Here are four bullet points highlighting Remitly’s strong points for users:

• Competitive exchange rates and low fixed fees
• User-friendly and secure platform
• Excellent customer service with a satisfaction guarantee
• Fast delivery times and availability in multiple languages

Bonus Option 

Monese

For European residents seeking a hassle-free way to open a UK account, Monese could be an excellent alternative to Revolut. With Monese, you can quickly get a multi-currency account for GBP, EUR, and Romanian leu, along with an EU IBAN and a UK sort code, without having to show proof of UK residency. This feature alone can make it a more accessible choice for people who need a UK account for various reasons, such as freelancing, studying, or traveling.

In addition to this, Monese offers a range of other products, such as interest on your savings, purchase insurance, and an interest-free credit builder. These features are beneficial to those looking to save money and build their credit score, which makes Monese an attractive option for people who want to use their banking app for more than just making transactions.

Finally, Monese offers joint accounts for family members, which is a unique feature that can make it easier for families to manage their finances together. With Monese’s joint account, family members can share their income and expenses, set savings goals, and monitor their spending through the app.

Click here to sign up for a Monese account

• Monese allows for easy opening of a UK account without proof of UK residency.
• Monese offers a range of other products such as interest on savings, purchase insurance, and an interest-free credit builder.
• Monese offers joint accounts for family members, making it easier to manage finances together.
• Monese supports virtual cards and provides multi-currency accounts for GBP, EUR, and Romanian leu.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Revolut is not the only option available for online payments and money transfers. Several other platforms, such as Payoneer and Wise, offer similar services with additional features and benefits. These alternatives provide users with lower fees, better exchange rates, and more extensive coverage of countries and currencies.

Payoneer, for example, has a global reach, making it an excellent choice for freelancers and businesses operating internationally. On the other hand, Wise allows users to hold and convert money in over 50 currencies with no hidden fees. Overall, there are various alternatives to Revolut that can cater to specific needs and preferences, offering users more flexibility and control over their finances.

Ultimately, the choice between Revolut and its alternatives such as Payoneer and Wise comes down to the individual user’s needs and preferences. While each platform offers similar services, such as online payments and currency exchange, they differ in terms of fees, exchange rates, and supported currencies.

Therefore, it is important for users to research and compare these options based on their specific needs, such as the currencies they frequently use, the frequency of their transactions, and the level of customer support they require. By doing so, users can select the platform that best fits their requirements and offers the most value for their money.

Other resources for online banking and transactions

If you are considering options to bank internationally, you might want to check some of our other guides to the subject. Check how to open an European bank account and our guide on how to open an US bank account for non residents. More information specific to banking in the UK is also available at UK Finance.

The post Best 7 Revolut Alternatives: A Guide to Neobanks and Banking Apps appeared first on Check in Price.

Are you considering moving to Luxembourg to pursue a career? Check the average and minimum salary in Luxembourg below, as well as the economic prospects of this tiny and wealthy European nation.

Luxembourg is a small country in Western Europe, right between France, Belgium and Germany. Famous for its banks and lush countryside, Luxembourg is one of the richest countries in Europe. It also has excellent offers for expatriates and great future perspectives to anyone looking out to settle down in the country.

Minimum Salary In Luxembourg

The gross minimum salary in Luxembourg is 2837.40 € per month as of 2023, which is the highest in the European Union. Above that number, the employer and the employee are free to decide together on the amount to be paid. The minimum hourly rate is 12,38 euros. The data is available from the Government of Luxembourg.

Income taxes are calculated depending on your annual salary and can go up to 40%. Every year, salary corrections follow the inflation trends, which is currently around 2%.

The average work week in Luxembourg is 40 hours. That is slightly more than its neighbors, including France with its mythic 35 hour-week, Germany and Belgium.

Average Salary In Luxembourg

The average salary in Luxembourg is 59000 € per year or 4916 € per month (gross), according to the national statistics office of Luxembourg (Statec). The average salary in Luxembourg is currently higher than in Belgium, France and Germany.

Salaries are the highest in insurance and financial services, teaching, and gas and electricity. Despite its high cost of living, salaries in Luxembourg allows its workforce to have a higher purchase power.

