Sat, 26 May 2012
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New arrival Graham Jackson finds Dutch society progressive and free-thinking, but would make some alterations to the landscape and scenery.
What puzzles you about Dutch culture and what do you miss since you’ve moved here?
The popularity of De Toppers and all the other terrible karaoke acts; the lack of a music scene outside of Amsterdam.
I miss family and friends, the English countryside and some English cuisine. The internet brings everything closer though and I’m fortunate that ‘home’ is only ever a 45-minute flight away.
How does the quality of life in the Netherlands compare to the quality of life in other countries that you’ve lived in?
I don’t see any wild differences between the quality of life in England and the quality of life here.
If you could change anything about the Netherlands, what would it be?
I would probably make some alterations to the landscape and scenery…
What advice would you give to a newcomer?
Read up on the country–the basic laws, the way of life, your rights, employment options etc etc–before you arrive (use Expatica!). Be patient with the Dutch bureaucratic system; learn the language but don’t be afraid to ask for assistance as almost everyone can speak English. Get on a bicycle and check out your surroundings straight away.
Joining Expat Voices
If you would like to share your perspective about life in the Netherlands and contribute to Expat Voices, send an email to editorNL@expatica.com with 'Please send me an Expat Voices questionnaire' in the subject line. If you would like to share your perspective about life in the Netherlands and contribute to Expat Voices, send an email to editorNL@expatica.com with 'Please send me an Expat Voices questionnaire' in the subject line.
Graham Jackson now writes a fortnightly cultural blog for Expatica's Arts & Culture channel. Read his first entry Dutch cinema: Development of Karakter.
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