Ride with R

It’s been two years since I moved to Slovenia with my family, and it’s been an interesting journey. Leaving Berlin behind for a slower pace of life was a big shift, but overall, it’s been a rewarding experience, both for me personally and for our family. Slovenia has given us a new sense of balance and a closer connection to nature.

Why Slovenia?
The main reason for the move was family. My partner is Slovenian, and after years in Berlin, we decided it made sense to be closer to her family and raise our children in a quieter, more outdoors-oriented environment. Slovenia’s natural beauty and slower pace were a welcome change from the fast-paced life we had in Berlin.

It did not take long to realize just how much this country has to offer, especially if you enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s the mountains, forests, or lakes, there’s plenty of space to explore, and as someone who enjoys snowboarding and mountain biking, it’s been a great place to live.

Settling In
Adjusting to life here was not without its challenges. Moving from a big city like Berlin to a much smaller country came with some changes. The pace of life is slower, and things are more spread out. Learning Slovenian has been tough, but I have picked up enough to manage day-to-day life, and the effort has helped me feel more connected to the local community.

Living in Slovenia does have its perks though. It’s incredibly easy to get out into nature. We’re never more than a short drive from mountains, trails, or rivers, which has been a big plus for both me and the kids.

The Outdoors
One of the best parts of living here is the easy access to outdoor activities. In Berlin, we spent most of our time in the city, but here, nature is always close by. Whether it’s snowboarding in the Julian Alps in winter or hiking and biking in the summer, there’s always something to do outside. I have found a few favorite spots, like the Rogla resort, where I’ve spent a lot of time snowboarding during the winters.

If you’re interested in seeing more of my outdoor adventures and life in Slovenia, feel free to check out my YouTube channel where I share videos on snowboarding, mountain biking, and exploring this beautiful country.

Everything is pretty accessible too. You can be in the mountains one moment and by the coast just a few hours later. It’s something I have come to appreciate about living in such a small, but diverse country.

Family Life and Community
Slovenia has been a great place to raise a family. It’s peaceful, and our children have the chance to grow up in a natural environment, which was a big part of why we made the move. The local culture values family and outdoor activities, so it’s been easy to settle into this way of life.

Making connections took some time, as Slovenians can be reserved at first, but once you get to know people, they’re friendly and welcoming. We’ve also met other expats, which has made the transition smoother.

From Berlin to Slovenia
Moving from Berlin to Slovenia was a significant change in terms of lifestyle. Berlin had everything—culture, diversity, and constant activity—but we were ready for a shift. Life here is much quieter, which took some getting used to, but it’s given us more time for the things we value now: family, nature, and a simpler routine. While I do miss the variety and energy of Berlin at times, Slovenia has given us something different—space to breathe and focus on what’s important.

Challenges and Reflections
Like any move, it has not been without its challenges. Adjusting to Slovenian bureaucracy can be a bit of a headache, and there are moments when I miss the convenience of city life. But overall, these challenges have been manageable, and I have learned a lot through the process.

After two years, Slovenia feels like home. It’s offered us a quieter, more connected way of living, and we have settled into the rhythms of life here. It’s a place where we can focus on family and the outdoors, which is what we were looking for.

Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, I’m content with where we are. Slovenia has given us a good balance between work, family, and leisure. I’m still exploring new parts of the country and adjusting to the pace, but I feel settled and grounded here.

For anyone considering a move or even a visit, Slovenia is a good option if you value nature and a quieter life. It may not have the energy of a big city, but it has its own charms that reveal themselves over time.

What do you think? Would you ever move here, let me know in the comments below!!!