The Hague, The Netherlands Report of what it's like to live there - 03/31/25
Personal Experiences from The Hague, The Netherlands
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
This is our third overseas tour. Previous two overseas tours were in the Western Hemisphere.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
Washington, DC. It's an easy and direct flight between Washington, Dulles and Amsterdam. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is the same distance - about 30 minutes by car -- from Embassy The Hague and Consulate General Amsterdam.
3. What years did you live here?
Mid-2022 through mid-2025.
4. How long have you lived here?
2.5 years.
5. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Diplomatic Mission.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
Housing structures in the Netherlands are often 50 – 200 years old, many having unique features, charms, and quirks. Most residences are apartments, duplexes, or row houses, that are often smaller than their U.S equivalents. Multiple levels with steep and narrow staircases are characteristic of Dutch design, and commonplace among properties within the Mission’s housing pool.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
The easy access to groceries, by foot, bike, or car, is one of the really nice parts of living in the Netherlands. Delivery is possible if scheduled far enough in advance, but difficult if you need quick delivery of something. Food costs are comparable to DC.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
Cleaning items! It's hard to buy chemicals such as bleach, Drano, or other harsh chemicals.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
There are all kinds of restaurants, although reservations are often required. There are takeout options for sure. Delivery is possible but it can be expensive and you might wait (or the quality of the food might not be great when it arrives).
5. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
With all the flowers and tulips, the bee population is pretty active here. Since the climate is so mild, this is balanced out by a relatively mosquito population. Otherwise, some usual ants & mice in some housing, but nothing unusual.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
We use the DPO through the mail for most items. We also use Post NL for local mail, which is pretty easy and affordable.
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
Reliable household help is difficult to find and maintain. And if you're lucky enough to find good help, it's expensive. It's best to limit help to part-time ONLY. If you have full-time help, the Dutch government has all kinds requirements and protections, so it's best to stick with part-time.
3. Do you feel that it is safe to walk, run or hike outside? Are there areas where bike riding is possible? What is the availability and safety of outdoor space for exercising? Are these easily accessible?
Definitely safe here to walk or run. And you can bike EVERYWHERE. If you are a biker, there's no better place to be than the Netherlands; the only real hazard is the teenagers on e-bikes and scooters.
4. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
There are gyms available and the costs are reasonable. The bike paths that are throughout the country are amazing and a great source of free exercise.
5. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
At the moment, you can't live in the Netherlands without a local bank account. Believe it or not, there are still lots of vendors who do not accept U.S. cards. It's getting better but it's not there yet. ATMs are common and managed nationally by one company (the ATM company works with the banks and consolidates them under their umbrella, Geldmaat).
6. What English-language religious services are available locally?
There are a number of religious services available in English. This isn't a super religious country though.
7. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
Almost zero. EVERYONE speaks English in the Netherlands. It's rare to interact with anyone who doesn't speak English.
8. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Because of the older buildings and walkways, I believe someone with physical disabilities would have difficulties in the Netherlands. It's a very progressive society; however, the older buildings and infrastructure would present challenges.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Bus is very easy and affordable. Taxis and Ubers are less affordable and often require reserving in advance. I've never picked up a taxi on the street in the Netherlands.
2. What kind of vehicle(s) including electric ones do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, infrastructure, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car or vehicles do you advise not to bring?
Diplomats cannot bring large trucks or vans. They're considered commercial vehicles and the Foreign Ministry won't register them. The Netherlands is best suited for a small vehicle, a sedan, or an SUV (small or mid). There are dealerships and garages available for maintenance and repair, although emergency work can sometime be a challenge.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
High-speed home internet is excellent, reliable, and affordable. If you are willing to go to the cable provider to register, carry home equipment, and connect it yourself, internet is quick. NOTE: providers have typically required a local bank account before you can register.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
We kept our U.S. phones with an international plan (which was great for traveling all over Europe). However, we also got local numbers that we put on older phones. We tried the dual-sim thing, but it just never really worked well.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
We do not have a pet, but there are definitely vets and kennels. Quarantine rules vary depending where the pet is coming from. This is a very pet friendly country; I've never seen happier dogs!
