Discovering Luxembourg
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Discovering Luxembourg A Resource Guide for Daily Living
www.dwellworks.com
The information contained in this publication is provided by Dwellworks, LLC and its affiliated entities (the “Company”) as a service to relocating employees and should be used for general informational purposes only. While the Company undertakes measures to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information in this publication, the Company cannot assure its accuracy or completeness and does not commit that it maintains updated information. This publication, in its entirety, is the sole copyrighted property of the Company and may not be modified, reproduced, sold, or otherwise distributed without the express written consent of the Company.
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Discovering Luxembourg
Discovering Luxembourg Welcome to Luxembourg!
Whether you are a veteran or a novice, an international move can be both an exciting and challenging experience. This Dwellworks resource guide is intended to provide important information to consider as you relocate to Luxembourg. Your assigned Destination Services Consultant (DSC) will assist you as you transition into your new community and will expand on the topics covered in this guide according to the guidelines of your authorized program. Additionally, you will find detailed information on all topics on our Destination platform. On behalf of the Dwellworks team, we welcome you to Luxembourg and hope you will find this information helpful.
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Contents Facts About Luxembourg ...................................................................................4 General Information ...........................................................................................4 Geographic Overview.........................................................................................6 People and Culture ............................................................................................7 Registrations ......................................................................................................9 Money and Banking .........................................................................................13 Safety and Security ..........................................................................................14 Communication and Media...............................................................................16 Driving..............................................................................................................18 Travel...............................................................................................................21 Shopping..........................................................................................................22 Hospitals..........................................................................................................23 Pharmacies......................................................................................................23 Dining and Nightlife ..........................................................................................24 Arts and Culture ...............................................................................................25 Recreation and Outdoors .................................................................................28 Health ..............................................................................................................29 Education.........................................................................................................31 Pets..................................................................................................................34 Housing............................................................................................................35
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Facts About Luxembourg + Official Country Name: Grand Duchy of Luxembourg + Capital City: Luxembourg City + Official Language: Luxembourgish, French, German
+ Official Religion: Luxembourg is a secular state; Christianity is predominant, with Judaism, Greek Orthodox, Anglican, Russian Orthodox, Lutheran, Mennonite, and Islam also practiced + Currency: Euro €
+ Weights and Measurements: Metric System + Electricity/Voltage: Standard is 220 Volts
General Information Business Hours
It’s important to become familiar with the hours of each individual business. Hours may vary based on industry, location, or time of the year. Time is often expressed in the 24-hour clock and 12-hour clock. + Typical Office Work Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00/9:00 to 17:00/18:00 + Banks: Monday to Thursday, 8:00 to 17:00; Friday 8:00 to 16:00 + Shopping Malls: Monday to Saturday, approx. 9:00 to 20:00 (times may vary) + Post Offices: Monday through Friday, 8:30-11:30 and 12:30-16:30; Saturday 8:30 to 10:30 (smaller post office timings may vary) Government Luxembourg is a parliamentary democracy headed by a constitutional monarch. Executive power is exercised by the Grand Duke and the cabinet, which consists of several other ministers. Legislative power is vested in the Chamber of Deputies, a unicameral legislature of 60 members who are directly elected to five-year terms from four constituencies. A second body, the Council of State (Conseil d'État), is composed of 21 ordinary citizens appointed by the Grand Duke. The Council of State advises the Chamber of Deputies in the drafting of legislation. The Grand Duchy has three lower tribunals (Justices de paix; in Esch-sur-Alzette, the city of Luxembourg, and Diekirch), two district tribunals (Luxembourg and Diekirch), and a Superior Court of Justice (Luxembourg), which includes the Court of Appeal and the Court of Cassation. Luxembourg is divided into three districts (Diekirch, Grevenmacher, and Luxembourg), which are further divided into 12 cantons and then 106 communes. Twelve communes have city status, of which the city of Luxembourg is the largest.
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Economy Luxembourg's stable and high-income market economy features moderate growth, low inflation, a high level of innovation, and relatively low unemployment. According to the IMF, Luxembourg was the second richest country in the world in 2011. The industrial sector, which was dominated by steel until the 1960’s, has since diversified to include chemicals, rubber, and a financial sector. Banking and finance account for the majority of economic output. The favorable corporate tax climate has attracted several, large tech companies to continue increased growth in Luxembourg.
