Today at the Luxembourg Expats Stories series, we are sitting down with Anne from Luxembourgish With Anne. For many expats and newcomers, learning Luxembourgish is a key step to integrating into daily life, connecting with the local community, and preparing for the Luxembourg citizenship exam (Sproochentest). Whether it’s using simple greetings at the bakery, feeling confident at work, or passing the exam, having the right guidance makes all the difference. That’s where Anne and her story with Luxembourgish with Anne (LWA) comes in. Anne is a pioneer in Luxembourgish language coaching with LWA has become one of the most trusted names for Luxembourgish courses - from beginner foundations to advanced workplace coaching. With her unique neurolanguage and communication coaching approach, Anne has supported learners to not only pass exams but also use Luxembourgish naturally in daily and professional life. In this exclusive interview with Luxembourg Expats, Anne shares her inspiring journey, the creation of her flagship courses, and her advice for newcomers on how to embrace Luxembourgish life with confidence. Let’s get started with Anne: Anne, could you kindly introduce yourself to our community and tell us a little about your background? I was born and raised in Luxembourg, where I also completed my schooling. I worked in the financial sector, but I soon realized the work wasn’t creative or engaging enough for me. Since I’ve always loved reading and telling stories, I began sharing them in Luxembourgish, which sparked a real passion for the language. Today, I’m the CEO and founder of LWA, and a leading pioneer for Luxembourgish coaching. I work with a wide range of clients — from those preparing for the Luxembourgish language exam to acquire citizenship, to professionals who want to improve their confidence in conversation classes and to anyone who simply wants to learn Luxembourgish for their day-to-day life. What's your entrepreneurial journey? How did you get started with Luxembourgish with Anne? I started teaching Luxembourgish in 2012, first with language schools and local communes. I soon realized that learners needed more than grammar — they needed confidence and real-life communication skills. That led me to train as a neurolanguage and communication coach and to found Luxembourgish with Anne. Since then, I’ve worked with individuals and groups — from citizenship exam candidates to professionals and everyday learners — helping them communicate naturally in daily and workplace situations. I expanded into online learning with programs like From Zero to Sproochentest. And in 2025, I was honored to be nominated as the Leading Pioneer of Luxembourgish Language Coaching. Today, my mission is to make Luxembourgish learning practical, engaging, and confidence-boosting, so learners can succeed in their goals and feel comfortable using the language in real life What courses does Luxembourgish with Anne offer? Who should contact you? At Luxembourgish with Anne, we offer a full pathway of online Luxembourgish courses. It starts with A1 Foundation and A2 Consolidation, and then moves into the flagship program From Zero to Sproochentest, which prepares beginners step by step for the citizenship exam. For learners beyond the basics, I’ve developed self-study courses such as the B1.1 Verstoen a Schwätzen and the Formal and Business Language course. And for professionals who want more targeted practice, my new program Speak Luxembourgish at Work combines practice, feedback, and coaching to help them feel confident using Luxembourgish in real workplace situations. So whether your goal is the citizenship exam, integrating Luxembourgish into daily life, or using it effectively at work, there’s a program designed for you What are you most proud of about Luxembourgish with Anne? What I’m most proud of is the tangible impact Luxembourgish with Anne has on people’s lives. Since founding the school, I’ve supported thousands of learners — from citizenship exam candidates to anyone looking to gain confidence and improve their Luxembourgish, whether for work or daily life. I’ve created structured and innovative programs like From Zero to Sproochentest, the conversation classes Schwätz mat eis, and Speak Luxembourgish at Work, which are unique in Luxembourg. But what truly makes it all worthwhile is seeing learners transform uncertainty into confidence, succeed in their exams, and use Luxembourgish naturally in everyday and professional situations, knowing that our conversation classes have supported them in building strong oral skills. What are your hobbies and interests? I enjoy reading, especially about Asian culture and Luxembourgish authors, which inspires me both personally and professionally. I also love spending time outdoors, taking long walks with my dog, and balancing my vacations between life in nature in Provence and relaxing by the sea in South of France. Recently, I’ve started a new hobby — calligraphy — which allows me to focus and be creative in a different way. What's your favourite spot in Luxembourg? My favourite spot in Luxembourg is the Vallée de Pétrusse — or Péitrussdall in Luxembourgish — which has recently been completely re-designed. I love going there for a walk with my dog, it’s such a beautiful green area right in the city. Another place I really enjoy is the Brasserie Häerz, where I like to go for coffee or breakfast. The Brasserie Häerz has a lot of history, because it’s located in the city center where Tapis Hertz stood for almost 80 years. Founded in 1946, it became a well-known family business, famous for its carpets and even supplying the Grand Ducal Court. The shop closed in 2019, so the café now carries on the spirit of a real Luxembourgish institution. What's your top 3-recommendations for newcomers in Luxembourg? My top three recommendations for newcomers would be: First, take the time to explore Luxembourg’s nature — the country is small, but it’s full of hidden gems like the Mullerthal or the Moselle. Second, try the local food and cafés, from a traditional Bouchée à la reine or Kniddelen to discovering new places like café Häerz. And third — and I think this is very important — start learning a bit of Luxembourgish right away. Even just simple greetings will make you feel welcome and open doors in daily life. What's your favourite quote? My personal quote is: “When a teacher is passionate about languages, that passion becomes contagious and inspires learners to love the language too.” That’s exactly what drives my work — sharing my passion for Luxembourgish so learners not only succeed in exams or at work, but also enjoy the language in their daily lives.” Anything else interesting we should've asked? One thing I’d like to add is that I’m very proud to have been recognized as the Leading Pioneer of Luxembourgish Language Coaching 2025 by the EU Enterprise Awards. For me, this recognition is not only an honor, but also a motivation to keep innovating and supporting learners in making Luxembourgish part of their daily and professional lives. That’s a wrap. Anne’s journey with Luxembourgish with Anne (LWA) proves that learning Luxembourgish can be practical, confidence-boosting, and even enjoyable. Through innovative programs like From Zero to Sproochentest, Schwätz mat eis conversation classes, and Speak Luxembourgish at Work, Anne has made it easier than ever for learners to succeed in the Luxembourgish language exam, integrate into daily life, and feel at home in Luxembourg. For expats and newcomers, her top advice is clear: explore Luxembourg’s stunning nature, enjoy its rich food culture, and most importantly, start learning Luxembourgish early. Even a few words can make a big difference in helping you feel welcome, connected, and part of the community. With passionate educators like Anne leading the way, learning Luxembourgish isn’t just about passing an exam - it’s about unlocking opportunities, building confidence, and embracing life in Luxembourg. Learn More About Luxembourgish With Anne :  luxembourgishwithanne.lu

