Expats moving to Berlin will find themselves in Hemingway's heavily romanticised notion of what life overseas should be - far too much talking and far too little working.

Nearly twenty years have slipped by since this city was reunified from its spliced state during the Cold War, and now continental Europe's largest capital is attracting expats from all walks of life but with largely one thing in common - creative prowess.

Berlin is funky, Berlin is cool and Berlin is international. Rent is cheap, the price tag often a third of what accommodation would go for in Paris or London. As a result, such a low cost of living has beckoned to those that often thrive in the underbelly - like artists, designers, musicians, writers and performers.

Unemployment rates are high, social pressure to work is low and tolerance has been taken to a new limit; in fact, locals are known to be less open-minded than they are outright experimental.

Suits can seem rare on Berlin's wide avenues, and opportunities in the formal sector are few and far between, but still, the city acts as a centre stage for anyone with an entrepreneurial edge.

Furthermore, a tradition of intellectual freedom and a policy of loose liquor laws that only require bars to close once the last patron has dopped the last drop of their alcohol has created a throng of hip cafés, fantastic restaurants and brilliant bars and clubs that cater to every want and whim.

Not to mention, because of the city's long division there seems to be more of everything - from train stations to zoos to art studios.

Berlin also benefits from the civic services that are commonplace to any metropolis in Western Europe; including an easy and efficient public transportation system, effective healthcare and first-rate education opportunities - especially when it comes to higher learning.

Though the born and bred Berliners are abandoning the city for greener employment pastures, there continues to be a massive influx of internationals; and those expats moving to Berlin can certainly look forward to a healthy community that is imparting its own character on the German capital.