Luxembourg Economic Outlook

In 2017 and 2018, the Luxembourg economy is forecasted to grow by 4%. This is a very good number compared to the average performance of other Western European countries. The unemployment rate remains low and stable, around 6%.
Luxembourg is very lucrative for skilled foreign workers, especially those in the financial services. However, it is essential to master one of the three official languages of the country, French, German or Luxembourgish, to increase chances of finding a job.

It can be very interesting to find a job in Luxembourg and live in one of the neighboring countries, where the cost of living is cheaper. Cross-border commuting is very easy, as physical borders and customs controls do not usually apply in the Schengen area.

Interesting Resources for Working and Living Abroad

Are you really considering to work and live abroad, temporarily or permanently? Below are some resources that might be useful for you around the web:

World Nomads: this company provides travel insurance in most countries around the world. It might be a good option if you going for a long travel.

Jetradar: Compare and book flights around the world with our own flight search fare tool.

Booking.com: Booking.com is the best choice for finding accommodation for your next trip, with a wide variety of choices for all types of travelers.

You may also want to check our website guides:

Train Travel Guide: in our railway travel guide, you will learn how to choose and ride the most scenic train routes around the world. Travel always in the most comfortable way with optimal prices to enhance your travel experience.

Dating Guide: this dating guide will help you not only to find love but to understand the social customs of each country. It will also help you to avoid dating scams around the internet and find people really interested in honest relationships.

Work Abroad Guide: Learn how to find a job and employment requirements in different countries. From the initial job search, to bargaining salaries, this guide will help you to find job in most countries around the world. It also covers about remote work and TEFL jobs.

The post Average and Minimum Salary in Luxembourg 2023 appeared first on Check in Price.

Are you planning to move to Budapest, Hungary? Check below the data for the cost of living in Budapest, the capital and the biggest city in Hungary.

Cost of Living in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the capital and largest city in Hungary. It is also one of the most beautiful cities in the old continent, and famous for its architecture, ruin pubs and amazing alles beside the Danube.

Furthermore, Budapest is one of the best cities for expats. The city is breathtaking and the price levels of goods and services are relatively low compared to the surrounding countries. Also Budapest has an international airport and three international railway stations which makes travelling comfortable and easy in and out of the city.

One of the main reason behind the growing number of foreign companies and employees in Budapest might be the location of the city. From Budapest it is convenient to do business with any part of the world but with a significantly lower operational cost than from Western Europeans countries.

The cost of living in Budapest is still more affordable than in most of the European countries thanks to the cheap public transport and general services. However the rent rate in city is continuously growing and getting closer to the Western European housing prices.

Let’s check some data for the cost of living in Budapest, Hungary below:

The currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint. The conversion rate to the HUF is 1 dollar to 392.23 HUF as of November 22, 2024.

If you want to suggest your own values based on your experiences in this city, click on edit and insert the values. Upon moderation they will be calculated to make part of the average prices displayed below.

Cost of Living for Students in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is great place for students. The education level of the universities is high and internationally acknowledged. Several student dorms are available for international students, too. The cost of living for students is definitely more favorable than in cities with similar attributes.

There are numerous higher education institutes in Budapest. Undergraduate, graduate and even higher level education and courses are available mainly in English, German and Hungarian but other languages are also represented. It is possible to participate in Hungarian language courses for students.

Here are some of the main higher education institutions in Budapest:

Corvinus University of Budapest

Budapest University of Technology and Economics

Eötvös Loránd University

Getting a Job in Budapest

Budapest is not just the capital but the center of country’s business life and job market. Most of the international jobs in Hungary are located in Budapest. The two most commonly required languages are English and German but several jobs are available for Russian speakers or any other slavic native people. More and more IT companies are coming to Budapest but there are positions for almost any kind of engineers and business professionals.

Salaries in line with the prices are not that high in Hungary but in case of international employees the employers are always willing to pay closer to the all European market. Additionally it is common to offer relocation services or other daily services for expats.

Here are some websites for job hunting in Hungary:

Profession.hu

Workania.hu

Jobinfo.hu

Quality of Life in Budapest

Budapest has a great quality of life with its amazing parks and natural areas equally with the spectacular squares and streets of city. For a reasonable price luxury services are available. Several theater and cultural programs offer high level of entertainment. The infrastructure and the public transport are well organized and fairly priced. Additionally there are various non-stop stores and restaurants around the city.