Public Holidays Holiday
Date
New Year’s Day
1 January
Good Friday
Friday before Easter Monday following Easter 40 days after Easter 7th Monday after Easter
Easter Monday
Ascension
Whit Monday Labour Day Europe Day
1 May 9 May
Luxembourg National Holiday
23 June (unless the 23rd is a Sunday, then its moved to the 24th)
Assumption
15 August
All-Saint’s Day Christmas Eve Christmas Day
1 November 24 December
25 December St. Stephen’s Day/Boxing Day 26 December
Time Zone Local Time Zone Luxembourg coincides with the Central European Time Zone (GMT +1). Luxembourg observes Daylight Savings Time. Telling Time Luxembourg generally uses the 24-hour clock to tell time rather than the 12-hour clock. Weather Luxembourg has a mild, humid, temperate climate with no dry season. Waterproof outerwear is advisable at all times of the year, as there is no discernible wet or dry season. The warm season has an average daily high temperature above 19°C (66 F). The cold season has an average daily high temperature below 7°C (44 F); snow is not uncommon. + Climate : Oceanic Climate; summer (June to September); winter (November to March) + Natural Hazards: Storms and flooding
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Geographic Overview Luxembourg, which sits in central Europe, borders Belgium to the northwest, Germany to the east, and France to the southwest. At 2,586 sq. km., Luxembourg is one of the smallest countries in Europe. The country is divided into three districts with Diekirch in the north, Luxembourg in the southwest, and Grevenmacher in the southeast. Most of northern Luxembourg is covered in forests and dominated by hills and small mountains as part of the Adrennes. Southern Luxembourg is more densely populated and sits on a large, sandstone plateau while western Luxembourg has uneven terrain and is part of the Moselle River Valley. Major Cities Luxembourg City is the largest city in the country with nearly 100,000 people. Many of the surrounding suburbs have large populations such as Esch-sur-Alzette and Dudelange. In the district of Diekirch in the north, Ettelbruck and Diekirch are the largest cities with over 6,000 residents each.
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People and Culture Demographics
Luxembourg has a population of approximately 562,000. The majority of Luxembourgers are of Luxembourgish heritage with an influx of immigrants moving to the country in the past century. Many residents of Luxembourg are of Belgian, Germany, French, or Portuguese heritage. There is also a growing number of immigrants from eastern Europe, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro. Today nearly 37% of the population is made of immigrants. Other minorities include those of Romani (nomadic people) and Jewish heritage. Language Luxembourg has three official languages: French, German, and Luxembourgish. Additionally, English is commonly spoken as a way of international communication. Luxembourgish is at the heart of all communication between residents and it is most commonly spoken in everyday life, but rarely written. Most written work, and all governmental work, is conducted in French while German is used for most media and by the church. The education system is trilingual and focuses on each language as well as English as a compulsory part of a child’s education. Religion Luxembourg is a secular state and recognizes multiple religions as officially mandated. Religions falling into this category include Roman Catholicism, Judaism, Orthodox Christianity, Anglicanism, Lutheranism, Mennonitism, and Islam. It is estimated the vast majority of Luxembourgers are Roman Catholic, as is the royal family. Etiquette Proper etiquette and social traditions are important in Luxembourg. Greetings are often formal and reserved. Typically, the French style of social protocol is followed. Greetings and Introductions + Introductions: When meeting someone for the first time, a proper introduction is crucial. By general rule, the introduction is done by the mutual third party if applicable; otherwise, introduce yourself + Greetings: The most common greeting is a handshake; however, close friends typically kiss each other on the cheek three times, starting with the right and alternating between both cheeks Business Etiquette Protocol and hierarchy are very important in conducting business. Always be on time, cordial, and polite. When conducting business be prepared for processes to move slowly. Decisions are made at the top of an organization and consider both the short-term and long- term effects. Making business contacts can be quite helpful.
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Food Typical cuisine in Luxembourg reflects its proximity to many countries and is a mix of both Germanic and Latin cuisine. Mostly influenced by Germany and France, Luxembourg has also added Italian and Portuguese elements to their dining for a more diverse taste. Ingredients and Typical Dishes Like many other Germanic nations, meat and potatoes are the basic staples of their cuisine, and French pastries are common for breakfast and dessert. While this section discusses traditional fare, the international population of Luxembourg has diversified cuisine greatly. + Judd mat Gaardebounen , the national dish of Luxembourg, consists of pork soaked in bean and then boiled with vegetables and spices. It is served in large portions with potatoes + Eisleker Ham, or Oesling ham , is another very popular dish made that is slowly marinated and served with chipped potatoes and salad Besides Eisleker Ham and Judd mat Gaardebounen, Luxembourgish cuisine typically includes freshwater fish from the rivers as well as a variety of pastries, potato dishes and many dishes include Riesling wine as a key ingredient. Luxembourg has a large wine region on the German border in the southeastern part of the country in the Vallée de la Moselle. Luxembourg mainly produces dry white wines and sparkling wine called Crémant . Dining Customs In general, people only eat one hot meal a day. Soups are popular and the potato is considered a staple in the Luxembourgish diet. + Breakfast in Luxembourg is generally a light affair, often consisting of a croissant or other baked good, a boiled egg, or cereals and coffee + Lunch is the large, warm and main meal of the day which is often eaten in a restaurant or at work + Dinner is typically a smaller meal, in the Germanic style of fresh bread, cheese and cold cuts.
