5 Years in The Netherlands (An Honest Review from an American)

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  • Опубліковано 19 тра 2024
  • It's been 5 years in the Netherlands...here are 5 reasons why I am still (happy) to be here.
    Thanks for the warm welcome Dutchies,
    - David
    ⏰ CHAPTERS:
    00:00 Intro
    02:23 #1 Balance (Time over money)
    04:46 #2 Safety & security
    08:51 #3 Less comparison & expectations
    10:40 #4 Healthier lifestyle
    12:48 #5 Slower living
    14:26 Ending
    📽 OTHER VIDEOS:
    • The Dutch Work the Few...
    • Dutch 'Sixes' Culture ...
    • Why are so many people...
    🙏 IF YOU WANT TO SUPPORT ME:
    PayPal Donations - paypal.me/davidswen
    Buy me a coffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/davidwen
    😁 WHO AM I?
    I'm David, a Californian living in Amsterdam. I make videos about life in the Netherlands, hiking/traveling, and the Camino de Santiago.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,6 тис.

  • @Incorruptus1
    @Incorruptus1 4 місяці тому +776

    "Niet leven om te werken, maar werken om te leven". You learned that very well young sir! My Dutch compliments.

    • @SensitivityGames
      @SensitivityGames 4 місяці тому +19

      now our corperations need to understand the memo XD

    • @henkholdingastate
      @henkholdingastate 4 місяці тому +9

      the biggest mistake people make in life is thinking they have time (live is a short trip, enjoy it) And work is a means, not an end

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +22

      Thanks for the kind words :) And happy holidays!

    • @foto2.090
      @foto2.090 4 місяці тому

      ⁠@@hidavidwen go away, we, the dutch, have a beautiful country. We should never forget that. But, we have BIG problems. We have a big housing problem, we have a big problem with jobs, there are to many jobs.
      The housing problem is a big problem, but only gets worse because of people such as YOU. You come from a foren country so you come and study there wich costs the dutch government a lot of money. You get a house with tax discounts because you are an foreigner studying in the Netherlands. And you take up space!
      When you are ready to work (a big problem in the Netherlands is that to many people work part time) you are telling people how great it is that you can work part time!
      Go to America please

    • @fixxa6455
      @fixxa6455 4 місяці тому

      Thats exactly what Albert Einstein wrote on a memo paper that he handed over to a little child

  • @thijsmuilwijk8517
    @thijsmuilwijk8517 4 місяці тому +1084

    I feel like most Dutch people have forgotten how grateful we should be for living in this country. I hear so many people complain that our country is going to hell while others have it much worse

    • @ShinAlive
      @ShinAlive 4 місяці тому +184

      There's a lot of good things in the Netherlands, but you shouldn't dismiss the cries for help. Not to delve too deeply into the depressive part, because that would be the opposite of this video's message, but there are a lot of people stuck with their careers and living conditions. Not to be able to find housing can be really debilitating.
      My personal anecdote: with a well paying job, I couldn't find a place of my own and lived in a student room for 13 years. I was really close to emigrating, with housing being my main source of depression.
      Appreciate the good things, recognize and identify luck, and empathize with those who are unfortunate. Don't dismiss and ignore.

    • @Harrypjotter7
      @Harrypjotter7 4 місяці тому +53

      The danger is, thinking others have it much worse. Forgetting what we had is dangerous.

    • @JeromDR
      @JeromDR 4 місяці тому +59

      @@ShinAlive Yeah the housing crisis is insane. Because The Netherlands is so attractive to live in, you're basically competing with the world for an appartment instead of your country. And worldwide there are a lot more rich people who can just buy a home in the Netherlands than a Dutch student who just graduated

    • @hirsch4155
      @hirsch4155 4 місяці тому +27

      @@JeromDRThere should be restrictions on foreign property ownership but of course your government is much too liberal for that .

    • @irmabronder
      @irmabronder 4 місяці тому +21

      Wat is in je hoofd is hoe je de wereld ziet! Nederland is prachtig en een fantastisch land. Deze videos helpen in ieder geval om tijdens mijn verblijf in Engeland om mijn leven nog steeds op zijn Nederlands te leven.

  • @samw5767
    @samw5767 4 місяці тому +527

    As a 10-year-old American kid living with my parents in Amsterdam in 1970, I got to explore much of the city on my own, without adult supervision. It was the happiest time of my life. I would say to any advocate of true freedom, that you haven’t experienced it until you’ve gotten lost, on purpose, in Amsterdam. Of course, I had Wednesday afternoons off from school that gave me ample time to ride the trams. My parents’ main concern was that I didn’t fall into a canal… and, that I make it home on time for dinner.

    • @josephnguyen4548
      @josephnguyen4548 4 місяці тому +4

      Did you learn Dutch while you were there?

    • @Wouter-yd3sj
      @Wouter-yd3sj 4 місяці тому +7

      The good old days sam. Cheers.

    • @lucasrem
      @lucasrem 4 місяці тому +4

      samw5767
      My Family did the same, i was able to visit downtown LA, and saw how colorful 42 street NC was, Hell kitchen.
      Amsterdam 1982/1985 ish was the best, the Old Waterloo Square is my earliest memory, that era is lost forever.
      Nobody will harm a kid, never get involved was all they learned mee, understanding the Metro grid was all i needed.

    • @samw5767
      @samw5767 4 місяці тому +26

      @@josephnguyen4548 Yes- by the end of the year, I was fully conversant, speaking Dutch without my midwestern twang. Unfortunately, I haven't kept it up, although I very much enjoy listening to spoken Dutch-- when native speakers are speaking.

    • @MyTubeSVp
      @MyTubeSVp 4 місяці тому +4

      The 70’s were fantastic, right!? 🙌

  • @LennertWanders
    @LennertWanders 4 місяці тому +265

    I love this, you are like a selling card for our country. And most dutch people don't realize this as it is "normal" here so we simply complain about the weather, cost of fuel etc. It is good to set it into a perspective of positivity. Thank you. If everyone contributes to a society, we all benefit. And in the end it will balance out anyway :)

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +12

      Thanks Lennert. Yeah I’m also comparing about the weather right now haha but overall, it’s a great place to be. Happy new year

  • @Sarah_b_curiouser
    @Sarah_b_curiouser 4 місяці тому +323

    I moved to the Netherlands in the summer of 2022 to be with my Dutch husband and it has been the absolute best decision of my entire life. I feel more at home, less stressed, less anxious, more healthy and active. I struggle learning Dutch, but I want to because I absolutely plan to get my citizenship. I took a pay cut and sold my home and land to move, and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. The Netherlands isn't for everyone, and you're right, it's not perfect. But there are certainly a lot of things to love

    • @chiefpanda7040
      @chiefpanda7040 4 місяці тому +10

      Take your time learning Dutch learn when you are comfortable and not when you are trying to cram information, eavesdrop on people to understand speech patterns (even if it seems strange), listen to Dutch music even if you don’t understand it, and try to think in Dutch what I used to do was think and then try to say the same sentence in my target language

    • @AdvdW
      @AdvdW 4 місяці тому +17

      If you ready and you wanna try a Dutch conversation, ask for it. As you know, almost all Dutch people can speak English fluently and we adapt quickly. Sometime too quickly. ☺ Anyways ... welcome to our country and the best wishes for 2024.

