does living in europe have to be tough for africans?

Answer 1

I don't know. I think it depends on the circumstances.
The most important thing is to have a visa that allows you to work here, because if you don't have it, you only can get illegal jobs that are not paid well. And I'm ashamed to say so, but there is still a lot of racism.
It is important to have an education too. I think the easiest way to come to Europe is if you find a scholarship to study here. Or if you're playing sports here.
In general Europe is cold and expensive. And it's difficult to find a job, for everybody, not just for Africans.

I think it can be really nice too. A couple of years ago, I lived together with a girl from Cameroon who studied here and we had a lot of fun cooking together. I remember us taking pictures of the snow and laughing. :-)
Most european cities have African communities. In the part of Brussels were I live there's Matonge, with african shops, restaurants, parties, hairdressers... etc... There's mostly people from Congo living there.
If you have friends and family living in Europe, it's easier. You help eachother out and you don't get lonely.

In addition: What the guy below me says about Matonge was true... 6 years ago. In that days they had a gang problem.
Now it has cooled down a lot. No problems anymore. I like to go there, visit the shops and the food in the restaurants are just delicious!
The whole neighborhood has gotten more attractive too, by the opening of a new cultural centre.

Answer 2

It depends on a range of factors - I think, most importantly, whether you have a residence permit and a job, and whether the host community is welcoming or racist. You'd probably feel most comfortable in countries/cities with a larger African community - e.g. there are lots of Congolese in Belgium, and Nigerians in London. The Canary Islands (Spanish territory off the coast of W. Africa) are the gateway to Europe for many West Africans - the coastal cities of Spain seem to have significant minorities of Senegalese, etc. Anecdotally, I've heard bad things about Berlin (racism and harrassment), and much better things about Brussels (although the majority-Black Matonge neighborhood in Brussels is one of the city's most run-down and violent ones). I think that both the UK and Spain are hospitable; I'm not sure about other European countries. Important issues (permit, job, racism,...) aside, the Africans I've met in Europe weren't very happy with the weather and the individualist culture - and lack of socializing.