Expats in Florence is a self-funded, not-for-profit, for good project started in March 2024 by Björn from Sweden and Maudie from Australia. It was first launched April 22nd, 2024 with us two as the only members.
We started it because we had need for it ourselves and a big part of that is social medias decline, which for many reasons has been ongoing for some time. It reached a point when enough was enough, and we created this platform as an alternative.
Fingers crossed you will follow us on this journey by signing up. Actually there is just very little reason not to – but if you do have a reason – please drop us a line!
Often asked questions
Because we really care and because Florence is a place where being here really matters, talking to people really matters, and being possible to meet in person is hugely important.
Our aim is to offer foreigners living in Florence a community that builds a sense of belonging and familiarity, where you can get the help you trust when you need it. As a member you can share your thoughts and make yourself heard all the way through and actually be listened to.
The member fee cover the actual costs: internet traffic fees, domain fees, server fees, licence fees, etc. Donations and incomes from local ads and classified ads cover reimbursements for time spent programming, designing, support and selling. If there is a surplus at the end of the year, it will be reinvested in the service to make it better, faster and/or lower the fees.
We do not offer discounts on recurring prices but from time to time you may come across discounts for the first subscription year. If you are interested in this, make sure you subscribe to our newsletter.
Yes. We are using servers that are updated instantly as soon as new software versions and security patches are available. We are also using state of the art bot-protection and firewalls against any malicious attempt to breach our servers or the platform itself. And unlike Meta (Facebook, Instagram) or Google, we will never sell or share your private data with any third party.
It’s not. The base language and the interface is in English, but private groups for example Swedes in Florence can very well have discussions in Swedish as long as we have technical support for the language.
In Florence, Italy. Our servers are located in Germany and Sweden (affiliate links).
Yes. Our office is located in Isolotto. Please announce your arrival beforehand so you don’t show up and we are not here or are busy. Send us an email or book a free “Consultation” in this calendar.
Yes, the technologies we use are hand-picked for reliability, robustness and compatibility. Any moderately experienced web developer will be able to pick up the work.
No.
Yes, when the number of members has reached 500 we will also offer an app.
No, we are not an investor venture.
By becoming a member and for example create a social group or club around your interest. That way you will support not only us, but also other members and yourself. You can support us directly by advertising in one of the ad-slots or by sponsoring a group.