Where do you live in the Netherlands? What is one of your favourite things about where you live?My name is Thiago, originally from Brazil, and I’m based in Amsterdam Nieuw-West. One of the best parts about living here is the proximity to the city centre. Everything is within cycling distance, which is quite convenient. A highlight for me is being so close to Sloten, a lovely, quiet area that is actually much older than Amsterdam itself! A peaceful place to wander, full of character and history!
What’s your job or business? I am Key Account Manager at a large publisher, where I help organizations navigate complex research landscapes and optimise their access to critical scientific databases, including AI solutions.
When was your first time in the Netherlands? What were your first impressions or what was special about that first trip?
My first trip to the NL was when I was in my 20s – I refuse to make age calculations at this point! I remember being impressed by the stores on the streets, such as art stores, with their lights on and many paintings displayed the whole night. The city at night is magical!
What is the nicest thing about the Netherlands? How does this compare to your country?
How easy it is for you to physically move from one place to another, which is the very opposite of São Paulo, or any big city in Brazil. You have plenty of options even if you do not want to cycle; the whole country is well covered travel-wise.
Besides the weather, what is your biggest pet peeve about the Netherlands?
I’d say it’s the cuisine, as I find it leaves something to be desired.
Do you have Dutch friends? How do you meet Dutch people?
Yes, not many I must say, but some Dutch colleagues from work have become my friends, and also some very patient neighbours who I can speak with in my broken Dutch.
What do you like about Dutch people? What don’t you like?
Funny enough, the very same thing I like most is the one thing I sometimes dislike. Their directness is extremely helpful when receiving feedback and getting better at anything, while that same directness can sometimes be a little too much. There is a thin line between the two. In general, I appreciate it a lot. Occasionally I struggle. It depends on the context, of course. I think it has to do with the culture you come from and your own personality.
What’s your best advice for new expats to make friends?
The Dutch really appreciate directness and sincerity, and they are very open. They also value when people simply say what they mean. In some cultures, such as in Latin America, we normally struggle to say ‘no’, but here it is absolutely fine.
Do you have a favourite restaurant in your city?
Easy one: Barraca Rodizio. It brings both a love and ‘saudade’, so I have mixed feelings when I go there.
What’s your favourite Dutch store?
I have plenty of online stores, but it’s hard to say a physical one. A bit of a boring one, but I would say Coolblue. It gets easy to see I’m a tech lover!
What do you like to do on the weekends?
Of course, it depends strongly on the weather and the season, but in general I love seeing friends and playing sports, like padel for instance.
Who is your favourite Dutch historical, cultural or famous person?
It might be too cliché to mention van Gogh but he was such a genius! And a little bit more modern, my team (Corinthians) football player Memphis Depay.
What would you recommend a visitor to do and see in your city and in general in the Netherlands?
I’d definitely recommend Zaanse Schans. It offers a balanced combination of local culture, cheese, wooden shoes, windmills and nice waffles, all in one place! It is a nice combo of experiences. I simply bring everyone who visits me from abroad there; I must have gone there a dozen times!
What is your favourite Dutch food? And what Dutch food do you dislike?
I love old cheese bitterballen! But I must say I struggle with herring.
Do you celebrate Dutch holidays? Which one is your favourite?
Absolutely, we have so few, so we must enjoy! Has anyone not answered the King’s Day to this question, by the way? The absolute funniest, and most orange, day of the year!
Best-kept secret in your city?
Not the Bulldog shop, but the De Bijenkorf café. On a very sunny day, it has an amazing view that is definitely underrated! A good cake with an espresso is a powerful combo.
Looking back, what do you wish you knew before you moved to the Netherlands?
I wish I knew how easy and convenient it is to ride an electric bike! I wouldn’t have waited so many years before getting one. Together with a good rain coat, you are fully equipped for the country! Two things that is worth it investing high in.
What are a few things you recommend to new expat here in the Netherlands?
Simple steps that go a long way, for example introducing yourself to your neighbours when you move. It’s very customary, polite and a great way to getting to know more people! Secondly, I recommend just be open and willing to go to events – and there are plenty here – as a very good way to making friends and connecting to people!