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A comprehensive guide about living well in Lille
With its fantastic transport links, thriving community and strong Flemish heritage, living in Lille has much to offer. From great food to friendly locals, boutiques and galleries to puppet shows in the park, there's plenty to keep you entertained, regardless of how long you stay in Lille.
Need to move abroad? Organizing an international relocation is not something you should do on your own. As expats, we understand what you need, and offer the the essential services to help you move and live abroad easily. Contact us today to jump start your move, and begin the preparations with our free relocation checklist.
Life in Lille
Culture and Leisure
Life in Lille is full of history, culture and great food. The city has some fantastic restaurants, many of which borrow inspiration from both the French and Belgium cuisines of the region.
Most of the inhabitants are under thirty, thanks in no small part to the university. The city also caters to this younger population well with a host of quirky bars, cabaret shows and nightclubs.
For younger families, and those seeking the quieter life, there are streets in the oldest parts of town to wander through. Here Flemish architecture hides cute bakeries, comfy cafes, independent artisan shops and a wide array of boutiques.
The city also boasts a number of green spaces, with the Parc Les Poussins a favorite weekend haunt of young families thanks to its fairground rides, puppet theatre and zoo.
Healthcare in Lille
The French healthcare system relies on both public and private facilities, which cater to both residents and foreigners. Care is funded by a public health insurance scheme, which is financed by mandatory contributions to the state health system.
This funding covers the majority of costs; however, in most situations the patient is liable for a fraction of the cost (usually around 30%). This remaining charge can be funded directly by the patient or through a supplementary private health insurance.
Given the cost of treatment, it is advisable to take out supplementary cover. There are a number of insurers to choose from, some catering specifically to expats and English speakers living in Lille while others are targeted to certain professions.
Unlike in other countries, the French health system caters to all. Those without private health insurance are entitled to use the same facilities as everybody else, so you can take your pick of treatment facilities should you need them.
Lille has three hospitals including the university hospital. France has an excellent international reputation for medical services, so you can be sure to receive the very best care when living in Lille.
Transportation in Lille
Public transport in Lille is among the most advanced in the whole country, with a network of buses, trams and a driverless metro system.
The city is well-connected, with an international airport just 15 minutes by car from the city center and the third largest river port of the whole of France.
There is also a Eurostar terminal in the city, with regular high-speed trains providing a direct service to Paris, London, Brussels and the southern border.
Do you want to relocate? If you have never moved abroad, the process will be overwhelming, and if you have, you know the burden that lies ahead. Whatever stage you are at, InterNations GO! can help you with a complete set of relocation services, such as home finding, school search, visa solutions, and even pet relocation. Our expert expat team is ready to get your relocation going, so why not jump-start your move abroad and contact us today? Best to start early!
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