Embracing Life in Amsterdam: Tips for Settling In

By Rose Vollum, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands

Moving abroad can be daunting! While I now feel completely integrated into the Amsterdam lifestyle, it took some time before I felt adjusted into my new flat and routine. Here are some tips for settling in during your first few weeks:

1. Embrace the new way of life

I think getting a bike is essential for feeling at home in Amsterdam. It gives you so much freedom and is the fastest way to get about! I got my bike, Ranger, for 80 euros from  Waterlooplein market. And while we have had some tough moments, including 4 punctures and a broken brake, she has seen me safely through the past year of cycling. Alternatively, if you don’t feel like buying a bike you can rent one from Swapfiets. This is a monthly bike subscription service that includes free repairs and replacements.

2. Sign up for welcome events

Before I moved, I was nervous about meeting people in a big city like Amsterdam. However, I’m happy to report it has not been a problem! I would recommend participating in the Amsterdam ESN (Erasmus Student Network) welcome week if you have the time. It’s a great way to meet other students and get a feel for the city. Some of the activities, like learning to harmonize, weren’t my cup of tea, but the events are great for bonding! ESN also offers many other trips and events throughout the year. In addition to welcome week, each university facility at UVA hosts a introductory drink, which is worth attending; it’s a nice way to meet course-mates and enjoy some free food!

3. Make your room homely

I think room decorations are key to feeling at home! Initially, I wasn’t the biggest fan of my apartment as it felt quite industrial and bare. Having moved with only one suitcase, I had very few decorations and was unsure whether it was worth buying stuff given that I am here for just a year. But after a couple of weeks, I decided to invest in a rug and some posters. These definitely made me feel more settled, and I’m now very sad to be saying goodbye to my room! I’d recommend markets like IJ Hallen, Waterlooplein, and Lindengracht for finding unique and affordable things. Ikea and Action are also great for lamps and plants!

3. Don’t be alarmed by the directness

Adjusting to Dutch culture has been interesting! When we first arrived, our ESN mentors gave several warnings about how direct the Dutch are. This was then promptly experienced in our first lecture, where we were randomly called on to share our expectations for the course. This combined with some other very blunt conversations initially took some getting used to! Now I’ve adjusted and realised they don’t mean to offend, I find their more straightforward way of talking quite refreshing.  

5. Share how your feeling

A problem shared, is a problem halved! If you’re feeling a bit homesick make sure you talk to a friend or someone close to you about it. Chances are they have felt similar and can offer some good advice or at least take your mind off it for a day. I would also recommend bringing some of your favourite things from home. In my case, this meant packing Yorkshire tea bags and insisting that every UK visitor brought me a block of cheddar cheese!