7 tips for finding an English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam
The fact that your reading this article, shows you’re seriously considering a change that will ultimately carve a career path, potentially paved in gold. Your destination – Amsterdam. Why? The Dutch are on a mission, creating Europe’s most prolific start-up community and the opportunities English speakers are endless.
How to Job Hunt Abroad, When You Have No Idea What You’re Doing
Being an outsider might make job hunting seem tough, but being fluent in English just gave you that competitive edge. Job hunting is never easy, golden rule of thumb is network and get noticed. Be prepared to put in real time and ready to face challenges, obstacles, possible rejection but ultimately this journey will be worth every piece of effort your prepared to commit.
Something like this, but more laptops and coffee
1. Don’t go at This Alone
Most likely you’re lucky enough to already be settled in the Netherlands, and seeing the benefits of being a global citizen. However, to get results on the job front fast, you really need to put yourself out there. Sounds daunting, right? Well it needn’t be and you don’t even need to leave your seat.
The first part of your strategy should be letting people know you’re considering a change and outreach. Social Media is your golden ingredient, LinkedIn and twitter are your key tools, if you not already set up on the platforms, this is the first place you need to start. Get yourself a cracking profile, follow your target companies and start making connections. Forbes have written a helpful guide on ‘how to market yourself on LinkedIn’.
Twitter offers more job opportunities than any other platform and direct access to key influencers who do the hiring and the firing! It’s really that simple – LinkedIn lets you know who they are, you’ve got one opportunity and 140 characters to sell yourself to that key person, don’t be afraid just do it. Tweet ?
2. Upgrade Your Skills
Ongoing professional development and keeping your skills current are vital to making you stand out from the crowd. We know, easier said than done. Top tip – take your CV, and pull it apart. Look at your strengths and weaknesses and decide what and where needs improvement. It might be your looking to jump back into a previous career path, retraining completely or upgrading your current qualifications. The Netherlands and Amsterdam offers so many opportunities for the English speaker, it could in fact be just as easy as going back to basics in the UK. Let’s say your previous career in the UK was a top CEO’s Executive Assistant, well in Amsterdam Executive Assistants who are English Speaking are in high demand and we’ve got a course for that, check out the well-known International training providers Souters. See if you can land yourself the opportunity to shadow a new connection or maybe a friend in there day to day role, get a taster for what it might be like to work in a start-up.
Any experience you can gain makes a bold statement on your CV.
3. Take Advice from Others
The best advice you can ever take, is from someone who’s made the change a success. The old saying ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’ really can prove to be the most vital tool in securing your dream role. Many people even strangers are happy to share the success and hand out advice. What you really want to aim for is finding a mentor who can open doors and avenues that may not have been achievable without their assistance.
Start off by working online
Since we live in the age of technology there are lots of opportunities to find an online job. A lot of it involves freelance work and will require you to get creative at times. One of the more popular alternatives, in this case, is to start your writer career at a well-established paper writing service like this one. Overall this experience can be used as the basis of becoming a content writer for various websites in the future so it is an option worth taking into consideration.
5. Get out and Visit Industry Events
Creating your own luck can be the golden ticket. Being in the right place at the right time can go a long way in meeting the right people and businesses. Industry events like VRDAYS and business groups can be exactly the right place to get that ‘Big Break’ and land a English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam. Amsterdam’s top two accelerators: Rockstart and Startupbootcamp are always on the lookout for English speaking talent.
6. Hit Local Co-Working Spaces in Amsterdam
People thrive and share in co-working spaces, and that means endless opportunities to show your talent. Mixing and making new business friends can offer many advantages, opportunities and job leads you might not normally come across. This helpful site launchdesk offers you the chance to grab addresses where co working space exists and possibly rent co-working space if it takes your fancy.
7. Finding an English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam? Job Hunting Persistence is the Key to Success
Persistence in life will always pay off in anything you do. Fortunately, there are simple ways to stay motivated and tenacious when it comes to looking for the right job.
