NL
NetherlandsForExpats
Guides, stories & meetups
Welcome
— practical, human stories

Your friendly guide to life in the Netherlands.

Whether you’re preparing your move or already settling into Dutch daily life, this site brings together practical advice, honest stories, and local insights to help you feel at home faster. From navigating the housing market and understanding paperwork to exploring culture, food, and everyday routines, we share what people really wish they’d known earlier.


Our guides are written by expats and locals, blended with lived experience and clear, step-by-step tips. You’ll also find community events, workshops, and personal stories that show what life here truly feels like — the good, the confusing, and the surprisingly gezellige moments.


Wherever you’re starting from, this is your space to learn, connect, and make the Netherlands feel a little less unfamiliar. Welcome — let’s take it one step at a time.

Many stories
Regular digest
Featured Issue
Finding a home in Amsterdam

A practical walkthrough and sample messages to landlords — updated for 2025.

Highly skilled migrant
Issue 07
Canals, bikes & brunch

A photo essay and city routes for slow weekends.

Issue 06
Remote work in NL

Coworking tips, tax notes and where to focus.

Issue 05
Food markets & local markets

Where to find the best cheese, herring and hidden gems.

Upcoming events

See all events →
Meetup • Amsterdam
Expat Diner — share stories & food
May 12 — RSVP
Workshop • Rotterdam
Finding housing: practical workshop
Jun 2 — Tickets

Guides to get started

Moving checklist
Registering with the municipality
Healthcare & insurance
Learning Dutch
Newsletter

Short, local stories & practical guides

A weekly digest with new posts, events and editing notes — perfect for people planning a move.