Planning, organising, rules and regulations bring order and are thus held in high regard. Contribute Based on the 2021 Worlds Safest Country index,the Netherlands ranked as the 21st safest country. Please try again later. When going to places like the supermarket or train stations, you need to use google translate till you learn the language. With Sirelo, you can now compare up to 5 quotes from highly qualified moving companies to compare price and quality. Sadly, the housing crisis is a thing to be reckoned with in the Netherlands, and its important that you look well in advance for somewhere to live. I would love to move to the Netherlands as 2 of my kids already stay there and also want my 2 other join up. Did you manage to find a job in Netherlands?how difficult was it for you to find a job? Holland is a region that takes up about one third of the Netherlands, so if you say Holland then youre ignoring the other two thirds of the country. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist. You will enjoy rain showers from April to September and spring and fall from March to May. If not conditions are horrible for european standarts. But also depending on where you live housing can be expensive and dare I say scarce? Think about that. Since the Dutch have to be methodical about how they utilize and optimize space you will notice that cities, streets and houses feel small. Weather. Netherlands: What are your legal rights when you work from home? According to the 2018 HSBC Expat Explorer, ex-pats living in the Netherlands enjoy the great Mediterranean weather, childcare, healthcare, infrastructure, education, and economy. A friendly community is helpful when you are dealing with homesickness. Copyright 1997-2023 Burlingame Interactive, Inc. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The taxation on income in this country is excessive compared to other European countries. Tanja knows how to get the most out of your stay in the Dutch capital city. It's my kind of place." My word, have they been to South Africa? As mentioned, everything with a good side has a bad side. AGS worldwide network of 142 branches in 96 countries is one of the largest in the removals industry. Prices in the housing sector in The Netherlands are soaring. What restrictions and benefits are there for holders of a non-temporary resident visa in The Netherlands. If you dont want to take your child through a regular Dutch school, there are also a lot of choices when it comes to international schools in the Netherlands. Most racial incidents occur around the largest cities, Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Approximately 78% of the population aged between 15-64 years are employed, above the OECD average of 66%. This drives prices up. Safety precautions like locking your house when leaving, setting up a burglar alarm, or locking your car. It is top of countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. The reports have, however, dropped since to about 1433 reports. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you. For a small country, the Dutch do transport on a large scale. Nobody to check the contradictions in the same article. The country is also known for its progressive social policies, such as its liberal stance on same-sex marriage and marijuana use. There will be plenty of time to explore the city and surrounding countryside, stroll through world-famous art galleriesand unwind in one of the city's many parks. Is the Netherlands a country you canconsider living in? The pros of living in Netherlands include its high quality of life, excellent public transportation, and vibrant culture. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The temperature drops to the extent you only want to be indoors. Moving to the Netherlands from a western culture could be a painless experience. The quotes you receive are completely without any obligation. The Netherlands compares favourably to the UK and the US when it comes to crime statistics. For expats with older children or those who are only in Amsterdam short term, the language barrier at public schools can be an issue. Very informative. The usually efficient Dutch trains can be prone to unexpected cancellations, and its important to keep bikes chained as theft is widespread. 3. Netherlands sucks, there is nothing good about the Netherlands. Shell apartments may seem like a bargain, but renting one often means having to buy everything, including carpets and major appliances. When relocating there are many options that need to be considered. Winter kicks in from November to March, and the cold, snow, and fog are common during this season. We allowed homosexuality since 1897 or abouts there, you can live your life as you want to. We use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. My word, have they been to South Africa? Dutch are well organised with advertising jobs on there. Second, weed is legally sold in places known as coffee shops. Expats enjoy Leiden, and English speakers fit perfectly in Amsterdam and digital nomads in Eindhoven. Nothing will ever outweigh anything good about the Netherlands, Hi Rene They have been shipping cars overseas for private clients for over 20 years. But, in the words of Dutch football legend Johan Cruyff, To every advantage, there is a disadvantage. Naturally, there are also some downsides to living in Amsterdam, like the fast-moving (and pricey) housing marketand thehigh cost of living. What are the safest places to live in the Netherlands? However, having a