In the End: Stay steadfast and True to Yourself
Don’t be dishonest with yourself, it takes time to find and certainly land the job of your dreams. If you can budget for the inevitable or pick up some temporary work along the way it will lighten the load. Take a project management approach, plan your weekly efforts and stick to them, always, always remember to take time out for yourself as job hunting can be both daunting and draining experience. If you’re sending money from overseas accounts to your Dutch account then you definitely feel the fear of being jobless, never be guided by this fear, let it motivate you to find the job you’re passionate about.
And most importantly of all, Good Luck – Amsterdam’s waiting!
Any other tips for finding an English-Speaking job in Amsterdam? Feel free to share!
Getting paid as ZZP’ers shouldn’t mean losing Zzzs. This is everything you need to know about sending invoices as a freelancer in the Netherlands.
Feeling overwhelmed about invoicing is normal, and curable! The task feels much more achievable when you are prepared.
This guide will help tackle all your freelance invoicing questions — from the deadlines to the fine lines. 👇
What is a freelancer invoice?
Unlike being employed, as a freelancer, you don’t receive a paycheck at the end of every month. Instead, freelancers in the Netherlands must send invoices to get paid.
You’ve done all the hard work — now it’s time the client pays you for the services or products you’ve provided.
However, there’s one more step you have to take before you get paid. It’s up to you to create and send invoices to your clients.
This should be done no later than the 15th day of the month following the month in which you supplied the service or product.
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned ZZP’er, invoicing can be headache-inducing. Finding an easy-to-use tool like Qonto, a modern banking, bookkeeping and invoice management platform, can simplify the process.
Why should freelancers send invoices?
Invoicing is incredibly important as a freelancer to ensure you are complying with both law and tax regulations in the Netherlands.
It’s important to know that the Dutch tax system classifies freelancers as entrepreneurs.
Being an entrepreneur means sending invoices. Image: Freepik
If you are classified as an entrepreneur in the Netherlands, you must charge and account for BTW (or VAT, Value-Added Tax) on your services.
And that requires a formal record of transactions, AKA our friend: the invoice.
But it’s not just about compliance — it looks better for your business too.
A polished and professional invoice system can boost client confidence, improve business relationships and ensure stability as you fly your freelancer flag. 🚀
How to create an invoice as a freelancer in the Netherlands
Now that you’re crystal clear on the premise of freelancer invoices, the next step will be much easier — let’s send one!
📄 Gather all the important information
There are a few important documents and details you have to gather before creating your invoice.
If we could talk to our naive, new ZZP’er selves, we’d make TRIPLE sure we knew all about VAT, had a clear overview of our costs, and that all our personal and financial details were updated. 😅
However, there are two particularly important details you must have: your BTW number (BTW-identificatienummer) and your KvK number (Kamer van Koophandel number).
What is my BTW number?
After registering as a freelancer in the Netherlands, the Belastingdienst will issue your BTW number (BTW-identificatienummer). This is essentially your VAT ID and must be used during all transactions with customers and suppliers.
Your BTW number includes: the country code NL, nine digits, the letter ‘B’ and a two-digit check number.
Note: If you provide goods or services to another EU country, you will also need your customer’s BTW (or VAT) number.
What is my KvK number?
As for the KvK number (Kamer van Koophandel nummer): this is your business’s unique identification number, and every business in the Netherlands has one.
You are given this eight-digit number when you register your business at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.
What else should be included in my invoice?
There are several other important elements you must add to complete your invoice:
The applicable VAT rate
BTW (VAT) amount
Invoice date
Invoice number
Your name and address
The name and address of your customer
The date of delivery
Which goods or services were supplied
The quantity of goods or services
⏳ Know when to send an invoice
Listen up — you must send your invoice no later than the 15th day of the month following the month in which you supplied the service or product.