Most of the city is secure and has an exciting but in the same time safe nightlife. Pickpockets are very rare on the public transport.

English and German are well spoken among the younger generations,the older generations are more likely to speak Russian. Hungarian is not an easy language but Hungarian are enthusiastic language teachers.

If you are visiting Budapest soon you may want to check some of our other Hungary guides. Check the where to stay in Budapest and our article on the Budapest travel budget per day. You can also check the our article on trains from Budapest. You can also check how to travel from the Budapest Airport to the city center, and how to travel from Ljubljana to Budapest, Vienna to Budapest and Krakow to Budapest.

Other Resources for Expats and Travelers

Salaries Worldwide: check our articles on wages worldwide and understand better the economics of the countries you may be considering to move or invest.

Retire Abroad: check our retirement guides and maximize your retirement income and quality of life.

Jetradar: compare and find the cheapest air fares worldwide.

The post Cost of Living in Budapest, Hungary appeared first on Check in Price.

Are you considering making a change in your life and moving to Bucharest? Do you have an opportunity to work or study in Romania? Then read on and find out more about the cost of living in Bucharest, the capital of Romania.

Cost of Living in Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is by far the biggest city in Romania and it’s one of the biggest cities in Europe. With an official population of over 2 million and an unofficial one of over 3 million, it is a very vibrant city.

Bucharest still has the scars of communism over it, with big grey buildings that have a grim utilitarian feeling. The city also has houses and mansions from different styles, including Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Strolling down the streets you will notice a sharp and clear contrast between these styles.

Besides the architecture, there are not many other indicators that this was a communist country for nearly 45 years. Bucharest has quickly reinvented itself into a dynamic European capital. Currently, it is a multicultural city that is still growing and is far off from its maximum potential.

As a side effect of this, the cost of living is on the rise and it’s comparable with cities like Budapest, Prague or Krakow. While food and transportation is still quite affordable, the cost of accommodations is growing steadily, with more affluent areas being off limits to regular locals. There are places where only the most well-off Romanians and expats can afford. All in all, the city as a whole is still more affordable than other larger cities in Europe.

Let’s check some data for the cost of living in Bucharest, Romania below:

The currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu. The conversion rate to the RON is 1 dollar to 4.75 RON as of November 22, 2024.

If you want to suggest your own values based on your experiences in this city, click on edit and insert the values. Upon moderation they will be calculated to make part of the average prices displayed below.

Cost of Living for Students in Bucharest, Romania

Being a student in Bucharest is one of the best places where you can experience college life. The education on offer is very good, although not top-notch as in London, Paris or Amsterdam. However, where it excels is the affordability.

Tuition fees in Romania can be considered on the cheaper side if you compare them with universities from Western Europe. Generally, tuition costs will range from 1000 to 5000 euros a year for foreigners(depending on your citizenship and the degree). University cycles usually last from three to four years, depending on the educational profile.

Some universities also offer English only courses, aimed mostly at expats and Romanians looking to work in a multinational environment.

Here are some of the best higher education institutions in Bucharest:

Academy of Economic Studies

University of Bucharest

Politehnica University of Bucharest

Getting a Job in Bucharest

Bucharest has a very dynamic work environment. You will find a multitude of jobs aimed at the international market. There are big multinational companies that have operational headquarters based in the city.

As such, Bucharest has pretty competitive salaries, often comparable with some Western European countries in some sectors. There are opportunities available for professionals in almost all domains, the most developed one being the IT industry. It is often called the Silicon Valley of Europe, with almost 100,000 people working in one of the high-rises in the northern part of the city.

You can find a job very easily in Bucharest by going here:

Best Jobs

eJobs

Jobs in Bucharest

Quality of Life in Bucharest

Whatever you think that the life in Bucharest is, you will be very much surprised. The city is full of young professionals, creating a dynamic atmosphere with a large number of cultural events and concerts.

While the traffic can sometimes be a nightmare, mainly during the day as people are going and coming from work, this is the only major drawback. You’ll be surprised at the diversity this city offers. Also, most of the people here will be able to communicate with you as English is very widely spoken, at least among the younger populace.