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
EFM employment has not been much of an issue here. Lots of spouses brought their USG or private sector drop with them. It's also easy to work at the Embassy or on the local economy.
2. What volunteer opportunities are available locally?
The schools have plenty of volunteer opportunities.
3. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
Business casual most of the time. Business for meetings. Formal dress on limited occasions.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
This is a safe country, and we have not had any security issues at all. Most kids bike to school on their own. This is another one of the great reasons you can enjoy life in the Netherlands.
2. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
This is tricky. While the Netherlands has good health practitioners, it can be difficult to access those practitioners. When you access the health practitioner, folks are generally happy with the knowledge and assistance, but there's lots of bureaucracy and triaging along the way.
Emergency care also requires adjustment. The Dutch do not consider their ambulatory care to be a transport service; they do not typically allow people to appear at a hospital without prior communication, and you can almost always expect some level of triage.
The Dutch perspective on medicine is also different than in the United States. For example, while Americans are quick to prescribe antibiotics, the Dutch are more by the book and won't prescribe them unless really necessary. The Embassy has a great Health Unit, which helps bridge the gap and can provide antibiotics if needed. So this means, kids are sick a lot here. Like a lot a lot. Bring as much medication as you can pack!
3. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
The outside air quality is amazing, some of the best in the world. It's normal to leave your windows open to let in that amazing air.
Inside air quality, however, requires some maintenance, especially in the winter. Since there are no HVAC systems in houses, the air can get stagnant in your house unless you make the effort to move it, which can include opening windows (even in the winter), leaving on fans, running air purifiers, etc. Since the houses are older and there is so much water in the Netherlands, be prepared for some surface mold. If you have a bad mold allergy, this may not be the post for you.
4. What do people who suffer from environmental or food allergies need to know?
One of my kiddos has a serious food allergy and we've been able to navigate well here for several reasons: 1) everyone speaks English 2) EU requires food labeling and 3) the Dutch are brutally honest - if they don't know if it's safe, they will tell you.
For environmental allergies, the spring period is very active. If you have a pollen allergy, bring your Zyrtec. If you have a mold allergy, you'll want to be very careful about your house given the age of most homes and the presence of water.
5. Are there any particular mental health issues that tend to crop up at post, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (winter blues)?
Between mid-October and mid-February, it can feel like Groundhog Day: cold, dark, wet, windy. It's important to travel and go see the sun.
6. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
Four months of the year (mid-October to mid-February) are rough - dark, wet, cold, and windy. The rest of the year is totally manageable. And much of the year, late spring through early fall, is incredible. There are waaaay more perfect weather days in the Netherlands than there are in DC...by a mile.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
Lots of great international schools here. My kids have loved it here and they've thrived here. They've had the chance to do so many cool things and travel to so many places. We've been really really happy with the school.
Homeschooling is not allowed in the Netherlands without a waiver from the local community (not the MFA), and the waiver is very difficult to obtain. If you are set on homeschooling, this post will present challenges and may not be a great fit for your family.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
This is another tricky area. Again, with a progressive culture, you would expect the best access for special-needs kids, but that is just NOT the reality. The schools have some limited ability to help special needs kids, but it's limited. Parents arrive with high expectations despite warnings from others, and then are disappointed when the school cannot sufficiently accommodate the need. There have been curtailments because of this issue. Anyone with a special needs kid will want to do their research and accept the reality that the Netherlands is not a great fit for a family with special schooling needs.
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
Yes, preschools are available and expensive. The American School of the Hague has afterschool care but the reviews are mixed.
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
So many local sports! This is another one of the great reasons to work and live in the Netherlands. Swimming, soccer, golf, almost anything you want. They're easy to access and very affordable.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
Large. Lots of Americans working in the private sector, non-profits, the USG, and international organizations. Plenty of Americans studying and just living here as well. Life in the Netherlands is really pleasant so morale is generally good. People want to be here and lots of Americans live here permanently.
2. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
There are lots of ways to socialize. I think it depends on you situation. If you have kids, you'll definitely socialize through the school. If you're single or married without kids, there are plenty of options to get involved. There's tons to do here.
3. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
For families: 1000% yes. Kids get to be kids here; play sports, ride your bike, hit the beach, hang out with friends. The Dutch have magically preserved this magical piece of childhood. I'll note it's a little different for older kids; parents will need to remain involved because there are definitely temptations here.
For Embassy singles and couples without kids, it's not quite as easy. The work is really hard here; more challenging than anyone expects. With that in mind, singles and couple without kids, don't have the outlet of knowing their families love it here. They just have the grind of the work, which wears people down over time.
4. Is it easy to make friends with locals here? Are there any prejudices or any ethnic groups who might feel uncomfortable here?
The Dutch are very pragmatic and proud. I think as long as you appreciate that Dutch culture is different than American culture and you make an effort to understand how the Dutch have influenced the United States, the Dutch will welcome you in.
5. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
The Netherlands is a very progressive country.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
Immigration has been a sensitive topic in the Netherlands, even causing the government to fail two years ago. There's a lot of pressure on housing and resources, and some of the pressure is the result of immigration and refugee populations in the Netherlands. I'll also note that there lots of opinions on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which manifests in periodic protests and even violence.
7. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
We have had an amazing time in the Netherlands. First, the kids have loved their life here, the American School of The Hague, and all their friends. For Mom & Dad, we love that the kids love it here, but we also love the ease of life. We can walk (or bike) to the store, dinner, dry cleaner, whatever you need.
On the weekends, there are tons of museums, WWII monuments, and other historic places to visit around the Netherlands.
In terms of travel around Europe, it is really easy to fly out of Schiphol or Rotterdam, take a train (including the Eurostar to London or Paris), or drive. We've visited more than 20 countries and feel very fortunate to have had such an amazing opportunity.
8. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
So many museums! Get a Museum Card when you arrive with an annual subscription and visit everything.
9. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
There are all kinds of shopping opportunities in the Netherlands. Tulips, windmills, wooden shoes, and more.
10. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Separating the difficulty of work, the ease of life is the biggest advantage. Everyone speaks English, there's little to no crime, the air & water is pristine, life is affordable, and there is so much to do. The Netherlands is a bubble!
Words of Wisdom:
1. What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?
With everyone speaking English and lots of things that look like the United States, it's easy to get lulled into a comfort zone in the Netherlands. However, life is more different than people realize in the here and it's important to keep that in mind.
In the United States, we tend to rely on the system from hospitals, safety requirements, store clerks, etc., to remove risk, keep us safe, and provide whatever we need. In the Netherlands, there is often a learning curve as people learn that this is not the case in the Netherlands. People moving here need to weigh the risks of certain activities (e.g., biking in Amsterdam, playing on jumpy castle that doesn’t look quire right, jumping on a beach trampoline, etc) and be comfortable NOT doing it. Accept that what the Dutch make look simple…may not be so simple.
2. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
1000% yes! We've loved our time in the Netherlands.
3. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
your truck, van, or large SUV. Roads and parking places are small. And if you're embassy, the Ministry won't register most of them.
Also leave behind your nice patio furniture; the weather here in the winter can be rough on that furniture. Better to buy here, either used or new.
4. But don't forget your:
a warm, WATERPROOF winter coat and a lighter fall/spring WATERPROOF coat.
Stock up on medications because there are a lot of things you can't get in Europe.
5. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
Why the Dutch are Different by Ben Coates
6. Do you have any other comments?
The Dutch have created this amazing bubble of life and they are - rightfully - very protective of it. Don't spend your time trying to "Americanize" your life and trying to get the Dutch to change. Understand where the culture is different, where you can embrace it, and where you need to step out of it.