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Registrations Social Security Card
The social security card ( Carte de Sécurité Sociale ) indicates the name and identification number ( numéro matricule ) and is valid for all medical treatments and prescriptions within Luxembourg. When visiting a doctor, the social security card will be requested. + Your employer will register you at “Centre Commun de la Sécurité Sociale” (CCSS) and you will receive a confirmation letter with your identification number ( matricule ) from CCSS within 3 weeks + Once you’ve received this letter, the Social Security Card can be ordered at: CNS Public and will arrive in the post within 3 weeks + Children are automatically covered, you will just need to order their cards from the above website. + For a non-working spouse you will need to submit an application form, which your DSC will provide you with and advise you of. Tax Card “fiche de retenue d'impôt” If you are on Luxembourg payroll, you will receive a tax card. Once your tax card has been received, your rate will be adjusted and you will be reimbursed for income that was overtaxed, if applicable. + Your tax card will be issued and mailed to you by the relevant tax administration after you have declared your arrival at the commune and submitted the application form. + Your DSC will help you complete the 164-R form and submit it to the tax administration on your behalf. + It can take up to 6 weeks to receive your tax card, which is an A4 document, not an actual card + For further information, please visit: Impots Directs Application process if you reside outside of Luxembourg: Submit a completed application form for non-residents (Form 164 NR) + Employees residing in Belgium: An extract of the population census / a household composition certificate is required + Employees residing in France: - If single without children in the household: legible photocopy of the national ID card or passport - If married, separated, divorced, widowed or unmarried with child(ren) in the household: legible and full copy of the family record, certified true by the employee + The certification is carried out by writing “Certifié conforme à l'original” followed by the date of certification and the employee's signature on the photocopy. + Employees residing in Germany: The request must include a “ Haushalts -, Melde - “ or “ Lebensbescheinigung ”
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Driving License Registration and Exchange For driving licenses issued by an EEA member state (E.U + Norway, Island, Liechtenstein), there are two options available: registration or exchange. Although registration is generally not required for EU issued licenses, it will minimize administrative formalities in case your license is stolen or lost. It may make sense to exchange it for a Luxembourgish license if your EU license is due to expire within the one year of your move. Registration of an EEA license + Complete the application form found on: Transcription Permis de Conduire, by signing on the top left in black ink and ticking the box “ Enregistrement d'un permis étranger ” + Submit the application form together with the supporting documentation to the SNCA Exchange of an EEA license For the exchange of an EEA license, you need to have been officially registered in Luxembourg for a minimun of 185 days before the exchange will be executed. + Complete the application form found on: Transcription Permis de Conduire, by signing on the top left in black ink and ticking the box “ Echange d'un permis étranger ” + Submit the application form together with the supporting documentation to the SNCA Driving License Exchange of non-EEA For the exchange of a non-EEA license, you need to have been officially registered in Luxembourg for a minimun of 185 days before the exchange will be executed. The driver’s license must be exchanged within the first 12 months after first registration in Luxembourg, otherwise you will need to take the local driving exams. + Complete the application form found on: Transcription Permis de Conduire, by signing on the top left in black ink and ticking the box “ Transcription d'un permis étranger (hors Union Européenne, NOR, ISL et LIE)” + Submit the application form together with the supporting documentation to the SNCA
Helpful Hint: Refer to the Destination platform for details about the supporting documents required for all driver’s license exchanges.
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Local Registration Process for EU Nationals Once you arrive in Luxembourg, you have eight days to visit your local administrative office (commune) to declare your arrival and register in-person. The Bierger Center is the central administration office of Luxembourg City, located at 44 Place Guillaume II, in Luxembourg City. Business hours are from Monday through Friday from 8:00-17:00. Typical required documents to bring (as applicable): + Passport + Employment contract + Marriage and/or divorce certificate + Birth certificates for children + If you are moving within Luxembourg, declaration of departure issued by the former commune of residence Steps: + You will receive a registration card, “Attestation D’Enregistrement” to keep on your person + You will receive a “Changement de Residence” or “Certificate de Residence” document to keep at your residence + You may request parking permit stickers at the commune, if you present your car registration papers or rental car contract. The first permit is free, but a fee is charged for additional permits + You may request an additional “certificate of residence” for 2€ per copy either in- person at time of registration or from your local town hall at any time. It is typically valid for 3 months Additional considerations: + All documents in a language other than German, French or English must be submitted together with a (non-certified) translation. + The registration process can take between 1-2 hours, depending on waiting times + Children over the age of 10 will need to complete the same registration requirements as their parents. The same is for children below the age of 10 years, except they do not have to visit offices in-person. Every commune in Luxembourg is autonomous, so registration procedures may vary. Your Dwellworks Consultant will advise on commune-specific requirements outside of Luxembourg City, if applicable. Please visit www.vdl.lu for information on Luxembourg City administration.