    • @suicidalbanananana
      @suicidalbanananana 4 місяці тому +8

      In my opinion it's ridiculous that we started demanding that people learn Dutch when since the beginning of time we've all been taught English so we could talk to people from other countries, my language is bonkers, not as bad as some of our neighbors either (looking at France or Germany) but it's still pretty far out there. Good luck trying to learn it, my advice would be don't try and make sense of the grammar rules, just try and memorize how certain things are said instead of trying to learn the weird quirky rules behind it.
      And know that there is no shame in leaning on spell checkers if Dutch isn't your native language (honestly fine even if it is!)

    • @karelvandervelden8819
      @karelvandervelden8819 4 місяці тому +2

      Watch news bulletins.

    • @sutreB
      @sutreB 4 місяці тому +21

      @@suicidalbanananana Demanding learling the language the country you want to live in is ridiculous... 🤡

  • @rdb4996
    @rdb4996 4 місяці тому +99

    To add to the sick leave: we also have care leave. My mother was in hospital for 3 weeks after an accident and I needed to care for my terminally ill father. I could use emergency leave, short term care leave, both fully paid. When that ran out, I used long term care leave while receiving 70% of my salary.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +8

      That’s amazing, so happy to hear this 🙏 thank you

    • @Potatoeateriffries
      @Potatoeateriffries Місяць тому +2

      Im gonna be in the hospital for a long time. Not only do i get 100% of my salary for a year. Then 80%. My girlfriend works somewhere else. The company said to her come back when you feel better about it (also 100% paid leave) which has been 2 months ago now.
      If everything end this year. I will only pay about €1000 euros (excluding health insurance)
      I actually thought about this somerimes. If i was born in Amerika i would be dead

  • @wn7915
    @wn7915 3 місяці тому +36

    My parents are from Hong Kong and I am born in The Netherlands. I remember my little niece in Hong Kong, she was only 8 years old and had piles of homework! Even in her summer vacation, many many homework... I have children myself now and they do not have any homework (yet 😅). When I wanted to practice at home, the teacher told me not to do so. The teacher said, school is school and they need the time to breathe and play at home ❤ such an eye opener...

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  3 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for sharing! Haha yeah I also had piles of homework in the US...mindset is so different...
      And hello fellow Canto =)

  • @jtb357
    @jtb357 4 місяці тому +43

    The "Brood" painting in the back is the icing on the cake. Sometimes it takes the view of an outsider to appreciate my country a lot more. I glad you like it here. I wish you the best for 2024.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +3

      Aw yeah thanks, wishing you a great 2024 too

    • @user-jy3io4iz2p
      @user-jy3io4iz2p 2 місяці тому +1

      I once bumped into Brood in my own street. Turned out he had an art exhibition in town. He did not recognize me 😅

  • @JohnnyJaxmusic
    @JohnnyJaxmusic 4 місяці тому +180

    Man, thanks so much for being such a great ambassador to our country. And im glad you like it so much :) have a great 2024

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +3

      Thanks for the warm welcome :) Happy 2024 🎉

  • @liksar
    @liksar 4 місяці тому +54

    The Netherlands has been my home since 1987. I came with nothing, but now have more than enough. It was a best decision of my life (thus far). It has given me many chances, and many happy experiences. Once you learn the language, people accept you and involve you more in their lives, offer you promotions. Understanding (or at least doing your best to understand) the language and culture is always really appreciated, and it is basically plain sailing from then on.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks and glad to hear it’s your best decision ever!

  • @bararobberbaron859
    @bararobberbaron859 4 місяці тому +96

    To your 5th point, I'm actually reminded of Lao Tzu: "Nature doesn't hurry, yet everything gets done". And I used that to slow down a bit more, because even as a Dutchy it can get slightly frantic, or at least feel frantic to my Dutch mind. It takes as long as it takes, and if you keep going eventually its done. Yeah I'd make a better profit per hour if I carved/built the tables faster, but I'd also be more prone to mistakes or accidentally cutting myself. I'd rather put in 12 relaxed hours compared to 10 sweaty or 8 frantic hours to get it done. We get very little time on this planet, the less of it I can spend stressed out or sad, the better.

    • @nemanjadjukic
      @nemanjadjukic 4 місяці тому +2

      ❤ Fully agree, I remind myself daily not to rush anything, as it just contributes to unnecessary stress 😮‍💨

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +6

      Thanks for the reminder!
      “Nature doesn’t hurry, yet everything gets done.”
      And happy holidays and new year!

  • @pfmiedke7085
    @pfmiedke7085 4 місяці тому +43

    Wat ontzettend mooi dat je tot deze inzichten bent gekomen, dat zijn wijsheden waar je wat aan hebt in je verdere leven!

  • @DangerHuub
    @DangerHuub 4 місяці тому +42

    It is very insightful for me, a Dutch guy who's never lived abroad, to hear your points. Thank you for that :) I am indeed very grateful that I'm able to make 'enough' money to live and do things I like and also have the time to do those things :) and ofcourse also to have an affordable health insurance :p

  • @kristyoneill601
    @kristyoneill601 4 місяці тому +34

    Love this. I'm a fellow American living in the Netherlands also for 5 years and all the points you've raised resonate with me. I just desperately miss the sun during the winters lol

    • @Iliketurtlezz
      @Iliketurtlezz 4 місяці тому +1

      We do as well, dont worry 😂

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  3 місяці тому

      Thanks Kristy! Glad to hear...oh yeah.....the winters still really bother me...but I do appreciate the seasons here (never had that in California)

    • @sallymiller6139
      @sallymiller6139 3 місяці тому +1

      Yes the lack of sun in the winter

    • @Nz-xc4jp
      @Nz-xc4jp 2 місяці тому +1

      Yes the winters are horrible, but I love the summers and springs in Netherland. I don't think any countries have better springs and summers.

    • @alicekoppenol-pitti6257
      @alicekoppenol-pitti6257 Місяць тому +3

      I always smile when I read comments like this. The thing is like anything you took for granted, you'll appreciate it more when the sun does shine through. Then again having a little more time to yourself the easy accessibility into Europe allows you to travel to the sun for a few days. Being originally from the Caribbean I have learned to appreciate the rain just as much as the sun because like in any meaningful relationship you learn to embrace the good and not so good.

  • @lilianhu4095
    @lilianhu4095 4 місяці тому +17

    Nice to hear your review. Im a Chinese born in the Netherlands and have had my share of cultural/family pressure and mental health issues arising from it. At the same time I realize that I sailed through it quiet smoothly thanks to the systems here. Very thankful for that and nice reminder hearing you explain it so well.

  • @moshemordechaivanzuiden
    @moshemordechaivanzuiden 4 місяці тому +24

    As an ex-Dutch, I loooved your vlog. On food, you forgot: smaller portions. I like that with the Dutch, you can criticize from a good place without being perceive as being negative.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks! Haha yeah criticism is acceptable here! For food, what smaller portions would you recommend?

    • @loopingmoon1444
      @loopingmoon1444 4 місяці тому +2

      @@hidavidwen I think they are referring to the amount of food you get served at restaurants being smaller then America which also helps regulate eating.

    • @freekpluimers
      @freekpluimers 4 місяці тому +1

      What is an ‘ex’-Dutch?

  • @melissavang3167
    @melissavang3167 4 місяці тому +20

    I have been feeling exactly the same way about my life in the US as you described. Thank you for the videos and creating this community! It's nice to know I'm not alone in my thoughts and feelings. Hoping to some day make life in the Netherlands a reality and this gives me hope.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +2

      Aw thanks for sharing. And you’re welcome. You’re definitely not alone!
      My favorite quote from my favorite book “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” - The Alchemist
      Best of luck!

