Nice video. I moved to Utrecht from the USA in 2017 with my husband. We've never been happier. I've been learning Dutch but I still struggle to speak and understand. Dutch people have been very kind letting me practice with them.
Hi Rebecca! Thanks for the kind words. Oh great to hear you two have never been happier (I can relate in many ways!). Are you taking Dutch classes or how are you learning? I took a virtual during COVID, but it was not very motivating to be on Zoom all day long. I’m hoping to do an in person one. But good for you and practicing with Dutch people (it’s so easy to just fall back on English because everyone speaks English here)
@@hidavidwen I have taken Dutch classes, via zoom, online dutch courses, now I have a private weekly tutor, I have done two week long in-person intensive classes, and teach myself with grammar books I have picked up. I try to speak Dutch when I go to shops or with people I meet. I ask people to write down what they've said. Teaching myself from grammar books and from people I meet has been the best way for me to learn. The courses not so much.Have you been to the American Book Center bookstore in Amsterdam? They had a big selection, the last time I was there. You might find a book you like for continuing onto the next level. Good luck!
@@rebeccaalbrecht771 Wow I'm inspired by your discipline! I actually spent time over the past 2 years during COVID learning Spanish instead of Dutch! But I'd like to start learning Dutch again. Yes I love book stores and have been to the American Book Center many times! I'll have to pay another visit soon then =)
A great habit is to watch dutch news daily. It's available online too. Follow a local dutch news channel is great for keeping up with what's happening in town. At5 is Amsterdam but most cities have there own.
@@michellezevenaar We have here in Utrecht RTV Utrecht and I've been sporadically watching stories in NOS Jeugdjournaal. I think I will follow them more regularly now thanks to your suggestion.
Not expensive €2.000,- People pays 1.400€ for an smaller apartment in the city! This house is super unique....the kitchen is veryyyyy old fashion ..the view over the canal is sooooo pretty and pleasant!!!! Your apartment is very cosy and charming🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉Amsterdam is soooo energic and unique🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
@@rosanijbroek7328 Attic, they live in the Attic of the Canal House, 1950 for an attic is not expensive? Thats exactly the problem today, foreigners and expats thinking its a normal price and thus renting for abnormal prices and with that driving up the prices for other rental properties in the same area, while the normal working class cant even afford a house in their birth city anymore!
@@petewall13 Yes Shure it is very expensive for an attic, ppfffzzz! These house owners are such clever and heartless businessman! And yes Amsterdam Centrum is very expensive! But there are areas, the houses are not that expensive! Like Amsterdam North, West or East...but it is also true...the houses market is very tied!!!
@@rosanijbroek7328i’m looking for a house in Amsterdam north or Zaandam. Please let me know where I can get information about the affordable prices houses. Thanks a lot
Wow what a great place you live in. I am Dutch but living in Switzerland (so an expat as well) and for some reason your video got recommended to me by UA-cam. Thank you for showing your place and giving us a house tour. I’m sort of envious of you living in such a historical place… literally everything “breaths history” including those beautiful wooden beams in the ceiling. And yes, your rent is indeed a steal! Amazing (especially compared to Swiss prices lol, I pay double for a 50m2 one bedroom). And you’re right in the city center! I actually lived in SF for a year as well but back then my place had rent control and I rented a room for $450 in Inner Sunset… but that was in 2003, I suppose times have changed since then….Enjoy you time in Amsterdam!
Hey hey! Oh wow Switzerland, that is like another dream place for me to live (I miss the mountains)...how has it been living there for you? Haha yeah not sure how UA-cam knows to recommend videos...but perhaps it knows that you are Dutch and I secretly dream of living in the Swiss Alps plus you lived in the Sunset (that's where I'm from!)...$450 for a room in San Francisco...yes things have definitely changed since then, houses in the Sunset are selling for almost $2 million and rent is like $3K/1 bedroom (of course still a bit cheaper in Sunset though!) Thanks!
2000 eu/month is crazy, even for Amsterdam standards. The fact that expats can pay this amount is devastating to the Dutch people. Expats are paying absurd rental prices, making it impossible for Dutch people to rent anything. Some area's of Amsterdam are solely occupied by expats. The Duchies that are still living in Amsterdam are really frowning on expats because of this.
Hi Vic - thanks for commenting. 2000EU is shared...but it's still very expensive. The same thing is happening in other big cities like where I am from (San Francisco). I can understand your frustration. The idea is that expats bring in highly needed skills/knowledge/businesses that can stimulate the economy...but yeah I don't know what to do about rising housing prices (which is happening everywhere)
@@hidavidwen but why would you pay an absurd amount? There is plenty of affordable homes outside of amsterdam with amazing public transport. We dutchies would like to protest against these prices, but the expats are just going with the flow.
@@vic8497 I paid half of that for a shared apartment...I agree 2000 is a lot. It's great that there are a lot of affordable homes outside of Amsterdam and accessible by public transportation...but why would people pay those amounts? Well if you move abroad to say New York or London...most would pay for the experience of living in the city first few years (and then move away after)...especially if you don't have a family.
You’re saying it like expats want to pay such a price for rent. If you want to place the blame for increasing rent prices, look at the big companies buying out properties and then setting a high price. Expats are humans just like you are and also would much prefer affordable homes. #smh
What a beautiful house. My friend and I visited the city exactly two years ago and we stayed in a hotel by the canal. Loving it and we walked across the canal houses everyday. Always thought that if we could live in one. Was planned to visit again in a few months after but of course it didn't happen. Please share more...... such a beautiful city!
This apartment is so cool! It's like living in a small museum. Wouldnlove to live there. Also I would put a fake fire into that fireplace. There are lamps that are made to look like glowing ashes. I think it would look really cozy
If I'm not mistaken, those houses belonged to wealthy sea merchants at the time. I was reminded by the beautiful beams supporting the ceiling. It looks like the same craftsmanship that would have gone into one of their seafaring vessels. Every detail is just beautiful!
Perhaps a tip regarding the weather, visit a military dumpstore and buy clothes there (regular army clothes are legal in the Netherlands as long as you don't show any patches or claim you are military if you are not. Military personnel are not allowed to wear their gear outside of work hours either). It isn't so much the outfit that does the trick, but it's the fabric and that it's a little wider fitted on your body. This wider fit adds a layer of air between your skin and the clothes which allows together with the material to dry your clothes quicker. Even if completely soaked, keep your clothes on and it will be dry with about 30 minutes to a hour maximum. The wind helps you dry your clothes even faster. Also it feels warmer on the skin so also good for winter.
That canal-facing window is spectacular! I saw you have atomic habits, one of my favorites. Architecturally this is such a gem to live in, despite old age. Price is a steal for 1 person.
Hey Henry! Haha not surprised you would be intrigued by the architecture! (Maybe you can draw it? hah) Yeah I was just talking to a friend recently about Atomic Habits...one of the better books I've read over the past few years. And yeah 1,950€ is for 2 persons...imagine this in San Francisco...it'd prob be 1,950€ for 1 person!
I love your videos, very calm, informative and interesting. Your house has so many characters, eventhough it’s small but very lovely. I appreciate the age house, that makes it beautiful imo.
Thanks, that means a lot to me! Yeah it’s a beautiful house. I am moving to a new place soon so I wanted to make a video to cherish it and perhaps give others a view into how housing is like here (you have very old and very modern!)
