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The Hague
Yes, but not until after we moved here. Our children's school (American School of the Hague) had an excellent model program, Safe Harbour, to welcome new arrivals, integrate and support them and say goodbye as well. One aspect was a Monday Morning Networking program that not only introduced you to others and taught how to get about in the Dutch culture (shopping, driving, public transportation, cultural differences) but also two sessions on the expat transitions process and what we go through as we assimilate. It's open to the expat community, and I highly recommend it. I'm sure other American/International schools offer similar programs (in part because ASH has spread the word globally).
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I didn't have a chance to learn any Dutch until I was on the flight over! (KLM offers a little tutorial, and I remember learning my first dozen words or so.) When I'd been here 2 months and gotten settled a bit, I took a small, intensive Dutch course. I did a shorter follow-up course to keep moving forward. We live in a Dutch neighborhood, I use Dutch daily for errands/tasks, and I listen, read and practice all the time. I may only be an intermediate speaker, but I no longer fear speaking Dutch.
I had so much going on before I arrived that I didn't know much about it, so wasn't too worried. I've learned a lot about it since, helping to ease my family into the transition. I've immersed myself in the literature, and as a writer, I write regularly on expat issues such as this.
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Let the Adventure Begin! is our premium weekly relocation newsletter that guides you step-by-step through your international move. The weekly newsletter begins 8 months before your move and runs through your first 4 months abroad. For US $29.99, you'll receive an e-mail on Wednesday with tips and advice tailored to where you are in the relocation and settling-in process.
I'd worked in the international arena for much of my life, so it wasn't too bad. I'd say I had a 'mild' case as did all but one of my family members. That one had a much harder time, so I was appreciative of the challenges.
Yes, absolutely. We all went through them. Each family member's path was unique (longer time in one stage, shorter in another, sometimes skipping a stage or combining 2).
Across the family, there was some irritation, frustration, a bit of anger, and definitely homesickness and some depression. I write a lot about the transition process and culture shock changes, and believe that 'being forewarned is forearmed' in that you have a sense of what may be coming, and recognize the stages in yourself and others. I believe it does help you work your way through the process.
Family oriented, big emphasis on being outdoors and active, a simpler pace in life. It's a beautiful country with much to see and experience, despite being small. Lots to do culturally as the Dutch appreciate music, the arts, theater and concerts/festivals. Love the beaches, and the long daylight in the summer months.
Getting used to the greater darkness during the winter months (being so far north). I don't love the rain or wind howling in off the North Sea, but you get used to it, and it's really not as bad as people make it out to be. Culturally, the Dutch can seem a bit curt, abrupt, and also love to poke fun at others, teasing beyond the bounds some cultures are used to. When you understand it's their culture and not personal, you move past it.
Oh, I've committed many! And that's okay, it helps you become part of the community. Once I confused the word for greetings (groetjes) for vegetables (groentjes); another time I confused the words for 'rent' and 'prostitute'. Definitely be willing to laugh at yourself.
I'd suggest taking a little time to find out about expat transition phases, change, etc. I've written about many expat-related issues such as these, in print and online publications and on my website http://www.adventuresinexpatland.com
The more you know, the better prepared you'll be.
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Guide to Living in The Hague, Netherlands
The Hague, Netherlands: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in The Hague
Netherlands Forum
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Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in The Hague.
9 important things for expats to know about healthcare in the Netherlands. Include information about health insurance requirements for residency, prescription medications, emergency medical care, ambulance service and more.
Expats offer advice about everything you need to know before moving to The Hague: what to bring (and what to leave behind), how to find housing and more.
Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats and digital nomads have to say about the pros and cons of living in The Hague, Netherlands.
Expats talk about what it's like living in The Hague, Netherlands: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What Newcomers to The Hague Should Know
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What is it like to move to Netherlands in 2022? Members offer advice for newcomers.
Advice for people renting and buying real estate in Netherlands.
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The Hague, Netherlands: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in The Hague
Netherlands Forum
Meet other people living in The Hague.
9 important things for expats to know about healthcare in the Netherlands. Include information about health insurance requirements for residency, prescription medications, emergency medical care, ambulance service and more.
Expats offer advice about everything you need to know before moving to The Hague: what to bring (and what to leave behind), how to find housing and more.
Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats and digital nomads have to say about the pros and cons of living in The Hague, Netherlands.
Expats talk about what it's like living in The Hague, Netherlands: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What Newcomers to The Hague Should Know
Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in The Hague.
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