    • @richardheumann1887
      @richardheumann1887 3 місяці тому +2

      We need people to come and work here. We need you badly because we are all getting old and there are not enough young people to take care of things. So now is a good time to come here!

    • @zarakikon6352
      @zarakikon6352 3 місяці тому +1

      You're more than welcome here, should you be able to move. We're not perfect but definitely less fear- and stressful than the US.

  • @BrazenNL
    @BrazenNL 4 місяці тому +32

    It's surprising to me that it takes someone a couple of years to understand what we think about how life should be lived. Arrogant as I am, I always think that "they" don't understand. I love seeing how people go through that journey, that change, and I accept if they don't end up in the same place. Thank you for sharing your view on life and I hope you will be able to accomplish the goals you've set, if any.
    Happy holidays, and I'm sure you're taking them now. 😄
    Have a great 2024, David.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks :) Haha yeah…I’ve realized there’s a difference between understanding and actually living certain values/mindsets-and it takes time!
      And let’s say for example…it took (sometimes not so nice) life experiences for me to truly ‘experience’ what a social system is like and having a safety net (plan to talk more about it later)
      (Oh sometimes I wish things were faster in life haha)
      Happy holidays!
      David

  • @maya.nejmeh
    @maya.nejmeh 4 місяці тому +29

    I told this to everyone and I still do, i get so high on life every single day realising and observing I’m in this beautiful country with all its things and I don’t think this feeling will ever stop. Grateful for every single detail (4 years so far in NL) en ik heb Nederlands geleerd binnen twee jaar omdat ik het heel graag wilde🤍en het is oprecht geen moeilijke taal zoals alle Nederlanders denken hahahaha

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +2

      Great for you, go Maya!

    • @hollydingman7455
      @hollydingman7455 3 місяці тому

      Language learning tips??? Ik ben hier al drie jaar, en mijn schoonmoeder heeft me heel veel geholpen met mijn Nederlands, maar ik zou heel graag een cursus vinden om mijn grammatica te verbeteren…

    • @Eind_hoven
      @Eind_hoven 2 місяці тому

      ​@@hollydingman7455Maybe take a page from the teacher's books how they teach their children? And yes, that is a serious suggestion. You can't understand the basics if you start from a fluency in another man's tongue. It took me a brain heamorage and relearning my native tongue. As an explanation: Native Dutch speaker using learnt English to transition back to Dutch. (A completely destroyed speaking centre combined with an aphasia)

  • @peterv8
    @peterv8 3 місяці тому +8

    Wow what a beautiful story, it makes me appreciate my country even more.
    Naval Ravikant's saying is very much a thing we live by.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  3 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for the kind words 🙏 And yes!

  • @hernantibolla64
    @hernantibolla64 4 місяці тому +55

    I got quite emotional at 13:50 because the same thing happened to me and that is one of many reasons I'm moving to NL. I want a simple and happy life now, not in 30 years. Thanks for this and for sharing, David!

    • @sutreB
      @sutreB 4 місяці тому +8

      Germany and Belgium are also nice countries and probably more change of getting a house. Greetings a Dutch guy (looking for a house).

    • @kankerbanaan
      @kankerbanaan 4 місяці тому +7

      @@sutreBdoor deze video nog minder huizen XD verdomme haha

    • @sutreB
      @sutreB 4 місяці тому +1

      ​@@kankerbanaan Kan Ken ermisschien wat aan doen in ruil voor wat bananen?

    • @hernantibolla64
      @hernantibolla64 4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for your feedback@@sutreB ! The housing crisis is the only thing that really worries me. But we are up to taking that risk, because we've been in Germany and Belgium too and we haven't fell in love of those places as we did in NL. We really think it's the place for us. Hope we are right haha (we also don't mind living in the outside or rural areas the first years)

  • @tomtom2806
    @tomtom2806 4 місяці тому +25

    Europeans call their appreciation for life work life balance: Life matters more than work. And that means good food, nice urban and rural life styles, doing everything slowly, not in a rush, being relaxed, allowing to be free, happy and content in the present moment, perceiving and enjoying the beautiful world, being in harmony with your surrounding and yourself.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for sharing, agree :)

    • @henrietn
      @henrietn 4 місяці тому +3

      It does depend "where" in Europe. I live in the Flanders region of Belgium, and work here dominates your way of life, a stark contrast to the Walloon part of Belgium. The Dutch in general have a more relaxed mindset when it comes to work, which I can appreciate

    • @journeyofarealestateagent
      @journeyofarealestateagent 4 місяці тому

      That's why i left holand for Portugal last year... Best decision i ever made

    • @filbao8113
      @filbao8113 9 днів тому

      ​@@henrietnIsn't Flanders Dutch

  • @ThaKnopMe
    @ThaKnopMe 4 місяці тому +13

    Also our work culture where even if you work for a big corporation you can just address the CEO with their first name is so calming.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      True! Less hierarchy

  • @mauroivaldi1818
    @mauroivaldi1818 4 місяці тому +5

    My girlfriend and I we are looking forward to move to the Netherlands this year…this videos are super helpful. Thanks

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks 🙏 best of luck! 2024!

  • @libbywish7123
    @libbywish7123 4 місяці тому +32

    You are blessed to be living in the Netherlands. The US has become extremely divided over the last decade and exceedingly expensive. The work/life balance you describe sounds like a dream. I work excessive OT just to stay afloat. I don’t have a car payment or credit card debt but the cost of living has become so unreasonable that everyone I know is struggling, depending on what area they live in due to housing costs.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for sharing. Can only hope that things get better 🙏 Happy holidays

    • @ryanalexander5438
      @ryanalexander5438 4 місяці тому +3

      Plenty of people here are in the same situation. Mostly the middle class.

    • @ml8022
      @ml8022 3 місяці тому +1

      Divided by 2 grandpa's lol....crazy country usa has become

    • @annekathleen4498
      @annekathleen4498 3 місяці тому

      The Netherlands is also divided and very expensive

    • @ml8022
      @ml8022 3 місяці тому +2

      @@annekathleen4498 The Netherlands isn't any way near as divided as the US are.

  • @Sammy-1304
    @Sammy-1304 4 місяці тому +6

    respect, for leaving everything behind and coming here!

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +2

      Thanks. It’s not easy and I do find it challenging to be away from loved ones…happy holidays

  • @MartinWebNatures
    @MartinWebNatures 4 місяці тому +12

    You always have a positive look on our country. Glad you love it here. I wish you a happy healthy 2024

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks! And happy and healthy 2024 to you too!

  • @hermandegroot1946
    @hermandegroot1946 4 місяці тому +7

    I am a 77 yo male from Venlo, (70km) very very good video. I am a little happier now. Money is not everything. You are a clever man. Dutch Congress ? Happy 2024.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks Herman. Haha Dutch Congress. I am not into politics…happy holidays

  • @noimnl
    @noimnl 4 місяці тому +11

    I really love this latest vlog. It made me realize more that NL is really my dream country to settle down.
    Thank you and congrats on your 5 years in The Netherlands! 🎉

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks for the kind words and best of luck to you! Happy new year

    • @noimnl
      @noimnl 4 місяці тому

      @@hidavidwen Happy New Year!! ✨🌷

  • @raymonddekkers9194
    @raymonddekkers9194 4 місяці тому +8

    Thanks for sharing and explaining it so well.👍🏻
    The way you have described it. It gives a renewed sense of pride to be Dutch. Something I think a lot have forgotten. I'm a sucker for sayings. And with social media and all. I think to many people live their lives by the saying off; "The grass is greener on the other side." Instead of "NOT always greener on the other side.
    Thanks for reminding us.