I am into spirituality and stuff, and first this video has 111 comments which is a lucky number for me, and the message „you soon will experience a miracle“ just made me smile 😂 Beautiful apartment. And such a nice guy, too
Great video David. I am glad to hear you enjoy living in my home town. I myself lived for several tears in the Bay Area, Oakland (rock ridge neighborhood) and Pleasanton. It is wonderful experience to live abroad for sometime. I miss California for reasons you also touched in another video. Keep on making these great videos.
Thanks Hans! I used to work in Pleasanton (hated the drive from SF though haha). But yeah, I'm still really enjoying Amsterdam (especially now post-COVID). Thanks for the motivation!
Beautiful house. I have been Travelling for 2 months and It makes me actually more grateful towards my own country. I think more Dutch people should travel to see how much freedom we have here, compared to so many countries, so we will not complain so much anymore 😂🙂🧡
If most Dutchies would travel more, as you suggest, they would actually LIVE abroad.. I personally travelled all over the world, and found fellow Dutchies everywhere. The comment about all that freedom suggest to me you are from the USA, so does the remark of the whole two months of travel to broaden the mind, LOL.
@@almanoor-bakker5964 why would they live abroad then..? :) , I personally got 'homesick' (missing Holland things) after few months ha ha and more grateful for some things (bikes, good public transport, great restaurants, freedom of speech, etc.) that I could not find abroad (in some countries) . But some things like weather and nature (mountains and sea) ... For that you certainly need to travel a bit😬👍
David, Your home is so amazing. 975€ is really cheap for such an amazing place in a great location. (Everything is relative...I think it's cheap because I grew up in Silicon Valley and you can't find anything as beautiful as that with such an amazing view... period, but if you did it'd be outrageously priced...at least $3,000+ per flatmate.) Silicon Valley, which was formerly San Jose, Santa Clara, Campell, Cupertino, and other areas became unaffordable for people living there when the computer companies were mere start-ups in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The engineers and techies who moved there for jobs from around the U.S. were not to blame. It was the Silicon Valley landlords and housing developers that were to blame for the outrageously priced housing. Great video. 👍 👊
I lived in a similar home in Amsterdam but your view is sooo much better! And no, now that I live in a bungalow I do not miss those terrible staircases ;)
Hey Vincent - oh yeah the view is definitely something! (The stairs are definitely a workout..going down is still...well let's just say I have to really hold on tightly depending on type of shoes I'm wearing!) Are you still in Amsterdam and do you miss your old place?
I had to pause on your book collection - I was glad to see "The Culture Map" in your collection. That book has helped me understand so many subtleties amongst varying backgrounds and even personalities here in the US. Thank you for sharing your experiences and giving hope to an American like me who hopes to be a expat one day!
You forgot to tell us what you thought about your gorgeous ceiling beams! Thank you for this video -really exciting to see the interior of a Dutch Canal house!!!!
Thanks for watching! Haha the high ceiling beams...you know it definitely doesn't fit the modern day Dutch person (very low ceilings for very tall people)
I cook a lot with my microwave 😄 It’s for more than just reheating coffee and frozen dinners - get a microwave cookbook, you’ll be amazed at what it can do !
David, just discovered your video. I used to work in Eindhoven and lived in Maastricht. I’m back in SF bay area now. You’ve made the RIGHY CHOICE of moving to Europe!!! Don’t come back - it sucks here in the Bay Area (in so many ways) housing is through the roof n lots of long hours n lay offs. Try to work on your permanent residence the min you arrived. Seriously, you don’t want to come back to the US. If you haven’t made it down south, ck out Maastricht n the surrounding small villages (by train or bike) it’s BEAUTIFUL green and charming! Ahh, watching your video makes me want to go back - crossing my fingers that I can find a job 🤞 that’ll sponsor me a visa. Have fun! Happy for you that you’re experiencing the expat life.
Thanks for your kind words. I studied and lived in Maastricht for one year =) It's a beautiful town. What made you move back to SF Bay? I'm very curious to hear because I love NL...but my family is back in SF Bay...
Very nice home! Thanks for sharing:) I’m gonna be living in Amsterdam next year so your channel has been really helpful, thanks! and i can’t wait to move🎉 (Ps the way you introduced your painting was kinda cute haha I’m looking forward to your next piece of art
You’re welcome and glad it has been helpful! Oh wow congrats on the move…I’m sure it’s a lot of different emotions but sounds like you’re excited (I think you’ll enjoy it, most do). From where are you moving? (And haha about the art…I am also looking forward to whatever I may paint next!)
I remember renting a room in Amsterdam when I was a student for 200 gulden a month. Single pane windows, and the facade was leaning forward towards the streetside so much that the windows won’t open anymore in the summer. The rent has gone up crazy since then, absolutely unaffordable! I still remember the smell, the landlady kept like a hundred cats😂😂😂
@@hidavidwen I was renting for 350 euro huurtoeslag incl also lived 5 mins from central station and was living in a house from the 1600. Rents were controlled and was reserved for students.
I've studied Spanish and French at university. View learning Dutch as a lifelong process that has no end date. Thanks for the quality videos! Cheers, mate...☀
Haha you know it! Funny because another Peruvian also commented that he saw the ceviche. I love ceviche. And I hope you can meet more Peruvians-they are there!
Hi David, we lived right across the street from you for years! I can't believe I never saw you on the street (although maybe I did but I didn't realize). The frame at 9:09 is right next to our apartment, we could wave at each other through the window. Keep up the fun videos!
Do you know you are lucky with sub 1K including everything? Hollllyyyyy shttttttt i mean.. yeah roommate. But! Lots of space and in such a great location. Wow. Thanks for sharing man! I live in noord. The Amsterdam housing issue like any other city. Is broken 💔.
Wow! That is such a charming place there, David. If your flatmate ever moves out and you're looking for a new one! C'est moi! We read the same books, I can actually cook us a proper meal if you won't mind sharing that window view with a buddy 😇! Hihi, just lovely. The price is a steal, indeed.
Hey there Yvonne - haha yeah I remember my first day...I had quite the time trying to transport my luggage up the stairs (and I didn't even have that much stuff). Very different from what we're used to in LA!
Hi David. Just subscribed to your channel. I really enjoyed the insights you shared about life in the Netherlands but also of life generally throughout the video. I also appreciate how simply you live. Less clutter and all that. Just room for the more important stuff. I like your thoughts on community, sharing meals and relaxing together in your apartment's living areas. I look forward to watching all your other videos and can't wait for new ones too. All the best in your endeavours! Take care!
@@hidavidwen My friend's daughter at Sarah Lawrence is doing her junior year abroad in Amsterdam this upcoming fall. I sent her the link to your video. Thank you for your content!
Thanks Hellmuth. I enjoy living here so far and making the most out of it. It’s such a beautiful and unique city (Amsterdam) as compared to more modern US cities. It hasn’t been easy with COVID but it was hard everywhere. How about you in the US?
@@hidavidwen My family emigrated to the states a long time ago and I've been in the US for most of my life. I live in the Detroit area but always wonder what my life would be like if my family would have stayed in the Netherlands. We lived in Utrecht and it looks like it might have been a pretty nice life.
Crazy euro prices, I mean 2000 euro per month? I remember my very first rental at the Herengracht in the year 1981. Paying just 750 Dutch guilders (which was a lot at that time) including gas and electra. I’d lived next to the Toneelmuseum for 3 years and after that bought a house in the Jordaan. My apartment was on the first floor and had a canal view, the entrance was very grande with marble floor, wooden stairs and crystal chandeliers.