If you are visiting Bucharest soon you may want to check some of our other Romania guides. Check the where to stay in Bucharest. You can also check the our article on how to find a job in Romania, and the average and minimum salary in Bucharest.

Other Resources for Expats and Travelers

Salaries Worldwide: check our articles on wages worldwide and understand better the economics of the countries you may be considering to move or invest.

Retire Abroad: check our retirement guides and maximize your retirement income and quality of life.

Jetradar: compare and find the cheapest air fares worldwide.

The post Cost of Living in Bucharest, Romania appeared first on Check in Price.

Cost of living in Chisinau, Moldova: Considering visiting Moldova? Even more specifically, do you want to relocate to Chisinau? Take a look below and make up your mind with the analysis we have performed on the capital and biggest city of Moldova.

Cost of Living in Chisinau, Moldova

Chisinau is the biggest city in Moldova. Being the capital of the country, it will provide you with the best option from a quality of life point of view. It is still an emerging Eastern European city coming with all the good and bad of such a city.

It is full of vibrant life, young people looking to make the most out of their lives, tasting the freedom that new opportunities usually provide. While expats are still a rare sight within the city, more and more foreigners are coming to the city, be it as turists or as working professionals. It is the perfect time to get ahead of the curve and set down roots in this future prosperous urban centre.

As it is still an uncut diamond, the cost of living is very low. You can find good amenities at good prices as well as food that was grown in local farmer’s gardens. If you are looking to go out and have some fun or grab a bite to eat, mosts clubs, bars and restaurants offer very affordable prices for a westerner’s budget. It is actually one of the cheapest capitals in Europe.

Let’s check some data for the cost of living in Chisinau, Moldova below:

The currency in Moldova is the Moldovan Leu. The conversion rate to the MDL is 1 dollar to 18.17 MDL as of November 22, 2024.

If you want to suggest your own values based on your experiences in this city, click on edit and insert the values. Upon moderation they will be calculated to make part of the average prices displayed below.

Cost of Living for Students in Chisinau, Moldova

Chisinau is a good place for students to live in. However, as a general note, the Universities here are not very popular by people outside of the country. Regardless of this however, if you decide to go study in Chisinau, you will be very lucky.

While the night-life is very abundant and you can find many things to occupy your time with, the city will offer all of its prospects at a very low price. Besides this, accommodations can be found at a very low price. Getting a high enough admission grade will grant you a place in a dormitory where everything is paid for, besides the monthly admin fee.

Very important to note is that tuition fees are around 500 EUR per year. Universities vary in length based on the type of degree you are going after. So, Bachelour of Arts usually takes 3 years to complete, while a Bachelour of Law or of Science takes 4 years.

Here are some of the top Universities in Chisinau:

State University of Moldova

Technical University of Moldova

Academy of Economic Studies from Moldova

Getting a Job in Chisinau

Chisinau has a very up and coming feel to it. There aren’t a lot of available jobs where English is the only spoken language. However, there are more and more international companies that are opening offices there due to the skilled labour and lower costs associated.

Another option is for Russian speakers, as you can find work a bit easier this way. Moldova still has business relationships with Russia from the times of the Soviet Union. You will find a lot of people, mostly the better educated ones, still speak Russian as their main language.

However, don’t be discouraged, good professionals are in great demand in Moldova. The country is suffering from an acute brain drain, making high paying jobs a frequent occurrence for very skilled individuals. However, such positions still garner a lower wage than their equivalent in more powerful countries such as Romania, Hungary or Slovakia, to name a few from its vicinity.

Here are some websites for job hunting in Chisinau:

Rabota

Piata Muncii

Jobs Diez

Quality of Life in Chisinau

In Chisinau, you will get almost all of the benefits from living in a European Capital. It is a very safe city with maybe only petty crime to look out for. The city offers a lot of restaurants and bars, so entertainment is not an issue. Finally, the increasing number of flights to the capital is making Chisinau more accessible in recent years.

Amongst the negative aspects in Chisinau the bureaucracy is certainly high, especially for a non-native speaker. The transport infrastructure is pretty lacking as well as public transportation, which has a lot of room for improvements.

However, as an emerging capital city, the trend is overall positive for Chisinau’s infrastructure and quality of life.