    • @axllii
      @axllii 3 місяці тому +1

      From your name i see you're a man of elevated culture and physical conditioning! ❤👍👍😀

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  3 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for the kind words 🙏 🇳🇱

  • @jharrisvball
    @jharrisvball 4 місяці тому +6

    Another great video David! Thanks for sharing your experience.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks! And happy 2024 🎉

  • @nannik432
    @nannik432 4 місяці тому +9

    Great story, beautiful honesty. As for the US, I hope it will make its society more humane🙏

  • @newagepianist
    @newagepianist 4 місяці тому +8

    Hi David, great observation! I live 21 years in The Netherlands and feel absolutely the same 🙂.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Aw glad to hear even after 21 years, you still feel the same. I wonder how 21 vs. 5 years feels like but hey…if I get there, I’ll see :)
      Happy new year 🎉

  • @bertkassing8541
    @bertkassing8541 4 місяці тому +10

    Hello David,
    So nice to see another video from you.
    I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying your stay in the Netherlands. Five years already. Worthy of congratulations.
    You know, every country has advantages and disadvantages compared to other countries. But on average we are doing quite well in the Netherlands. People can be themselves and I quite like that. Whoever or whatever you are, it's okay.
    I hope you can last a while in the Netherlands.
    Big regards,
    Bert

    • @FrankHeuvelman
      @FrankHeuvelman 4 місяці тому

      We are one, Bert.
      That's all there is to it.
      When your country is flooding, you have no time to fight about trivialities. Bit like Japan, only without the vertical power structure.
      That's why you don't see people looting stores in times of crisis. Just like in our country.
      We are one. Always have been.
      With thanks to the Spanish Inquisition and 80 years of war against Spain and a few wars against the budding British Empire.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks Bert for always being welcoming. Yeah, I like how people can be themselves. Enjoy and happy new year!

  • @carinamarques92
    @carinamarques92 3 місяці тому

    Love this content! Bringing awareness is such an important step into moving forward!

  • @senoner90
    @senoner90 4 місяці тому +19

    You mentioned the Polish girl who liked coming to a country where there aren't the social pressures. But I think that one needs to take into account that a lot of social pressure comes from family and close friends and if you move to another country, you don't have your family there and initially you have few friends, so of course no random person who doesn't know you is gonna put social pressure on you.
    Certainly there are differences between the Netherlands and Poland, but this may be the main factor at play in my opinion.

    • @deleteme924
      @deleteme924 3 місяці тому

      I think Western Europe in general has less family pressure than Eastern Europe

    • @user-jy3io4iz2p
      @user-jy3io4iz2p 2 місяці тому

      Maybe these pressures come from within ourselves. Giving in into something one does not really want... Changing location make it look like it is the environment that has changed but actually it is you avoiding argueing/dissapointment/shame?

  • @DevonHolzwarth
    @DevonHolzwarth 4 місяці тому +13

    I really enjoyed your video and perspectives! We moved from California to Germany in ‘12 for work, but stayed so our kids could grow up here. It’s not always great (the winters can def be depressing), and there are challenges with language. You usually make less money here, but you have more time, more security and overall it feels more peaceful and safe. Not having to worry about school gun violence is life changing. The biggest drawback for us is not having family here.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +2

      Thanks Devon! Can totally relate. I also find it really challenging to be so far from family. Luckily with hybrid/remote work now + amount of vacation days…ironically I see my family in San Francisco more living in Europe than when I lived in Los Angeles…
      But it’s still hard being so far away. If you have any tips, would love to hear!

    • @DevonHolzwarth
      @DevonHolzwarth 4 місяці тому +1

      Or you could get a ‘sad lamp’ for more light exposure. Getting out everyday for walks seems sufficient for us…the sun is there, just on a dimmer 😆

  • @stella505
    @stella505 4 місяці тому +5

    Great video David, I really appreciate that I found your chanel!

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Aw thanks for the kind words! And happy new year 🎉

  • @nnnn7404
    @nnnn7404 3 місяці тому

    Very well explained, glad to have you here in the Netherlands. Keep working (not too much )and enjoying the Netherlands.

  • @ghostindamachine
    @ghostindamachine Місяць тому +2

    Really awesome video :) Glad you feel at home here and have adapted well. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and process.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  Місяць тому +1

      You’re welcome and thanks for the kind words 🙏

  • @randomoto928
    @randomoto928 4 місяці тому +19

    I've lived in SF and abroad, and have recently started contemplating moving somewhere in the Netherlands (or Brussels, or Paris). I've spent plenty of time there and agree on all your points, though I'd add the automotive "culture" in the U.S. is totally out of control, and personally I'm desperate to escape it. So it's great to hear the perspective of someone with a similar background who's lived there a while. Thanks for sharing your experiences. I'm genuinely excited to watch more of your videos.
    Nice pigeon shot at the end, too. That's Kubrick-level stuff! Keep up the great work, dude.

    • @bebobism
      @bebobism 4 місяці тому +1

      Most Dutch hate pigeons and call them 'vliegende ratten' ( flying rats) 😁

    • @mabu1760
      @mabu1760 4 місяці тому +1

      @@bebobism That's is not true and the flying rats thing may have come from a certain game called GTA. #gelul#dus

    • @bebobism
      @bebobism 4 місяці тому +1

      @@mabu1760 GTA , laat me nie lachen. 😂

    • @Niosus
      @Niosus 4 місяці тому

      I'd recommend against Brussels. If you're looking for a big city, Antwerp or Ghent are probably going to be a nicer experience.
      Not that you can't have a good time in Brussels, but it has more of those "big city problems".

    • @randomoto928
      @randomoto928 4 місяці тому

      @@Niosus Thanks. I love Brussels, even with its big city problems. Antwerp and Ghent are great, too.

  • @eddim1433
    @eddim1433 4 місяці тому +31

    I moved to the Netherlands from Seattle in October, 2022. My partner and I were able to buy a small apartment for 160k euros (which would NEVER happen in Seattle) and we are living a simpler and happier life that doesn’t revolve around work and status. My biggest worry is learning Dutch well enough to pass the assimilation exam.

    • @strawberrykatnz
      @strawberrykatnz 4 місяці тому +3

      It's doable, I did them! If you can access online or in person classes I highly recommend Direct Dutch in Den Haag. They got me from beginner to B2 minus within two months flat as I did the intensive courses. They're pricey, but worth every single cent. I found the integration exams insanely easy as a result. I literally laughed out loud at some of the questions in the exam room by accident 😂 the supervisor was like, "everything alright?" And I was like, "Perfect, thanks."😂

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for sharing and glad to hear you’re able to buy your own place. 160k euros…yeah impossible in Seattle! Best of luck learning the language and to a new life! 🎉🎉

    • @LisaKokx
      @LisaKokx 4 місяці тому +1

      I've heard that it can be a difficult language to learn but I'm sure you've got this! I know I'm just a stranger but if you ever need someone to practice with I wouldn't mind exchanging socials and helping you out a little

    • @hollydingman7455
      @hollydingman7455 3 місяці тому +3

      It’s not so difficult to learn if you can just find an older Dutch person to practice with (more patience and more “proper” than young Dutch). I have an older neighbour who likes to practice her English and wants to help me with my Dutch - we swap practice session some times. I think there are also language learning clubs where retirees volunteer. Would highly recommend something like that. The more you can listen to real Dutch being spoken, the better. You’ll just soak it up!