The aesthetics! Love this! Now, fun question, how much cleaning is involved? Sometime, someone has to dust this place? Ha ha, lol! Housecleaning meditation? Also, that book by Erin Meyer is excellent for anyone that has no idea that people think/do things differently depending on the local culture. You could probably do an 8 hour long video loop of that window scene with added sound to let everyone not there have the experience you enjoyed. I'm quite curious about the history of this 400 year old structure. Any old pictures of it before any recent renovations? How do they maintain it for preservation purposes? Interesting structure!
Wow, that's beautiful!! I love the view from your desk and your favorite chair! The house seems to have such a good vibe to it.. And all the old stuff, the stairs. I can understand why you will miss it once you move
Wow, many people will envy you for your living place and for A'dam rather low rent. I only "know" you for 3 days, but the person you are, it must be good luck to have a flatmate that fits with you and make you feel good in that house! making an enemy into a friend is almost a miracle....lol
Hey again Rob! Yeah I feel very grateful to have lived in such an old place (you don't houses/apartments like this in California!)...it's been a very nice experience.
So nice to watch your videos, David! I'm a Californian who translocated to Switzerland about 35 years ago, so I can very well comprehend what you're experiencing.....Amsterdam is a beautiful city! Enjoy....you just might get "stuck" over there, too ;-)
Thanks so much for the kind words! Oh wow…I’ve always wanted to live in Switzerland! I miss the mountains. Maybe one day…how do you like it there? Well I mean you’ve been there 35 years…
hi , the fortune cookie is actualy very beautiful , we can learn from it in different ways, what i heard is : diplomacy before fight . Beautiful house by the way , you are fortuned. Doei .
Who afforded to live by the canal. Can you make a video on the canals and recent problems (like in VENICE). I have never been there, but I guess I would be interested in the environmental issues, the cleanliness living nearby a water-place...
I really like this video, David! You made me laugh a bit and I guess I really needed that. I will come back for more :) Amsterdam is my dream destination! I will get there one day...hopefully soon.
This is good news last in Singapore me and friends meet 2 Dutch guy which working on Cruises ship making £10,000 monthly but The Law for Dutch can not money more than £ 50,000. In Bank Accounts above that is Tax to government. Which you tell on your Website.
Thanks for the tour of your home. Must say that I would love to move to Amsterdam and live on a canal. The only downside I can see to your living space, from my perspective? I'm 6'8", 206cm, And, that attic space and I would not be compatible!
You’re welcome! Oh wow…yeah you’re not going to fit! Haha but there are some canal houses with high ceilings (for example, I’ve seen that the ground floor usually has high ceilings)
What a cozy and charming flat! Also love the surrounding of where you live, especially the view to the cannel through the window. Are you working for an American company with operations in the Netherland?
I probably have watched your 4 or 5 videos, and you mentioned "the culture map" by Erin Meyer almost in every single one😃 have to watch for more to find where you don't mention it😅
Thanks for the book recommendations bought the Audible version of the Culture map straight away. Nice house. Not expensive for that much space, that kind of house on that location.
Such a nice and well-maintained house, nice kitchen and cozy dining area, I'm also planning to move so wish I can find such wonderful house (also flatmates)
Hi David! Are you still living in there? Actually I am looking for a house (2BR) to stay in Amsterdam/Zaandam with my lil family. I’m from outside NL. Please let me know. Thanks
David, it might be historic, but in terms of financial efficiency and to Dutch standards; this house is SUPER expensive! Especially for a young man like yourself. I don't see many young pêople (even those that can afford it) CHOSE to live there...
Thanks for sharing your perspective and your concern...Amsterdam is SUPER expensive. Though this apartment is shared between 2 people to split costs. But yeah...you have to pay a price to live in Amsterdam...
@@hidavidwen Assuming you have a "normal Dutch" salary, I would NEVER chose to live there. If you're blessed with a good income, you can EASILY commute from a nearby village. I don't understand the obsession some have with living INSIDE Amsterdam... Ugh, from a financial perspective is a complete self-sabotaging task. Are you still in the Netherlands? If so, how long?
@@janjan55555 Appreciate your insight. Yeah...I know, from a financial perspective, it doesn't make sense. But for those people who decide to leave everything behind and move halfway around the world...many of us do it for the experience. And we pay for the experience. If my goal was a "financial" goal, I would've stayed in San Francisco to make (save) money. And also, I came here by myself. Not with a family. If I had a family, that would be a different story. Young people who also move abroad pay for the "social experience" of living in a city like Amsterdam. It would be very lonely to live in a small village nearby if that makes sense...for most "young people." Especially internationals. What (most) young people without families who CHOOSE to move abroad are looking to make friends, build a community, and meet people. You could do that in a small village...but realistically, it's very hard. And yes, you could take the train in...but to be honest, that's a different experience. What I like about Amsterdam is meeting people spontaneously at a restaurant or cafe. Now...there are other "cities" besides Amsterdam to live in too. That would be a more realistic (and smarter) option! And I definitely do understand the privilege that comes with that too and very grateful. I've been here 5 years now. Anyways long answer, but I just wanted to share my thoughts since you took the time to share yours! Take care David
@@hidavidwen Thanks for the very elaborate explanation David, I am just noticing "authentic" Amsterdammers leaving or better said "FLEEING" Amsterdam due to lack of affordability. I must say you are very lucky and privileged in that regard. Speaking of, have you considered adopting Dutch citizenship as a permanent gateway to Europe?
there is a reason i love living in the countryside of the netherlands and not the big city's. i live on my own in a house i bought. i pay about 800€ for everything and the house is big enough for a family of 4 and has a garage and garden. in the city you pay 2000€ for what is the size of only my garage XD. (you do usually make more money around the big city's as well though, oh and there is a bit more to do. but since the netherlands is pretty small you can get anywhere pretty quickly)
Ah that sounds lovely. So much more space. While I grew up in cities...one day, I would love to move to the countryside. Have you ever lived in the city?
@@hidavidwen i have never livid in a city, i feel like i have everything i need in or near my village. Maybe some more interesing shops or restaurants would have been nice but otherwise i'm totally happy
Great tour of your home. I want to live there! your work space: what a view - I'd never leave that chair! And: that is a beautiful painting. And it's your first!!!!!! amazing! Wow, and the chair for your book reading! Just the perfect place. I stay at the Singel hotel for a few nights on my trips to AMS, so you might be near - I will look out for you!@
@@JustJimWarren Enjoy Jim! I actually do not know anyone renting anything near the canal. It's quite difficult, especially right now. Try Airbnb. Good luck!
Can you tell me how tall you are? It looks to me as if I would not be able to stand there without touching the ceiling with my head all the time. Otherwise it looks fantastic. Very charming to say the least.
Hello David. Great video. I will be moving to Amsterdam in January. Can you please list some resources especially those facebook groups to find a place to live as I would need to find one myself. I hope I find a place similar to yours. Its just perfect.
Hi Sajjad - nice that you will be moving here soon! There are so many Facebook groups, just search "Amsterdam housing" in Facebook and you will find many. Be careful of scammers (you can usually tell who they are based on their profile). Other sites include: - funda.nl/ - www.pararius.com/apartments/amsterdam Best of luck! David
I love it I really do !! I think you are so lucky to live in such o wonderful place ! I am in Amsterdam 2 months now and i try to find a place live this in this amazing area with the canals but David it’s so difficult I think . Could you give me any advice to find a place like this ? Thank you in advance !