So, if you’re a freelancer who sold something to a client during April 2025, you must send the invoice by May 15, 2025.
Sent it on time? Next, the client must pay within the payment term. 👇
📅 Add a due date
One important detail when invoicing as a freelancer in the Netherlands is deciding the payment term (AKA the date the client must pay by).
If you work with clients, you can decide on a reasonable payment term.
Make sure you include the agreed payment term on your invoice, i.e. “Due Date: Monday, May 5, 2025” or “Payment due within 30 days”.
While there isn’t an explicit limit on the payment term, around 30 days is best practice to maintain a regulated cash flow.
However, this is not the case if you deal with companies or governments.
If you’re invoicing companies or a governmental body, then the due date must comply with the maximum term that you have previously agreed upon. This is usually established as part of a contract.
🔢 Always number your invoices
Don’t forget to number all your invoices sequentially for VAT purposes.
This is an important step — and one you’ll have to rectify if you forget. 👀
🛠 Consider using an invoice management tool
There’s no sugarcoating it, there’s a lot to remember. Having such long checklists can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing all your other freelancer to-dos and not-to-dos.
When you need to stay on top of things and your own spreadsheets just aren’t cutting it, an invoice management tool can be a good way to alleviate the load.
Many have handy reminders, neat lists and centralised payment plans to help you handle invoicing as a busy freelancer.
Easy-to-use tool Qonto has core features designed specifically to improve your invoice management process. If you’re worried about the cost, their affordable basic plan offers all the essential invoicing tools.
What a Dutch freelancer invoice looks like
As long as you include all the correct details, there is no set template for freelancer invoices when it comes to design and layout.
That’s not a call to stretch your creative legs — yellow writing on a purple background isn’t going to cut it.
Think clear and accessible, not creatively chaotic. Here’s a neat example:
Image: DutchReview
How to send an invoice in the Netherlands
Once you’ve got all your details in order, you might be thinking — how should I send this?
There are three different ways you can choose to send your invoice in the Netherlands. 👇
Sending an invoice by post
If you send an invoice by post in the Netherlands, it’s similar to standard mail.
That being said, it’s a far less common method these days — you might feel more secure with the popular electronic options.
Electronic or e-invoice
More and more freelancers in the Netherlands are sending e-invoices. They are a great option for keeping records in check, as they are processed automatically.
That’s where digital tools for freelancers come in — enabling you to send the invoice as an electronic document, with all required details fixed in place, via a secure server or accounting software.
Always ensure your client has agreed to accept an e-invoice first — this isn’t something they are obliged to accept! It is only mandatory if you carry out work for the Dutch government.
If you’re not sure where to start when selecting an invoicing platform, browse Qonto’s intuitive product tour. Look and feel right for you? Check out their customisable plans to finally take control of your freelancer finances.
Digital invoice
A digital invoice is when you send a PDF version of your invoice to a client or business by email — easy-peasy.
Sending invoices outside the Netherlands
Got an international client? Congrats! Now, let’s figure out how to invoice them. Image: Freepik
Are you a freelancer who deals with other countries? Firstly, congrats, you international star. 😎
Secondly, you might need to take extra care to ensure you meet other countries’ varying invoicing requirements.
For example, you should include your customer’s VAT identification number on the invoice. You may also need to apply for VAT exemptions.
The Belastingdienst nicely lays out how to send invoices to other countries correctly, including the international rules for sending e-invoices.
Frequently Asked Questions about invoicing as a freelancer
It’s not just the HOW that can be confusing; you probably have many other burning questions about invoicing as a freelancer in the Netherlands. Let’s answer them.
What happens if I don’t send an invoice on time?
There’s something called the Limitation Period for freelancers sending invoices in the Netherlands.
If your invoice passes this, your client might not have to pay anymore. 😲
The invoice is out of date:
5 years after the prescribed payment term has expired
2 years after the payment term has expired, if you sell products to private individuals
5 years after the payment term, if you sell services to private individuals
Want to extend the Limitation Period? Dat kan (that’s possible), you just need to send the client a registered letter. The limitation period will then restart, called stuiten (interruption).
