Moien! Welcome to Luxembourg!
We are happy to have you here in Luxembourg, ready to begin a semester of studying, engaging in the community, and traveling throughout Europe. Your first few days in Luxembourg can be filled with many different emotions. It's normal and quite alright to feel a bit overwhelmed, extremely excited, tired, confused, nervous and a whole lot more all at once. We are here to help and provide you with resources to help you make your semester at MUDEC a great one. Please take a moment to not only review this page, but the entire website and your semester Canvas site during your first few days so that you are aware of the resources that are available.
First things first!
Be sure to check our Canvas site daily! All official MUDEC communications will happen through our semester Canvas site. All students, faculty, and staff related to the current semester are part of this site. When announcements are posted, you will be emailed with the announcement and will be able to view all announcements from the entire semester in the site. Important "files" will be listed under the "Files" tab. All students are responsible for all information posted on Canvas. We also recommend downloading the app!
Check out our miamioh.edu/luxembourg official site! While the MUDEC Weebly blog is a great resource, the main, official webpage contains all kinds of helpful information for both you and your parents. These pages might be of significance during your first few days:
Keep an eye on the "This Week" page of this website! This page will be updated with important, relevant information and opportunities.
Be sure to thoroughly read the MUDEC Monday Newsletter each week! Not only does this publication let you know what's happening at MUDEC this week, but it also gives you a chance to learn about our community and hear from students, faculty, staff, and alumni. HINT: The Newsletter will also be posted in a sub-tab under the "This Week" page.
Make sure you have access to the MUDEC Drive Folder! Each semester, we have a semester Google Folder (with sub-folders) where editable documents are kept and where students can easily upload photos (from study tours, Discovery Tours, Luxembourg adventures, Integration, etc.) to the folder. We love to feature your photos on Instagram, Facebook, in our Monday Newsletter and more. Be sure that you have received the link to the folder and have access during the first week. Don't forget to upload often and give your photos relevant titles so we can give you credit!
Check out the "Resources" page of this website! It's jam-packed with all kinds of resources for travel, local necessities, etc. You will find a lot of the answers to your questions during the first few days here!
Download Spoticle! MUDEC has organized a lot of the key addresses and places you need to know into individual maps that you can access on your phone, easily linking to your favorite mapping app so you can find where you need to go. In addition, we plan to use the same approach over time for students to build up recommendations for other students, both during the semester and in coming years, always kept up to date by recent MUDEC students!
Take advantage of all of the opportunities you have here! Here at MUDEC, we offer many ways to get involved and to explore Europe through Discovery Tours, the Student Faculty Council, Co-Curricular Events, our Distinguished Lecture Series, the Global Buddies Program, Service Learning, Independent Study Opportunities and more! Be sure to review the Discovery Tours page and Co-Curricular Events page and register for opportunities when they open. Feel free to reach out to Andy with any questions or ideas for tours. Make the most of your time abroad!
Don't miss out on the chance to personalize your education at MUDEC! Interested in self-led learning with support from MUDEC faculty and staff? Want to personalize your semester abroad? Looking for a bit more flexibility with what and when you study and learn? A independent study may be just the opportunity for you! All MUDEC students need to have two study tour classes (except ARC students) and one language course (unless you've received permission otherwise). If you already have these requirements fulfilled, you can drop any other courses and replace them with an independent study opportunity ranging in themes from journalism to nutrition to interactive media and communication to market research to photography and more. You can even create your own! Be sure to check out the document in the Canvas site under "Files".
Be sure to check our Canvas site daily! All official MUDEC communications will happen through our semester Canvas site. All students, faculty, and staff related to the current semester are part of this site. When announcements are posted, you will be emailed with the announcement and will be able to view all announcements from the entire semester in the site. Important "files" will be listed under the "Files" tab. All students are responsible for all information posted on Canvas. We also recommend downloading the app!
Check out our miamioh.edu/luxembourg official site! While the MUDEC Weebly blog is a great resource, the main, official webpage contains all kinds of helpful information for both you and your parents. These pages might be of significance during your first few days:
Keep an eye on the "This Week" page of this website! This page will be updated with important, relevant information and opportunities.
Be sure to thoroughly read the MUDEC Monday Newsletter each week! Not only does this publication let you know what's happening at MUDEC this week, but it also gives you a chance to learn about our community and hear from students, faculty, staff, and alumni. HINT: The Newsletter will also be posted in a sub-tab under the "This Week" page.
Make sure you have access to the MUDEC Drive Folder! Each semester, we have a semester Google Folder (with sub-folders) where editable documents are kept and where students can easily upload photos (from study tours, Discovery Tours, Luxembourg adventures, Integration, etc.) to the folder. We love to feature your photos on Instagram, Facebook, in our Monday Newsletter and more. Be sure that you have received the link to the folder and have access during the first week. Don't forget to upload often and give your photos relevant titles so we can give you credit!