Hey there - yeah finding a place to live in Amsterdam is just difficult in general. If you want to share...try Facebook groups (there's a bunch of them if you search Amsterdam housing or rental)...you can find something if you put in the effort but beware of scammers. Happy new year!
Hello ! I love your videos you are very informative and helpful. I'm currently living with my girlfriend in the UK. We've been saving up money for some time and we've been a few times in Amsterdam. Therefore, we are planning to move on next June. Was it very hard for you to find a flat ? how long do you think the procedure could take? 4 months? We are both EU-citizens. Thank you in advance !
Hey there Brian - oh wow I didn't see this comment until now. It's always been quite hard to find a flat (probably very similar to London)...it depends on what you're looking for and your budget. Of course, if you have a budget 2,000€+ for 2...will be a lot easier than if you only have 1200€. I am assuming you two may be looking for a 1-bedroom...assume it will be 1300€ - 1600€. Try looking on funda.nl and pararius-they're both legit websites. The other option is Facebook groups (of which there are many but also many scammers). Facebook can be great if you want to share...but you will also have people advertising 1-bedrooms as well. Of course it's always easier to be here in person...but video viewings are more popular now due to COVID. I've moved 2x already in Amsterdam...took me around 2 months of active searching each time. So think 2-4 months could be a good estimate. Good luck, let me know if you have any other questions!
Great video! Have you visited some places in the more rural/country side of the Netherlands? I'm always amazed by the city but it's just too cramped and noisy for me since I've lived in a very small village far from the cities in the Netherlands for my entire life.
May I trouble you for the name of the "Get to know yourself better" cards? Been following you since I saw your Camino video. Keep up the good work and go Bruins!
Hey there! Of course...they are So Cards (www.socards.org/). I bought them at the American Book Center in Amsterdam. And funny...the friend who helped me film this actually said the guy who founded/created these cards goes to his church in Amsterdam! And thanks for following after the Camino. Oh yes Bruins! Are you located in California?
@@hidavidwen Thank you for the link. For whatever reason I searched "know yourself cards" but neglected to include the obvious words on the box. 😀 I'm in Los Angeles; been here for way too long. Feel I should also mention that your Camino videos changed my mind on how I want to experience Europe the next time I go.
@@MisterYu Ah I was thinking about late night tacos the other night (you don't get those here!), I do miss LA from time to time-home for 10 years. If you have any questions about Camino/Europe, just let me know.
@@hidavidwen If/when I leave LA (been here since 1986), I will definitely miss the variety of quality food here. After my last long Europe trip, it was remarkably comforting to have both pho and sullangtang my first day back. How's the east food scene there? How well does it stack up against the Bay Area and/or LA?
@@MisterYu Haha the East food scene here...well when you it compare to Bay Area/LA, there really isn't one here. You really cannot compare it to a place like LA (I actually think LA has one of the best food scenes in the world). Boba is slowly becoming a bit more popular here (but most still don't know what it is). Chinatown is only a few blocks in Amsterdam. You have your select Chinese/Japanese/Thai restaurants but not many (if you compare to Bay Area/LA). No Ktown. And a big reason is if you just look around-there aren't that many Asians here (as compared to 15% in California). Amsterdam does have quite a good international food scene but when it comes to East Asian food, there's not much (as compared to California). There is good Indonesian food though as you may imagine! Netherlands is a great place...but most people do not come to the Netherlands for the food or the weather =)
Nice video. I moved to Utrecht from the USA in 2017 with my husband. We've never been happier. I've been learning Dutch but I still struggle to speak and understand. Dutch people have been very kind letting me practice with them.
Hi Rebecca! Thanks for the kind words. Oh great to hear you two have never been happier (I can relate in many ways!). Are you taking Dutch classes or how are you learning? I took a virtual during COVID, but it was not very motivating to be on Zoom all day long. I’m hoping to do an in person one. But good for you and practicing with Dutch people (it’s so easy to just fall back on English because everyone speaks English here)
@@hidavidwen I have taken Dutch classes, via zoom, online dutch courses, now I have a private weekly tutor, I have done two week long in-person intensive classes, and teach myself with grammar books I have picked up. I try to speak Dutch when I go to shops or with people I meet. I ask people to write down what they've said. Teaching myself from grammar books and from people I meet has been the best way for me to learn. The courses not so much.Have you been to the American Book Center bookstore in Amsterdam? They had a big selection, the last time I was there. You might find a book you like for continuing onto the next level. Good luck!
@@rebeccaalbrecht771 Wow I'm inspired by your discipline! I actually spent time over the past 2 years during COVID learning Spanish instead of Dutch! But I'd like to start learning Dutch again.
Yes I love book stores and have been to the American Book Center many times! I'll have to pay another visit soon then =)
A great habit is to watch dutch news daily. It's available online too. Follow a local dutch news channel is great for keeping up with what's happening in town. At5 is Amsterdam but most cities have there own.
@@michellezevenaar We have here in Utrecht RTV Utrecht and I've been sporadically watching stories in NOS Jeugdjournaal. I think I will follow them more regularly now thanks to your suggestion.
Not expensive €2.000,-
People pays 1.400€ for an smaller apartment in the city!
This house is super unique....the kitchen is veryyyyy old fashion
..the view over the canal is sooooo pretty and pleasant!!!! Your apartment is very cosy and charming🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉Amsterdam is soooo energic and unique🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Thanks, Amsterdam is beautiful!
@@hidavidwen Have an nice weekend! Amsterdam is beautiful..with beautiful 😍😍 people!!!
@@rosanijbroek7328 Attic, they live in the Attic of the Canal House, 1950 for an attic is not expensive? Thats exactly the problem today, foreigners and expats thinking its a normal price and thus renting for abnormal prices and with that driving up the prices for other rental properties in the same area, while the normal working class cant even afford a house in their birth city anymore!
@@petewall13 Yes Shure it is very expensive for an attic, ppfffzzz!
These house owners are such clever and heartless businessman!
And yes Amsterdam Centrum is very expensive! But there are areas, the houses are not that expensive! Like Amsterdam North, West or East...but it is also true...the houses market is very tied!!!
@@rosanijbroek7328i’m looking for a house in Amsterdam north or Zaandam. Please let me know where I can get information about the affordable prices houses. Thanks a lot
Wow what a great place you live in. I am Dutch but living in Switzerland (so an expat as well) and for some reason your video got recommended to me by UA-cam. Thank you for showing your place and giving us a house tour. I’m sort of envious of you living in such a historical place… literally everything “breaths history” including those beautiful wooden beams in the ceiling. And yes, your rent is indeed a steal! Amazing (especially compared to Swiss prices lol, I pay double for a 50m2 one bedroom). And you’re right in the city center! I actually lived in SF for a year as well but back then my place had rent control and I rented a room for $450 in Inner Sunset… but that was in 2003, I suppose times have changed since then….Enjoy you time in Amsterdam!
Hey hey! Oh wow Switzerland, that is like another dream place for me to live (I miss the mountains)...how has it been living there for you?