Luxembourg is witnessing a sharp rise in eating disorders among minors, with the proportion of hospitalizations involving young people under 18 increasing from 56% in 2016 to nearly 77% in 2024, according to data shared by Health Minister Martine Deprez. The figures, revealed in response to a parliamentary question from MP Nancy Arendt (CSV), show that young women account for the vast majority of cases, with women representing more than 82% of all hospitalizations linked to eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Deprez cautioned that while the upward trend is clear, the data should be interpreted carefully, as reporting methods changed in 2017 with the introduction of the DCSH (Documentation and Classification of Hospital Stays) system. This makes direct comparison with earlier years difficult. Additionally, complete data is missing for 2017–2019, and 2020 records are only partial due to the pandemic. The minister also highlighted the lack of reliable data for outpatient treatments, noting that it remains impossible to track how many insured individuals receive therapy or consultations outside hospitals. Due to limited specialized care in Luxembourg, some patients continue to seek treatment abroad — in 2023, the National Health Fund approved 20 such cases. Deprez emphasized that treatment approaches are multidisciplinary, combining medical, psychiatric, and nutritional support. Depending on severity, care can range from outpatient monitoring to full hospitalization lasting several weeks or even years. On prevention, the government is building on initiatives like the “Gesond iessen – Méi beweegen” (Healthy Eating – Moving More) national program, which promotes healthy lifestyles among children and adolescents. Schools also play an active role through workshops on balanced diets, staff training, and partnerships with canteens. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health is preparing a public awareness campaign on eating disorders, aiming to educate citizens and counter the harmful influence of social media and unrealistic beauty standards — factors health experts say are worsening the problem among young people, particularly teenage girls. Read More : Eating disorders: a worrying increase among young people in Luxembourg | The Daily Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu  

