About Englebird

Gender:

Female

Currently Lives:

Citizen Of:

United States

Past Expat Posts:

United Kingdom

Italy

Mexico

Jamaica

About Englebird

I am a fine artist, art educator and art history addict. I love books. I enjoy a city atmosphere. And, love the country. Although, I lived in Italy and was brought up bi-lingual; I speak almost no Italian. I'm trying to learn Dutch. Dank je! I only know one person in Amsterdam she owns a B&B and works. Also a nice couple in Breda who travel constantly.

Advice for New Expats

research a lot.

I would love to live in...

Amsterdam

Education:

University of Connecticut
  1985 to 1988

Lancs Poly, Preston UK
  1990 to 1991

Central Connecticut State University
  1994 to 1996

Favorite Assignment:

Middle school teacher

Favorite Cuisine:

India

Favorite Museum:

The Met

Favorite Movie:

this is always changing!

Favorite Book:

This changes too! Currently, History of the Persian Empire

Favorite Sports Team:

UCONN Huskies

Some Forum Posts:

Netherlands: U.S. pension and taxes:

Hi, I've been here almost 2 years. I am registered in the Netherlands as I opened a tiny business. I have an accountant. Currently, I also receive a tax exempt pension from Connecticut. I have not ever been approached or the topic discussed in any of my transactions with the process of my registration. I, also, receive Social Security. Maybe, I'm naive, most likely, but, given numerous opportunities from the Chamber of Commerce, IND and Amsterdam City Hall not mentioning any taxes from my United States funds, I assumed they aren't going to tax me, I'll hope for the best. I will be paying taxes on any income generated by my business. I did need to provide €4000 + proof to open my "business". The Dutch/American Treaty allows us to open a business and therefore become a registered citizen. I, too, looked at Italy because of my heritage. I'm in Amsterdam, English is fluently spoken here. I'll cross my fingers and keep an eye on your posts. Good luck. I'm registered until 2018 and plan to stay put. Francesca

Netherlands: I need some information:

Immigration told me that if "self-employed" and 4000 euros + in an NL account I could possibly stay 2 years. I need to be registered and will be a taxpayer.

Netherlands: want to move to the Netherlands.:

So much depends on your reason for the move. Do you need to work? Do you have a dual citizenship? Most have employment in place. It is a lot to sort through but people do it all the time. I can shed a tiny bit of light from my perspective but it may be of no use to you. Maybe you can give more information. Best of luck regardless.

Netherlands: CLEANING SERVICES:

I finally found some one who is reliable and fast AND thorough! His number 0687282142. He has been working for me over a month and really has helped. Also, he has been here 5 years and is constantly helping understand my internet/TV connection (which is in Dutch) and stuff like that. He's really good.

Netherlands: A LONE IN AMSTERDAM:

Well, I could not predict this. Ever. When I came here I was signing a year's lease on a beautiful rental in Amsterdam. The idea was my husband would finalize our things and come over. We'd see Europe together. Within, 9 days, he dropped dead of a massive heart attack. So, here I am! Alone. I signed up for Dutch language... everyone either works or has a Dutch boyfriend... really sweet group. I'm over 50 years old. SIGH Part of me is determined to stick it out and the other parts just cries and wants to run back to Connecticut. I am recovering from the flu and realized I don't really have a single soul here that would know if I was okay, I'm usually very happy and fun to be around. I love art and was an art teacher. I have great friends. But, no one here. I'm near Liedseplein and I walk a lot. I am so grateful for so many things. Just wish I could share. Francesca

Netherlands: The 'Dark Side' to Integration:

I am reading this all with great interest! I am planning a permanent move to Amsterdam. I am older. I will be divorced. And, I am not very troubled. Think of it as if the tables were turned! America is really not the great melting pot it claims to be. I live in Connecticut. We are snobbish about our State. Maine is worse. My husband and I lived in the deep South and REALLY felt out of place. We never were allowed to forget that we are Yankees! I love the idea of taking art classes. I teach art and do museum work. I plan on doing volunteer work wherever possible. I hope your wife begins to grow her independence wings and find those hobbies or groups that interest her. I've lived in the UK and Italy and learned a tip from a very smart traveler. As a single person, frequent the same cafe and shop at the same cheese store and go to the same laundromat... slowly they will accept you. Use the "Cheers" mentality and become part of that social group that shares your interests. I think it is often harder for the married because we depend on our spouses for our friendship. Which only makes sense. However, by having separate interest you can bring more to your marriage table. I may not be invited to a Dutch birthday party but I will be ready just in case! Francesca

Date Joined:

5/4/2014

Total Posts:

8

Posts/Day:

0.01