Haha yeah not sure how UA-cam knows to recommend videos...but perhaps it knows that you are Dutch and I secretly dream of living in the Swiss Alps plus you lived in the Sunset (that's where I'm from!)...$450 for a room in San Francisco...yes things have definitely changed since then, houses in the Sunset are selling for almost $2 million and rent is like $3K/1 bedroom (of course still a bit cheaper in Sunset though!)
Thanks!
2000 eu/month is crazy, even for Amsterdam standards. The fact that expats can pay this amount is devastating to the Dutch people. Expats are paying absurd rental prices, making it impossible for Dutch people to rent anything. Some area's of Amsterdam are solely occupied by expats. The Duchies that are still living in Amsterdam are really frowning on expats because of this.
Hi Vic - thanks for commenting. 2000EU is shared...but it's still very expensive. The same thing is happening in other big cities like where I am from (San Francisco). I can understand your frustration. The idea is that expats bring in highly needed skills/knowledge/businesses that can stimulate the economy...but yeah I don't know what to do about rising housing prices (which is happening everywhere)
I totally agree. It's what makes most Dutch people dislike expats.
@@hidavidwen but why would you pay an absurd amount? There is plenty of affordable homes outside of amsterdam with amazing public transport. We dutchies would like to protest against these prices, but the expats are just going with the flow.
@@vic8497 I paid half of that for a shared apartment...I agree 2000 is a lot. It's great that there are a lot of affordable homes outside of Amsterdam and accessible by public transportation...but why would people pay those amounts? Well if you move abroad to say New York or London...most would pay for the experience of living in the city first few years (and then move away after)...especially if you don't have a family.
You’re saying it like expats want to pay such a price for rent. If you want to place the blame for increasing rent prices, look at the big companies buying out properties and then setting a high price. Expats are humans just like you are and also would much prefer affordable homes. #smh
What a beautiful house. My friend and I visited the city exactly two years ago and we stayed in a hotel by the canal. Loving it and we walked across the canal houses everyday. Always thought that if we could live in one. Was planned to visit again in a few months after but of course it didn't happen. Please share more...... such a beautiful city!
Hey Laurence! Yeah it's such a magical experience. The city is beautiful. I hope you get to visit again!
Are you still there? Your home is charming and so soothing. Beautiful.
This apartment is so cool! It's like living in a small museum. Wouldnlove to live there. Also I would put a fake fire into that fireplace. There are lamps that are made to look like glowing ashes. I think it would look really cozy
Haha thanks for the tip. It is a really cool place indeed. Amsterdam is very charming =)
Nice home. I lived in Amsterdam more than a decade ago. Your video makes me miss it.
Thanks Vinh! Where did you live in Amsterdam when you were here? Wow, 10 years ago...I wonder how things have changed (or stayed the same)...
@@hidavidwen i lived in uilenstede, metro 51, tram 5
What a lovely home. Nothing beats the look and feel of an old house. The views are amazing as well!
If I'm not mistaken, those houses belonged to wealthy sea merchants at the time. I was reminded by the beautiful beams supporting the ceiling. It looks like the same craftsmanship that would have gone into one of their seafaring vessels.
Every detail is just beautiful!
What a beautiful and lovely place. Love the cozy kitchen!
Damn that's crazy for just 975 per person, I think a small studio is normal for that there. Bless you man
Prices have gone up since! Inflation...
Perhaps a tip regarding the weather, visit a military dumpstore and buy clothes there (regular army clothes are legal in the Netherlands as long as you don't show any patches or claim you are military if you are not. Military personnel are not allowed to wear their gear outside of work hours either). It isn't so much the outfit that does the trick, but it's the fabric and that it's a little wider fitted on your body. This wider fit adds a layer of air between your skin and the clothes which allows together with the material to dry your clothes quicker. Even if completely soaked, keep your clothes on and it will be dry with about 30 minutes to a hour maximum. The wind helps you dry your clothes even faster. Also it feels warmer on the skin so also good for winter.
Thanks for sharing, great tip!
So wonderful to see what it is like living in a very old house.
Thanks for watching!
That canal-facing window is spectacular! I saw you have atomic habits, one of my favorites. Architecturally this is such a gem to live in, despite old age. Price is a steal for 1 person.
Hey Henry! Haha not surprised you would be intrigued by the architecture! (Maybe you can draw it? hah) Yeah I was just talking to a friend recently about Atomic Habits...one of the better books I've read over the past few years.
And yeah 1,950€ is for 2 persons...imagine this in San Francisco...it'd prob be 1,950€ for 1 person!
@@hidavidwen I already have a few drawings of Amsterdam. One of them actually looks like the unit you have from the canal.
I love your videos, very calm, informative and interesting. Your house has so many characters, eventhough it’s small but very lovely. I appreciate the age house, that makes it beautiful imo.
Thanks, that means a lot to me! Yeah it’s a beautiful house. I am moving to a new place soon so I wanted to make a video to cherish it and perhaps give others a view into how housing is like here (you have very old and very modern!)
I am into spirituality and stuff, and first this video has 111 comments which is a lucky number for me, and the message „you soon will experience a miracle“ just made me smile 😂 Beautiful apartment. And such a nice guy, too
Nice, it's a sign! A miracle will appear soon...
Thanks for being 112 and appreciate the kinds words. Hope you have a wonderful day and week =)
I loved your reading spot and your stairs. You present very well xXx
Thank you!
Great video David. I am glad to hear you enjoy living in my home town. I myself lived for several tears in the Bay Area, Oakland (rock ridge neighborhood) and Pleasanton. It is wonderful experience to live abroad for sometime. I miss California for reasons you also touched in another video. Keep on making these great videos.
Thanks Hans! I used to work in Pleasanton (hated the drive from SF though haha). But yeah, I'm still really enjoying Amsterdam (especially now post-COVID). Thanks for the motivation!
Beautiful house. I have been Travelling for 2 months and It makes me actually more grateful towards my own country. I think more Dutch people should travel to see how much freedom we have here, compared to so many countries, so we will not complain so much anymore 😂🙂🧡
😁 True. I learned so much about myself and the world through travel. Made me so much more grateful of what I have too
If most Dutchies would travel more, as you suggest, they would actually LIVE abroad.. I personally travelled all over the world, and found fellow Dutchies everywhere. The comment about all that freedom suggest to me you are from the USA, so does the remark of the whole two months of travel to broaden the mind, LOL.
@@almanoor-bakker5964 why would they live abroad then..? :) , I personally got 'homesick' (missing Holland things) after few months ha ha and more grateful for some things (bikes, good public transport, great restaurants, freedom of speech, etc.) that I could not find abroad (in some countries) . But some things like weather and nature (mountains and sea) ... For that you certainly need to travel a bit😬👍
@@almanoor-bakker5964 Europeans are the biggest travelers worldwide and Dutchies are amongst the top travelers
David, Your home is so amazing. 975€ is really cheap for such an amazing place in a great location. (Everything is relative...I think it's cheap because I grew up in Silicon Valley and you can't find anything as beautiful as that with such an amazing view... period, but if you did it'd be outrageously priced...at least $3,000+ per flatmate.) Silicon Valley, which was formerly San Jose, Santa Clara, Campell, Cupertino, and other areas became unaffordable for people living there when the computer companies were mere start-ups in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The engineers and techies who moved there for jobs from around the U.S. were not to blame. It was the Silicon Valley landlords and housing developers that were to blame for the outrageously priced housing.
