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Twelve Tips Easing Your Adjustment to the Netherlands
2024/10/14 | By ACCESS team with the help of AI | Photo by Nikolai Artamonov
Adjusting to life in the Netherlands is a multifaceted journey, encompassing a tapestry of experiences, challenges and discoveries. It can be a transformational period that requires openness, adaptability, and a willingness to immerse oneself in a new culture but may also raise challenging experiences. Below ‘twelve tips’ for moving to, living and settling well in the Netherlands.
1. Integrate: Immerse yourself in Dutch culture. Explore local traditions, festivals, and cuisine. Engaging in cultural activities helps in understanding and appreciating the Dutch way of life.
2. Remain Curious: Ask questions, enquire about habits and traditions. Knowing about the food, buildings, etc. around you offer a unique opportunity to learn and become more aware of your new environment.
3. Build Connections: Establish connections within international communities. These networks provide valuable support, guidance and friendship during the adjustment period.
4. Meet Dutch people: Engage with people around you—at home, work, school—as this is a great way of remaining curious, interacting with people and introducing their culture and habits.
5. Navigate Bureaucracy: Familiarise yourself with administrative procedures. Dutch bureaucracy can be intricate, so understanding how things work—such as residency permits and municipal registrations—eases the settling-in process.
6. Find a Work-Life Balance: Embrace the Dutch emphasis on work-life balance. Enjoy leisure time, explore the scenic landscapes and savour relaxed moments—a crucial aspect of the Dutch lifestyle.


7. Embrace Cycling: Join the renowned Dutch cycling culture! Embracing biking not only makes commuting efficient but also integrates you into local habits and daily life. Even if you are unfamiliar or uncomfortable on a bicycle, there are places to learn and practise cycling and help you gain confidence.
8. Learn the Language: While not mandatory, learning Dutch can significantly enhance your experience. It facilitates communication, fosters connections and makes daily interactions more seamless. Don’t hesitate to ask people to speak slowly or repeat things. Share that you are learning and want to improve with their help.
9. Engage Socially: Participate in local events and social gatherings. Dutch society is generally welcoming, and active involvement in community activities fosters a sense of belonging. Your neighbourhood and/or children’s school is often a good starting place, but there will also be events which you can also join.
10. Understand Healthcare: Familiarise yourself with the Dutch healthcare system. Understanding health services ensures access to necessary care. Remember when it comes to healthcare, YOU have an important role. You will need to be direct in what you are looking for—remaining of course, polite in the discussions.
11. Adjust to the Weather: Embrace the changeable weather—be prepared for rainy and windy days. Dressing appropriately allows you to comfortably enjoy all seasons. Do not be surprised when the office seems ‘empty’ on sunny days ….as people find reasons to fully enjoy the outdoor weather!
12. Be Patient and Flexible: Adjusting to a new country takes time. Practise patience with yourself and the process. Stay adaptable, open-minded and allow yourself to grow through the experience.
Each step brings new discoveries and insights. Embrace the challenges and joys of this transition and gradually you’ll find yourself settling comfortably into your own “Dutch lifestyle”.