Check out the "Resources" page of this website! It's jam-packed with all kinds of resources for travel, local necessities, etc. You will find a lot of the answers to your questions during the first few days here!
Download Spoticle! MUDEC has organized a lot of the key addresses and places you need to know into individual maps that you can access on your phone, easily linking to your favorite mapping app so you can find where you need to go. In addition, we plan to use the same approach over time for students to build up recommendations for other students, both during the semester and in coming years, always kept up to date by recent MUDEC students!
Take advantage of all of the opportunities you have here! Here at MUDEC, we offer many ways to get involved and to explore Europe through Discovery Tours, the Student Faculty Council, Co-Curricular Events, our Distinguished Lecture Series, the Global Buddies Program, Service Learning, Independent Study Opportunities and more! Be sure to review the Discovery Tours page and Co-Curricular Events page and register for opportunities when they open. Feel free to reach out to Andy with any questions or ideas for tours. Make the most of your time abroad!
Don't miss out on the chance to personalize your education at MUDEC! Interested in self-led learning with support from MUDEC faculty and staff? Want to personalize your semester abroad? Looking for a bit more flexibility with what and when you study and learn? A independent study may be just the opportunity for you! All MUDEC students need to have two study tour classes (except ARC students) and one language course (unless you've received permission otherwise). If you already have these requirements fulfilled, you can drop any other courses and replace them with an independent study opportunity ranging in themes from journalism to nutrition to interactive media and communication to market research to photography and more. You can even create your own! Be sure to check out the document in the Canvas site under "Files".
Who's who at MUDEC?
There is quite a bit going on here during your first few weeks. Please know that this list is not all-encompassing of our roles, but more of a general guide for who to see in different circumstances that may arise during the first few weeks.
Check out the Faculty and Staff directory on the official website here with photos: https://www.miamioh.edu/global-initiatives/education-abroad/mudec/about/staff/index.html
*Please know that, regarding study tours, your leading professor should be your first point of contact for information/schedule/etc.
There is quite a bit going on here during your first few weeks. Please know that this list is not all-encompassing of our roles, but more of a general guide for who to see in different circumstances that may arise during the first few weeks.
Check out the Faculty and Staff directory on the official website here with photos: https://www.miamioh.edu/global-initiatives/education-abroad/mudec/about/staff/index.html
*Please know that, regarding study tours, your leading professor should be your first point of contact for information/schedule/etc.
Independent Travel Form:
Each time that you travel independently, it is required that you filled out an Independent Travel Form. As of this semester, the form is online! Please remember that the form should be completed and submitted before you leave.
Link to form: MUDEC 2019 Fall Independent Travel Form
Each time that you travel independently, it is required that you filled out an Independent Travel Form. As of this semester, the form is online! Please remember that the form should be completed and submitted before you leave.
Link to form: MUDEC 2019 Fall Independent Travel Form
Getting Settled Into Chateau Life:
Very soon, the chateau will become your second home. Here's a few helpful hints and things to know!
Lockers: The chateau is equipped with lockers. Students should provide their own locks, so, if you plan to use one, it might be helpful to bring a lock from home.
Packages/Mail: All packages and mail should be sent to the chateau and can be signed out through Meliha Duraković, MUDEC’s secretary. (Chateau address: 1, Impasse du Chateau, L-4524 Differdange, Luxembourg). Please be careful not to have packages and mail sent to your host family's address.
Chateau Hours: Be sure to check the MUDEC Méinden Newsletter for Château hours each week. Usually, when classes are held, the chateau is open from 8:00-22:00 on Monday through Thursday and 8:00-17:00 on Friday. The Château is closed on the weekends and usually during breaks and holidays.
Your MUDEC Smart Phone: It's not only important, but mandatory that all students carry a charged MUDEC phone with them at all times, especially during personal travels, study tours, and Discovery Tours. You are always responsible for being able to be reached by this phone. Not only can you use data and calling in Luxembourg, but throughout Europe. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your phone:
Connect to Wifi Around Europe Using Eduroam: You can login to your Miami wifi account using your uniqueID. You will also see a connection called "Eduroam". Helpful hint: EducRoam is a cooperative wifi network between almost all European universities. You use your full email address "[email protected]" and your normal password to login. Then, when you are near any other university campus in Europe, you can connect to their wifi using EduRoam. Pretty cool, huh?
Use our "Miami" Landlines to call any Miami University phone number: Need to call a number on Miami's campus? You can use the phones in the cave to call all Miami University phone numbers for free. All you need to do is simply dial the last five digits of the phone number and you will automatically connect. (EX: +1 513 456 6426 would be 66426). This can be especially helpful during class registration, if you have IT issues, or need to speak to someone in Health Services.
"Rent" Sports Equipment from MUDEC: MUDEC owns all kinds of sports equipment like soccer balls, volleyballs, nets, etc. See Andy to check out any of these items and enjoy them in our chateau yard.