Great video. 👍 👊
Wow David. I am so impressed. BEAUTIFUL HOME.
Haha thanks Judy well glad you were able to check it out!
I lived in a similar home in Amsterdam but your view is sooo much better!
And no, now that I live in a bungalow I do not miss those terrible staircases ;)
Hey Vincent - oh yeah the view is definitely something! (The stairs are definitely a workout..going down is still...well let's just say I have to really hold on tightly depending on type of shoes I'm wearing!)
Are you still in Amsterdam and do you miss your old place?
I had to pause on your book collection - I was glad to see "The Culture Map" in your collection. That book has helped me understand so many subtleties amongst varying backgrounds and even personalities here in the US. Thank you for sharing your experiences and giving hope to an American like me who hopes to be a expat one day!
Thanks Raime, love the book! I use and recommend it all the time. Wish you the best of luck!
You forgot to tell us what you thought about your gorgeous ceiling beams! Thank you for this video -really exciting to see the interior of a Dutch Canal house!!!!
Thanks for watching! Haha the high ceiling beams...you know it definitely doesn't fit the modern day Dutch person (very low ceilings for very tall people)
Spectacular bro! Count your blessings I'd say! ❤
I cook a lot with my microwave 😄 It’s for more than just reheating coffee and frozen dinners - get a microwave cookbook, you’ll be amazed at what it can do !
Haha thanks! I’m not alone!!
Very nice and unique place!
David, just discovered your video. I used to work in Eindhoven and lived in Maastricht. I’m back in SF bay area now. You’ve made the RIGHY CHOICE of moving to Europe!!! Don’t come back - it sucks here in the Bay Area (in so many ways) housing is through the roof n lots of long hours n lay offs. Try to work on your permanent residence the min you arrived. Seriously, you don’t want to come back to the US.
If you haven’t made it down south, ck out Maastricht n the surrounding small villages (by train or bike) it’s BEAUTIFUL green and charming!
Ahh, watching your video makes me want to go back - crossing my fingers that I can find a job 🤞 that’ll sponsor me a visa.
Have fun! Happy for you that you’re experiencing the expat life.
Thanks for your kind words. I studied and lived in Maastricht for one year =) It's a beautiful town.
What made you move back to SF Bay? I'm very curious to hear because I love NL...but my family is back in SF Bay...
Very nice home! Thanks for sharing:) I’m gonna be living in Amsterdam next year so your channel has been really helpful, thanks! and i can’t wait to move🎉
(Ps the way you introduced your painting was kinda cute haha I’m looking forward to your next piece of art
You’re welcome and glad it has been helpful! Oh wow congrats on the move…I’m sure it’s a lot of different emotions but sounds like you’re excited (I think you’ll enjoy it, most do). From where are you moving?
(And haha about the art…I am also looking forward to whatever I may paint next!)
I remember renting a room in Amsterdam when I was a student for 200 gulden a month. Single pane windows, and the facade was leaning forward towards the streetside so much that the windows won’t open anymore in the summer. The rent has gone up crazy since then, absolutely unaffordable! I still remember the smell, the landlady kept like a hundred cats😂😂😂
Thanks for sharing...wow 200/month? How long ago was this? =)
I don't think you can even rent a parking space for 200/month now haha
@@hidavidwen I was renting for 350 euro huurtoeslag incl also lived 5 mins from central station and was living in a house from the 1600. Rents were controlled and was reserved for students.
@@anom3897 That's a great price! I hope they are good memories you had =)
I've studied Spanish and French at university. View learning Dutch as a lifelong process that has no end date. Thanks for the quality videos! Cheers, mate...☀
Nice triangular bedroom. It reminds me of how deficient my trigonometry skills are...😄
Thanks Paul for watching! I'm still learning myself.....
2:36 omg ceviche and causa rellena!! It's so exciting to me because I haven't meet so many Peruvians (like me) living in NL
Haha you know it! Funny because another Peruvian also commented that he saw the ceviche. I love ceviche. And I hope you can meet more Peruvians-they are there!
Hi David, we lived right across the street from you for years! I can't believe I never saw you on the street (although maybe I did but I didn't realize). The frame at 9:09 is right next to our apartment, we could wave at each other through the window. Keep up the fun videos!
Hahah small world! Perhaps we may have bumped into each other. I used to a lot of walking around the neighborhood (especially during COVID) =)
Do you know you are lucky with sub 1K including everything? Hollllyyyyy shttttttt i mean.. yeah roommate. But! Lots of space and in such a great location. Wow. Thanks for sharing man! I live in noord. The Amsterdam housing issue like any other city. Is broken 💔.
Yeah it was a really good deal! Housing is crazy here…it’s like applying for a lottery ticket…
What a fantastic house you call home in the city centre.
Oh my gosh,i cant believe your home !!Just beautiful and historic♥️
It’s a beautiful place, happy 2024!
Such a beautiful vlog! Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
What a wonderful atmosphere! Charming !
Wow! That is such a charming place there, David. If your flatmate ever moves out and you're looking for a new one! C'est moi! We read the same books, I can actually cook us a proper meal if you won't mind sharing that window view with a buddy 😇! Hihi, just lovely. The price is a steal, indeed.
Hi Nona - haha thanks for the kind words and your offer! It's a charming place. Are you looking for a new place?
nice home but the stairs made me scare. Recall my experience in Amsterdam many years ago. Thanks for sharing.
Hey there Yvonne - haha yeah I remember my first day...I had quite the time trying to transport my luggage up the stairs (and I didn't even have that much stuff). Very different from what we're used to in LA!
Hi David. Just subscribed to your channel. I really enjoyed the insights you shared about life in the Netherlands but also of life generally throughout the video. I also appreciate how simply you live. Less clutter and all that. Just room for the more important stuff. I like your thoughts on community, sharing meals and relaxing together in your apartment's living areas. I look forward to watching all your other videos and can't wait for new ones too. All the best in your endeavours! Take care!
Charming video, and a very charming guy. I'm happy for you and your outlook on life. ❤
Thanks for the nice words =)
A few years after that house was built the Dutch founded New Amsterdam on the other side of the pond.
I kept being confused about what canal you're on. But then I realised you're not saying "the single canal", but "the Singel canal". 😀
Haha yes, I can see the confusion if you don't know the canals of Amsterdam (which most don't if you don't live here) haha
Wow lucky guy! to live in such nice house! You must be proud :-) Nice you like and love my country!
Thanks, it's been a great experience so far!
The whole time you were walking in the house, I was screaming "don't bump your head on the ceiling!!"
Hahaha it’s ok for me but definitely not meant for the modern day Dutch person!
Beautiful! Simple yet elegant.
Thanks Yvonne =)
@@hidavidwen My friend's daughter at Sarah Lawrence is doing her junior year abroad in Amsterdam this upcoming fall. I sent her the link to your video. Thank you for your content!
@@yvonneyork1263 How exciting! She's going to have such a great time here. And you're welcome. Thank you!
Het is erg leuk om te zien hoe je leeft in ons land. Altijd al benieuwd geweest hoe een grachtenpand er van binnen uitziet.
Nederlander now living in the US. It looks like you have a very nice life there in Amsterdam.
Thanks Hellmuth. I enjoy living here so far and making the most out of it. It’s such a beautiful and unique city (Amsterdam) as compared to more modern US cities. It hasn’t been easy with COVID but it was hard everywhere. How about you in the US?