The National Health Laboratory (LNS) in Dudelange has introduced a state-of-the-art post-mortem computed tomography (CT) scanner at its Department of Forensic Medicine, a technological leap set to improve the accuracy and reliability of medico-legal examinations in Luxembourg. According to the LNS, the new equipment enables complete and systematic documentation of bodies before autopsy, allowing experts to perform three-dimensional reconstructions that provide a clearer view of internal injuries or abnormalities. This preliminary imaging helps specialists plan autopsies more effectively, especially in cases where the condition of the body makes the procedure more complex. The inauguration ceremony, attended by Health Minister Martine Deprez and Justice Minister Elisabeth Margue, included a live demonstration of the device’s capabilities. Thorsten Schwark, head of the Department of Forensic Medicine at the LNS, described the addition as a major scientific milestone: “With this state-of-the-art equipment, our department strengthens its position as an international reference in post-mortem imaging.” Guy Berchem, Chairman of the LNS Board, expressed gratitude to the High Commission for National Protection (HCPN) and the Luxembourg Hospital Centre (CHL) for their contributions. He noted that the scanner, initially used in another context, now finds “a new purpose in the service of science and justice,” enhancing Luxembourg’s capacity for advanced medico-legal expertise. Read More : State-of-the-art scanner will improve autopsies in Luxembourg | Contact Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu  

With autumn underway, Luxembourg is once again seeing an increase in seasonal illnesses — including colds, flu, and Covid-19. According to the Ministry of Health, a minor wave of Covid infections is currently circulating, though authorities emphasise there is no cause for alarm. Dr Jean-Claude Schmit, Chief Medical Officer at the Health Directorate, explained in an interview with RTL that the uptick in infections is typical for this time of year, especially following the reopening of schools. Around 300 new Covid cases are being confirmed weekly — a level comparable to last autumn’s mild resurgence. As for the flu, infections remain low for now, with just 20 confirmed cases last week. Schmit noted that flu activity typically peaks between December and March, reaching up to 3,000 cases per week at its height. Hospitals and clinics are not yet under strain, but pressure is expected to increase gradually in the coming months. The ministry does not anticipate any major medicine shortages this winter. However, Dr Schmit urged residents to stay up to date with vaccinations and to continue observing basic preventive measures, such as handwashing and wearing warm clothing during colder days. In pharmacies, signs of the seasonal shift are already apparent. Kirchberg pharmacist Thierry Schmit noted a clear increase in demand over the past few weeks — especially for flu vaccines, Covid tests, and cold remedies. About half of customers opt for self-medication, while families with children and older adults tend to seek professional advice. Pharmacies across Luxembourg are well-prepared for the season, having stocked up early on cough medicine, fever reducers, and throat treatments. Health authorities concluded by reminding residents that with a bit of caution and care, Luxembourg can once again navigate the winter season in good health. Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu 

A new satisfaction survey among Luxembourg’s state employees has revealed high levels of pride and engagement within the public sector, though concerns remain about fatigue and management practices. According to the results presented on Tuesday by Civil Service Minister Serge Wilmes, 80% of government employees say they are satisfied with their work — a one-point increase compared to 2024. More than half (52%) report that their job gives them a sense of fulfilment, and 59% say their work inspires them. The findings show a generally strong commitment among civil servants: 68% are happy when working hard and are even willing to take on additional tasks outside their usual responsibilities. Meanwhile, 77% express pride in their work, and an overwhelming 89% say contributing to the public good is important to them. Only 15% plan to leave their organization within the next two years. However, the results also highlight the pressures many employees face. 54% often feel exhausted at the end of the workday, and nearly half (48%) admit they go to work even when they’re unwell. While 70% say they manage to balance work and personal life — up four points from 2024 — motivation remains mixed, with only 56% saying they look forward to going to work each morning. When it comes to management, confidence is more divided. Only 56% believe their managers inspire enthusiasm within their teams, and just 57% say their supervisors regularly check in on employee well-being. Although three-quarters find their managers responsive and trustworthy, trust overall remains modest, and less than half (48%) feel their contributions are properly recognized. The survey also found that only 29% of employees are invited to give input before decisions are made, and 45% say their teams rarely celebrate each other’s successes — a sign that morale and recognition could be improved. In total, 3,729 state employees from 32 organizations participated in the 2025 survey, achieving a 68% response rate, comparable to last year’s figures. Read More : Enquête au Luxembourg: 77% des agents de l’État sont fiers de leur travail - L'essentiel Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu

