Maybe that’s all we are doing too…?

Most have a manual mechanism to operate them from the inside. Mine are a bit fancy - theyhave a motor and a remote control.

Maybe this is a weird European thing, but my metal blinds are outside, so yes, they are very effective at reflecting radiated heat away. The triple glazing does a decent job blocking convected heat and last but not least good quality curtains to block any conducted heat that makes it through. It’s never going to be 100%, but I’m confident it’s 100% better than yoghurt!

Maybe my understanding of blinds is wrong, but the ones on my window get pretty close to completely dark. Add a decent curtain (with insulation and blackout) on the inside, and I can keep the flat comfortable passively.

Whatever else you do, close the damn windows and doors during the day, and fling them wide open as soon as its cooler.

Not much, though - I’m English, and we worked out it would cost £20k for the various visas. On top of that, you need to pay an NHS premium, even though you would already be paying for it through the usual national insurance deduction from your salary. It will also take 10 years before they are a citizen.

We decided to stay here (Germany). Less costs and, sadly, better health care.