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Local Registration for EU Nationals with Non-EU Family Members (husband/wife, registered partner, or child) Once you arrive in Luxembourg, you have three days to visit your local administrative office (commune) to declare your arrival and register in-person. The Bierger Center is the central administration office of Luxembourg City, located at 44 Place Guillaume II, Luxembourg City. Business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00-17:00. Typical required documents to bring for the non-EU family member (as applicable): + Passport + Two biometric photographs + Employment contract + Residence card of the EU national that you are related to + Marriage and/or divorce certificate + Birth certificates for children + If you are moving within Luxembourg, declaration of departure issued by the former commune of residence Steps: + Once you are registered, you will sign an application for a “Carte de séjour de membre de famile” and will receive a copy of the application for your records + The application will be sent to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which will issue the residence card within 6 months + The fee is 50€ per residence card application. The funds must be transferred to the account of the Ministry of Foreign affairs via bank transfer + Once the residence card has been issued, you will receive a letter requesting pick- up + Once the residence permit is processed, you may request a certificate of residence Additional considerations: + All documents in a language other than German, French or English must be translated by a certified translator + Two visits are required to complete the registration, if all necessary documentation is received: one to register at the commune and another to pick- up the residence card + During the last two months before the expiration of the residence permit, you must apply for a renewal by sending the application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at address 26 Rte d'Arlon, 1140 Luxembourg. + Children over the age of 10 will need to complete the same registration requirements as their parents. The same is for children below the age of 10 years, except they do not have to visit offices in-person. Children under 10 who are not EU citizens will only need to be present to pick up their residence permit at the Ministry + It is recommended that you also register with your local consulate or embassy in order to renew passport, national identity card, etc. while in Luxembourg
Every commune in Luxembourg is autonomous, so registration procedures may vary. Please visit www.vdl.lu for information on Luxembourg City administration.
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Money and Banking Banks Banks may charge for the products and services that they offer and fees vary between banks. Please ask your DSC for the current offers. Most banks operate their own network of ATM/cash dispensers, but you can withdraw cash from all ATMs for a small fee. The Luxembourg debit card system, known as Bancomat, allows card holders to make cash withdrawals. The majority of banking transactions can be carried out at an ATM machine or through internet banking. Your Dwellworks Consultant can provide information on banks that offer special deals. Bank Accounts A Luxembourgish bank account will be required to facilitate initial rental payments and entering into local service contracts (mobile phone, utilities, etc.), so it is a good idea to make this a priority. Some Luxembourg banks will allow customers to open an account before arriving in the country, permitting transfers into the account only. You will the need to present yourself in person to the bank upon arrival in order to transfer money out of the account. Exchange As a member of the European Union, Luxembourg uses the Euro as currency. It is important to discuss with your home country bank what the most efficient and cost-effective method of fund transfer will be. Payment Methods Debit Cards Whether Maestro, VPay or Bancomat, debit cards are most widely accepted in Luxembourg. Credit Cards Credit cards are an option for payment in many larger establishments, but often not in smaller stores or restaurants.
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Safety and Security When moving to a new location it is important to consider safety in your everyday life. At home To keep your family and belongings safe, consider following the safe practices described below: + Avoid giving information by telephone to people you do not know, and be sure that your household employee behaves the same way + Instruct your household not to give any sort of information about the family to strangers + Never tell strangers about household routines + Never accept orders or packages you have not asked for + Keep at hand a list with all emergency telephone numbers + Do not leave large boxes of new purchases or bags in plain sight on the side of the street or in the garbage On The Streets As one of the safest countries in the world, Luxembourg is very safe during the day and night, but like in any city, remain aware of your surroundings and use common sense. The largest offenses are typically pickpocketing, and petty theft so keep your purse and wallets close and out of reach. In the Car Make sure to keep your doors and windows locked when you are in your car or have parked your car on the street. Also refrain from leaving valuables in the car or keep them out of sight.