child in the Dutch education system means that theyll be fluent in your native language, but also in Dutch and English. Patrice, Amazon. Expats in Amsterdam will find themselves in a country with one of the world's best-rated healthcare systems. There is an insane housing crisis in the Netherlands. Cars arent necessary for city residents and its possibleto travel throughout the country using its extensive network of trains and buses. The transportation is very quick and easy. However, safety is not 100% Weigh the advantages against the disadvantages, then decide to move to the Netherlands. Whether youre seeking to rent or buy, housing is expensive. No related content found. Researching appropriate work visas is a must. Finding employment in the Netherlands is a task by itself. Sorry, typo. It is also an honest system high income pay a higher percentage and low income get higher levels of financial assistance for childcare, rent, for the privatized health care insurance. If youre not a native Dutch speaker it may be harder to find work opportunities. So, before you move to this beautiful flat land of tulips and windmills, what are the pros and cons of moving to the Netherlands? said one person in Tilburg. It will help with assimilating, integrating, making Dutch friends and generally making your life in the Netherlands much easier. Learn more about Harini and Eric's expat experiences in Amsterdam as a couple. Can you kindly be more specific? . Next is a short list with 5 easy loopholes that are always good to keep in mind, whether it's for big furniture removals or for big windows. Skaters fill the frozen canals during winter, while the blooming tulips are an iconic sight in spring, and the almost-Mediterranean summers afford sunshine till late in the evening. The hardest things that I have faced and some I still do, especially coming from the UAE, are as below in this blog. Ive now been in SA for 6 months and already negotiating my way back to NL. Restaurant meals are surprisingly pricy. The innovative Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard. Independent stores are common in the Netherlands, and shopping at specialist cheese and chocolate shops is a particular treat. Especially when you when you share a house with other startes or student. You should boat ride on the canals of Amsterdam and visit the Garden of Europe to see the bulb belt of tulips in Keukenhof. . Amsterdams reputation as a city of cyclists is well earned. The Netherlands healthcare system is one of the best in the world. Most of the cons I agree with, but a bit surprised about the change in service, they were better when lived there. If you are dissatisfied with the website or any content or materials on it, your sole exclusive remedy is to discontinue your use of the website. In addition, staying indoors that long without company may be lonely and boring. "The bike lanes!! Racism: they still have Zwarte Piet. It is not paradise, but if U do not like the place at 150 K from Amsterdam is Belgium or Germany. In Amsterdam, the old adage that a persongets what they pay forrings true. The Netherlands is full of stunning forests that offer the perfect escape from the rush of the Randstad. Often more liberal approach to law 7. Dropping by unannounced at someone's house is certainly out of the question. How do I go about it and would I secure a good job even as I study. This is an amazing place, aside from (evidently) being stuck with whiners that do nothing to improve themselves or their situations. On the downside, the cost of living in The Hague is relatively high, and the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season. The Netherlands is also sandwiched between Belgium and Germany, meaning that if youre after a cheap travel opportunity or a quick weekend getaway, you really dont have to go far for it. Water can be a scarce resource in Spain despite its location between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Please say the service is bad. Con: you have to be half dead to be picked up by the ambulance health care in general works this way. Setting up your water, electricity, and other utilities in the Netherlands can be stressful enough to pull your hair out. You have entered an incorrect email address! If youre thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Being so centrally located and within close proximity to other countries, the Netherlands is a gateway to Europe. The Dutch are known for their directness, which may take expats some time to get used to. Amsterdam never sleeps." This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget. Third, although they don't say it loud or make an obvious point of it, Dutch tend to consider themselves better than many other nations. Primetime). These houses sit connected to one another in rows and have various stories. In addition, theNetherlands education systemencourages you to advance your career. In fact, Amsterdam has been rated one of the worlds top cities for quality of life. What is the weather like in The Netherlands? Naturally, there are also some downsides to living in Amsterdam, like the fast-moving (and pricey) housing market and the high cost of living. Please Rene, can you be specific? This place has so much potential to be greater but I think the Calvinist remnants in the culture hold people back from freely exploring their limits. Your children can even tag along for the ride too. I thought South Africa changed and also in my friend circle, but that is not the case. Have you had any luck as yet? Lets start on a positive note! Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard. The service industry will prove less helpful and even harder to navigate. You will quickly discover that Norwegians take great pride in caring for their homes. No place is perfect, so find out for yourself what living here can do for you! Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. The Netherlands hosts one of Europes busiest airports Amsterdam AirportSchiphol and Rotterdam has one of the worlds biggest ports. explained one expat living in Netherlands. Many children here in the Netherlands can cycle as well as they can walk. In addition, cycling is healthy and eco-friendly. The Netherlands is a very small country you can travel from one side to the other in under three hours. An interview with Nicola M - an expat coach in the Netherlands, Interview with Lisa - An expat living in the Netherlands, Interview with David H - an American in the Netherlands, Book Review: Xenophobe's Guide to the Dutch, Interview with Tracey - A British expat living in the Netherlands, Know before you go: Moving to the Netherlands, Interview with Edward - A British expat living in the Netherlands. What are some beautiful sites to visit while living in the Netherlands? The weather. You will often detect racism during job interviews or social discussions. Its also worth mentioning that there are a few public schools that teach bilingually in both English and Dutch. Are there good restaurants in The Netherlands? New Zealand certainly has its drawbacks in addition to its many advantages. The Netherlands is known for its notoriously high tax rates on basically everything. Thanks for the analysis and I do agree and love the bike culture and lifestyle in the Netherlands. Veral wat die weer aanbetref. Whereas back in my hometown Im used to looking over my shoulder and avoiding walking down dark streets by myself. Owning a car in the Netherlands will drain your pockets dry. Also, while cycling in the Netherlands is good for fitness, the rain can make for an unpleasant experience at times. In addition, landlords take advantage of the housing problem and overcharge their tenants. Be prepared to receive little assistance from the service industry. Cataclysms The innovative Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard. I have been stuck here over 10 years and I hate it. Lifestyle in Amsterdam What are other factors that make the Netherlands so distinguishable to the international community? Doctors automated phone systems can also be challenging for non-Dutch speakers expats may want to note the numbers needed to press to make an appointment and keep them by the phone. If you befriended them youd become an instant outcast, have a relationship with one of them and youd become a -nationality of the person- whore. Tickets on public transportation will cost you more than grocery shopping. That being said, I would not suggest moving to the Netherlands without a job. They really suck. To make friends in Holland, your best luck comes in summertime. Check the statistics. Weve very rarely had someone be outright rude, but the Dutch arent exactly known for their customer service skills. Healthcarein the Netherlands is efficient, waiting times are usually short, and doctors generally speak good English. Being homosexual is 100 percent accepted. The Netherlands is not as large, making traveling to different cities easy. As with anywhere else, expats will need to weigh up the pros and cons of moving to Amsterdam before setting their plans into motion. I am also a white South African, currently living in Stellenbosch. You may also find that electronic items are more expensive in the Netherlands (tip: go on the German Amazon), and some food can be a bit pricey too. That brings me to one of main disadvantages of Nijmegen, the roads are always stuck and there are a lot of traffic congestions. 3. Hi Helene, Its expensive to own a car, and this goes not only for buying it, but also for fuelling it, fixing it, and insuring it. . Parents looking to take this option will find that curricula offered range from Japanese to French to British and beyond. For Western expats, moving to the Netherlands is generally a painless experience. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in The Netherlands to be quite high, and the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Dutch," There are even services such as utility providers who will specifically offer their services in English, making the transition from home to the Netherlands slightly easier. Unfortunately, the humid, windy and unpredictable climate of The Netherlands is mostly 'mild' on paper. Youll easily find your way around since its all easy to navigate. It is rather monotonous and bland consisting of cold sandwiches for lunch and warm meals of meat, potatoes and vegetables for dinner time. Public transportation and connections are great but fares are costly. Pro: yes, the healthcare is not expensive, that is very nice. One day I will visit Netherlands to see lovely country. Baie dankie vir die inligting. "Amsterdamcombines big city attractions like museums, concerts, etc. Advantages and disadvantages considered, the Netherlands is a great place to live. The weather in Holland is full of surprises. Beating around the bush is not a term the Dutch are familiar with. "For the first time in 20 years I am riding a cycle !and using public transport. "Most challenging aspects for me are the Dutch language, the occasional "that's not possible" attitude