What happens if I haven’t been paid after sending an invoice?
You’ve done all the hard work, then the extra work of sending an invoice, and you’re still waiting for payment.
Not good — whether you haven’t been paid on time or at all, you could have the right to:
Charge a standard fee for collection costs of €40
Charge a reasonable compensation for expenses incurred, such as legal fees or collection costs
Charge statutory interest, calculated from the date the payment term expires
Should I keep my invoice records?
This is a definite YES, as it is a requirement by law, and an auditor could come knocking.
Invoices are part of your business records — you must keep them for seven years. This increases to 10 years for immovable goods, such as property.
Keep them in the same form that you sent them, making sure all the required information is intact. You can scan receipts and invoices to save them digitally.
Do freelancers pay taxes in the Netherlands?
Freelancers must pay taxes in the Netherlands.
If your services generate regular income, the Dutch tax authority requires you to pay taxes. Most ZZP’ers pay both VAT and income tax.
It’s worth noting that there are multiple subsidies available to freelancers in the Netherlands, from tax deductions to social assistance programs.
Do all freelancers have to send invoices?
Let’s break this one down, as “freelancer” can be a broad term.
According to Belastingdienst, you must send an invoice if you supply goods and services to:
Other entrepreneurs
Legal entities that are not entrepreneurs (for example, associations and foundations)
Private individuals, in specific cases (e.g. if you sell a new or nearly new means of transport to a customer in another EU country)
Is there a minimum amount to send an invoice?
There is such a thing as a Simplified Invoice (Eenvoudige Factuur). This is for when the total amount is less than €100 (VAT included) or when you are rectifying a previously sent invoice.
That means the requirements are less strict, with only the following details required:
Name and address
VAT amount
Invoice date
Goods or services supplied
In the case of a rectified invoice: a reference to the initial invoice.
However, it’s not quite as ”simple” as it sounds, since you cannot send simplified invoices if you supply:
Goods to another EU country (intra-community supplies)
Distance sales
Goods and services in an EU country, while the VAT regarding that service has been reverse-charged to the person receiving the service.
What are Adjusted Invoice Requirements?
Adjusted Invoice Requirements (Aangepaste Factuureisen) are special rules that apply to certain entrepreneurs, like those in the taxi, transport or hospitality industries.
Also, if you are exempt from VAT or taking part in the small business scheme (KOR), you do not have to include VAT on invoices.
What if I need to send an invoice to the Dutch government?
Carrying out work or services for the Dutch government? How mysterious.
You will need to send an e-invoice: it is mandatory for all government organisations and other contracting authorities to be able to receive and process them.
After a long day, week, or month of freelancer frenzy, the last thing you want is an invoicing headache. Avoid the chaos and tackle these important bills with preparation and awareness.
Follow our advice to set up a clear, manageable invoicing process so your customers will be thanking you (and paying you, of course).
How do you find sending invoices as a freelancer in the Netherlands? A headache or a piece of cake? Let us know your experience in the comments below. 👇
If you’ve just moved to the Netherlands or are visiting for a while, you’re probably curious where to find the best coffeeshops in Almere.
While this city might not have the same international reputation as Amsterdam’s coffeeshops, it’s making a name for itself for quality cannabis.
Unlike the rest of the Netherlands (where weed is only decriminalised), Almere is part of the Dutch government’s wietexperiment (weed experiment). That means weed sold in Almere coffeeshops is fully legal and regulated.
Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just want to dip your toes into the world of Dutch cannabis, here are the three best coffeeshops in Almere, from an Almere local.
1. Boerejongens Almere: a premium coffeeshop experience
Let’s kick things off with one of the most well-known names among the best Dutch coffeeshops: Boerejongens. Located right in the heart of Almere, at the Grote Markt, this place feels like a sleek, stylish, high-end dispensary rather than your typical dark coffeeshop.
What really makes this place stand out is that it stocks Hollandse Hoogtes, which offers some of the highest-quality weed in the Netherlands. The strains on offer are carefully selected and of premium quality and include some of my personal favourites.
Strain tip: If you’re ready for a relaxing night in, Gorilla Glue is my top recommendation. This indica dominant strain will let you sink into your couch like it’s a cloud, while its 40% sativa composition means you can still make it to the fridge. With a sweet and sour tang and an earthy smell, this is hands down the best pick for unwinding after a long day without completely zoning out.
The staff here are dressed in white lab coats, offer incredibly friendly service, and make it easy to ask about the different strains so you can find one that suits your needs.
The staff here are trained in advising the best (and legal) products. Image: DutchReview
There’s also always someone dressed in a blue shirt: these are experts in Almere’s legal weed experiment and are the best people to advise you over the legal strains.
Boerejongens is one of the best coffeeshops in Almere for a sophisticated yet chill experience.
2. Coffeeshop Chillie Kiki: affordable and authentic
Now, if you’re after something a little more laid-back and local, Coffeeshop Chillie Kiki is a great pick. An Almere institution since 2005, this coffeeshop was recently fully renovated but still has a solid reputation among locals for a down-to-earth vibe and affordable prices.
I’ve been here a few times, and it’s always the same: the staff are friendly but not too chatty, and the weed selection is fantastic for the price. They also have FYTA weed on the menu, which is legally produced and of high quality. At Chillie Kiki, I particularly like Fyta’s Race Fuel OG, a 50/50 strain with a high THC content (around 20%!) giving you an energising and uplifting effect.
Grab a joint, kick back, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a great weed session without spending a fortune, because this Almere coffeeshop is one of my favourites.
3. Coffeeshop Koffie & Dromen: chill vibes and good coffee
Coffeeshop Koffie & Dromen is perfect for those who enjoy a more relaxed, cosy vibe. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, and the staff are as friendly as they come.
Best of all? This coffeeshop is on an authentic, vintage BOAT. Imagine smoking your joint while floating on the water. It’s one of those “only in the Netherlands” experiences, and trust me, it’s worth it.
My favourite strain here is the Rainbow Sherbert 11 (RS11), a brilliant cross between Pink Guava with a Sunset Sherbert. This strain is known for its calming effects, without making you a couch potato. With a fruity tang and hints of sour citrus, this is more than an ideal strain for on the go — it tastes good too.
The chilled-out vibe, the impressive and legal cannabis selection, and the boat make this place a truly memorable stop. Whether you’re looking to have a quiet afternoon by yourself or want to enjoy a smoke with friends, Koffie & Dromen is easily a top coffeeshop in Almere.
Can you smoke weed in Almere?
Yes! In Almere, buying and smoking weed in coffeeshops is not only allowed, but it’s completely legal.
Thanks to Almere’s involvement in the wietexperiment, you can be sure that the weed you’re buying is regulated and of high quality. It’s comes direct from the grower in a sealed package and has specific details on THC and CBD levels — now that’s fancy.
As of April 7, 2024, only fully regulated cannabis is sold, so you don’t have to worry about anything shady.
Just keep a couple of rules in mind:
You can only smoke in designated places: So no puffing in public areas or near schools, and no smoking tobacco indoors.
You need to be 18 or older: Bring a valid ID with you — yep, even if you think you look 25, make sure you’ve got the proof.
You can buy a maximum of five grams a day: Luckily, that’s enough for even the best of us to party.
The weed experiment means that weed in Almere is legal and regulated. Image: Freepik
Tips for smoking weed in Almere safely
While weed in Almere coffeeshops is legal, make sure to stay safe while smoking by:
Avoiding street dealers: Only buy from coffeeshops. Street dealers are illegal, and you don’t want to get caught up in anything dodgy or buy weed that’s laced with something else.
Going easy: Dutch weed tends to be a bit stronger than what you might be used to, so take it slow and see how you feel.
Remaining in safe environments: After you’ve smoked, take it easy. Don’t bike, drive, or explore too much — just chill out and let the buzz pass.
Other things to do in Almere (besides lighting up)
If you’ve got a bit of time to kill in Almere, don’t spend it all at coffeeshops. There’s plenty to see and do, and it’s a great way to take in the city after a relaxing sesh.
Visit the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve: A beautiful nature reserve with wildlife like deer and wild horses. It’s perfect for a scenic walk after your smoke — take it from me. 😉
Explore Almere Centrum: This is a design lover’s dream. The city is known for its modern, innovative architecture. If you appreciate good design, you’ll love it here.
Walk around Almere Haven: A charming neighbourhood full of canals, cosy cafes, and quaint shops.
Chill on Almeerder beach: In summer, this beach is the place to be. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard and enjoy the water. Got some extra time? Check out the rest of the Duin area, with cafes, restaurants, open-water pools, sailing schools, and more.
Check out the PIT Safety Museum: For something a bit different, head to this quirky museum dedicated to safety and emergency services.
Shop or catch a film: The shopping district is buzzing with shops, restaurants, and cinemas — perfect for a fun day out.
The Almere Haven is a top spot for visitors, and is close by to some of the best Almere coffeeshops. Image: Freepik
Final thoughts: Is Almere worth visiting for weed?
Almere might not have the same tourist draw as Amsterdam, but it’s got a unique, laid-back charm that makes it well worth the visit.
If you’re after high-quality weed without the crowds, this city delivers.
With coffeeshops like Boerejongens, Chillie Kiki, and Koffie & Dromen, you can enjoy a relaxing experience with top-notch cannabis in a calm, friendly atmosphere.
So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, Almere is a great place to light up and kick back. You won’t be disappointed!
What is your favourite coffeeshop in Almere? Tell us in the comments below!
From this April, travelling to top European destinations has become even more enjoyable. With Nightjet’s new generation trains, you can travel overnight from one country to another — all while enjoying a whole new level of comfort. 🧘
This new, modern style of train cabins offers something for every traveller, from those on a budget to comfort seekers. After all, why not make your journey just as relaxing as the visit itself?
Looking good! Image: ÖBB/Harald Eisenberger/Supplied by Nightjet
Go to sleep in the Netherlands, wake up abroad
Nightjet’s latest trains allow you to snooze your way from Amsterdam to vibrant destinations such as Vienna, Innsbruck, Linz and Munich.
So, what’s so unique about Nightjet’s new generation of trains compared to a conventional train?
Beyond the sleek design and enhanced privacy, Nightjet’s new trains are made to enhance your comfort and experience of travelling by night train.
Instead of losing a night’s sleep while travelling, Nightjet wants you to gain a night of actual rest — unless you’re far too excited to sleep.
Luckily for insomniacs, the train also has services for you, such as unlimited free WiFi and a stable network connection to keep your loved ones up to date on your journey.
Choose your ideal travel format
When it comes to how you’d like to travel, Nightjet offers a range of options to fit your travel needs, such as:
Seat car: the most affordable option on Nightjet trains. Consisting of reserved seats in an open-plan car with washrooms and toilets on each coach.
Couchette car compartment: ideal for groups of up to four travellers. Offers a separate ladies’ compartment option, washrooms and toilets in each coach, and a complimentary small breakfast.
Mini Cabin: a cocoon-shaped compartment, perfect for solo travellers or couples that want to be connected by a sliding door. Offers enhanced privacy, lockers for hand luggage, charging facilities and a complimentary small breakfast.
Sleeping car comfort compartment: for one to two people, private bathroom with toilet and shower facility and a complimentary à la carte breakfast.
Sleeping car comfort plus compartment: includes all of the above, but with more space, comfort and a separate shower cabin.
Spoiled for choice? We know, right? However, two options stand out in particular: the Mini Cabin and the Comfort Plus.
Mini Cabin, maximum privacy
The Mini Cabin is basically a cosy cocoon on wheels.
Picture a private space for you to stretch out, relax and have some solitude on your journey.
The perfect spot for reading! Image: Nightjet/Supplied.
However, don’t be fooled by the name. The Mini Cabin fits one person comfortably.
It’s also suitable for couples, with the choice of sliding a small door between two cabins on the same level. How handy! 🤩
The Comfort Plus for hotel room comfort
For those who want a bit more space and luxury, Comfort Plus is the way to go. This is Nightjet’s largest compartment in the sleeping car and even includes a private bathroom with a shower.
Sneaky little getaway anyone? Image: Nightjet/Supplied.
While the regular Comfort Compartment also offers the luxury of a private toilet and shower facility, Comfort Plus takes it up a notch with more space, improved lounging and the type of comfort that makes you say, “Why can’t all trains be like this?”
Nightjet’s latest trains bring the luxury back to train travel — all while bringing you to your holiday destination.
So where will it be, Innsbruck or Vienna? If you were looking for a reason to go on a little getaway, this is your official sign to book that trip through Nightjet. 😋
Are you ready for an adventure? You can book your tickets online, via the app or at a ticket counter the old-fashioned way.
For years, Amsterdam has reigned supreme as the Netherlands’ darling among expats, with its bustling streets, historic canals, and a vibrant international vibe.
But a new trend is emerging: more and more internationals are swapping the hustle and bustle of the capital for the calm and character of smaller Dutch cities. But… why?
Big dreams, small cities
Sure, Amsterdam has its charm, but let’s be real: the cost of living is sky-high, the rental market is a blood sport, and the crowds are… relentless.
Renting in Amsterdam? Good luck… Image: Depositphotos
Enter the new wave of expat hotspots: cities like Eindhoven, Groningen, and Dordrecht, which are are stepping up as seriously attractive alternatives.
These smaller cities are ticking all the boxes — more affordable housing, a stronger sense of community, better work-life balance, and access to nature.
Space to breathe (and maybe even buy)
Housing in Amsterdam? Let’s just say you’d better have a solid income, a bucket of luck, and the patience of a saint. But in cities like Groningen, you can sometimes find rentals up to 50% cheaper.
Expats moving to these towns are discovering they can rent spacious apartments, or even buy property, while still enjoying a high quality of life.
And let’s not forget: being able to host a dinner party without your guests sitting on your bed? Priceless.
Peace, parks, and people who smile at you
Beyond the euros and square meters, there’s something deeper pulling expats to smaller cities: the quality of life. Think less traffic, more greenery, fewer tourists, and friendly locals who might actually say hoi to you on the street.
Cities like Eindhoven and Dordrecht offer a quieter, slower-paced life without sacrificing culture or convenience. You’ll still find great cafés, museums, and local markets, just with shorter queues.
These towns often have strong community initiatives too, making it easier for expats to settle in, meet people, and feel at home.
Not to mention, access to nature trails and parks gives your brain some much-needed space from everyday life (and the many casino’s zonder Cruks online).
Careers beyond the capital
Think all the good jobs are in Amsterdam? Think again. Cities like Eindhoven are booming, especially in the tech and innovation sectors; it’s not called the “Silicon Valley of Europe” for nothing.
With strong local economies and plenty of international companies setting up shop, these smaller cities are becoming serious career hubs.
Plus, the work-life balance? Chef’s kiss. You might even have time to pick up that Dutch hobby you keep putting off (hello, cycling club or pottery class!).
Amsterdam, just a train ride away
Of course, leaving the capital doesn’t mean cutting ties with it completely.
Thanks to the Netherlands’ world-class public transport system, cities like Utrecht, Leiden, and Amersfoort are just a quick train ride from Amsterdam.
The capital will always be there! Image: Dreamstime
So whether you need to commute occasionally or just want a weekend museum fix, it’s all within reach.
As the cost of living rises and the desire for balance grows, it’s no surprise that expats are rethinking where they put down roots.
So, if you’re dreaming of life in the Netherlands, don’t be afraid to think smaller. You might just find everything you’re looking for outside the Amsterdam spotlight.
Do you live in a smaller Dutch city? How does it compare to Amsterdam? Share your thoughts in the comments.
The Netherlands might be small, but when it comes to sharing its culture with the world, this little country punches well above its weight.
From orange-soaked King’s Day celebrations to innovative architecture, quirky humour, and a surprisingly forward-thinking education system — the Dutch have plenty to offer, and they’re not shy about putting it out there (in English, of course).
Here’s how the Netherlands is showing off its best bits — and why that’s a win for all of us.
Festivals: Putting Dutch culture on the global stage
Let’s start with the obvious: the Netherlands is famously gezellig, slightly chaotic on King’s Day, and suspiciously good at throwing a festival for just about anything (flowers, fish, fries — you name it).
The Dutch would never say ‘nee’ to a celebration. Image: Depositphotos
But beyond the stroopwafel stereotypes, Dutch culture is a fascinating mash-up of tradition, innovation, and international flair.
Events like Dutch Design Week, Pride Amsterdam, and, yes, even Eurovision, show off the country’s creative side, but not just for the locals, but for a global audience.
Education: It’s not just windmills and wooden shoes
The Netherlands is home to some of the most international universities in Europe — and no, it’s not just because everything is in English (though that definitely helps).
Dutch higher education is full of forward-thinking approaches, digital classrooms, and tech-savvy tools that are reshaping how we learn.
Dutch universities are among the best in the world. Image: Freepik
But it’s not all shiny apps and robot tutors. There’s also plenty of debate happening here about the balance between Dutch identity and internationalisation.
How much English is too much English? Can AI improve learning without turning students into zombies? The Dutch are asking all the right questions — and actually trying to answer them.
Satire: The Dutch way of saying “we care” (with a side-eye)
Let’s be honest — the Dutch have a unique sense of humour. It’s dry, direct, and often hilariously (or painfully) blunt.
And that humour shows up everywhere: in news commentary, in late-night shows, in memes, and in those weird-but-wonderful editorial cartoons that say more in a doodle than some politicians say in a year.
Nobody does social commentary like the Dutch. Image: Freepik
Satire plays a surprisingly big role in how the Dutch process politics and social issues. It’s a cultural tool that helps break down complex topics, challenge the status quo and, perhaps most importantly, keep things from getting too serious.
So if you ever wondered how a nation can laugh its way through housing crises and climate debates, you’ve clearly never seen a Dutch comedian in action.
Tech, tulips, and the future…well, of everything
Innovation is kind of a national sport in the Netherlands. Whether it’s creating sustainable floating neighbourhoods or rolling out a flashy online casino with quick payouts, the Dutch are quietly (or not-so-quietly) shaping the future.
You’ll also find that the latest tech trends often show up first in education. From AI in classrooms to digital administration systems that actually work (imagine!), Dutch schools and universities are busy experimenting with what learning might look like in the future.
Why does all this matter?
Because sharing culture isn’t just about exporting Gouda and tulips (though we fully support both), it’s about building bridges, sparking conversation, and creating space for global perspectives.
The Netherlands is doing that — not just through news articles and events, but through everyday openness, curiosity, and yes, a bit of Dutch directness.
Whether you’re an expat, a student, a tourist, or just a curious human scrolling the internet, there’s something refreshing about how the Dutch show up on the world stage — candid, clever, and always a little bit quirky.
And if you ever want to dive deeper into that world, you’re in the right place. 😉
How do you feel about Dutch culture as an international? Share your thoughts in the comments.