Emergency Numbers + Medical Help, Ambulance, Fire, Vet, Doctors – Tel: 112 + Fire Brigade, City of Luxembourg – Tel: 44 22 44 + Police – Tel: 113
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Personal Data Security In today’s digital world, personal and business data is at risk of being compromised. Hackers and scammers are getting creative as to the ways they manipulate or coerce individuals. As Relocation Service Providers, Dwellworks and its clients place great emphasis on ensuring comprehensive precautions to prevent data breaches. A recent trend involves hackers setting up fraudulent email accounts mirroring the accounts of relocation or real estate providers inclusive of fraudulent wiring instructions to collect real estate deposits, first month’s rent and/or closing funds. Please be aware that you will never be asked to transfer funds or make payments electronically (via email or otherwise) to Dwellworks. Dwellworks disclaims liability with regard to any third-party fraud that may arise in conjunction with any relocation transaction involving the transfer or funds or making of payments. To aid in the protection of your information, we offer the following email and computer security tips: + Email that appears to have come from someone you know but really isn’t. Email addresses can be manipulated to look like it is from someone you know. If the email doesn’t sound or look exactly right, check the full email address – especially the part after the “@” sign. When in doubt, send a separate email to the sender (or call) and verify that the email is legitimate + Never click on an email link that is from someone you do not know + Never download or open attachments from someone you do not know + Be especially wary of attachments that are . ZIP files claiming to be invoices or tracking information + Do not reply to or forward spam emails + Avoid using public Wi-Fi + Microsoft will never contact you directly regarding the health of your computer. Please do not allow anyone claiming to be Microsoft to remotely access your computer or give them your financial information + If you are reading your email in a web browser, be sure to click Log Off before closing the window + Make sure your computer Anti-Virus is installed and kept up-to-date
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Communication and Media Telephone, Mobile Phone, and Internet Services Packages are available for internet and mobile telephone, as well as landline services, and some companies provide packages incorporating all three. Providers include: + Tango + Orange + Post + Eltrona You can set up an account either online or in person at one of the operator’s stores. You will be required to submit the following documents: passport, proof of address (a utility bill or property rental contract), bank account details for direct debit, and an employment contract. Television Most Luxembourg households are connected to cable television, with more than 80 television and 40 radio channels available in French, German, English, Italian, Portuguese, and other languages. English-language TV channels include BBC World, CNBC, and Eurosport. All major telecom providers (above) offer television services. Newspapers Luxembourg has a wide variety of daily and weekly newspapers that cover topics such as business, politics, social events and shopping. Newspapers are printed in both German and French. The most popular online newspapers in English are RTL Today and Luxembourg Times. Postal Service Stamps are sold by the unit or in books of 10 or 20 at post offices and news agents. Visit www.post.lu and select your town to find the nearest letter box and pick-up time. Specific rates apply for sending mail within Luxembourg, to the EU and Switzerland, and for the rest of the world, depending on the weight and size of the letter. Refer to the English-language guide to send parcels from Luxembourg. Restrictions exist on some items (such as alcohol and tobacco) and vary significantly depending on whether the goods are sent from an EU or non-EU country. Mail forwarding services require proof of identity, proof of the old address, and details of the new address.
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To address a letter (no more than six lines) + Line 1: Full name and title of addressee (optionally write the surname in capital letters) + Line 2: Company name (if applicable) + Line 3: Building name and number (optional) + Line 4: Street number followed by a comma, then the street name + Line 5: Postal code and town or city name (in capital letters) Luxembourg City Post Office + Open: Monday to Friday from 06:00-19:00, Saturday from 06:00- 12:00 + Address: 20 rue de Reims, L- 2417 Luxembourg + Telephone: 40 88 76 10
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Driving Rules and Regulations + The official driving age is 18 years-old + Vehicles drive on the right, and pass on the left + Mobile phones may only be used hands-free while driving and seatbelts must be worn in the front and back seats by all passengers + Children under 12 years-old or shorter than 1.5 meters in height are required to travel in the back seat of the vehicle at all times unless using a child seat appropriate to their size in the front. + If the vehicle is not registered in your name, carry a letter from the registered owner giving you permission to drive + If stopped by the police, the officer may request: driving license, vehicle registration document, and certificate of motor insurance. Traffic Offenses Police impose on-the-spot fines, known as “taxed warnings”, varying from 24€ for minor offences up to 145€ for major offences. There are also traffic cameras in use around the country. Ensure an official receipt is issued by the officer collecting the fine. Roads Roads in Luxembourg are well taken care of and have expanded in the past 30 years to make travel easier. Travel between neighboring countries has greatly improved as well. Fuel Fuel or gas in Luxembourg is also referred to as petrol for unleaded gasoline or diesel. Petrol stations are easy to find and the option to pay using credit or debit cards is available. In Luxembourg, it is the car and not the driver that is insured. All Luxembourg registered cars must have at least third-party liability auto insurance. The original insurance certificate must be always carried in the vehicle. Luxembourg insurers provide an insurance Card which extends normal insurance to other European countries and must be always kept in the car when driving abroad. There are three main types of insurance in Luxembourg: + Third Party Liability Insurance ( Responsabilité Civile or RC) provides coverage against damage to third party property resulting from an accident + Part Comprehensive ( Tiers Personnes ) provides third party fire and theft coverage + Fully Comprehensive ( Tous Risques or Casco) policy covers virtually everything Insurance and Assistance Vehicle Insurance
