What’s your name and where do you come from? Can you tell us something about your hometown/country?
My name is Giulia, and I come from Italy, a beautiful country rich in history, art, delicious food and stunning landscapes.However, it’s not the easiest place for young adults to build a stable life at the moment.
Where do you live in the Netherlands? What is one of your favourite things about where you live?
I live in Rotterdam and I truly love this city. One of my favourite things about this city is how multicultural it is and the fact that it feels like a metropolis where everything is within walking distance.
What’s your job or business?
I currently work as Community Manager for an advertising agency in Amsterdam.
When was your first time in the Netherlands? What were your first impressions or what was special about that first trip?
My first visit to the Netherlands was around ten years ago, and I instantly fell in love with the country. I started in Amsterdam, of course, but over time I explored more of the country and was genuinely impressed. The atmosphere had a special energy that really stuck with me. I was also amazed by how many bikes there were; definitely more bikes thanpeople! And overall, I found the way the cities are organized really impressive.
What is the nicest thing about the Netherlands? How does this compare to your country?
There are actually several things I really appreciate about this country. Beyond the overall lifestyle, what stands out tome is the strong emphasis on mental well-being and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Work is important, but it’snot everything – and that perspective is both refreshing and quite different from what I was used to in Italy.
Besides the weather, what is your biggest pet peeve about the Netherlands?
Probably the healthcare system, particularly the GP’s approach, which can feel a bit too hasty or minimal and the fact there’s no prevention (or very little). Also, Dutch thriftiness sometimes crosses into stingy territory… but I say that witha smile!
Do you have Dutch friends? How do you meet Dutch people?
To be honest, not many. Most of my friends are expats or internationals, although I do have one Dutch colleague I’m quite close to, along with a few other acquaintances.
What do you like about Dutch people? What don’t you like?
I really admire their dedication to work-life balance and mental health. They know how to
enjoy life and they’re great at organizing fun, social activities. At work, I find them very helpful and direct, which I actually appreciate. On the flip side, that directness can sometimes feel a bit passive-aggressive, and the way they are really thrifty.
What’s your best advice for new expats to make friends?
Try stepping out of your comfort zone, attending events, putting yourself out there, and don’t be afraid to make the first move when meeting new people.
Do you have a favourite restaurant in your city?
Not a restaurant but brunch spots. My top 3 favourites in town are Savor&Nosh, The Brunch Club and Mister Nonno.
What’s your favourite Dutch store?
I love Action, HEMA, Dille & Kamille, Holland & Barrett and Kruidvat – each for different reasons!
What do you like to do on the weekends?
I like wandering around the city, going to the market, discovering new spots and places around the city, spending time with close friends, usually over brunch or aperitivo. Sometimes also visiting other cities and traveling around.
Who is your favourite Dutch historical, cultural or famous person?
Vincent Van Gogh.
What would you recommend a visitor to do and see in your city and in general in the Netherlands?
There’s so much to discover and to do around the country with lots of little gems. For a first-time visit to Rotterdam, I’d definitely recommend checking out the Erasmus Bridge, the Cube Houses, the Markthal, Kop van Zuid, the Euromast,the historic Delfshaven area, Rotterdam Noord and the Kralingen district.
What is your favourite Dutch food? And what Dutch food do you dislike?
Poffertjes, bitterballen and oliebollen: heerlijk! I’m not a huge fan of haring.
Do you celebrate Dutch holidays? Which one is your favourite?
I’m still learning about them, but I love the vibe around Koningsdag (even if it’s weird to celebrate a royal family to me); the energy is amazing. I also like Sinterklaas for its festive spirit.
Best-kept secret in your city?
The courtyard inside City Hall Rotterdam – it’s beautiful and surprisingly peaceful!
Looking back, what do you wish you knew before you moved to the NL?
I wish I had known more about how the healthcare system works and how direct the culture can be, it’s not a bad thing, but it does take some getting used to.
What are a few things you recommend to new expat here in the Netherlands?
Do your homework: learn about Dutch culture, rules and all the bureaucratic stuff before you arrive. Be open, curious,and willing to step outside your comfort zone – it’s the best way to adapt and enjoy your new life here.
Thanks for the interview. Giulia!
Interviewed by Rossella Davì