Ghent, Belgium, Zip Code: 9052
I moved to Ghent two years ago from Delhi for work, and honestly, it’s been quite the journey. When I first landed here, I was both nervous and excited about starting a new chapter in Europe. Coming from the hustle and bustle of Delhi, Ghent was like stepping into a different world—one filled with narrow cobbled streets, quiet canals, and beautiful medieval buildings that seem to whisper secrets of the past.
At first, adjusting wasn’t easy. I had to learn a new language and get used to a slower pace of life. I remember attending my first Dutch class and feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the new words and expressions. But I kept at it, and little by little, I started to understand and appreciate the local customs. Now, I often take long walks along the canals, and watching the reflections of the ancient buildings in the water gives me a sense of peace that I never knew I needed.
One of the best surprises here has been the thriving Indian community. In the heart of Europe, I found a piece of home. The Indian diaspora in Ghent is vibrant—people celebrate Diwali, Holi, and other festivals with the same enthusiasm as back home. I’ve attended community gatherings where we share traditional home-cooked meals, and it always feels like a warm reunion. These events have helped me keep a strong connection to my roots, even as I embrace life in Belgium.
Work has been an adventure on its own. I’m now part of a growing tech scene in Ghent, where I collaborate with people from all over the world. Every day, I learn something new from my colleagues, and the creative energy here is contagious. I often joke that I bring a little bit of Indian spice to our projects, while my European teammates add a dash of innovation. Together, we come up with ideas that are both practical and exciting, and it’s amazing to see how our different backgrounds come together to solve problems.
Outside of work, Ghent has quickly become my personal sanctuary. I spend my weekends exploring the city, wandering through its many museums and art galleries. I love visiting the Museum of Fine Arts and the Ghent City Museum. There’s something magical about standing in a room full of centuries-old paintings and thinking about the stories behind them. It reminds me of the rich cultural history I grew up with in India, yet here it’s presented in a way that feels entirely new and refreshing.
Ghent City Museum
Even though I’m far from home, I make a conscious effort to stay connected to my Indian heritage. I often invite my Belgian friends and fellow Indians over for dinner. I cook my mom’s recipes—dishes that I grew up with—and share stories of how these recipes have been part of my family for generations. These evenings are full of laughter, good food, and conversations that mix Hindi and English, with a few Dutch phrases thrown in. It’s a delightful blend of cultures, and it reminds me that I can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Living in Ghent has taught me a lot about what it means to call a place home. I’ve learned that home isn’t just about where you were born; it’s about where you feel a sense of belonging. For me, Ghent is now that place—a city that has opened its arms to me and shown me a different way of life. I still miss the energy of Delhi, but I’ve come to appreciate the calm and beauty of my new surroundings. The city’s historic charm, combined with its modern vibrancy, offers a unique perspective that I find both inspiring and grounding.
I’m also excited about the future here. I plan to get more involved in the local community, maybe even volunteer at some cultural events or join a local art club. Professionally, I see plenty of opportunities to grow and learn in this dynamic environment. Every day brings a new discovery, whether it’s a hidden café tucked away in a narrow alley or a conversation with a local that changes the way I see the world.
In many ways, my journey from Delhi to Ghent has been a story of adaptation and discovery. I’ve learned that embracing change doesn’t mean forgetting where you come from. Instead, it’s about blending your past with your present to create a richer, more meaningful life. I carry my Indian heritage with me in everything I do, and it continues to shape who I am—even as I become a part of the European fabric.
Living here in Ghent, I’ve come to realize that life is full of unexpected turns and beautiful surprises. Whether it’s the stunning architecture, the quiet canals, or the warmth of the local community, every day feels like a new adventure. And as I continue to navigate this exciting chapter of my life, I remain grateful for the chance to experience such a wonderful blend of cultures, history, and modernity—all while staying true to my roots.
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