Settling into life in a new country requires time and energy. You are often dealing with a different culture, language, and climate while getting accustomed to your new home, job, neighborhood, school and local community. Attention and effort are focused on dealing with mundane issues, learning new things and just trying to survive.
 
But, at a certain point you will begin to feel more settled. You will no longer think of yourself as having recently arrived. This is a wonderful time to seek out ways to broaden your experiences, become more fully involved in society, and enrich your daily life in the Netherlands. In other words, it's time to thrive!
 
Here are ten suggestions on how you might do just that. Regardless of how long you have been in the Netherlands or how long you intend to stay, these tips will help you flourish in your new surroundings.

Learn something new

A great way for expats to experience personal growth, maintain mental acuity and meet others is to take up something new. Learn Dutch or another language. Take an art or wine-tasting class, or a course in writing, quilting or crafting. Start or continue your university education through individual courses or a specific programme of study. Take up a musical instrument. Learn to cook Dutch delicacies or your favourite foreign cuisine. You could do any of these activities elsewhere, but what makes the experience unique is doing them here.

Explore as a local, not a tourist

Expats will certainly want to visit many of the popular places the Dutch are known for. But also try getting to know the Netherlands better by exploring different parts in day trips and short excursions. Don't just visit those attractions that typically draw the tourist crowds. Deliberately seek out lesser known places and regions which provide more genuine perspectives of Dutch life.
 
Expand your cultural horizons

Attending a cultural event works wonders for broadening one's view of society and the world. Visit an art gallery, museum, cultural exhibit or the theatre. Attend a book reading or a band, orchestra or choral concert. Fresh eyes and fresh experiences bring fresh perspectives. Visit Expatica's What's on section for a selection of events in the Netherlands.

Celebrate holidays Dutch style

Regardless of how long you've been here, you probably have a general sense of the various holidays the Dutch celebrate. Rather than passively observing these holidays, consider participating more actively. Do as the Dutch do. Join in a local yard or street sale of your used goods on Koninginnedag morning. Visit the circus the day after Christmas. Go to an amusement park or furniture shopping on Easter Monday.

Get involved

Follow an interest and join a local club, whether it's a photography club, writing group,or wine-tasting group. Sing in a choir or play your favourite instrument in a band. Support an organisation or group whose cause or hobby you share. Attend services at your preferred house of worship. Join a chess, bridge, mah-jong or scrap-booking club. Get involved, meet new people, enjoy yourself, all with a Dutch twist.