You don’t need expensive medical checkups or complex diagnostics to estimate your life expectancy — a few simple physical tests can already give you meaningful clues. Researchers have identified four key exercises that assess balance, strength, flexibility, and speed, all closely linked to how long and how well you might live. Balancing on one leg is a good start. In a long-term study of 2,000 adults, those who couldn’t balance for 10 seconds or more were found to have a much higher risk of mortality. According to researcher Kenton Kaufman, holding the position for 30 seconds shows good physical condition, especially if done with both legs or even with eyes closed. Strong balance reduces the risk of tripping or falling — one of the leading causes of injury and death in older adults. Another test focuses on grip strength. Hanging from a pull-up bar for as long as possible reveals not just upper body strength but also overall vitality. Research shows that people with stronger grip strength tend to live longer and are less likely to develop chronic diseases. The benchmarks are roughly 75–90 seconds for ages 20–40, 60–75 seconds for 40–60, and about 45 seconds for those over 60. Next is the sit-and-rise test — sitting cross-legged on the floor and standing up without using your hands, forearms, or knees. This exercise evaluates muscle control, flexibility, and balance all at once. A study led by Claudio Gil Araújo found that middle-aged and older people who performed the move easily were six times less likely to die from heart disease or other causes over the following decade compared to those who struggled. Lastly, your walking speed says a lot about your health. Walking six meters (about 20 feet) in a straight line and calculating your pace can reveal your physical resilience. Moving slower than one meter per second has been linked to shorter life expectancy in older adults. On the other hand, a faster pace generally indicates better cardiovascular health and mobility. Experts agree: even modest activity makes a big difference. Just a 15-minute brisk walk daily can lower mortality risk by nearly 20%. These simple, at-home tests might not tell you exactly how long you’ll live — but they do reflect how well you’re aging. Read More : Espérance de vie : Évaluez votre santé avec ces tests de condition physique - L'essentiel Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu

Luxembourg’s health and maternity insurance system faces a growing financial deficit, prompting the government and social partners to seek urgent cost-control measures. Following the quadripartite meeting held in Strassen, Minister of Health and Social Security Martine Deprez (CSV) confirmed that the deficit is projected to reach €118.6 million this year, compared to €25.8 million in 2024, and could exceed €200 million in 2026. Deprez acknowledged that “the ageing of the population is a fact”, warning that the financing of health and maternity insurance must be regularly reassessed to ensure sustainability. To limit the growing shortfall, the quadripartite agreed on a series of spending containment measures, including adjustments in physiotherapy treatment for long-term illnesses and the creation of a strategic committee to ensure that healthcare services are provided according to actual patient needs. The minister noted that in some cases, services are continuing longer than necessary, driving up costs. The State’s financial contribution will also increase significantly. After providing €20 million annually in recent years, the government will now allocate €59 million per year to the health and maternity insurance fund. However, no increase in employee or employer contributions is planned for now. Still, the minister warned that an increase in 2027 may be inevitable if the economy does not recover, as the reserve fund has fallen from €936 million to €817 million, approaching the critical threshold of 10% of total expenditures. Meanwhile, tensions persist between healthcare actors. The Association of Physicians and Dentists (AMMD) has announced its intention to terminate its agreement with the National Health Fund (CNS), citing growing dissatisfaction. According to Chris Roller, president of the AMMD, the current arrangement is “a dictation” that restricts professionals, with the CNS “dictating tariffs” that fail to keep pace with technological advances. He stated that doctors remain committed to an agreement that serves patients’ interests, but under current conditions, “this is no longer the case.” Once the AMMD officially terminates the agreement, it will remain in force for one year while negotiations for a new one take place — ensuring no immediate impact on insured patients. Read More : Luxembourg: health insurance deficit reaches €118.6 million - Bottom line Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

A growing number of households in Luxembourg are unable to cope with unforeseen expenses, revealing deepening financial fragility across the country. According to the latest “Social Panorama 2025” report by the Chambre des Salariés du Luxembourg (CSL), 22.5% of households cannot afford an unexpected bill of €2,278, such as a car repair or emergency payment. The study highlights that single-parent families and large households are among those most at risk of poverty. Financial strain has become part of daily life for many residents, who report living month-to-month without any savings buffer. The situation is particularly severe for single parents: 41.4% of adults living alone with children are unable to pay an extra bill of €2,278. Among large families with three or more adults and dependent children, 43.7% also face the same inability to cover sudden expenses. For families with several children, 28.5% lack sufficient income for any unexpected financial burden. The CSL warns that this “new wave of impoverishment” among larger family units has emerged only in recent years and calls for urgent attention due to its rapid spread. Households most affected by financial pressure are also those struggling to make it to the end of each month. In 2024: 48% of families with three or more adults and children 36% of single-parent households, and 29% of two-adult households with children  reported difficulty covering monthly expenses. The report concludes that “the presence of dependent children, combined with limited financial resources, is a major factor worsening the economic strain on Luxembourg households.” In a country often associated with wealth, these figures expose a troubling reality — poverty is taking root in Luxembourg, particularly among families raising children. Read More : Families without money to pay an unforeseen expense of 2,278 euros in Luxembourg | Contact Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

