News and useful information

Buying Real Estate in Germany: What Additional Costs Can a Buyer Expect?

Buying real estate in Germany appeals to many foreigners, but the actual cost of the transaction often exceeds the price listed in the ad by 9–15%. The buyer’s budget must account for taxes, notary fees, real estate agent commissions, and land registry fees, and the amount of these charges varies by federal state. Learn more about the hidden costs of buying a home in Germany, the transaction process, and the rights of foreign buyers

European Home Sales 2025–2026: Where the Housing Market Is Growing Fastest

The European property market experienced a notable recovery in 2025, with home sales increasing in almost every country on the continent. Find out which countries broke records for growth rates, why Croatia remains an exception, and what the first data for 2026 shows

Where in the World Are the Most Expensive and Cheapest Taxis: A Ranking of Countries with the Highest and Lowest Fares

The average cost per kilometer for a taxi ride varies by more than a factor of 20 around the world: from $4.70 in Switzerland to $0.23 in the Philippines. Learn more about the countries with the highest and lowest fares, the reasons for this difference, and additional costs that travelers should take into account

Ireland's Best Tourist Attractions: The Top 20 Attractions According to Travelers

The latest ranking of Ireland’s tourist attractions has revealed some surprising results—the legendary Guinness Storehouse and Blarney Castle fell well outside the top 20. The top spots went to atmospheric museums, distilleries, and natural sites that offer a true immersion into the culture of the Emerald Isle. Learn more about Ireland’s top 20 highest-rated attractions and the criteria used to compile the ranking

Where in the World Are the Longest Paid Vacations? A Ranking of Countries

In some countries, employees are guaranteed up to 30 days of paid vacation, while in the U.S., federal law does not set any mandatory minimum. Find out where the longest annual vacation is available, how length of service affects the number of days, and why international rankings aren’t always directly comparable

UK Permanent Residence and Citizenship 2026: Requirements, Costs, Timeline

Obtaining a PMP and UK citizenship in 2026 has its own nuances due to the planned reform of migration rules. Find out which routes are currently in effect, how much it costs to apply, and what changes are planned in the near future

Medical care in the UK: terms of treatment, insurance, medical tourism

The British healthcare system combines the public NHS with a well-developed private sector, making the country attractive to foreign patients and residents. The process of registering with a general practitioner, the amount of the medical fee, and the terms of private insurance vary depending on your residency status in the United Kingdom. Learn more about how the NHS works, the cost of private treatment, and visa requirements for medical tourism

Germany to Ban Alcohol Consumption at All Train Stations: When Will the New Rule Take Effect?

Deutsche Bahn is implementing a ban on drinking alcohol at all 5,400 train stations across the country. Learn more about when the rule takes effect, any exceptions, and the consequences for violators