Pros and Cons of Living in The Netherlands

"The bike lanes!! And public transportation. I really wish America would take a lesson in both of those things," said one person in Hengelo.

"Expats in The Netherlands appreciate the friendly, outgoing and open Dutch people, their relaxed and tolerant attitude, their dedication to environmental sustainability, and their excellent public transportation system. They also enjoy the rich cultural heritage, with its art, music, and architecture, and the vibrant festivals, events and markets that spring up throughout the year. Additionally, the Dutch speak excellent English, making it easy for newcomers to fit in and make their new home their own," remarked one expat in Netherlands.

"The rainy weather was distressing to me. Getting to know Dutch people can be difficult depending upon where you live. The Dutch don't like to "think outside the box". The most common phrase I heard was "That's not possible". It drove me crazy," explained one expat.

"Expats in The Netherlands may find it challenging to adjust to the Dutch directness, as the Dutch tend to be very blunt and to the point in communication and do not hesitate to share their honest opinion, regardless of social status. Additionally, the Dutch are known to be quite reserved and it can be difficult for expats to break the ice and gain acceptance, since Dutch culture highly values relationships and social networks. Time orientation can also present a challenge as the Dutch tend to be quite organized and punctual, while many expats may come from cultures that are more relaxed and laid back, leading to potential miscommunication," said one person in Netherlands.