If you are visiting Chisinau soon you may want to check some of our other Moldova guides. Check the where to stay in Chisinau. You can also check the our article on how to find a job in Moldova, and the average and minimum salary in Moldova.

Other Resources for Expats and Travelers

Salaries Worldwide: check our articles on wages worldwide and understand better the economics of the countries you may be considering to move or invest.

Retire Abroad: check our retirement guides and maximize your retirement income and quality of life.

Jetradar: compare and find the cheapest air fares worldwide.

The post Cost of Living in Chisinau, Moldova appeared first on Check in Price.

Are you considering moving or retiring to Southern Europe? This retire in Greece guide is ideal for any one considering to make Greece as your home. Check information on residence permits, cost of living and other important data on Greece retirement prospects.

This guide will cover in detail the advantages and disadvantages of retiring and living in Greece. It also brings a cost of living analysis in the country, and ways to optimize your budget while having a great quality of life.

Retire in Greec: Overview

During the past decades, Greece has changed considerably, especially when it comes to its economy. Despite being a full European Union member, the country has been struggled to keep its economy competitive.

However, the Greek economic crisis is also a source for opportunities in the country. Real estate prices are especially attractive in the country at the moment, and Greece is currently a great retirement destination, especially if you have a limited budget.

Apart from its attractive prices, Greece is also famous for its amazing landscapes and beautiful islands. Greece also enjoys pleasant weather most of the year, and has a much warmer climate than most Western European countries.

Greece is also in the Schengen Area, meaning one won’t have to worry with passport controls when coming from most Western European countries. Finally, the country has manage to secure its stay in the Eurozone, decreasing risk of Greek-based assets or currency devaluation.

Getting to Greece

Greece lies in the Southeastern border of the European Union. It has a privileged coastline on the Mediterranean basin and approximately 6000 islands, although only 227 have a permanent population. Greece shares land borders with Turkey to the East, and Bulgaria, Macedonia and Albania to the North.

The country has a very developed transport infrastructure, and getting to Greece is easy and inexpensive if you are in Europe. It is possible to reach Greece from other European countries by land (roads and railways), by sea (Greek ferries) and by air.

There are multiple low cost and flag carrier airlines operating to various Greek cities and Islands. Greece is one of the main European summer destinations, and there are many international airports with good infrastructure in the country. The busiest airports in Greece are Athens, Heraklion, Thessaloniki and Rhodes.

Greece enjoys a vast network or domestic and international ferries, connecting its main islands and cities. The busiest lines in terms of frequencies and options connect Greece to Italy, but it is also possible to travel from Turkey using ferries. You can also travel from Albania to Greece using a ferry (from Sarandë to Corfu).

Land transportation is the possibly the least convenient way to get to Greece. Even if there are railways connecting Greece to countries like Bulgaria, Romania and Macedonia, the routes are infrequent and the travel length is usually long. If you are traveling by car you can reach it from all the countries bordering Greece, however queues at the borders can be quite annoying.

Opening a Bank Account in Greece

Opening a bank account in Greece is not the easiest process, especially when compared to other countries in its vicinity. However it is possible even as a non-resident.
Greece has seen in its recent history some episodes of capital controls, which made the country much less attractive for banking. However, the situation is currently improved and capital controls are no longer a reality in Greece.

The requirements to open a bank account in Greece will depend on a number of factors. The main factors are, the bank, your status in Greece and sometimes, even the bank representative mood will determine your bank account opening.

As mentioned above, is not impossible to open a bank account in Greece both as a resident or a non-resident of the country. I would only recommend opening a bank account in Greece if you plan to live most of the year or buy real estate in the country.

To open a bank account you will usually require getting your Greek AFM (αριθμός φορολογικού μητρώου) which is the Greek tax id number. You can get it at any Efora, and you don’t need to be a resident to get one.

With your passport and your Greek tax id, you will have good chances to open a bank account in Greece. However, some banks may require other documents like a proof of residence (utility bill) or other documents.

Here are some of the biggest banks in Greece by market share.

Piraeus Bank

Eurobank

National Bank of Greece

Alpha Bank

Another advantage of having a bank account in Greece is the European deposit insurance scheme. In case your bank becomes insolvent, up to a certain amount, you will not lose your funds.