Staff Hours: Here in Luxembourg, labor laws are very strict and permit staff to work only 40 hours per week. Because of this, you may notice that some staff members hours will change on a daily basis to accommodate chateau events and activities. If you need to meet with a staff or faculty member, please stop by during office hours or email him/her to set-up a time to meet. (Please note that faculty and staff members all take a lunch hour, usually between 11:30 and 13:30.).
We recycle: Please be sure to use our marked recycling bins for plastics and paper. Help us keep MUDEC green!
Use our Student Kitchen: Want to be able to cook healthy food or even warm up leftovers? Our Student Kitchen is equipped with a stove, microwave, kettle, fridges, a freezer, coffee pot, pots/pans, utensils, toaster oven, grill and more! The kitchen is entirely managed by students, so please be sure to clean up after yourself and take good care of this space. Just remember: you use it, you clean it, you dry it, you put it away. Before each break or study tour, be sure to remove all food, including plastic food boxes, from the fridges. All food left will be thrown away. If you have any suggestions for kitchen items, please feel free to share them with us. If you have any questions about machines in the kitchen, please contact our Facility Manager, Joseph Vari. He is usually working from 14:00-22:00 and his office is right when you walk in the front doors.
Laundry: MUDEC provides washers and dryers in the chateau cave at operating price to our students. (Check out the "Resources" tab for detailed information and watch our "Laundry Process" video on the Canvas site under "Files" to see how laundry is done.
Very soon, the chateau will become your second home. Here's a few helpful hints and things to know!
Lockers: The chateau is equipped with lockers. Students should provide their own locks, so, if you plan to use one, it might be helpful to bring a lock from home.
Packages/Mail: All packages and mail should be sent to the chateau and can be signed out through Meliha Duraković, MUDEC’s secretary. (Chateau address: 1, Impasse du Chateau, L-4524 Differdange, Luxembourg). Please be careful not to have packages and mail sent to your host family's address.
Chateau Hours: Be sure to check the MUDEC Méinden Newsletter for Château hours each week. Usually, when classes are held, the chateau is open from 8:00-22:00 on Monday through Thursday and 8:00-17:00 on Friday. The Château is closed on the weekends and usually during breaks and holidays.
Your MUDEC Smart Phone: It's not only important, but mandatory that all students carry a charged MUDEC phone with them at all times, especially during personal travels, study tours, and Discovery Tours. You are always responsible for being able to be reached by this phone. Not only can you use data and calling in Luxembourg, but throughout Europe. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your phone:
- How to dial: Every European number includes a "+" (or "00") and country code at the beginning. You usually hold down the "0" to dial "+". Be sure to save numbers into your phone this way or you won't be able to dial them. For example, a Luxembourg phone number would look like this +352 671 139 393.
- Leaving Luxembourg? Turn roaming data on: When you leave the country, thanks to a wonderful new EU law, you will not have to pay extra for data roaming within the EU. However, you still need to turn roaming data on each time you are outside of Luxembourg or your data will not work.
- Check out the apps below: See the "Get Appy" section below to find helpful apps.
- Turn your phone into a hot spot: The MUDEC Smart Phones do have an enabled "hot spot" feature that allow you to connect another phone to your data. Be aware, though, that leaving this function on can drain your data and battery.
Connect to Wifi Around Europe Using Eduroam: You can login to your Miami wifi account using your uniqueID. You will also see a connection called "Eduroam". Helpful hint: EducRoam is a cooperative wifi network between almost all European universities. You use your full email address "[email protected]" and your normal password to login. Then, when you are near any other university campus in Europe, you can connect to their wifi using EduRoam. Pretty cool, huh?
Use our "Miami" Landlines to call any Miami University phone number: Need to call a number on Miami's campus? You can use the phones in the cave to call all Miami University phone numbers for free. All you need to do is simply dial the last five digits of the phone number and you will automatically connect. (EX: +1 513 456 6426 would be 66426). This can be especially helpful during class registration, if you have IT issues, or need to speak to someone in Health Services.
"Rent" Sports Equipment from MUDEC: MUDEC owns all kinds of sports equipment like soccer balls, volleyballs, nets, etc. See Andy to check out any of these items and enjoy them in our chateau yard.
Staff Hours: Here in Luxembourg, labor laws are very strict and permit staff to work only 40 hours per week. Because of this, you may notice that some staff members hours will change on a daily basis to accommodate chateau events and activities. If you need to meet with a staff or faculty member, please stop by during office hours or email him/her to set-up a time to meet. (Please note that faculty and staff members all take a lunch hour, usually between 11:30 and 13:30.).
We recycle: Please be sure to use our marked recycling bins for plastics and paper. Help us keep MUDEC green!
Use our Student Kitchen: Want to be able to cook healthy food or even warm up leftovers? Our Student Kitchen is equipped with a stove, microwave, kettle, fridges, a freezer, coffee pot, pots/pans, utensils, toaster oven, grill and more! The kitchen is entirely managed by students, so please be sure to clean up after yourself and take good care of this space. Just remember: you use it, you clean it, you dry it, you put it away. Before each break or study tour, be sure to remove all food, including plastic food boxes, from the fridges. All food left will be thrown away. If you have any suggestions for kitchen items, please feel free to share them with us. If you have any questions about machines in the kitchen, please contact our Facility Manager, Joseph Vari. He is usually working from 14:00-22:00 and his office is right when you walk in the front doors.