@@hidavidwen My family emigrated to the states a long time ago and I've been in the US for most of my life. I live in the Detroit area but always wonder what my life would be like if my family would have stayed in the Netherlands. We lived in Utrecht and it looks like it might have been a pretty nice life.
@@hellmuthschreefel9392 Oh got it. Well it could be a possibility in the future? =)
Crazy euro prices, I mean 2000 euro per month? I remember my very first rental at the Herengracht in the year 1981. Paying just 750 Dutch guilders (which was a lot at that time) including gas and electra. I’d lived next to the Toneelmuseum for 3 years and after that bought a house in the Jordaan. My apartment was on the first floor and had a canal view, the entrance was very grande with marble floor, wooden stairs and crystal chandeliers.
The aesthetics! Love this! Now, fun question, how much cleaning is involved? Sometime, someone has to dust this place? Ha ha, lol! Housecleaning meditation? Also, that book by Erin Meyer is excellent for anyone that has no idea that people think/do things differently depending on the local culture. You could probably do an 8 hour long video loop of that window scene with added sound to let everyone not there have the experience you enjoyed. I'm quite curious about the history of this 400 year old structure. Any old pictures of it before any recent renovations? How do they maintain it for preservation purposes? Interesting structure!
Wow, that's beautiful!! I love the view from your desk and your favorite chair! The house seems to have such a good vibe to it.. And all the old stuff, the stairs. I can understand why you will miss it once you move
Thanks for this nice video.
Wow, many people will envy you for your living place and for A'dam rather low rent. I only "know" you for 3 days, but the person you are, it must be good luck to have a flatmate that fits with you and make you feel good in that house!
making an enemy into a friend is almost a miracle....lol
Hey again Rob! Yeah I feel very grateful to have lived in such an old place (you don't houses/apartments like this in California!)...it's been a very nice experience.
David! Who's your hairdresser in Amsterdam? Pretty cool style! I need for a recommendation :)
Haha thanks, at that time it was someone different and I was experimenting so I am not entirely sure
It looks lovely and what a view!
=) Thanks Carrie
So nice that I had to watch twice. 🌷
Thanks for watching twice!
wish I could afford this! Looks so cozy
It's quite cozy! I think you could get lucky and find something like this!
So nice to watch your videos, David! I'm a Californian who translocated to Switzerland about 35 years ago, so I can very well comprehend what you're experiencing.....Amsterdam is a beautiful city! Enjoy....you just might get "stuck" over there, too ;-)
Thanks so much for the kind words! Oh wow…I’ve always wanted to live in Switzerland! I miss the mountains. Maybe one day…how do you like it there? Well I mean you’ve been there 35 years…
Yes, me too! Thank you, thank !!
hi , the fortune cookie is actualy very beautiful , we can learn from it in different ways, what i heard is : diplomacy before fight . Beautiful house by the way , you are fortuned. Doei .
Thanks Heelal for the nice message - I love fortune cookies
❤ Beautiful, history matters
Good price, considering people pay around a 1000 for 33 m2 here in Zaandam.
Who afforded to live by the canal. Can you make a video on the canals and recent problems (like in VENICE). I have never been there, but I guess I would be interested in the environmental issues, the cleanliness living nearby a water-place...
I really love your place. Amazing !!! I'll check more of you vlogs 🤩👍
Hey Comex - thanks! Appreciate the kind words 😊
Nice video David!
Thank you, very much appreciated! 🙏
this video was beautiful thank you
Thanks :)
I really like this video, David! You made me laugh a bit and I guess I really needed that. I will come back for more :) Amsterdam is my dream destination! I will get there one day...hopefully soon.
Thanks Anna and happy it made you laugh haha. We all need more of that (me too). Thanks for laughing and wish your dreams come true!
Great apartment !! ❤❤
Thanks for watching!
I like your painting!
This is good news last in Singapore me and friends meet 2 Dutch guy which working on Cruises ship making £10,000 monthly but The Law for Dutch can not money more than £ 50,000. In Bank Accounts above that is Tax to government. Which you tell on your Website.
I love your house david it looks so cozy. I have family in holland so I have been there many times .
Thanks =) It's a beautiful country! Where are you from?
Thanks for the tour of your home. Must say that I would love to move to Amsterdam and live on a canal. The only downside I can see to your living space, from my perspective? I'm 6'8", 206cm, And, that attic space and I would not be compatible!
You’re welcome! Oh wow…yeah you’re not going to fit! Haha but there are some canal houses with high ceilings (for example, I’ve seen that the ground floor usually has high ceilings)
very cool apt
What a cozy and charming flat! Also love the surrounding of where you live, especially the view to the cannel through the window. Are you working for an American company with operations in the Netherland?
It looks like the inside of a boat turned upside down. Appropriate for a canal side home.
I probably have watched your 4 or 5 videos, and you mentioned "the culture map" by Erin Meyer almost in every single one😃 have to watch for more to find where you don't mention it😅
Haha I love the book! It's probably in my Top 5 books of all time =))
Thanks for the book recommendations bought the Audible version of the Culture map straight away. Nice house. Not expensive for that much space, that kind of house on that location.
Hope you enjoy the book Hans! I always refer to it nowadays for my work. Very helpful
@@hidavidwen Used to work very international. Now for the government.
Thank you for the tour. I don't know if you still live here, but maybe you like Duolingo?
great video! You must have very strong leg muscles from all the stairs!
Hahah from the stairs to the cycling lanes…the country is designed to build strong legs
Such a nice and well-maintained house, nice kitchen and cozy dining area, I'm also planning to move so wish I can find such wonderful house (also flatmates)
Hope you can find a nice place as well! When are you moving?
Hi David!
Are you still living in there?
Actually I am looking for a house (2BR) to stay in Amsterdam/Zaandam with my lil family. I’m from outside NL.
Please let me know. Thanks
David, it might be historic, but in terms of financial efficiency and to Dutch standards; this house is SUPER expensive!
Especially for a young man like yourself. I don't see many young pêople (even those that can afford it) CHOSE to live there...
Thanks for sharing your perspective and your concern...Amsterdam is SUPER expensive. Though this apartment is shared between 2 people to split costs. But yeah...you have to pay a price to live in Amsterdam...
@@hidavidwen Assuming you have a "normal Dutch" salary, I would NEVER chose to live there. If you're blessed with a good income, you can EASILY commute from a nearby village. I don't understand the obsession some have with living INSIDE Amsterdam... Ugh, from a financial perspective is a complete self-sabotaging task. Are you still in the Netherlands? If so, how long?
@@janjan55555 Appreciate your insight. Yeah...I know, from a financial perspective, it doesn't make sense. But for those people who decide to leave everything behind and move halfway around the world...many of us do it for the experience. And we pay for the experience. If my goal was a "financial" goal, I would've stayed in San Francisco to make (save) money.
And also, I came here by myself. Not with a family. If I had a family, that would be a different story. Young people who also move abroad pay for the "social experience" of living in a city like Amsterdam. It would be very lonely to live in a small village nearby if that makes sense...for most "young people." Especially internationals. What (most) young people without families who CHOOSE to move abroad are looking to make friends, build a community, and meet people. You could do that in a small village...but realistically, it's very hard. And yes, you could take the train in...but to be honest, that's a different experience. What I like about Amsterdam is meeting people spontaneously at a restaurant or cafe.