  • @aislingbooks
    @aislingbooks 4 місяці тому +2

    Very nice compilation of choices, David - weighing them and even using interesting charts to back your opinions and personal conclusions.
    I feel the same as you. Happy New Year!

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks! I usually do a lot of reflection during year end and especially hitting 5 years…thought to share. Happy holidays!

  • @daproximus7833
    @daproximus7833 Місяць тому +1

    As a dutch, most thing you explain as different to you are so natural to me and thus we take it for granted. but your insight on our way of living opened my eyes again. thank you for that . And i hope you keep enjoying our country

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  Місяць тому

      Thanks for the kind words 🙏

  • @m4rcuz701
    @m4rcuz701 3 місяці тому +5

    Good to hear you're enjoying yourself. As a "Hollander" I can totally agree on what you say about "it doesn't have to be done instantly, it doesn't (always) have to be done right now". In a way that's "key".
    Just ensure that you're doing it properly..
    Wishing you many happy years over here.
    (As long as you keep up with the; doe maar normaal, dan doe je al gek genoeg.. 😜)
    👊🏻

  • @debby7535
    @debby7535 3 місяці тому +3

    Hi David, I sent your vidio to my boyfriend in Indonesia, who wants to come to me in the Netherlands, to learn the culture. Thank you for your detailed information. Have a nice day 😊

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  3 місяці тому

      Thanks for the kind words 🙏 Glad to hear!

  • @bjorncamps4841
    @bjorncamps4841 20 днів тому +1

    Insane video! Makes me appreciate my country more and more. Thank you for that.

  • @DrDanielRoberto
    @DrDanielRoberto 4 місяці тому +4

    Cheers friend for making this interesting video. It makes me realize I take too much for granted here in de Netherlands. I hope you are well and are finding a good home here.

  • @ghostqueen2082
    @ghostqueen2082 4 місяці тому +8

    Nice to hear a young person choosing the Dutch Dream; I like your insights into Dutch lifestyle...hopefully you find some gezelligheid here as well...

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for the warm welcome! I’ve definitely found some gezelligheid (getting more of it) during my time here (especially after COVID)…happy holidays and new year!

    • @ghostqueen2082
      @ghostqueen2082 4 місяці тому

      @@hidavidwen yes indeed; the world could use more gezelligheid right now...Happy New Year to you I look forward to more videos of your adventures in Nederland it certainly is a very interesting time to be alive 🥂🫶🍀🐉🌷✨

  • @shanicestella2226
    @shanicestella2226 4 місяці тому +24

    I also like the Dutch concept of” Its okay to be average but nothing taboo to being excellent at something , but once you’re succeeded , don’t be arrogant “
    I think the over-competitive and capitalistic American society are very empashized on Keeping Up with the Jones aspect of “ You are loser for being average and cannot stand the heat of competition “
    I feel everything in America is competition even in the area that supposedly not touched by competitiveness

    • @FrankHeuvelman
      @FrankHeuvelman 4 місяці тому

      Competition is for apes. We, as in we humans, are supposed to be beyond that evolutionary state. But If we truly stand above the animals, we should already have learned that cooperation is the logical next step to grow as a species.
      I.o.w, smart, but not smart enough.Those in power prefer us that way.

    • @EGO0808
      @EGO0808 4 місяці тому

      The Dutch are even arrogant in their strive for mediocrity, go figure...

    • @ryanalexander5438
      @ryanalexander5438 4 місяці тому

      Like it or not , that competition is what has lead to the innovations we enjoy. There is almost zero Innovation in Europe which piggybacks off of America.
      Now is all of this innovation a good thing? I'd say it's arguable. But humans are competitive by nature and progress is ingrained in us.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +2

      Thanks for sharing…I’ve come to appreciate the concept as well. Though…what I do like is that it’s acceptable and OK to be average. And not to be arrogant if you do succeed. What I personally still value about American culture is going ‘above and beyond’ (for something you care about)…if you have a dream, GO FOR IT-I value the optimism. And the pursuit of excellence. So competing against yourself to make yourself better…but hopefully not competing just to be better than others.
      Not sure if that makes sense, getting late haha…thanks for sharing, happy holidays

    • @j.p.vanbolhuis8678
      @j.p.vanbolhuis8678 4 місяці тому +9

      @@ryanalexander5438 I think you underestimate the innovation in europe.
      ASML would be an indication that your view may not be fully correct.

  • @edebruinify
    @edebruinify 4 місяці тому +2

    What a great, analytical and honest video! Thanks for sharing your thoughts, greetings from Rotterdam

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks and happy holidays!

  • @TheSimArchitect
    @TheSimArchitect 4 місяці тому +4

    Happy holiday season and thanks for another greatly put and accurate video! 🥂🥂👏🏻👏🏻

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for the kind words and happy holidays 🎉

    • @TheSimArchitect
      @TheSimArchitect 4 місяці тому

      You surely deserve it! Happy New Year! 🥂@@hidavidwen

  • @commentsarefree4311
    @commentsarefree4311 4 місяці тому +3

    Great Video David. Glad you enjoy the Netherlands and are happy.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks for the kind words, take care 🙏

  • @LeftoverHamsters
    @LeftoverHamsters 4 місяці тому +30

    As I work toward moving my family to the Netherlands, your videos have been very helpful. Thank you!

    • @MisterRockAlot
      @MisterRockAlot 4 місяці тому +4

      Don't it's full

    • @vestbentje8931
      @vestbentje8931 4 місяці тому +4

      We are full

    • @lucasrem
      @lucasrem 4 місяці тому +2

      Wow, that's a big steep for a Hamster, why leave it all behind ?

    • @bryan2c854
      @bryan2c854 4 місяці тому +6

      Dont do it. High taxes, terrible healthcare, housing crisis, energy crisis/cost of living in general for most people is almost impossible to get by, and depressing weather year round. Idk where you are from. But these videos hide how it actually is like living in this country. Dutch people have this superiority complex if you point out the issues in their country. They refuse too look at the bad things ''because atleast we arent like ...

    • @ChristiaanHW
      @ChristiaanHW 4 місяці тому

      @@bryan2c854 let's put your negatives into some context.
      high taxes: yes the taxes in The Netherlands are on the high side, but you get a lot back for it (safety, good healthcare, good infrastructure, being safe from the sea etc).
      if we would lower taxes and let the population pay for all those things themselves (the US model) you would end up with a lot less disposable income afterwards.
      terrible healthcare: where do you get that from? our healthcare is advanced and the prices are decent for most on the citizens. there's a reason out life expectancy is on of the highest in the world.
      housing crisis: yes we have a big housing shortage resulting in higher prices for the existing housing stock and long waiting lists for social housing.
      this is partly because there simple aren't enough houses build, partly because of the people immigrating to The Netherlands, partly because of investors buying up houses to make a buck and partly because of the high amount of "refugees/asylum seekers" coming to The Netherlands. each of these situations are partly to blame for the housing crisis and together they make it a big problem to.
      add to that that we want to be on the forefront of lessening climate change. so the government has set really ambitious goals, and because of those climate goals we now have to much nitrogen in our nature areas. and because those nitrogen levels are higher than the set goals a lot of building projects are on hold, which in turn makes it so even less housing is being build.
      high energy prices: this is something most of the world is dealing with right now because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and other smaller conflicts around the world.
      but we aren't as bad of as a lot of other places. and if we accelerate our transition to wind and solar power those costs will come down quick.
      the weather: not everyone thinks 20> degrees and ample of sun is perfect weather. it's all about personal preferences, so what you would call "depressing weather" someone else might call "his/hers ideal weather" and vise versa.
      as long as the people that come over to The Netherlands come via the legal way and will contribute to the nation/Dutch society there is a place for them. and most Dutch people would welcome you.
      ps: and please if you come over and plan to stay for 5> years learn Dutch, we understand and mostly speak English pretty well but if you're really want to become part on the people it's just polite to learn the local language. this also will mean it will be a lot more easy to find Dutch friends and integrate into other groups.
      because we don't always like to have to translate everything because 1 of the group doesn't speak Dutch, it's takes more effort to speak another language.

