Rotterdam, The Netherlands

"Before retiring in Rotterdam, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other cities in the Netherlands. Additionally, expats should research the different neighborhoods in Rotterdam to find the one that best suits their needs. It is also important to note that Rotterdam is a very multicultural city, so expats should be prepared to interact with people from many different backgrounds. Furthermore, expats should be aware that the weather in Rotterdam can be unpredictable, so they should be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures. Finally, expats should research the healthcare system in Rotterdam to ensure they have access to the medical care they need," said one expat in Rotterdam.

"Before moving to Rotterdam, expats should be aware that the city is the second largest in the Netherlands and is known for its modern architecture and vibrant nightlife. Expats should also be aware that the city is very multicultural, with over 170 nationalities represented. Additionally, Rotterdam is a great city for cycling, with many bike paths and bike-friendly roads. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Rotterdam is relatively high, but the city offers a wide range of housing options. Finally, expats should be aware that the city is well-connected to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, with excellent public transportation and easy access to airports," commented one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

"Collect as much information ahead of time about where you are going. Come over for a scout around prior to the move. Rotterdam is a lesser know city for expatriates but they are here and active on forums," remarked one expat living in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

"My husband was lucky enough to bump into another colleague who was relocating to Australia at the time we needed a house. Hey presto, we had a house. We shipped all our furnitre and possessions over and lived at IKEA for the first 6 monts. He had a look around at the suburbs when he came ahead of our move and decided on this one as it was quiet with lots of trees," wrote a member in Rotterdam.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Rotterdam is to use online rental websites such as Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Rotterdam and filter your search by location, price, and amenities. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Rotterdam area to help you find a place to live. You can also look for rental postings on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Finally, you can attend local events such as open houses and apartment tours to find a place to live in Rotterdam," commented one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

"We live in a 3 story terraced house in quiet neighbourhood. This seems to be quite typical for the expats I know," wrote one member in Rotterdam.

"Expat homes and apartments in Rotterdam are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments are located in the city center, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Many of the homes and apartments also feature balconies or terraces, providing a great view of the city. Expats in Rotterdam can also find homes and apartments in the suburbs, which offer more space and a quieter atmosphere," remarked one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

"The cost of housing in Rotterdam is generally quite high. Prices for apartments and houses vary depending on the size, location, and amenities, but the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,200 per month. Outside of the city center, prices can be lower, but still remain relatively high," commented one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

"Expats in Rotterdam can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, language clubs, and cultural clubs. Expats can also join meetup groups, which are organized around specific interests and activities. Additionally, there are many international organizations in Rotterdam that host events and activities for expats. Other ways that expats can meet people in Rotterdam include attending local festivals and events, joining a local church or religious organization, or simply striking up conversations with people in cafes and bars," remarked one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

"When moving to Rotterdam, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the weather can be quite cold in the winter months. Rain gear is also essential, as the city experiences a lot of rainfall throughout the year. It is also important to bring comfortable shoes, as the city is quite flat and easy to explore on foot. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a bike, as cycling is a popular form of transportation in Rotterdam. Finally, don't forget to bring a valid passport and any necessary documents for your stay," explained one expat living in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

"Converter plugs. Our situation was different as we were posted here through my husband's company, so our moving, housing, etc were easier. We were lucky to meet many people who helped us out. However, now Rotterdam has it's own website which may be useful to viewers/users of this site. See www.yourrotterdam.com. It is a comprehensive guide on how to settle in here - housing, schooling, leisure, medical, procedures and more. They also have a Rotterdam forum," said one expat in Rotterdam.

"Before retiring in Rotterdam, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other cities in the Netherlands. Additionally, expats should research the different neighborhoods in Rotterdam to find the one that best suits their needs. It is also important to note that Rotterdam is a very multicultural city, so expats should be prepared to interact with people from many different backgrounds. Furthermore, expats should be aware that the weather in Rotterdam can be unpredictable, so they should be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures. Finally, expats should research the healthcare system in Rotterdam to ensure they have access to the medical care they need," remarked one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

"Foreigners often have jobs in Rotterdam in a variety of industries, including hospitality, retail, finance, technology, and education. Many foreigners also work in the city's port, which is one of the largest in Europe. Additionally, there are many opportunities for foreigners to work in the city's growing tourism industry, as well as in the creative and cultural sectors," said one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Rotterdam is vibrant and exciting. The city is known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural attractions. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many parks, museums, and galleries, as well as its bustling nightlife. The city is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. Rotterdam is also a great place to work remotely, with plenty of co-working spaces and cafes offering free Wi-Fi. The cost of living in Rotterdam is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads," explained one expat living in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

"Expats in Rotterdam appreciate the city's vibrant and diverse culture, with its many festivals, events, and activities. They also enjoy the city's modern architecture, its many parks and green spaces, and its excellent public transportation system. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's welcoming and friendly atmosphere, as well as its excellent international cuisine. Rotterdam is also known for its strong sense of community, with many locals eager to help newcomers settle in and make the most of their new home," said one expat in Rotterdam.