Laundry: MUDEC provides washers and dryers in the chateau cave at operating price to our students. (Check out the "Resources" tab for detailed information and watch our "Laundry Process" video on the Canvas site under "Files" to see how laundry is done.
- You will need a token for the washer ($6.60), but not for the dryer. (These can be purchased (along with soap and color catchers) with Mulaa in Andy or Meliha’s office. Make sure you have enough money in your account beforehand.)
- Laundry items can only be purchased during specific times. Be sure to check the Canvas site Announcement for more details.
- At the beginning of each semester, MUDEC offers students the chance to purchase a laundry package. This includes all that you need for 6 washes for the price of 5 and gets rid of the hassle of having to come back weekly to purchase supplies. Look for more information on the Canvas site.
Important Local Websites:
Differdange City website: www.differdange.lu/
The Visit Luxembourg website: http://www.visitluxembourg.com/en
The Luxembourg City Tourist Office website: http://www.lcto.lu/en
Differdange City website: www.differdange.lu/
The Visit Luxembourg website: http://www.visitluxembourg.com/en
The Luxembourg City Tourist Office website: http://www.lcto.lu/en
Check out Local Events:
Differdange City Event Agenda: http://differdange.lu/agenda/evenements-venir/
Rockhal (Local Concert Venue): http://www.rockhal.lu/featured/
Den Atelier (Concert Venue in Luxembourg City): https://www.atelier.lu/
The Rotondes (Event Venue in Luxembourg City, Near Gare): http://rotondes.lu/
Annual Highlights (Luxembourg Tourist Office): www.visitluxembourg.com/en/what-to-do/going-out-luxembourg/annual-highlights
Agenda of All Events: https://www.lcto.lu/en/what-s-on
The Local Football (Soccer) Team (FC Differdange) Schedule: http://www.fcd03.lu/calendar
Differdange City Event Agenda: http://differdange.lu/agenda/evenements-venir/
Rockhal (Local Concert Venue): http://www.rockhal.lu/featured/
Den Atelier (Concert Venue in Luxembourg City): https://www.atelier.lu/
The Rotondes (Event Venue in Luxembourg City, Near Gare): http://rotondes.lu/
Annual Highlights (Luxembourg Tourist Office): www.visitluxembourg.com/en/what-to-do/going-out-luxembourg/annual-highlights
Agenda of All Events: https://www.lcto.lu/en/what-s-on
The Local Football (Soccer) Team (FC Differdange) Schedule: http://www.fcd03.lu/calendar
A Few Helpful Hints for Thriving in Your New Community:
Congratulations! You are now a resident of a new community. Moving to a new place takes a bit of time to adjust. The best way to learn more and feel more at home is simply to take a walk and explore! Don't forget to make the most of your time in Luxembourg, getting to know Differdange and Luxembourg City. Both are full of interesting events, new people, and fantastic restaurants and shops. Here are some tips to get you started:
You're in Europe Now: Being in Europe comes with all kinds of exciting and wonderful things: access to thousands of amazing cities, being surrounded by many different languages and cultures, new friends, budget airlines, public transport, and more. However, since you are diving into a new culture, some things may be different. I've found that the best way to handle differences is to accept, try to understand, and lastly, enjoy these differences! Embrace what surrounds you. Here are a few things you may notice we do a bit differently here:
Grocery Shopping:
Belval-Universite- Another Great Resource: This is a stop on the train from Differdange to Luxembourg, only about 10 minutes away. The University of Luxembourg is located here along with a shopping plaza, some night life, great restaurants, an amazing budget store with lots of great items (called Action), a large electronics store (Saturn), Rockhal (which hosts concerts and events), a movie theater, and a large grocery store (Delhaize) that even has an "American and Mexican" section (and much more- hairdresser, clothes shopping, gym, etc.). On the level above the train tracks, there is also a ticket window where you can buy train tickets. This is the closest location to MUDEC.
Some of the Highlights at Belval-Universite:
Google Search Using "Near": This is a great tool! Put in MUDEC or your host family's address and search "near" then type "restaurant" or "gym", etc.
Get Sporty!: Do you like to stay in shape or simply enjoy being outside? Differdange is the perfect place to exercise.
Take Local Classes for Free! (Join The Young and the Curious): Hariko is a community youth center located near the train station in Luxembourg city. On Wednesdays through Saturdays, they provide free classes in all kinds of areas including yoga, jewelry making, dance, theater, graffiti, etc. A one-time fee of €5 gives you access to all classes. The environment is very welcoming, especially to people from all different cultures and a great way to get involved!