Now...there are other "cities" besides Amsterdam to live in too. That would be a more realistic (and smarter) option!
And I definitely do understand the privilege that comes with that too and very grateful. I've been here 5 years now. Anyways long answer, but I just wanted to share my thoughts since you took the time to share yours! Take care
David
@@hidavidwen Thanks for the very elaborate explanation David, I am just noticing "authentic" Amsterdammers leaving or better said "FLEEING" Amsterdam due to lack of affordability. I must say you are very lucky and privileged in that regard. Speaking of, have you considered adopting Dutch citizenship as a permanent gateway to Europe?
It's beautiful.
there is a reason i love living in the countryside of the netherlands and not the big city's. i live on my own in a house i bought. i pay about 800€ for everything and the house is big enough for a family of 4 and has a garage and garden. in the city you pay 2000€ for what is the size of only my garage XD. (you do usually make more money around the big city's as well though, oh and there is a bit more to do. but since the netherlands is pretty small you can get anywhere pretty quickly)
Ah that sounds lovely. So much more space. While I grew up in cities...one day, I would love to move to the countryside. Have you ever lived in the city?
@@hidavidwen i have never livid in a city, i feel like i have everything i need in or near my village. Maybe some more interesing shops or restaurants would have been nice but otherwise i'm totally happy
Nice video!
Thanks Ruben!
what a fabulous home
😁
Great tour of your home. I want to live there! your work space: what a view - I'd never leave that chair! And: that is a beautiful painting. And it's your first!!!!!! amazing! Wow, and the chair for your book reading! Just the perfect place. I stay at the Singel hotel for a few nights on my trips to AMS, so you might be near - I will look out for you!@
Thanks Jim. Well hopefully you get the chance soon enough, I’m sure you’ll love Amsterdam :)
@@hidavidwen Headed to the airport now, Amsterdam tomorrow! do you know of anyone renting out an apartment on or near a canal?
@@JustJimWarren Enjoy Jim! I actually do not know anyone renting anything near the canal. It's quite difficult, especially right now. Try Airbnb. Good luck!
2:35 is your flatmate peruvian by any chance? i recognize a ceviche when I see one 😄
Haha good guess. His partner is Peruvian :)
@@hidavidwen i'm also from Perú and I'll be moving to Amsterdam in February! pretty cool video and thanks for the book recommendations!
@@rivasugaz8270 Thanks and any time! Let me know if you have questions about NL, good luck!
Love your videos, it would be great if they had subtitles, it would be very friendly for non-native English speakers
Hi Anna - On UA-cam, you can go to settings and add English subtitles
David
Can you tell me how tall you are? It looks to me as if I would not be able to stand there without touching the ceiling with my head all the time. Otherwise it looks fantastic. Very charming to say the least.
I'm around 182cm. Yeah it's not very accommodating for most Dutch people haha
Hello David. Great video. I will be moving to Amsterdam in January. Can you please list some resources especially those facebook groups to find a place to live as I would need to find one myself. I hope I find a place similar to yours. Its just perfect.
Hi Sajjad - nice that you will be moving here soon! There are so many Facebook groups, just search "Amsterdam housing" in Facebook and you will find many. Be careful of scammers (you can usually tell who they are based on their profile).
Other sites include:
- funda.nl/
- www.pararius.com/apartments/amsterdam
Best of luck!
David
I love it I really do !! I think you are so lucky to live in such o wonderful place ! I am in Amsterdam 2 months now and i try to find a place live this in this amazing area with the canals but David it’s so difficult I think . Could you give me any advice to find a place like this ? Thank you in advance !
Hey there - yeah finding a place to live in Amsterdam is just difficult in general. If you want to share...try Facebook groups (there's a bunch of them if you search Amsterdam housing or rental)...you can find something if you put in the effort but beware of scammers. Happy new year!
Hello ! I love your videos you are very informative and helpful. I'm currently living with my girlfriend in the UK. We've been saving up money for some time and we've been a few times in Amsterdam. Therefore, we are planning to move on next June. Was it very hard for you to find a flat ? how long do you think the procedure could take? 4 months? We are both EU-citizens. Thank you in advance !
Hey there Brian - oh wow I didn't see this comment until now. It's always been quite hard to find a flat (probably very similar to London)...it depends on what you're looking for and your budget. Of course, if you have a budget 2,000€+ for 2...will be a lot easier than if you only have 1200€.
I am assuming you two may be looking for a 1-bedroom...assume it will be 1300€ - 1600€. Try looking on funda.nl and pararius-they're both legit websites. The other option is Facebook groups (of which there are many but also many scammers). Facebook can be great if you want to share...but you will also have people advertising 1-bedrooms as well.
Of course it's always easier to be here in person...but video viewings are more popular now due to COVID. I've moved 2x already in Amsterdam...took me around 2 months of active searching each time. So think 2-4 months could be a good estimate.
Good luck, let me know if you have any other questions!
Great video! Have you visited some places in the more rural/country side of the Netherlands? I'm always amazed by the city but it's just too cramped and noisy for me since I've lived in a very small village far from the cities in the Netherlands for my entire life.
Hey David , last Saturday around midday, were you passing by Amsterdam-Centrum by bike? I saw a guy look really like you 😅😂
HMM I don't remember haha. I've been cycling everywhere lately. It could've been me!
May I trouble you for the name of the "Get to know yourself better" cards?
Been following you since I saw your Camino video. Keep up the good work and go Bruins!
Hey there! Of course...they are So Cards (www.socards.org/). I bought them at the American Book Center in Amsterdam. And funny...the friend who helped me film this actually said the guy who founded/created these cards goes to his church in Amsterdam!
And thanks for following after the Camino. Oh yes Bruins! Are you located in California?
@@hidavidwen Thank you for the link. For whatever reason I searched "know yourself cards" but neglected to include the obvious words on the box. 😀
I'm in Los Angeles; been here for way too long.
Feel I should also mention that your Camino videos changed my mind on how I want to experience Europe the next time I go.
@@MisterYu Ah I was thinking about late night tacos the other night (you don't get those here!), I do miss LA from time to time-home for 10 years.
If you have any questions about Camino/Europe, just let me know.
@@hidavidwen If/when I leave LA (been here since 1986), I will definitely miss the variety of quality food here. After my last long Europe trip, it was remarkably comforting to have both pho and sullangtang my first day back. How's the east food scene there? How well does it stack up against the Bay Area and/or LA?
@@MisterYu Haha the East food scene here...well when you it compare to Bay Area/LA, there really isn't one here. You really cannot compare it to a place like LA (I actually think LA has one of the best food scenes in the world). Boba is slowly becoming a bit more popular here (but most still don't know what it is). Chinatown is only a few blocks in Amsterdam. You have your select Chinese/Japanese/Thai restaurants but not many (if you compare to Bay Area/LA). No Ktown.
And a big reason is if you just look around-there aren't that many Asians here (as compared to 15% in California). Amsterdam does have quite a good international food scene but when it comes to East Asian food, there's not much (as compared to California). There is good Indonesian food though as you may imagine!
Netherlands is a great place...but most people do not come to the Netherlands for the food or the weather =)
David, I love that chair. Any place where i could find it here in the USA
Well knowing that you are a Trojan….
But I also don’t know, it was there when I arrived from the landlord! Would help you if I did though
When visiting Amsterdam, I stay at the Singel hotel. Near you?
The Singel hotel is very central!
beautiful house