Getting your Residence Permit in Greece

Since Greece is part of the European Union and inside the Schengen area, the requirements to live in the country are quite different. The application and requirements will depend on your country of citizenship.

EU Citizens

If you a citizen of the European Union or the EEA you will have the right to reside in Greece. However, you need to register your stay in the country if you are planning to stay in Greece for more than 90 days. The registration process is simple, and does not require much documents.

The registration is pretty straightforward and the procedure has recently been simplified. Once you register your stay in Greece as an EU citizen, you do not have to renew it.

Non-EU Citizens

Becoming a resident of Greece as a Non-EU citizen is a relatively lengthy process that involves some bureaucracy. are not an EU citizen however, the process to get your residence permit involves some more paperwork. Greece sits somewhere in the middle when compared to other EU countries for those willing to retire and the paperwork involved.

There are a few ways a Non-EU citizen can acquire permission to stay in Greece. Here, we will analyze a few of these options for those willing to retire in the country. This is especially aimed at those who have an income from abroad.

The first option is getting a residence permit for financially independent individuals. If you can proof a reliable steady income of € 2000 per month, you are probably eligible for this type of residence permit. You will also need a private health insurance for this type of permit.

The second option is acquiring real estate in Greece. The total of your real estate assets has to exceed € 250.000 in order to qualify for this type of permit.

There is also the option of becoming a self-employed person in Greece. For this, you will need to deposit € 60.000 in a Greek bank account. The applicant also must show evidence of a solid business plan, among other requirements.

More information is available in the Hellenic Republic Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Greece Cost of Living

The cost of living in the country is one of the most attractive factors for those considering retiremen in Greece. Despite being a full European Union member and using the Euro single currency, Greece enjoys a lower cost of living then most of its Western counterparts.

The economic crisis in Greece changed the country’s financial situation deeply. That had a positive effect for expats attracted to lower prices and moving in the country. Most of the costs in Greece have decreased in recent years.

Real estate prices are decreasing since 2008, and you may find great property bargains. This investment is especially interesting for citizens of the SEPA countries, as the level of bureaucracy is considerably lower. The price of real estate in Greece in considerably lower than other European summer destinations such as Portugal or Spain.

Food in Greece is also relatively affordable and rather abundant. Greek restaurants are delicious and are often inexpensive for those coming from Northern Europe or the US. Grocery prices are comparable to those in most Eurozone countries.

If you are visiting the country and considering to move or also retire in Greece, check our guide on where to stay in Athens. You can also check where to stay in Corfu and how to get from Athens to Thessaloniki.

The post How to Retire in Greece? Full Guide appeared first on Check in Price.

Albania is one of the most affordable countries in Europe, offering a number of opportunities for entrepreneurs. Let’s analyze the average and minimum salary in Albania and understand the challenges and advantages of working in this Southern European nation.

Despite the fact that Albania still is one of the poorest countries in Europe, opportunities in a number of sectors in the country are rising. Below we will find more information about wages in Albania. We also will feature a brief economic outlook for this small nation in the Balkans region.

Minimum Salary in Albania in 2023

Despite being one of the least wealthy European nations, income in Albania has seen a steady growth in the past two decades. As of 2021, the minimum salary in Albania is of 34000 Albanian leke, or roughly USD 282. That minimum wage applies to the private sector, while the public sector has a higher minimum salary.

In Albania’s capital, Tirana, wages tend to be higher, and the minimum salary applies mostly to unskilled professionals.

You can read more about it here (in Albanian).

Average Salary in Albania

Average wages in Albania are significantly higher than the country’s minimum salary, however they are still way below the standards in Central or Western Europe. Currently, the average salary in Albania is of $500 per month. This figure is slightly higher in the capital, and lower in other regions of the country.

Despite having low salaries, the cost of living in Albania is more affordable than most countries in its region. You can rent a 1 bedroom apartment in the center of Tirana for 330$ per month (without utilities).

More information on salaries in Albanian can be found at the Albanian Institute of Statistics website.

Albania Economic Outlook

Albania’s economy has a similar profile to many economies in the Balkan region, suffering a complete transformation in the 1990s. Nowadays, Albania has an open economy and is trying to attract foreign investments. Being rather small in terms os population and having a very mountainous relief, Albania still has a lot of room for improvement in terms of infrastructure. Some of the Albania’s main exports are crude oil, garments and chromium ore.