Practice Languages at the Cafe des Langues: This group is welcome to all multilinguals in the Grand Duchy! There's nothing better than a nice and cozy café for chatting in and getting a feel for foreign languages! No matter whether you speak German, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French (...), you are welcome to spend some fun time and train your foreign languages at it.
Congratulations! You are now a resident of a new community. Moving to a new place takes a bit of time to adjust. The best way to learn more and feel more at home is simply to take a walk and explore! Don't forget to make the most of your time in Luxembourg, getting to know Differdange and Luxembourg City. Both are full of interesting events, new people, and fantastic restaurants and shops. Here are some tips to get you started:
You're in Europe Now: Being in Europe comes with all kinds of exciting and wonderful things: access to thousands of amazing cities, being surrounded by many different languages and cultures, new friends, budget airlines, public transport, and more. However, since you are diving into a new culture, some things may be different. I've found that the best way to handle differences is to accept, try to understand, and lastly, enjoy these differences! Embrace what surrounds you. Here are a few things you may notice we do a bit differently here:
- Slower Sundays: Many shops and restaurants are closed on Sundays and usually public transportation runs on a limited schedule. This is the same for holidays. Always be sure to check schedules and opening times in advance to avoid missed planes, trains, and buses. (Insider tip: Carry a folding grocery bag, like the cool MUDEC bag you received on arrival, with you and purchase a few items the day before. Then, you can have food and snacks as you travel and don't have to worry about trying to find a fast food restaurant when you get back to Luxembourg.)
- Earlier closing times: You'll find that many businesses close at either 17:00 or 19:00 not only in Luxembourg but around Europe. Be sure to check opening hours ahead of time. Some smaller shops may close for lunch as well, especially in smaller towns and cities.
- Pharmacies in Europe: Pharmacies in Europe just sell medicine, unlike drug stores in the US, which are mostly convenient stores. If you feel unwell (but not unwell enough to visit a doctor- like a cold, etc.), you can visit a pharmacy and talk to the pharmacist about what you are experiencing. Usually they can recommend something helpful. In the event you do need a doctor, Crici or Andy can make you an appointment. It's best to come to us in the morning and you will need your passport.
- Cash is a must: This may not be quite as relevant to Luxembourg, but even more important if you travel to southern European countries like Italy and Spain. Be sure to have cash on hand as many places will not accept credit card. And, on that same note, many places do not accept large bills, especially when you have a small purchase. Grocery stores are a great place to use larger bills and get change.
- Use an ATM (don't exchange cash unless you have to): The most economical and easiest way to get cash is to use an ATM and take out the maximum amount at one time. Many ATMs charge a flat rate plus a percentage. Don't exchange cash unless you absolutely have to. The exchange rate is usually much worse than an ATM. Instead, if you have any US dollars, pack them up and take them back home.
- Credit Card tips: Contactless payment terminals are widespread in Luxembourg and many other northern European countries so using Android Pay and Apple Pay is very easy. Be sure to set it up on your phone. Also, check with your credit card company whether they charge a foreign currency conversion fee. If it doesn't charge a conversion fee, when paying with any credit card, if the terminal gives you the choice of paying in EUR or USD always choose EUR (counter-intuitively) as the exchange rate from your credit card company is usually better than the rate on the payment terminal.
- Learn a bit of the language: You don't have to be a master, but learning the basics of a language before you visit a country can be very helpful. It's a great way to show respect, cultural interest, and the locals love it! (Sometimes they are even more generous when you try!) Hello, goodbye, please, and thank you are the minimum and usually easy. Beyond that, learn numbers (1-10), place words (train station, hostel, restaurant, toilet, etc.), directions (straight, right, left), and interrogatives (who, what, where, when, why, how, how much, which). Even though you may speak a bit broken, using these words you can form almost any travel phrase. (For instance (in Italian): dove treno- means "where train?". Sure it doesn't sound the best but it gets your point across.
- Locals always know best!: Yup, you probably know this, but don't be shy. Ask your Airbnb host or the owner of the hostel for advice on what to see, do, and eat. By giving a recommendation they are taking a personal stake in your satisfaction and most would never want to have to face you afterwards if they intentionally steered you wrong.
- We love our markets: Oh yes, one of the staples of any European city. Markets come in many different types: food, antiques, specialties, and items. When you're traveling a great way to try delicious local foods and stay on a budget is to explore the local markets and have a picnic with friends. Often times, these are open on Sundays! Differdange even has a market on the second Thursday from 8:00-13:00!
- Embrace being a "student" and a "youth" in Europe: Many times tours, public transport, activities, museums, and even restaurants have special discounts, perks, and price for students and for youth (usually under 26 years old). Always bring your student card and ask!
- We love our planet: Being eco-friendly isn't just a "cute" and "nice" thing to do in Europe, but a vital necessity. Space and resources are even more limited here than in the US. Many Europeans find it rude to waste food, electricity, water, etc. or not to recycle. Especially if you are staying in someone's home (host family, family friend, Airbnb), be cautious to turn off lights and water right after you are done. You will also find that air conditioning and heating are less frequently used for the same reasons. Always be prepared for the local weather. Free shopping bags have been banned in grocery stores so always bring your own small foldable shopping bag wherever you go.