  • @Ashburnmom
    @Ashburnmom 4 місяці тому +1

    Literally everything I noticed on my 4 day trip to Amsterdam. Really loved it there and felt happier there than I have been in a long time… thanks for the awesome video!!

  • @joseemartin1689
    @joseemartin1689 3 місяці тому +2

    Dear David, thank you so much for this video. I'm quite aware of how privileged we are here in our little country. You said it so eloquently, and you made us realize that we should be grateful and that we must work diligently, in order to keep it this way. Have a very happy live among us.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  3 місяці тому

      Thanks for the kind words and wish you a great year :)

  • @Michael154
    @Michael154 4 місяці тому +5

    Slow living and living in the present moment is what life is all about. It makes for the most rewarding life.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Agree Michael. Happy holidays

  • @DeSjeft
    @DeSjeft 4 місяці тому +7

    Living, or being born in The Netherlands is like winning the jackpot. There's no other place where everyone has it as good as in The Netherlands.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      🙌🙌

    • @nicmemak
      @nicmemak 3 місяці тому

      Switzerland?

    • @DeSjeft
      @DeSjeft 3 місяці тому

      @@nicmemak That would be very good too :)

    • @titisariman8381
      @titisariman8381 3 місяці тому +1

      You can choose to live in Suriname an ex-Colony of the Netherlands and have the same benefit what you have in the Netherlands more freedom less money but still cheaper with extra bonus the tropical weather what you can not enjoy in the Netherlands . I have been living in the US for 30 years and I am choked up till my neck . Decided to go back to my sweet Suriname . We always think that the grass is greener at the other side . But like David said live comfortable with less money and less stress will prolonged your life health and happiness . Do not chase wealth in exchange for the precious life that is freely given to us by the Creator. Look for Happiness within a small budget.

  • @Recraw7
    @Recraw7 4 місяці тому +2

    Great video David. Thanks for sharing!

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks and happy new year!

  • @ErinMcCoy3
    @ErinMcCoy3 3 місяці тому +1

    Great video as always, thanks David!

  • @plumbummanx
    @plumbummanx 4 місяці тому +8

    It's not the country one lives in, it's one's personal attitude toward life. Good philosophical Vlog.

    • @dlovas
      @dlovas 4 місяці тому +6

      The points made here were all sociological, precisely addressing how numerous factors beyond personal choices impact one's life.

    • @joostdriesens3984
      @joostdriesens3984 4 місяці тому +3

      This is a terribly superficial comment.. 😆 I live in the Netherlands and have many international colleagues. I would not dare to say this to my colleagues from Iran, Ukraine, Zimbabwe, former East Germany etc.

    • @dlovas
      @dlovas 4 місяці тому +1

      @@joostdriesens3984 Don't confuse them with countries they couldn't spot on the map 😉

    • @VincentGroenewold
      @VincentGroenewold 4 місяці тому

      And having money and no kids. :)

  • @huishaai
    @huishaai 4 місяці тому +3

    Great stuff, and love the Herman Brood :)

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks! 🖼️ happy holidays

  • @wpapril1978
    @wpapril1978 4 місяці тому

    so well explained, thanks you for sharing your honest story❤

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks for the kind words :)

  • @alanaUK
    @alanaUK 4 місяці тому +1

    ❤Beautifully expressed and I couldn’t agree more. Thanks for sharing your experience and view❤

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      🙂 Thanks for the kind words!

  • @photoshopafficionado
    @photoshopafficionado 3 місяці тому +5

    I can't thank you enough for making this video.
    Every person with Dutch voting rights should watch this and really listen to what you are saying.
    There are for sure problems that need addressing, however the base system we have should be cherished and maintained.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  3 місяці тому

      Thanks for the kind words 🙏

  • @neoxochitl
    @neoxochitl 4 місяці тому +17

    This is how I felt when I first moved to Norway from Los Angeles. I took the time to study Norwegian (I love the language and still try to study up Nynorsk but read books in Bokmål)
    Sadly I made a huge mistake of going back to the USA after a bad break up and now I feel stuck here. :(

    • @Ni5ei
      @Ni5ei 4 місяці тому +13

      If it's not family obligations the only thing that can keep you stuck there is in your mind. Go back to Norway and be happy.

    • @neoxochitl
      @neoxochitl 4 місяці тому +4

      @@Ni5eiyou’re so right and what I needed to read this morning ❤ thank you.

    • @kellypeters5379
      @kellypeters5379 4 місяці тому +1

      How sad to hear that. It must feel strange feeling home sick for a country that used to be foreign to you. Norway is a beautiful country and the people are so friendly, I get why you would miss it. I hope you will find your way back very soon, good luck. 😊

    • @neoxochitl
      @neoxochitl 4 місяці тому

      @@kellypeters5379thank you for your kind words ❤

    • @PhilG221
      @PhilG221 4 місяці тому

      Good luck on making the move back to Norway. You got this.

  • @helenooft9664
    @helenooft9664 4 місяці тому

    Happy New Year David, and what a beautiful vlog, and you are already 5 years in the Netherlands and i always enjoy your vlogs.
    I am Dutch and happy in my country, because i live my live the way i want to complement it. Nothing to do with act Normal. And yes i love the working hours in the Netherlands, and free and payed holiday's. When i worked 8 hours a week, i was very ambitious, i want to be the best, but only at working hours. And i didn't look what other people buy in their houses, or cars, if they are happy with its ok.
    I just dont want to live from paycheck to paycheck, or with stress.
    And not everything is ok in the Netherlands, women still dont earn the same salary as a man, if they have the same job. I dont mind to pay high taxes in the Netherlands, because we get a lot back.

  • @AzeroxDoomraider
    @AzeroxDoomraider Місяць тому

    Nice view over the "Gracht". Sweet spot for reading/relaxing.

  • @bikinginboston
    @bikinginboston 4 місяці тому +11

    Great video! I'm a "moving to NL UA-cam channel" addict. And this video was a succinct, well-paced argument. Trying my hand at moving there in a few months. I'll direct people to this video when they ask me, "why."

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks bikinginboston, I can already understand why you want to move here and that you’ll enjoy it :) happy new year!

  • @Lintary
    @Lintary 4 місяці тому +13

    When people asked me why I worked 4 days even when I was in retail vs now doing a bit better the answer was and always will be the same, I value time more than money. Money is a resource you can earn more or less as you choose to a degree, time is simply what you have been given it is the most precious of resources you have.
    As they also put it here, no one on their death bed will say that they wished to have spend more time in the office, enjoy your life, be around friends and family, that is what matters not the number on your bank account, half of which goes to the government when you die anyway.

    • @TrinyDade-cm8oc
      @TrinyDade-cm8oc 4 місяці тому +3

      I also work 4 days. It gives me time to spend with my children, they are grown ups now but still need my help in one way or another. Making memories is more important than making loads of money in my opinion. I have my apartment, my small car and not that much to worry about tbh. Yes I complain sometimes, I am Dutch and it's in my genes. :-) I don't think I would like to live in a country where it's everyone for themselves and f#ck the rest of the planet. Peace of mind is priceless.

