Life in the Netherlands: A Conversation with My Friend

Living in the Netherlands for nearly seven years has given me a unique and enriching perspective on life in this beautiful country.

As a Chinese expat, I often reflect on the differences, similarities, and experiences that make life here so special. Today, my friend Oy, who moved from Thailand, and I share our thoughts on what it’s like to live in the Netherlands. Together, we explore the cultural nuances, lifestyle perks, and challenges that come with calling this place home.

I hope you enjoy our conversation! If you’re a reader, feel free to continue scrolling to dive deeper into the details shared below the video. 🌷

In this post, I’m sharing my experiences and a heartfelt conversation with my friend, Joy, who moved to the Netherlands from Thailand. We talked about the beauty of living here, the cultural differences, and some of the challenges we’ve faced.

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Better Quality of Life

Joy mentioned how the Netherlands offers a higher quality of life compared to Bangkok. The abundance of parks within walking distance is a highlight. Whether walking your dog, enjoying the sunshine, or simply relaxing, these green spaces add a sense of tranquility that’s rare in bustling cities like Bangkok.

The air quality is another big plus. The Netherlands prioritizes the environment, which means less pollution and fresher air—a stark contrast to the challenges in Joy’s home city.

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Efficient Public Transport

We both agreed on how well-organized public transportation is in the Netherlands. Trains and buses run on time, making it easy to plan trips. The small size of the country means you can go from north to south in just one day. It’s convenient and efficient, which is something we’ve both come to appreciate.

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Cultural Differences

The cultural approach to family and relationships is another interesting aspect. In Dutch families, there’s often less hierarchy. Parents and children interact more like close friends, openly discussing issues and working together to find solutions. This openness and willingness to address problems head-on is something Joy admires.

For me, the Dutch practicality stands out. People here don’t feel the need to impress others with expensive clothes or flashy lifestyles. They focus on being content with themselves and their surroundings, which I find refreshing.

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Challenges: Asking for Help

One cultural difference Joy highlighted is how Dutch people approach helping others. They respect your independence, so they don’t offer help unless you ask. For someone from a culture where help is offered unprompted, this can feel unfamiliar. Learning to ask for assistance has been an adjustment, but it’s also a valuable lesson in communication.

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The Great Firewall Challenge

As a Chinese developer, one of my frustrations has been the restrictions of the Great Firewall in China. Not being able to access Google, YouTube, or other global platforms can feel isolating, especially since my work heavily relies on these resources. Living in the Netherlands has allowed me to stay connected, learn from tutorials, and collaborate with friends worldwide.

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Final Thoughts

Life in the Netherlands is a mix of beauty, practicality, and new challenges. From the serene parks to the reliable public transport, there’s so much to appreciate. However, cultural differences and personal adjustments are all part of the journey.

Thank you for reading! If you have thoughts or similar experiences, feel free to share them in the comments below. And if you’re new here, don’t forget to subscribe to my channel for more stories and insights. Have a great day! 🌷