- Public transport is a gem: We love it and we hate it! Public transport allows us to get around most of Europe very reasonably and in an eco-friendly way. It means not having to worry about traffic and being able to rest instead of driving. Be sure to check out our "MUDEC Train Orientation" video on the Canvas site to see how to use trains in Luxembourg. Just like driving, public transport is not always perfect. Wherever you are (especially in southern Europe) leave a bit of extra time, especially when traveling by bus. Using public transport will be a huge lifesaver if you are budget conscious!
- Here are a few things to know about public transport:
- 1) Always check to see if you can buy daily or weekly tickets. Online purchase through a webiste or app is often cheaper and your don't have to worry about whether you can buy a ticket on the bus/train or not and whether you have the right change or whether they give change.
- 2) Download the local public transport app. Check with Andy ahead of your trip as he may know the best one for your location. One great transport app is Citymapper, which is available in many cities but not all.
- 3) Try to use routes with as few connections as possible- this will allow for a more timely route.
- 4) Don't choose routes with connection times of 5-10 minutes or less. You're almost bound to miss it.
- 5) Often times buses are great, but they don't announce the stops. Use Google maps to find your route and they turn data off and track your route on the bus so you know where you are.
- 6) On trains and buses, you usually need to push a button to open the doors. If they don't open automatically, look around. Otherwise, the bus will keep going.
- 7) On a similar note, usually buses won't stop at a stop unless you push the "stop" button. These are usually red buttons. Be sure to push it far enough in advance that the bus driver can stop.
- 8) Be courteous and don't talk too loudly. Not only will this annoy those around you, but will single you out as a tourist. Eh- nobody wants that.
- 9) Be watchful of your surroundings, especially if a bus, metro, or train is jam-packed. Always keep an eye on your belongings and move your backpack to the from when you get onto any type of public transport. Be especially aware right before doors open and close. This is often the time when thefts occur- the doors close and you are stuck on the other side while a thief has your bag across the window.
- 10) In some cities and countries, especially France, Italy, and Spain, strikes do happen and can affect public transport. Always do your research to avoid being stuck.
- 11) While drinking in public is legal in many European countries, it is usually not legal on public transportation. Please note that public intoxication is usually illegal and very frowned upon. Act responsibly.
- 12) Don't put your feet on seats, especially on trains. Not only is this disrespectful and gross, but usually, it can also be fined.
- 13) If you are traveling with friends and luggage on public transport (especially longer trains) and put your bags down, link them altogether using your bag straps or hooks and keep them away from doors. This way, if someone tries to take your bag, it will be connected to others and very heavy.
- 14) Get on and hold on. When using public transport, be ready to get on. Once you get on, be sure to find something to hold onto so you don't end up being that person that's falling into everyone else. Embrace the sometimes bumpy rides- just think of it as an ab workout!
Grocery Shopping:
- 1) Cactus is the closest grocery store. Like most grocery stores and many shops in Europe, it closes at 7pm and is only open until 1pm on Sunday.: Cactus website, Google Maps for Cactus
- 2) Delhaize is another grocery store in Differdange (a little bigger than Cactus but farther walk- near the park): Google Maps for Delhaize
- 3) If you're looking for a larger assortment, try the Auchan at the Opkorn Shopping Center near the Train Station in Differdange: Google Maps for Auchan and Opkorn
Belval-Universite- Another Great Resource: This is a stop on the train from Differdange to Luxembourg, only about 10 minutes away. The University of Luxembourg is located here along with a shopping plaza, some night life, great restaurants, an amazing budget store with lots of great items (called Action), a large electronics store (Saturn), Rockhal (which hosts concerts and events), a movie theater, and a large grocery store (Delhaize) that even has an "American and Mexican" section (and much more- hairdresser, clothes shopping, gym, etc.). On the level above the train tracks, there is also a ticket window where you can buy train tickets. This is the closest location to MUDEC.
Some of the Highlights at Belval-Universite:
- Coppers: Great restaurant at Belval! MUDEC sometimes has events with Coppers. Amazing burgers and Mexican food! They also have quite a few theme and discount nights: Facebook page for Coppers
- Delhaize, Belval-Universite: A large grocery store with a big selection: Google maps for Delhaize-Belval
- Saturn: Electronics store with anything you can need (including hair appliances!) in Belval: Google maps for Saturn
- Action: An "everything" store with great prices in Belval: Google maps for Action
- Rockhal: Concert and event venue nearby in Belval: Website for Rockhal
- Den Atelier: Fabulous concert venue in Luxembourg City: Website for Den Atelier
- Kinepolis (locals still often call it Utopolis): Movie theater close by in Belval: Website for Kinepolis
Google Search Using "Near": This is a great tool! Put in MUDEC or your host family's address and search "near" then type "restaurant" or "gym", etc.