One of the fastest growing sectors in the Albanian economy is tourism. The country has a privileged position bother other important European tourism hubs like Greece and Montenegro. Albania is also easily accessible from Italy via ferries. The tourism sector is one of the best bets in the country’s economy, and many hospitality business are thriving in the country.

Getting a permit to live in Albania is also relatively easy. It is in fact, one of the easiest countries in Europe to get residence if you are not an EU citizen (Albania is also not part of the EU). Considering its low prices and relatively lower bureaucracy for foreigners, Albania can be a good option if you want to invest in Tourism in Europe.
If you are visiting Albania anytime soon, check our guide on where to stay in Tirana, the capital of Albania.

Interesting Resources for Working and Living Abroad

Are you really considering to work and live abroad, temporarily or permanently? Below are some resources that might be useful for you around the web:

World Nomads: this company provides travel insurance in most countries around the world. It might be a good option if you going for a long travel.

Booking.com: Booking.com is the best choice for finding accommodation for your next trip.  It offers a wide variety of accommodation options for all types of travelers.
You may also want to check our website guides:

Train Travel Guide: in our railway travel guide, you will learn how to choose and ride the most scenic train routes around the world. Travel always in the most comfortable way with optimal prices to enhance your travel experience.

Work Abroad Guide: Learn how to find a job and employment requirements in different countries. From the initial job search, to bargaining salaries, this guide will help you to find job in most countries. It also covers about remote work and TEFL jobs.

The post Average and Minimum Salary in Albania appeared first on Check in Price.

Find out how to find a job in the tiny nation of San Marino, a country with one of the highest standards of living in Europe.

San Marino is one of the smallest states in Europe, it is also the only landlocked European state which just borders one country. Surrounded by Italy, it comes as no surprise that the country’s official language is Italian.

They also use the Euro as the official currency, even if they are not a member of the European Union. Let’s find out what you need to find a job in San Marino.

Introduction: Job Market in San Marino

San Marino is one of the smallest states in the world, with roughly 61 square kilometers of Area and a population of slightly more than 30.000 inhabitants.

San Marino is famous as a tourist destination (especially for those visiting Italy) and for its former Formula 1 GP (which was in fact outside the San Marino territory).

The peaceful micro-state is what a growing number of people are looking to start a new life, away from the big city fast-paced lifestyle. Getting a job in San Marino is however not so simple, for a number of factors.

The first key factor is that San Marino itself is one of the smallest countries in the world. Considering this, the job market in San Marino is extremely small both in terms of jobs available but also in terms of job sectors.

The other important aspect is that San Marino is not part of the EU. In other words so citizens of the EU and EEA have no immediate access to its job market. Apart from that, expect to have fluent knowledge of the Italian language for most of the offers available.

Getting a Job and a Residence Permit in San Marino

To key factor to determine the success of your career in San Marino is to get someone who is willing to hire you. Once a company is willing to hire, you will have to address yourself t the Ufficio del Lavoro (Government Job Office) and to the Gendarmeria (State Office) to legalize your stay in the Republic of San Marino.

Best Websites to Find a Job in San Marino

Here are some good websites to start searching for a job in San Marino:

Ufficio del Lavoro (job offers): this is the government official web site for employment, the link will redirect you directly to the jobs currently available.

San Marino Annunci: A San Marino website with ads and classifieds. There is a section for jobs.

Indeed: this is an Italian website, but there also a few job offers in San Marino. You can do a filtered search for San Marino

Other Job Options to Consider in San Marino

Another option you may consider if you are a native speaker of English (or if you are very proficient on it) is TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) jobs. TEFL jobs are widely available in almost every country in the world. They are a great opportunity to start in a new country, even if you don’t have the knowledge of the country’s official language.

There are many online TEFL courses that will help you to land a job with a relatively small investment of time and money.

Working online can be also an option in some countries. It depends on your skills and income, as the cost of living varies greatly from country to country. You can check this link for a list of professions that can be done as remote work.

If you want to find a job in San Marino, or live, travel and work in other country abroad, please consider our resources and guides below:

Interesting Resources for Working and Living Abroad

Are you considering to work and live abroad, temporarily or permanently? Below are some resources that might be useful for you around the web:

World Nomads: this company provides travel insurance in most countries around the world. It might be a good option if you going for a long travel.