"Expats in Rotterdam often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, and while many people in Rotterdam speak English, it is not as widely spoken as in other parts of the country. Additionally, the Dutch culture can be quite different from other cultures, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the local customs and etiquette. Furthermore, the Dutch are known for their directness and bluntness, which can be difficult for expats to get used to," wrote a member in Rotterdam.

"Rotterdam is generally considered to be a safe city, with crime levels lower than the national average. However, like any large city, there are areas where crime is more prevalent. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bicycle theft is common in some areas, and there have been reports of violent crime in certain neighbourhoods. The city has taken steps to reduce crime, such as increasing police presence in certain areas and introducing initiatives to tackle drug-related crime," wrote a member in Rotterdam.

"Rotterdam is a diverse city, with people from all over the world living and working there. The city is known for its acceptance of different cultures, religions, and lifestyles, and is home to a wide variety of ethnicities, nationalities, and languages. Rotterdam is a tolerant and open-minded city, and people are generally accepting of differences," remarked one expat who made the move to Rotterdam.

"Look at other options in the area before you make a decision. The High School has very few students and the academic standards are not particularly high. The school recently went through a very difficult time financially and the Board seems to have a problem with retaining members. Many families stay for around 2 - 3 years and then move on," remarked one parent with kids at American International School of Rotterdam in Rotterdam.

"The International School of Rotterdam (ISR) is one of the best international schools in Rotterdam. It is an independent, non-profit, co-educational day school offering an international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. ISR offers a rigorous academic program that is based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, and is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The British School in the Netherlands (BSN) is another excellent international school in Rotterdam. It is a co-educational day school offering an international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and offers a rigorous academic program based on the National Curriculum of England and Wales. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International School of Rotterdam-West (ISR-West) is a bilingual school in Rotterdam, offering an international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and offers a rigorous academic program based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International School of Rotterdam-East (ISR-East) is another excellent bilingual school in Rotterdam. It is a co-educational day school offering an international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and offers a rigorous academic program based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," explained one expat living in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Rotterdam often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, modern architecture, and diverse population. They also enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, the city's close proximity to other major cities in the Netherlands and Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the cost of living in Rotterdam to be quite high. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable, with strong winds and rain common throughout the year," commented one expat who moved to Rotterdam.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Rotterdam typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through various activities such as language classes, sports clubs, and social events. Rotterdam is also home to a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Additionally, the city is well connected to other parts of the Netherlands and Europe, making it easy to explore and meet new people," mentioned an expat living in Rotterdam.

"Rotterdam is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities to take part in. The city is also home to a diverse range of people, making it a great place to meet new people and make friends. Rotterdam is also known for its nightlife, with plenty of clubs and bars to choose from. Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening out or a wild night of partying, Rotterdam has something for everyone," wrote one expat living in Rotterdam.

"Expats in Rotterdam advise to research the area thoroughly before committing to a rental agreement. It is important to consider the location, the size of the property, and the cost of living in the area. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding renting in the Netherlands. It is also recommended to use a reputable real estate agent to help with the process. Finally, it is important to be aware of the potential for noise and other disturbances in the area, as well as the availability of public transportation," said one expat.

"Rotterdam offers a wide range of medical services for its citizens. The city has a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide quality care for both acute and chronic conditions. The city also has a number of specialized medical centers that focus on specific areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Additionally, Rotterdam has a number of pharmacies and health stores that provide access to medications and other health-related products. The city also has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical advice and treatment," remarked one expat in Rotterdam.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Rotterdam can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, the cost of health insurance in the Netherlands is higher than in other countries, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. However, the Dutch government subsidizes healthcare costs for those who are eligible, and there are also a variety of private health insurance plans available," said one expat living in Rotterdam.

"The cost of living in Rotterdam is generally considered to be quite high. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Rotterdam can range from around $1,000 to $1,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,500 to $2,000 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Rotterdam can cost around $20 to $30 per person," said one expat.

"In order to visit Rotterdam, visitors must obtain a Schengen visa from the Dutch embassy or consulate in their home country. The Schengen visa is valid for up to 90 days and allows visitors to travel freely within the Schengen area. To apply for a Schengen visa, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed application form, two passport-sized photographs, proof of travel insurance, and proof of sufficient funds. In order to stay in Rotterdam for longer than 90 days, visitors must apply for a residence permit. To apply for a residence permit, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed application form, two passport-sized photographs, proof of travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds, and proof of a valid reason for staying in the Netherlands. Depending on the purpose of the stay, applicants may also need to provide additional documents such as a work contract, a study contract, or a marriage certificate," said one expat.

"Rotterdam is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, excellent job opportunities, and high quality of life. The city is known for its modern architecture, world-class museums, and lively nightlife. It is also home to a diverse population, making it a great place to meet people from all over the world. Additionally, Rotterdam is a great place to live for those looking for a more affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in the Netherlands. With its convenient public transportation system, expats can easily explore the city and its surrounding areas," said one expat.