Get Sporty!: Do you like to stay in shape or simply enjoy being outside? Differdange is the perfect place to exercise.
- Enjoy the Outdoors: In an around Differdange (and Luxembourg) there are beautiful trails. Don't forget to take advantage of our beautiful chateau yard/park. With recent construction, it can be a bit difficult to access. You will need to go around the chateau to get to the back. If you need help, ask Andy and he can show you. Remember that wifi reaches the yard and MUDEC provides benches and chairs as well as sports equipment you can rent to enjoy our backyard to the fullest!
- Work It Out: More of an indoor exerciser? That's great too. (Are you a fitness instructor?: Even better! Talk to your SFC to organize a class in the Grand Hall. Andy also has access to online workout videos that can be projected in the Grand Hall. Events/classes need to be set up through the SFC.) Check out these local gyms and facilities:
- Aquasud Pool and Spa (Differdange): www.aquasud-differdange.lu
- Basic Fit (Belval Universite): https://www.basic-fit.com/fr-lu/salles-de-fitness/belval-avenue-du-swing
Take Local Classes for Free! (Join The Young and the Curious): Hariko is a community youth center located near the train station in Luxembourg city. On Wednesdays through Saturdays, they provide free classes in all kinds of areas including yoga, jewelry making, dance, theater, graffiti, etc. A one-time fee of €5 gives you access to all classes. The environment is very welcoming, especially to people from all different cultures and a great way to get involved!
- Check out the Hariko website: http://hariko.lu/
Practice Languages at the Cafe des Langues: This group is welcome to all multilinguals in the Grand Duchy! There's nothing better than a nice and cozy café for chatting in and getting a feel for foreign languages! No matter whether you speak German, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French (...), you are welcome to spend some fun time and train your foreign languages at it.
- Check out the Cafe des Langues Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/CafeDesLangues/about/?ref=page_internal
- Cafe des Langues email: [email protected]
Get Appy!
Be sure to use the amazing resources that are out there, not only while you are in Luxembourg, but as you travel throughout Europe! Here are a few of our favorites! If you have suggestions, please use the comment box below.
*All of these apps plus more are available through the Google Play store on your MUDEC phone!
General
Canvas: This one is quite important as it allows you easy access to all course information. Don't forget to download this one!
Venmo: It is uncommon in Europe to split checks and bills, so one person must often pay for others and then be paid back in turn. If you don't have ApplePay cash set up on your phone from home, Venmo is the easiest way to send money for free if you find yourself owing someone! You will need to use your phone from the US, though, as it doesn't accept international numbers
Android Pay/Apple Pay: Set your credit card up on your phone (depends on the model) and pay with with your phone. Works in almost every payment terminal with a contactless sign on the side (which are standard in Luxembourg). Merchants don't have to "accept" Android or Apple Pay so don't look for those signs, they accept all contactless payments.
Doctena: If you need to find a doctor or dentist In Luxembourg you can search for availability by specialization, location, languages spoken, and opening hours (Saturdays, for example)
Sante.lu: Find out which hospitals are open in the evening, which dentists are available outside of normal business hours, as well as which pharamacies have night service, among other healthcare-related information
Travel
Mobiliteit.lu:This app is helpful for checking train/bus timetables throughout western Europe, and is the best app in this regard for Luxembourg specifically.
Spoticle: Recommendations app with built in geo-localizaation and links to all mapping apps for directions. Won the Luxembourg Tourisim Innovation Award in 2018!
Rail Planner: Allows access to all European train timetables offline!
Airline apps: Most airlines have mobile apps for convenient check in, boarding pass, and flight tracking abilities.
CityMapper or other Metro navigation apps for large urban areas: When visiting large European cities, you can often find a free metro navigation app that will save you the trouble of getting lost on these extensive local transportation networks
Flex: Carsharing service in Luxembourg
Blablacar: Carpooling/ride share service which students have found to be safe and cheap
Google Trips: Downloadable, fully functioning and complete trip guides for popular European destinations
Google Maps: Downloadable, fully functioning navigation software for nearly any location in Europe. Cool tip: If you pull up directions while you are online you can turn data or wifi off and the GPS function will still work and be able to track you throughout your journey. (This is a great way to save a few precious gigabites.)
Airbnb: Instant access to your reservations and planning for future accommodations. (Use this link to create an account and get $25 off your first trip! www.airbnb.com/c/cwilliams2538)
CityMapstoGo: Maps and guides for different cities which you can download over wifi and use offline. This app even allows you to mark/star places you are interested in. A great travel resource!
Booking.com: Hotel booking app which is also particularly good for last-minute deals
TripIt: Not an iPhone user? (iPhones already have Apple wallet.) This app connects to your email and syncs all travel reservations and tickets to one place where you can access everything you need offline.
Withlocals: Looking to enjoy a city like a local? Connect with locals through this app and participate in tours, cooking classes, concerts, local activities, and more!
