Kevin (serving), Cath, Lowri (15) and Oscar (2) on life in Brno
How long have you been an army family?
Six years, Kevin has been serving for 13.
Time in Czech Republic?
One year.
How many other military families live there?
There are seven families and ten unaccompanied, all living within a 45km radius of Brno.
What’s your quarter like?
None of the houses or flats here are on base. All are private rentals. We have been very fortunate with our house, it’s a big three-bedroom open plan property with two balconies and a pool in the garden. It’s very close to the forest where we enjoy going for walks. It’s also on an easy route – drive or public transport – into the city of Brno.
Are there any employment/ training opportunities?
Some of the partners work from home, either for a UK company or their own business. I’ve started freelance writing.
What about schools/ childcare?
Lowri attends the International School in Brno; it’s a small school in comparison to the one back in Wales, which means the teachers can focus more on the children and helping them in any way they can. Oscar has just started a Czech and English speaking nursery two days a week. The staff are amazing and so helpful.
Where do people tend to get together and who supports you?
We arrange get-togethers and play dates between each other, either at the lake or in the city – there’s always something going on in Brno. We have a family liaison that helps us if we need any help or advice with things like appointments or translation.
How do you find the cost of living?
Things like food and household items are the same as back in the UK, however, eating out and public transport are so cheap.
What are the best and worst things about living there?
The best things are the weather – really hot in the summer and really cold in the winter – and being close to other countries; in the last six months we’ve visited Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, Croatia, Poland and Germany. The language can be tricky, but there’s always someone that can speak English if needs be.
Would you recommend it as a family posting?
Totally! It’s the best thing we’ve done. We love it here and the experience it’s given us.