Expats in Prague get one stop multilingual shop for service providers

If you’re planning on relocating to Prague, this new web portal is a must-visit.

Websites and social media outlets have their uses, but when it comes to expat problems, a more user--centric approach is needed. Expats living in Prague all tend to face similar problems with adjustment, practical help and advice, but sorting the wheat from the chaff can be tricky at the very least. The recently-launched ExpatsCenter website aims to do just that, and has a dedicated team of service partners standing ready to give quality-controlled service and advice in a number of languages.

French expatriates Vincent Charollais and Damien Kohut dreamed up the concept after realising a good number of expats were having difficulty getting the services they needed. According to its two driving forces, the site covers important topics such as translations of required paperwork, assistance with visas and work permits and finding bilingual lawyers. More down-to-earth requests such as finding a handyman who speaks the expat’s language are favourites.

The portal is easy to access and use, with its list of providers limited to those with a reputation for being helpful and understanding of expat problems. Unlike many other such websites with endless lists, it’s a guide to recommended providers of expats’ needs. Potential users can place a request which will be sent to one of Charallais’s partners as well as routed straight to him to ensure the right match between client and supplier. He promises human oversight will be part of every request the site receives.

Prices of provided services are also monitored closely to prevent gouging, with every service provider charging no more than is normal for each service, and some even giving discounts. Kohut is fully aware expats in Prague have been regularly overcharged, and is determined not to allow his suppliers to charge more than local prices. Before a new service joins the portal, it’s thoroughly investigated for quality service and fair pricing and awarded a seal of approval which is displayed on the site.

Important topics have a number of service partners, with enquiries directed by language in order that the service provider and the customer can clearly understand each other. The Center is more than happy to receive customer feedback, with Charollais explaining that direct contact via chat is important to the site’s development as a truly useful and expat-friendly service.