Webtaxi: The closest thing to Uber in Luxembourg
Communicaton
Whatsapp or Viber: Two most popular apps for free WiFi based/data based phone communications. Great for international use to other parts of Europe or US.
Google Translate: Helpful translation app with fully downloadable language packs, useful for basic communications where you lack language skills and English is not an option. A lifesaver!
Duolingo: Practice language on the go! Learn French, German, Italian, Hungarian, Portuguese, Spanish, etc!
Skype: Connect with family and friends back home. Skype also allows you to purchase credit to call any number around the world, a service called Skype to Phone, and this may be the best option for calling any regular phone back home.
MagicJack: This app allows you to call any US number for free when you are connected to the internet! A great resource if have family members that don't have a smart phone. It's also a wonderful app to use if you have an interview in the US or need to contact a landline in the states for insurance purposes, tech help, credit card issues, etc.
Touchnote: Use your own photos to make postcards that are physically printed and sent to anywhere for around $2.
Be sure to use the amazing resources that are out there, not only while you are in Luxembourg, but as you travel throughout Europe! Here are a few of our favorites! If you have suggestions, please use the comment box below.
*All of these apps plus more are available through the Google Play store on your MUDEC phone!
General
Canvas: This one is quite important as it allows you easy access to all course information. Don't forget to download this one!
Venmo: It is uncommon in Europe to split checks and bills, so one person must often pay for others and then be paid back in turn. If you don't have ApplePay cash set up on your phone from home, Venmo is the easiest way to send money for free if you find yourself owing someone! You will need to use your phone from the US, though, as it doesn't accept international numbers
Android Pay/Apple Pay: Set your credit card up on your phone (depends on the model) and pay with with your phone. Works in almost every payment terminal with a contactless sign on the side (which are standard in Luxembourg). Merchants don't have to "accept" Android or Apple Pay so don't look for those signs, they accept all contactless payments.
Doctena: If you need to find a doctor or dentist In Luxembourg you can search for availability by specialization, location, languages spoken, and opening hours (Saturdays, for example)
Sante.lu: Find out which hospitals are open in the evening, which dentists are available outside of normal business hours, as well as which pharamacies have night service, among other healthcare-related information
Travel
Mobiliteit.lu:This app is helpful for checking train/bus timetables throughout western Europe, and is the best app in this regard for Luxembourg specifically.
Spoticle: Recommendations app with built in geo-localizaation and links to all mapping apps for directions. Won the Luxembourg Tourisim Innovation Award in 2018!
Rail Planner: Allows access to all European train timetables offline!
Airline apps: Most airlines have mobile apps for convenient check in, boarding pass, and flight tracking abilities.
CityMapper or other Metro navigation apps for large urban areas: When visiting large European cities, you can often find a free metro navigation app that will save you the trouble of getting lost on these extensive local transportation networks
Flex: Carsharing service in Luxembourg
Blablacar: Carpooling/ride share service which students have found to be safe and cheap
Google Trips: Downloadable, fully functioning and complete trip guides for popular European destinations
Google Maps: Downloadable, fully functioning navigation software for nearly any location in Europe. Cool tip: If you pull up directions while you are online you can turn data or wifi off and the GPS function will still work and be able to track you throughout your journey. (This is a great way to save a few precious gigabites.)
Airbnb: Instant access to your reservations and planning for future accommodations. (Use this link to create an account and get $25 off your first trip! www.airbnb.com/c/cwilliams2538)
CityMapstoGo: Maps and guides for different cities which you can download over wifi and use offline. This app even allows you to mark/star places you are interested in. A great travel resource!
Booking.com: Hotel booking app which is also particularly good for last-minute deals
TripIt: Not an iPhone user? (iPhones already have Apple wallet.) This app connects to your email and syncs all travel reservations and tickets to one place where you can access everything you need offline.
Withlocals: Looking to enjoy a city like a local? Connect with locals through this app and participate in tours, cooking classes, concerts, local activities, and more!
Webtaxi: The closest thing to Uber in Luxembourg
Communicaton
Whatsapp or Viber: Two most popular apps for free WiFi based/data based phone communications. Great for international use to other parts of Europe or US.
Google Translate: Helpful translation app with fully downloadable language packs, useful for basic communications where you lack language skills and English is not an option. A lifesaver!
Duolingo: Practice language on the go! Learn French, German, Italian, Hungarian, Portuguese, Spanish, etc!
Skype: Connect with family and friends back home. Skype also allows you to purchase credit to call any number around the world, a service called Skype to Phone, and this may be the best option for calling any regular phone back home.
MagicJack: This app allows you to call any US number for free when you are connected to the internet! A great resource if have family members that don't have a smart phone. It's also a wonderful app to use if you have an interview in the US or need to contact a landline in the states for insurance purposes, tech help, credit card issues, etc.
Touchnote: Use your own photos to make postcards that are physically printed and sent to anywhere for around $2.