What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Amsterdam. They wrote...
"The rainy weather was distressing to me. Getting to know Dutch people can be difficult depending upon where you live. The Dutch don't like to "think outside the box". The most common phrase I heard was "That's not possible". It drove me crazy," explained one expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
CitizenMIt's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
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"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Amsterdam is the language barrier. Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, and while many people in Amsterdam speak English, it can be difficult to communicate with locals if you don't speak Dutch. Additionally, the Dutch culture is known for its directness and bluntness, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to. Furthermore, the Dutch are known for their strong sense of individualism, which can be difficult for expats to understand and navigate. Finally, the Dutch are known for their strong work ethic, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to if they are used to a more relaxed work culture," said another expat in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Amsterdam?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Amsterdam?
- Will I be able to find a job in Amsterdam?
- What is life like in Amsterdam?
- What do expats in Amsterdam appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Amsterdam?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Amsterdam accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Amsterdam like?
- What are healthcare services like in Amsterdam?
- What are medical services in Amsterdam like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Amsterdam?
- What are emergency services like in Amsterdam?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Amsterdam?
- How are local medical facilities in Amsterdam?
- As a foreigner living in Amsterdam, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Amsterdam, newcomers to Amsterdam would love to hear your answer to this question.