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Insurance Costs The cost of vehicle insurance varies by provider and can be impacted by: + Make and model of the vehicle + The vehicle’s engine power + The vehicle’s age + Occasionally, vehicle color + Whether the car is parked off-street or in a private garage + Driving history and age of the driver(s); some companies have differing premiums according to gender and place of residence of the driver Luxembourg car insurance has a system of no-claims bonuses, known as the Bonus-Malus system. Annual rates increase if a claim is made when an accident is the driver's fault; if the driver has no accidents the rates will decrease. All new drivers start at a premium level with a certain number of points that correspond to a full price premium. Each year the cost of will be adjusted. In the event of a claim, the level increases by three points. If there are no claims made in the year, the level will decrease by one point. Therefore, after any claim, it takes three years to return to the initial level. The maximum amount of no-claims bonus is 55 percent. A no claims bonus accumulated abroad can be transferred to a Luxembourg insurance company. You will need to obtain a certificate from your current insurance company stating the amount of no-claims bonus you have. Cancelling/Transferring a Car Insurance Contract Insurance contracts are automatically renewed at expiration date unless three months’ written notice of cancellation is provided. It is possible to have a cancellation clause included in the contract in the event you relocated due to employment. Accidents All insurers provide drivers with an Accident Report Form ( constat amiable d'accident ), available in French, German, and English. In case of a minor accident, both parties must sign this form. If two cars were involved, use either driver's “constat amiable d'accident”. If more than two cars are involved, a separate accident report form should be completed by each party. If a driver refuses to sign the form, call the police, make a note of the registration number and take the details of any witnesses. If there have been injuries or fatalities, then you must call the police (113) and ambulance (112) service. Do not move vehicles until after the police have arrived. The accident report sheet will need to be sent to the insurance company within five to eight days, depending on the insurance company’s policy. If you need immediate assistance with your vehicle, contact Automobile Club de Luxembourg (ACL) at +352 26000 or www.acl.lu. ACL offers annual membership, allowing you to use free assistance twice per year.
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Child Safety Regulations + Children under the age of three should be seated in a proper car seat that corresponds to their weight and height. + Children and adolescents who are 3 to 12 years-old and under 1.5 meters in height must be seated in an appropriate car seat in the back seat of the vehicle + Children over 1.5 meters tall are allowed to sit in either the front or back seat with secured by a seatbelt Expenses In addition to the normal expense of gasoline and maintenance, you will be faced with other vehicle expenses as well. Winter & Summer Tires Each car has two sets of tires. Winter tires are required by law for driving in winter conditions (ie. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures) and the ACL recommends driving with them as soon as the temperature falls below 7°C. The fine for not adhering to this law is €74. All-weather tires are permitted but deemed not has safe as winter tires. Import Duties For new cars being imported into Luxembourg from the EU, or other countries outside of the EU, a VAT tax on the value of the car is created and must be paid before entry. The tax is typically 17% of the value of the vehicle. It is best to receive a quote from a Luxembourgish customs agency or a quote from the customs agency where the vehicle will be entering into the EU first. Vehicle Inspection All cars must be annually tested for roadworthiness and emissions safety by an official test center. New cars undergo their first test after four years on the road then again at six years on the road. Any cars that are six years or older must undergo a test each year. The vehicle roadworthiness test is administered by the Societe Nationale de Controle Technique (SNCT).
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Travel Getting Around
Due to the small size of the country and the fantastic public transportation system, getting around in Luxembourg is very convenient. It is not a necessity to have a car within the city, unless you plan to regularly travel to the far North or South of Luxembourg or bordering countries. The best thing is that all forms of public transport are free throughout the country. By plane Luxembourg Findel Airport (LUX) is the country’s only international airport, as well as the only airport in the country with a paved runway. By Bus There are 25 bus lines that pass through the city center and 28 buses that cover surrounding communes. the public transportation system is reliable and efficient. Busses usually run from 6:00 to 24:00. To locate a bus stop or line, visit Mobiliteit.lu or download the app, to search for specific bus routes to and from your location in “real time”. By Train Trains and railways in Luxembourg are managed by the CFL, a public company. Their website provides an interactive map of train stations. There are 67 train stations (stops) country-wide, which all pass through the Gare central station in Luxembourg City. By Tram The tram was inaugurated in 2017 and continues to be extended each year. The tram runs through Luxembourg city from Kirchberg to Gasperich (2023) and continues to be extended to futher locations. You can find the current route on LuxTram. Biking with Veloh Veloh is a public bike system that allows you to ride wherever you would like, if the bike is returned to an official Veloh station. There are 72 stations throughout the city. Users insert 1€ into the kiosk to receive a unique code to unlock the bikes. You can simply return the bike to one of the many return-posts around the city and pay with cash or credit at the kiosk, or by online account using your mobile phone. The first 30 minutes is free.