    • @ryanalexander5438
      @ryanalexander5438 4 місяці тому

      ​@@TrinyDade-cm8oc in a way it sounds like you do live like that. Maybe I'm wrong but you seem to be more concerned about how you feel than contribute to society. Working 4 days means that you pay less taxes and less work is done. Then more people need to be hired. So they get them from abroad. Then more houses are needed but there aren't enough so prices go up.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks for sharing. Could be different if one loves their job but data shows 70-80% of people worldwide are not engaged in their jobs…so yeah quality time > money

    • @ryanalexander5438
      @ryanalexander5438 4 місяці тому

      @@hidavidwen if your comment was directed at me, that would be a different issue and I don't disagree. I was referring to the other commenter who seemed to infer that Americans are only concerned about themselves. I'm not American but I think that the entrepreneurial spirit there is in fact very altruistic

    • @laurascheenloop9475
      @laurascheenloop9475 4 місяці тому +3

      @@ryanalexander5438 Are you seriously questioning my contribution to Dutch society? Roflmho. Alright, I'll bite. I am 59 years old and have been working since I was 15. I raised a family during time while also doing a HBO study. I don't know you and you obviously don't know me. I do the work I was hired to do, plus extra, in 4 days and the owner who pays my salary seems to be very pleased. Not more people needs to be hired to do my job. You seem to have negative feelings about immigrants, you are entitled to your feelings. Just don't try to mirror them on me. Thanks.

  • @albertofourie3294
    @albertofourie3294 4 місяці тому +1

    Well said! Wish you many more happy years in NL!

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Aw thanks means a lot!

  • @kaydesign
    @kaydesign 4 місяці тому +2

    A very good combination from experiences and (social) data. Very impressive insights. Thanks!

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks =) Happy holidays and new year!

  • @edwinvdv7030
    @edwinvdv7030 4 місяці тому +3

    In The Netherlands it's perfectly normal to work part time, especially for couples. When I was younger (25-35) I worked fulltime, but after I married, I shifted to 4 days a week and later on to 3,5 days a week. My wife is working 3 days a week. Together we have a good income and my pension will be sufficient. It helps that we live in a small town, where life (especially housing) is much cheaper than in Amsterdam. Time is the most precious thing you have in your life. Thank you for your review; as you say: my country is not perfect but it has some very positive things to it that are so common for me that often I don't realize how precious they are. I wish you all the best!

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for the kind words, yeah always good to look at the positives too!

  • @JohanMartens1
    @JohanMartens1 4 місяці тому +4

    Great to have you as a fellow Amsterdammer

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks for the warm welcome, happy holidays 🙏

  • @shubhampoddar9158
    @shubhampoddar9158 Місяць тому +2

    So true. Also from Asia. I can totally relate. I have a new found freedom here : away from the societal expectations and an opportunity to forge my own path.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  28 днів тому

      Thanks and great to hear :)

  • @KESipples
    @KESipples 14 днів тому +1

    Wonderful content, David. Thank you.

  • @alfreddaniels3817
    @alfreddaniels3817 4 місяці тому +20

    Very good observation and understanding 👍👍. In the 90’s I spend seven years in the USA, mostly California. The only relaxing factor there was the weather. I think the American lifestyle is very detrimental to mental health.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +2

      Thanks for sharing. The weather helps a lot but I get your point :)

    • @teresanaranjo490
      @teresanaranjo490 4 місяці тому

      Yes, I agree with you. I lived in UK and, unfortunately, the conservatives are trying to mirror the US.
      They started the process by leaving the EU. Many Brits do not realised that at some point their working rights will not mirror the European ones anymore.😢

  • @pokuspilatus
    @pokuspilatus 4 місяці тому +3

    Wow, what a nice description of how you experience the Netherlands. Would be good to share this with the complaining Dutch! When I stayed in the US for a while I did have to get used to the differences in cultures and lifestyles, and I was actually working at an University where the US life is pretty relaxed. And having traveled quite a lot I cannot but say that I do like to have a Dutch attitude (albeit we are a bit (too) rude in comparison to many others..). And of course I also wonder about what your negative poinst/struggles are, apart from the dreadful winters and rains.... Anyway, must be great to have such a wise lad as a friend, so the people in your environment must be happy with you. Enjoy life and thanks for sharing!

  • @Aatje21
    @Aatje21 4 місяці тому

    Fun video, great to watch! Thanks for coming over :)

  • @drew-baby
    @drew-baby 17 днів тому +1

    Thanks for the video, it has a lot of great information and perspective. I am living in the Bay Area now and am considering moving to Amsterdam so your opinions are even more valuable since you know the Bay Area plight.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  15 днів тому

      🙌🙌 best of luck wherever you go. And thanks

  • @daphneschuring5810
    @daphneschuring5810 4 місяці тому +6

    The Dutch winters are grey that's why go outdoors when ever the sun comes uit. En een gelukkig 2024.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Haha yeah I’ve noticed that! Happy 2024! 🎉

  • @jayandreas1131
    @jayandreas1131 4 місяці тому +5

    Goed bezig, David!

  • @Wouter-yd3sj
    @Wouter-yd3sj 4 місяці тому +2

    I wish you a happy new year David. Cheers.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Happy new year to you, Wouter! Hope you have a great 2024

  • @curwinsamuels5773
    @curwinsamuels5773 4 місяці тому +1

    Great video. Family of 4 from South Africa, been here just over a year. It's challenging, but all the reasons you mentioned resonate.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks, best of luck and to a great 2024!

  • @ritaboes
    @ritaboes 4 місяці тому +16

    Wowzers David you've grown so much. I was a bit offended with some earlier vids from you. Due to you imho didn't get the reasons why and how our 6is culture works. But I'm proud,you do seem to understand it more for what it is. Still "de doe maar normaal" is imo not "don't brag" but more like you don't need to brag you are great as you are. It's just a different approach. I'm glad you can now have a life in which balance is key. 😊 Happy New year

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Aw thanks for the kind words 🙏 and I hope you know everything is out of good intention and out of curiosity…we will probably have different views but that’s also where I learn the most…and appreciate the feedback. Happy 2024!

    • @ritaboes
      @ritaboes 4 місяці тому +2

      @@hidavidwen ofcourse. This not a you but a me thing. And i know very well it isn't utopia here but we do our best. And before your vid i had the x high amount of comment from yet another American that we are a communist country. So i apologise if i came in to strong. I shouldn't have that projected that on you.
      But im really happy you found balance, i hope you can hold on to it wherever your journey takes you. 🧡😘

  • @maartenvz
    @maartenvz 4 місяці тому +9

    The best cure for dealing with the dark, grey and wet winter is to take at least 2 of your holiday weeks and fly to the sun. The south of morocco or the canary islands are less than 5 hours away. The area around tafraoute reminded me of the red rock wonderland that you see in utah/arizona.

  • @lavonnealexander6936
    @lavonnealexander6936 28 днів тому +2

    I am Canadian from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Amsterdam is the place for me. I would be happy there.

  • @MarkGelderland
    @MarkGelderland 4 місяці тому +1

    Interesting video, good arguments. Love the Herman Brood on your wall btw

  • @freekoverdevest235
    @freekoverdevest235 4 місяці тому +15

    We moved as a Dutch family of four to Denmark this year. It is even more quiet here and cheaper . It is the Netherlands of at least 25 years ago. We are loving it.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +4

      Thanks for sharing oh wow…Netherlands 25 years ago? Would be interested in hearing how that’s like vs. modern day NL?

