What do expats find most challenging?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Utrecht. They wrote...

"Expats in Utrecht often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, and while many people in Utrecht speak English, it is not as widely spoken as in other parts of the country. Additionally, the Dutch culture can be quite different from what expats are used to, with a strong emphasis on politeness and respect for others. This can be difficult to adjust to, especially for those who are used to a more relaxed attitude. Finally, the cost of living in Utrecht can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing and other necessities," said a member in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

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"Of course, the language is challenging. It really does make all the difference when you speak the language. However, I would have to say that the biggest challenge is making friends. You really do have to start all over again from scratch. Thanks to the International Women's Club I joined, making expat friends has been easy and I've met some wonderful women. My Dutch classes have also proven to be great sources for friendships. But my only Dutch friends were those of my husband and, even then, they are still very much his friends and not so much mine. To meet more "locals" I joined an all-women Dutch singing group. The girls are lovely, but it has come to my attention that friendships here are valued much differently than in America. It is very American to have tons of "friends" that, in reality, are better described as acquaintances. The average American has several "best friends." Doesn't that sort of defy the meaning of "best friend". Because, there can really only be one best anything. In The Netherlands, once you have build up a strong friend base of 5 or so people, there is no longer a need for anymore friends. At a certain point, the Dutch aren't looking for any new friends. Because of this, they're much more difficult to develop friendships with. After several months in the group, I'm still working at it. But I have observed that once you break in, they are loyal friends for life. Something I think very few Americans really know about," remarked another expat who made the move to Utrecht, Netherlands.