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Shopping It is common practice to close shops at 18:00, unless it is a large shopping mall, which usually closes at 20:00. On Fridays and Saturdays shops may close a bit later. Shops are typically closed on Sundays, with a few exceptional openings before Christmas or during sale season. These dates will be widely advertised in the media. Luxembourgers often shop in Trier, Germany and Metz, France, where prices tend to be lower. If you go to a supermarket, don’t forget to take shopping bags with you. You can still ask for bags at the check-out counter but they will cost extra. In certain supermarkets there may be ticket machines at the butcher, fish monger or cheese counter, where you will need to pull a ticket number and wait in line in order to be served. You will also typically see this in pharmacies. What to Buy Luxembourg makes a wide variety of unique food products that range from fine meats and cheeses to wine. Each product has its own special flavour which sets it apart from any other region in Europe. The most iconic brand in Luxembourg is Villeroy & Boch. This high-end porcelain and glassware can be found all over Luxembourg and is a must for those that collect or enjoy entertaining. Shopping Centers In Luxembourg city, the main shopping street is the “Grand Rue” with an array of places to visit or window shop in the center of the city. Luxembourg has many shopping centers close to the city as well as at least one in each region. Every mall has its own set of unique stores as well as popular brand names for shopping and dining. Populare shopping centers include: Kirchberg: Auchan Shopping Center Bertrange: Belle Etoile and City Concord Gasperich: Cloche d'Or Walferdange: Walfer Center Mersch: Topaze Shopping Center Markets Weekly markets exist all over Luxembourg with fresh produce, specialty foods and even fresh flowers. Typically, these take place on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. Buying Food/Groceries Depending on your preferences and budget, there are many options for grocery shopping in Luxembourg. Auchan, Cactus, Delhaize, Cora, and Match/Smatch are some of the larger supermarket chains with a wide variety of products. There are also budget stores such as Aldi and Lidl as well as traditional neighborhood grocers selling a small selection of items for convenience and ease.
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24-hour Services Hospitals
There is always at least one hospital available for 24-hour care in Luxembourg. A list of on- duty hospitals open for emergencies is published every day on the last page of Tageblatt newspaper and you can download a calendar of emergency coverage from Sante.lu. Pharmacies The Luxembourg pharmacies alternate out of hours coverage every day. Please refer to the website Pharmacie.lu for the nearest pharmacy on call in your area.
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Dining and Nightlife Eating Out
With a plethora of highly-rated restaurants, Luxembourg hosts 8 Michelin Star and 8 Bib Gourmand restaurants, along with a multitude of other accreditations granted each year. Even if a gourmet restaurant is not in the picture, the high standards for dining make almost any meal amazing. Needless to say, Luxembourgers eat well. The majority of cafes and restaurants serve lunch strictly between 12:00 and 14:00 and dinner between 18:00 and 22:00. Many restaurants are closed on Mondays but this is less applicable in the city. Local communes regularly organize outdoor and indoor grill parties on various occasions: Mother’s and Father’s Days, apple or potato harvest season, “young wine”, trout catch, open day for Luxembourg Scouts or local fire brigade, etc. This can be a great chance to meet the local community and try traditional Luxembourgish grilled specialties with a glass of schampes or local beer. Waiters in Luxembourg expect you to enjoy your meal in a relaxed tempo and typically offer a dessert and a cup of coffee, which is why it can take time to get your bill. If you are in a hurry, it is appropriate to let the waiter know that you would like to have the bill immediately or pay at the counter. Nightlife Both nightclubs and bars are popular in Luxembourg city and mainly found downtown. Irish and Japanese inspired bars, as well as EDM dance clubs are fun and easy to find. Tipping + Taxis : Drivers will expect about a 10% tip; you can usually just round up + Hotels : Tipping is normally expected in hotels if the service is good: 1-2€ for the bell boy and 2-3€ a night for the maid staff + Restaurants : A 10% service is usually added to the bill, but if you receive very good service you should leave a few additional Euros + Bars : Like restaurants, a 10% service charge should be included, and if service was very good then you should leave a few extra Euros or round off the total + Tax : The standard rate of value added tax (VAT) is currently 17% + Hairdressers : Hairdressers typically have piggy banks on the counter with their names on them. If you are satisfied with the service, you can always tip a few Euros Helpful Hint: It is customary to tip gar bage truck employees once per year. Usually at the end of December, they ring the doorbell to wish you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and expect a few euros in return.