of the locals, and the lack of becoming something exciting. Most safety issues in the Netherlands seem to come from bicycles. The only things that keep people indoors here are heavy snows or torrential rain and even then, youll still see some brave souls going out for some coffee. I was disliked and an outcast because I didnt speak the slang. ThoughDutch accommodationcan be pricey, especially in major cities, houses and apartments aregenerally of a high standard. It's rare to find creative alternatives. The International Baccalaureate is also popular. Take that, Amsterdam! The Dutch: They are egocentric, blunt, opiniated and sometimes just plain rude. You can easily buy a secondhand bike anywhere from 100-200 euros or rent a Swapfiets for a monthly subscription. Tourists flock to Amsterdam from all over to enjoy the citys wide range of cultural and historical attractions,and expats living in Amsterdam will be lucky enough to have all this right on their doorstep. Are people in The Netherlands accepting of differences? What does your pro and con list look like? Due to its small size, taking long trips from one point to another is unnecessary. Requirements for a Dutch Driving License. For every illness it seems to be just Paracetamol. Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. The Netherlands is known for its cycling culture. We are looking for contributors to help make this the ultimate guide for expats. The (obligatory) health insurance sets you back at least 120 a month. AGS worldwide network of 142 branches in 96 countries is one of the largest in the removals industry. What are some of the cultural shocks in the Netherlands? We have tried to describe the most obvious disadvantages of New Zealand. Low-income Amsterdammers can now apply for FREE public transport tickets, Video streaming services in the Netherlands: the complete guide, The 8 greatest forests in the Netherlands for a nature escape, How to set up your utilities in the Netherlands (in English!) State of the Art Transportation System, Pros and Cons of Living in The Netherlands Summary Table. Netherlands: Flat or House: How to Rent in the Netherlands. Finding Explanations for the Educational Disadvantages of Moroccan Immigrants Living in the Netherlands. Not just English The Dutch have a high tolerance but if you start to comment on our way of life and the freedom we allow ourselves we get irate and tell you in no uncertain terms To Fk off and go back where you come from .if it was so much better over there, dont suck our economy dry and abuse our healthcare systemjust fk off. Sometraditional Dutch dishesyou will come across are AVGtje, pea soup, hutspot, stamppot, pancakes, hachee, brown bean soup, and huzarensalade. Will you be working in NL? Many ethnic options here of course but too much Dutch sameness," I have absolutely no respect for them and nepotism is rife here within their blue world I would personally never go back to the NL but not because of the people I hate the weather and there is barely a tree left standing and I hate it. HUP HUP!! Besides I think its enough for now, I said what sprang to my mind when I read the article. Explore and be awed by the Dutch landscape with Renzys sightseeing tours! I cannot wait to start my journey in the Netherlands! I remember that if the temperature outside reached 18C or 20C everyone would run to the swimming pools or holes, and throw our 6 layered clothing off. The Netherlands compares favourably to the UK and the US when it comes to crime statistics. This comes down to the Dutch governments strategy of deterring people from driving, but so far thats not working too well. The Netherlands is one of the most expensive countries in the world. If they could work out a solution that keeps you from being ticketed or worse arrested they would. Dont come. The The weather is unpredictable and the seasons inconsistent, meaning you spend half the year indoors. How to Spend the Holidays Abroad as an Expat. The cost of living in Finland is more than in more than 80% of the countries in the world. Knycx Journeying, The Netherlands seem like a cool place! Even though it sometimes feels Mediterranean, the Dutch weather can turn quickly, especially in the summer. For example, banks and most shops are closed until around noon on Mondays. I would take the Netherlands any day over Britain (especially since the farce of Brexit). American Things I Miss the Most While Living Abroad, Here are the Best Places to Live in Europe if you want to Leave the US, Visiting the Algarve in Winter + what to see & do, Visiting Amsterdam For the First Time? However, there are a number of international companies doing business in the Netherlands that are willing to hire foreigners. I am a widow and want to move back, because I am homesick after my last visit in September. Alcoholism Youre going to save some money in rent, but the downside of that advantage is that your utility costs are going to be significantly higher. Finally, expats enjoy the city's many festivals and events, which celebrate the city's culture and history," remarked one in The Hague. Read more in our interview with Monique. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyre relying with the relevant authorities. By filling in a form, youll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. During my time residing here, I have never felt scared, paranoid or fearful. Every place has its own good and bad things. While the Dutch strive for an egalitarian society, theyre pretty known for liberalism. Many people end up leaving school with good grades and go on to land well-payed jobs or attend university. Learn how your comment data is processed. Uber is not too popular here and you will end up paying double the price for very short distances. This is especially the case for larger cities such as those in the Randstad. After that, the weather is either rainy or freezing cold. Is the cost of living in The Netherlands high? The high standard of living, the bikes, the stable economy and low crime rate make Holland an attractive country for expats. It can be misunderstood as rudenesswhen its more a desire for clarity and understanding. Set rules and regulations are followed to the letter. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. The city generally feels very active, energetic and embracing. If so, its easier to find jobs on LinkedIn. Spontaneity is not a Dutch trait. This can also be a bit of a downside, however, as you have to work twice as hard to learn Dutch. As for languages the Dutch especially south generally speak 3 to 4 languages if we are for some reason in a different speaking culture due to relationships or friendships we will try to learn that too. Almost everyone uses a bicycle for any journey within a few miles. Continue reading and learn how this can turn out to be a wise task. Editors Note: This article was originally published in December 2018, and was fully updated in May 2023 for your reading pleasure. One-third of this country is below sea level! In the Netherlands, you will face some difficulties. It is pretty hard for a "vremdelingen" (foreigner) to get accepted by Dutch to the extent to exchange invitations to dinner or going out in a weekend trip together both families. Schiphol Airport can have you arrive at any major European city within an hour or two. Learn how your comment data is processed. I also am so puzzled by the menus in Dutch kitchen restaurants and cafes. 1st Move International can arrange car shipping to the Netherlands through their AutoShippers service. This progressive country has a peaceful, modern culture with a landscape that makes every weekend feel like a vacation. I see people say, there is note good about the Netherlands. I wish everyone a great day. Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. The Netherlands has one of Europes lowest rates of unemployment which, combined with the 30-percent-tax-free allowance available to people moving to work in the Netherlands, makes for an attractive work destination. This makes winters bearable and summer days enjoyable. Are foreigners allowed to own property in The Netherlands? Its comparable to residing in a multi-living space with less privacy. Is there a lot of diversity? Speaking of, there is a very good reason why every single home in the NL has central heating in every single room , yet not an aircon in sight EVER, its cold in that miserable climate. Hey r u stuck and why? The latest messages on the expat forums - Netherlands. Being any skin shade is considered beauty. The Netherlands is located near the sea and has a temperate climate. 1. Appreciation of the sun.I really took that for granted. I have seen bits of it among all groups. Become our local expat expert for your area! The rest of the year is rainy, wet, gloomy and overall depressing. Dutch bike culture: How cycling comes first and pedestrians second, The ultimate guide to gynaecology, birth control, and check-ups in the Netherlands, 7 underrated places to live outside of the Randstad, The student housing nightmare: a tale of discrimination, fraud and protest, Edibles in Amsterdam: the ultimate guide [2023], Hoera! In short, if you move to the Netherlands, expect the whole family to be on their bikes. Even an occasional shower at that particularly warm and sunny day couldnt persuade us to race back home in front of the heater. Where do I start with pensions and buying a house in Zaandam, Netherlands? What do I need to know before retiring in The Netherlands? The downside is that the pressure to learn Dutch is virtually nonexistent. I have lived in Netherlands for 2 years, then decided to move back to SA. And with over 17 million people living here, its evident that its densely populated here. Where should I send my kids to school in the Netherlands? They are almost rubber-stamped in offerings. Here are some of the pros and cons of moving to the Netherlands. Ways to send money abroad from Mexico to Amsterdam? What is the job market like for School Administrator and Principal opportunities in the Netherlands? What are the cons of living in the Netherlands? You have hit the nail on the head. Study Abroad The Pros (and Cons) of Studying in the Netherlands by Julie Ball - Last updated on January 31, 2021 Tags Europe What is it like to study in The Netherlands? As soon as the Dutch recognize your accent, they change to English. Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. Theres a lot of competition, and rentals are often snatched off the market just as quickly as they're listed. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute. The innovative, Get a quote from our partner, PassportCard. However, you should avoid high-crime areas and take the necessary precautions. Health insurance in the Netherlands is expensive and doesnt always cover what expats might expect, so its important to read the small print. UvA and Utrecht University rank among top 100 scientific universities worldwide. Getting around in the Netherlands is relatively easy and I love that the trains offer free wifi!