Luxembourg’s upcoming rapid tramway between Cloche d’Or and Belvaux is taking shape, with the project scheduled for completion in 2035. The plan, aimed at improving connectivity between the capital and the south, has been refined to bring the tram closer to residential and business areas, making daily commutes faster and more efficient. According to Luxtram officials, the revised route now includes improved access points for key communities. The Leudelange station will be connected to the “Am Bann” business park via a bridge, while a new stop has been added in Pontpierre near the GRIDX complex. The tram will run alongside the A4 motorway, passing over and under it at several points to improve access — a change that enhances usability but also increases construction costs. The line will be completed in three phases, with the first section from Stadion to Foetz expected to open by the end of 2031, followed by Foetz to Metzeschmelz in 2032, and finally Metzeschmelz to Belvaux in early 2035. Earlier estimates placed the total cost around €1 billion, but the revised design is likely to push the figure higher. When operational, the high-speed tramway will offer a quicker and more comfortable journey, with speeds of up to 80 km/h between major interchange hubs and around 20 km/h in urban zones like Esch. The full route from Cloche d’Or to Belvaux will take approximately 45 minutes, providing an attractive alternative to car travel and easing traffic congestion along one of Luxembourg’s busiest corridors. The project also envisions modern, community-friendly interchange hubs in Leudelange, Pontpierre, and Foetz. These hubs will combine public transport connections with spaces for shops, services, and restaurants — transforming them into lively meeting points rather than just transit stops. Supporting the line’s operations, the new Tramsschapp de la Cloche d’Or will be built between the A6 and the future Boulevard de Cessange. Construction is set to begin in 2026 and finish by 2030. Covering more than 25,000 square meters, it will maintain 24 high-speed trams and 17 urban trains, serving both this route and future extensions to Leudelange, Hollerich, and Luxexpo. The facility is budgeted at €152.4 million, funded jointly by the State and the City of Luxembourg. Once complete, the Cloche d’Or–Belvaux tramway will mark a major milestone in Luxembourg’s sustainable transport strategy — offering a faster, greener, and more connected way to travel across the region. Read More :  In 2035, from the Cloche d'Or to Belvaux by fast tram | The Daily Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

Low-income households in Luxembourg struggling with high energy costs can now receive significant financial assistance to replace old, energy-intensive appliances with new, efficient ones. The initiative is part of the government’s program “Assistance to Households in a Situation of Energy Precariousness”, which aims to help families reduce their energy bills and improve living conditions. Since its launch in 2016, the program has provided 621 services and helped replace 145 household appliances, according to recent government data. The numbers continue to grow as more families benefit from this targeted support. Who Can Apply The program is open to low-income households facing energy poverty, meaning families who cannot afford to adequately heat their homes or have struggled to pay electricity, gas, water, or heating bills in the past year. To qualify, households must be registered with the competent social security service and receive energy advice from Klima-Agence, Luxembourg’s national energy and climate advisory body. How the Process Works The social office identifies eligible households during a home visit and through the completion of the F100 form. Once eligibility is confirmed, families are invited to join the program. Klima-Agence then contacts the selected families to schedule an energy and behavioural counselling consultation. Based on this evaluation, experts may recommend replacing old appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers with low-consumption models (minimum energy class indicated on form F101). The list of eligible appliances can be found on oekotopten.lu, a government-supported website that promotes energy-efficient products. Applying for the Subsidy To receive financial support, families must submit the completed F101 form (provided by Klima-Agence) along with a written request (F102) to their social service office and proof of purchase or recycling of the replaced appliances. What the Program Covers Participating households benefit from: Personalized energy advice by Klima-Agence, to raise awareness and improve energy efficiency habits. Financial aid for replacing old appliances with energy-efficient ones. State Contribution The subsidy, funded by the Climate and Energy Fund, covers up to 90% of the appliance’s VAT-inclusive price, with a maximum of €1,000 per appliance. The social service initially advances the payment, which is later reimbursed by the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity. This initiative not only helps vulnerable families lower their energy bills but also supports Luxembourg’s broader climate goals by promoting energy efficiency in households across the country. Read More : Lower the electricity bill. Your new appliances can be financed up to 90% by the State | Contact Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu