Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Amsterdam, Netherlands

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Amsterdam

Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?

No, I signed up for the Integration course, expect to start it in a few weeks.

Homelike
Learn More

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.

Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.
Learn More

If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?

No, dont speak Dutch. I am planning and trying to learn. I wish I did that before I moved here though! Bring a translation book from home!!!!

Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?

No.

How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?

It was BIG! The street names are so long, everything looks different, people talked different, it wasnt the "dream" i thought... It took a few days to get over and really enjoy the uniqueness.

Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?

no. I was just overwhelmed at first and now i am going through the cultural adjustment.

What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.

n/a

What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?

people are really nice, they speak english, they are really open and fun.

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

customer service is not like the US! Learning the language is challenging.