Why a Belgian Family Chose Rural Sligo for a Slower Pace of Life
Maertens, 36, moved alongside his wife Cyrelle and their daughter Marielle after years of planning a transition to a rural environment. According to Maertens, the local climate benefits Marielle, who has multiple sclerosis. The family decided to make the move in January while walking through woods near their former home in Ypres, Belgium. They faced no particular push factors from Belgium, where they were happy, but sought a new adventure in the European Union for logistical ease. Cyrelle, a trained veterinarian, secured remote part-time work with a Belgian university, while Maertens set out to find a new job after previously working in food production following chemical engineering studies.
Housing Market Hurdles and Finding a Coastal Home in Sligo
Initial attempts to secure housing near Irish urban centers proved difficult due to competitive market conditions. According to Maertens, the eastern region proved too expensive, and initial email inquiries to landlords often went unanswered amid high volume. A prospective rental in Tipperary fell through at the last minute, forcing Maertens to travel to Ireland urgently for alternative viewings. He ultimately secured a house in a Sligo valley located two kilometers from the ocean. After renting nearby temporarily during renovations, the family settled into their permanent home alongside their dog, Juliette.
Cultural Shifts: From Email Efficiency to Phone Calls and Community Tea
Life in rural Ireland brought distinct cultural adjustments for the Belgian family. According to Maertens, daily communication requires phone calls rather than the email-centric approach common in Belgium. He also noted that Irish neighbors and residents are notably friendly and talkative. Upon starting his new role with the Community of Lough Arrow Social Project—where he manages finances and transportation across east Sligo—Maertens experienced workplace social traditions firsthand, noting his surprise at a shared tea break on his first morning. The family has also maintained their Belgian cycling habits, navigating local hills with a large cargo bike that frequently catches the attention of local residents.
Did you know?
Maertens established a community toy library in east Sligo, allowing residents to borrow up to five toys for a four-week period, modeled after traditional book lending systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Nick Maertens move to Ireland?
According to Maertens, the family wanted a slower, less stressful pace of life in a rural setting, and the Irish climate benefits their daughter Marielle, who has multiple sclerosis.
Where does Nick Maertens work in Ireland?
Maertens works for the Community of Lough Arrow Social Project, managing finances and transportation services across east Sligo.
How do the Maertens family commute locally?
The family continues their Belgian routine by traveling via a large cargo bike, despite local hills and weather conditions.
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