Booking.com: Booking.com is the best choice for finding accommodation for your next trip, with a wide variety of choices for all types of travelers.

Jetradar: The best place to compare flights for your next trip.

You may also want to check our website guides:

Train Travel Guide: in our railway travel guide, you will learn how to choose and ride the most scenic train routes around the world. Travel always in the most comfortable way with optimal prices to enhance your travel experience.

Work Abroad Guide: Learn how to find a job and employment requirements in different countries. This guide will help you to find job in most countries around the world. It also covers about remote work and TEFL jobs.

The post How to Find a Job in San Marino (EU and Non-EU Citizens) appeared first on Check in Price.

If you considering moving to Europe, the average and minimum wage in Zurich, Switzerland are useful data to analyze the economics of this highly wealthy nation.

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, a wealthy country in Europe which is not part of the European Union and has its own currency, the Swiss Franc. Known for its extreme wealth, chocolates, cheese and watches, Switzerland offers some of the highest salaries in the world.

Minimum Salary in Zurich, Switzerland

As of 2024, there is no minimum wage in Zurich, Switzerland. Minimum wages in Switzerland are either decided by collective agreements. However, Switzerland is divided in Cantons and they have the freedom to decide whether they want to have minimum wages or not. Geneva for example has a minimum wage of 23 CHF per hour, which is just short of 4000 CHF per month (gross).

As a reference basis, the minimum wage in Zurich, Switzerland ranges from 3500 to 4000 CHF for hotel and gastronomy workers (gross per month) as of 2024. You can read more about it here (in French).

Salaries in Zurich and in the whole of Switzerland are higher than in most of its neighbors (except Liechtenstein). This applies to both nominal values and salary growth per year. Wages and the cost of living in Switzerland are considerably higher than in France, Germany and Italy.

Average Salary in Zurich, Switzerland

The average salary in Zurich, Switzerland is among the highest in the country, together with the cantons of Basel and Geneva. All regions of Switzerland are pretty wealthy. The cantons of Valais and Uri are among those with the lowest income per capita in the country.

Currently the net average wage in the Zurich, Switzerland is of approximately 6000 Swiss francs per month. It is considerably more than the collective agreements per sector for minimum wage as of 2024.

Here are some average wages per profession in Zurich, Switzerland (gross) per month:

Zurich, Switzerland Economic Outlook

Switzerland has one of the strongest economies in Europe, with high standards of living and lower taxes than its neighbors. The overall Swiss resident is wealthier than the average European resident, even when compared to other wealthy nations such as Germany or Austria. While growth is not stark in Switzerland currently, the country still enjoys a very comfortable position in global economic rankings.

Zurich is one of the best cities to live not only in Europe, but in the world. It is a safe city, with a number of important companies having offices and headquarters in its central area. On the downside, Zurich is an extremely place to live, even if salaries are high, you will need to focus on your career to be able to save a significant amount of money per month.

If you are traveling to Switzerland you want to check some of our guides to the country. Check the best places to stay in Zurich here.

Interesting Resources for Working and Living Abroad

Are you really considering to work and live abroad, temporarily or permanently? Below are some resources that might be useful for you around the web:

World Nomads: this company provides travel insurance in most countries around the world, and it might be a good option if you going for a long travel.

Jetradar: search for flights and compare prices with Jetradar.

Booking.com: Booking.com is the best choice for finding accommodation for your next trip, with a wide variety of choices for all types of travelers.

You may also want to check our website guides:

Train Travel Guide: in our railway travel guide, you will learn how to choose and ride the most scenic train routes around the world, always in the most comfortable way with optimal prices to enhance your travel experience.

Dating Guide: our dating guide will help you not only to find love but to understand the social customs of each country. It will also help you to avoid dating scams around the internet and find people really interested in honest relationships.

Work Abroad Guide: Learn how to find a job and employment requirements in different countries. From the initial job search, to bargaining salaries, this guide will help you to find job in most countries around the world.  It also covers about remote work and TEFL jobs.

The post Average and Minimum Salary in Zurich, Switzerland appeared first on Check in Price.