    • @teunvdkeur9615
      @teunvdkeur9615 4 місяці тому +1

      Isn’t it ‘more quiet’ because you don’t talk / talk less to the people there bcs you don’t speak danish?

    • @freekoverdevest235
      @freekoverdevest235 4 місяці тому +2

      @@teunvdkeur9615 no, that’s not the case. People are less in a rush here. Are definitely more friendly and social then the Dutch. And my danish is coming along very well thanks to free danish lessons and the will to learn it as quickly as possible. My kids, 6 and 8 years old are even going faster. I need to keep up.

    • @VincentGroenewold
      @VincentGroenewold 4 місяці тому +1

      Agreed, lived there for a year as well. Couldn't get to speak Danish unfortunately, but liked it a lot. Taxes and any communication with the government is so easy, fully digital, it was great in my opinion. Quiet as well, kinda miss it.

    • @JJimsky
      @JJimsky 4 місяці тому +3

      I have lived in both. The Netherlands and Denmark are very comparable. However The Netherlands density is way higher than in Denmark. So i get your point, it is more "quiet" but it is more expensive to life there (not housing).

  • @Eitner100
    @Eitner100 4 місяці тому +8

    I was born in Amsterdam, but also grew up in Germany and Spain. Retired going towards 70 in a year and a half, I live in Germany for several reasons. The Netherlands is much faster than Germany (except when I drive 250 km per hour on the Autobahn, feeling like a slug when entering The Netherlands). Germany lives in the 80s. We still use the fax, write letters, put them in envelopes and send them on their way. The level of education in Germany is far lower than in The Netherlands (place 13 worldwide against place 9 for The Netherlands. See OESO). Internet in Germany is amazingly slow and only on place 52 worldwide. We have a huge national debt and only 42% of the Germans speak another language but their own, and mostly a very mediocre English Arnold Schwarzenegger style but far worse. I visit The Netherlands once a month to buy Asian food unavailable here. From curry to Indonesian spekkoek (my stepfather was Indonesian). It always surprises me how extremely expensive The Netherlands are. From food to gas and from a stay in a simple hotel to restaurants. But I like The Netherlands and its people.

    • @suicidalbanananana
      @suicidalbanananana 4 місяці тому +2

      🤤God yes ima get me some spekkoek, thanks for the idea.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for sharing. I’m currently in Spain traveling with Germans and so I can understand :) happy holidays to you

  • @TimTheMain
    @TimTheMain 4 місяці тому +2

    You really understand the Netherlands, glad to have you.

  • @nanachikhladze6689
    @nanachikhladze6689 Місяць тому +1

    Love your carhart beanies. Thanks for informative videos

  • @cessactdm
    @cessactdm 4 місяці тому +3

    what an awesome video dude, good job

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks :) happy holidays!!🙌

  • @MrMaurice2907
    @MrMaurice2907 4 місяці тому +6

    Fijne feestdagen man.

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Fijne feestdagen! And happy 2024!

  • @jan17355
    @jan17355 4 місяці тому +1

    Great video. You learned something important on young age while sometimes others learn it the hard way when they are older.
    Having time to relax, make also trips to other parts of the country. Beautiful places to visit and relax away from busy Amsterdam

  • @erikabee3498
    @erikabee3498 4 місяці тому +2

    I think it is so great for you to see the advantages of the Netherlands And still remind all your Japanese and American mindsets.
    David, you are so welcome here (for me!) Yes! You are very welcome here!

    • @deezet9518
      @deezet9518 4 місяці тому

      I don’t know what you’re aiming at, but of course he is welcome here! Everybody that adds something to our community is welcome for every Dutch person. It’s the people that come here and do not add, but only want to profit without contributing and still complain and demand more, that are not welcome. I think that’s only logic and natural.

  • @jannetteberends8730
    @jannetteberends8730 4 місяці тому +4

    There is a video out there about experiences of American expats. One of the things they all mentioned was that the heard a loud noise, and automatically ducked, fearing it was a shooting. Funny thing is I experienced once a shooting, and thought it was a cap pistol. The police told me later it was a real shot. (It was a very good executed robbery in a warehouse, it wasn’t scary at all.)
    What I like about my country is that the environment in poor neighborhoods isn’t depressing. I live in such a neighborhood, but when you walk through it you won’t know. Lots of grass, trees, flowers in spring, attractive playgrounds for the children, well kept streets, and clean. The new built social houses have solar panels. (And nest opportunities for birds in walls of the houses on the corners)

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  4 місяці тому

      Thanks for sharing. Unfortunately, some people do mistaken loud bangs for gunshots. I’ve been around one shooting myself when I was a kid and it’s devastating. The ‘bad’ neighborhoods here are not bad at all (in comparison). Happy holidays

  • @paulbeaucuse2092
    @paulbeaucuse2092 4 місяці тому +15

    I am also an expat in The Netherlands, in Maastricht. Love the region, the mix of the three native languages, French, German and Dutch, "the big easy", nobody is in a hurry, nobody cares about deadlines too much, good food is more important than anything. The big nearby huge nature parks Ardennes and Eifel, perfect for mountain biking, both only a 45 minutes drive.

    • @joostprins3381
      @joostprins3381 4 місяці тому +3

      Eeehhh… German and French are not native languages. Thank god they are not.

    • @coolrunnings3
      @coolrunnings3 4 місяці тому +3

      Those three languages are in Belgium! Very close to Maastricht indeed.

    • @paulbeaucuse2092
      @paulbeaucuse2092 4 місяці тому +3

      @@joostprins3381 They are, a 25-minutes drive from my home in Maastricht and really everything is in German, in 5 minutes (Petite-Lanaye) and all commercials and venues are in French, love it! It is a tri-langual region. Maastricht is just in the middle: In most shops in Maastricht there is personel which speaks either French or German (My mom from Switzerland only speaks French, German and Italian, she loves shopping in Maastricht). And the academic "linguaga franca" is English. They also have a beautiful regional language, which sounds like a mix of German and French. Love the culture here, so plural, open and "European". I was only working here for one year, but love it so much, it already got 5, no intend leaving, like many foreigners at my company.

    • @freakie1nl449
      @freakie1nl449 4 місяці тому

      ​@@paulbeaucuse2092leuk dat je Frans en Duits kan lullen maar dat maakt het geen moerstaal van Nederland. De typische expat arrogantie slaat hier weer aan hoor.

    • @vanCaldenborgh
      @vanCaldenborgh 4 місяці тому +4

      @@freakie1nl449 Hij heeft het over Maastricht en in die regio worden wel degelijk drie native talen gesproken. Ik woon ook in Maastricht en doe mijn wekelijkse grote boodschappen in Aken en ga vaak uit in Luikse nachtleven, trouwens ook vaak voor concerten naar Aken. Allebij slechts 25 minuten afstand. En hier in Maastricht hoor ik alle talen door elkaar, daar zijn we hier oudsher aan gewend, het is een drietalige regio, iedereen groeit hier mee op, altijd al.

  • @Kaesekuchen002
    @Kaesekuchen002 3 місяці тому +1

    Really nice to hear your perspective on these things. 4 years ago, I moved from Germany to the Netherlands. I know, not the same. But even then, I really do appreciate the Dutch mentality. It is wonderful here, refreshing. And you found a nice way to put that into words. Thanks

    • @hidavidwen
      @hidavidwen  3 місяці тому

      Thanks and thanks for sharing too!

  • @tinkegeurts4196
    @tinkegeurts4196 4 місяці тому +1

    Nice to here about the positive habbits from our country.
    😊