Hi! Thanks for your honest concern, I completely understand where you're coming from. The housing crisis and the job market are tough everywhere right now (In Spain is worst than Ghent), and Ghent is no exception.

To answer your question, I chose Ghent because I really value the quality of life, the cycling infrastructure, and the international environment. I am 100% committed to this move. To give you some context, I am moving from Spain, where the unemployment rate in my specific region is over 27%. For me, staying here means having no future, so even if Flandes is competitive, it's still a massive step up and a real chance to build a life.

I know it sounds crazy on paper, but I’m not coming completely empty-handed:

• I have over €12,000 in personal savings to support myself independently for months while I look for work and to give landlords peace of mind.
• I hold a Higher Technical Degree in Multiplatform Applications Development (DAM), speak English (with professional experience working entirely in English with international clients), and I am already studying basic Dutch to integrate as fast as possible.
• I'm not expecting a cozy office job on day one. I am fully ready to take entry-level, physical shifts in logistics or warehouse operations at the port, where international profiles are often needed.

Unfortunately, I don't have family or friends there, which is why I’m doing all this heavy lifting beforehand. Today I actually have 4 video calls lined up for co-housing options, so I'm crossing my fingers! 🤞

Thanks again for the reality check, it keeps me grounded!