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Arts and Culture Museums, Cultural Centers, and Art Luxembourg has a number of great museums including:
+ Natural Museum of History and Art, Marche-Aux-Poissons , 2345 Luxembourg : The MNHA houses a large collection including archeological artifacts, fine arts, Luxembourgish arts and crafts as well as coins and medals + MUDAM , 3 Park Drai Eechelen L-1499 Luxembourg : The Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art is home to Luxembourg’s collection of modern art. Mudam features traveling collections as well as its permanent exhibits + Luxembourg City History Museum , 14 Rue du St. Esprit, 2090 Luxembourg : Go back in time to learn the 1000-year history of Luxembourg City through model rooms as well as traveling exhibits on local culture and history + National Museum of National History , 25 Rue Munster, Luxembourg : Follow the progression of Luxembourg’s surrounding landscape and the people and animals that once lived there. The museum also features a wide variety of traveling exhibits from around the world + National Museum of Military History , 10 Bamertal, 9209 Diekirch, Luxembourg : NMMH houses an assortment of weaponry and military vehicles highlighting the history of Luxembourg’s military Theatres Live theatre is an important form of entertainment in Luxembourg and illustrates the power of multilingualism. A wide variety of shows are performed, from classical plays to comedic performances and symphony performances. The themes often include romance, folklore, religion, and politics all performed in all three of Luxembourg’s national languages. As the importance of theatre grows, so does the quality of performances as well as their number, appealing to audiences of all ages. Book early, to avoid disappointment, on: Grand Theatre. Music The love of music and performance is an integral part of the culture of Luxembourg. The new Philharmonie Concert Hall has brought pride to the country and serves as an excellent venue. You will often find opera, rock, traditional folk, pop, and jazz in Luxembourg as well as a wide array of other genres. Many members of Luxembourg’s music scene are part of Union Grand-Duc Adolphe which is the national music federation or choral societies, brass bands, music schools and theater societies. This association has a nearly 17,000 members across the country and help promote music and theater arts in Luxembourg.
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Events + Printemps Musical: Every Spring since 1983, the "Musical Spring" festival takes place. The event is open to all forms of musical expression and the program includes a wide variety of concerts including classical, jazz, pop and world music + Discovery Zone: Festival takes place in April and May featuring a selection of documentaries, feature films and short films produced or co-produced in Luxembourg and with an international coverage + Festival International Echternach: International music festival in Echternach with classical music concerts from May to July and jazz concerts in September. The festival was created in 1975 and each year attracts top classical and jazz musicians from around the world + All American Music Festival: All-American music open-air festival usually takes place on Whit Sunday and Whit Monday in Luxembourg City on place Guillaume II. This festival is all about the music (and foods) of New Orleans and the American deep south, with performances of jazz, Dixieland, swing, blues, country and gospel music. Free entrance + Summer in the City: Annual event in the City of Luxembourg with many events taking place throughout the months of June, July, August and September. The program includes street theatre, open-air cinema, markets, exhibitions and concerts. The full calendar of events can be found on the website Summer in the City + Luxembourg National Day: This nationwide celebration takes place on 23 June and features the Grand-Duke and his family, patriotic celebrations and firework displays. In Luxembourg City the festivities take place opposite the Grand Duke Palace and Place Guillaume II. Most of the communes in the country have their own celebrations with fireworks + Festival de Wiltz: Open-air classical music, opera, jazz, theatre and dance festival from the end of June until the end of July in the town of Wiltz. + Food For Your Senses Festival: Three-day festival of open-air alternative music promoting regional and international bands and artists. Camping facilities on site + MeYouZik: One-day world music festival taking place at the beginning of July, the day before the Rock um Knuedler festival. Concerts are free of charge and take place on Place Guillaume II and rue du St-Esprit + Rock um Knuedler: Open-air rock festival in July featuring both local and international artists. The one-day event takes place on Place Guillaume II. All the concerts are free of charge + Blues'n Jazz Rallye: Music festival taking place mid-July with a number of concerts in the streets and pubs in the Grund and Clausen area. Blues and jazz musicians from Luxembourg + Live at Vauban: Music festival featuring a wide range of musical styles from rock, pop, blues and jazz to folk. The festival takes place in October and November. + Winterlights: Every winter, the City of Luxembourg organises Winterlights, a festival of free events, concerts, exhibitions and performances. The Christmas market where traditional food and local drinks (Glühwäin or mulled wine) can be found takes place in the city centre daily from late November until Christmas Eve.
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Libraries Established in 1899, the Biblioteque nationale de Luxembourg is the copyright library for Luxembourg and houses approximately 750,000 books and 3,500 periodicals. The national library has been central to the downtown area since 1798. Tourist Attractions + Bock: Bock is a fortified castle located in the northeastern corner of Luxembourg City. Overlooking the River Alzette, Bock has wonderful views of the city as well as history dating back to 963 and the creation of Luxembourg City + Grand Ducal Palace: This is the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg as well as where most of the duties as head of state are conducted + Notre-Dame Cathedral: Similar to the famous cathedral in Paris, the Notre-Dame in Luxembourg is the largest and only cathedral in the country. In the cathedral you can see excellent examples of gothic and renaissance elements + Gelle Fra: The Gelle Fra is the Monument of Remembrance for WWI and WWII in Luxembourg City + Fort Thungen: Located in Drai Eechelen Park, Fort Thungen watches over the neighborhood of Kirchberg and serves as the Museum of Drai Eechelen. In Luxembourgish, Drai Eechelen means Three Acorns, for the acorns that sit on top of each tower
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