Adriaan Louw

Hi Andries, when did you arrive in the Netherlands?
Me and my girlfriend arrived on 3 April 2023 in the Netherlands. It has already been more than 2 years.

How did you experience the first few months in the Netherlands?
The first few months were a mixture of excitement, learning and adjusting to a new lifestyle. Seeing a new country and experiencing a new culture was really exciting and meeting all the new people. We were not as comfortable with the language and still learning but luckily everyone understands English.

Does it feel like home?
After a bit over 2 years it feels like home. When we go visit family in South Africa we enjoy our time but after a week or 2 we start missing our pets and friends and house in the Netherlands.

Do you still live in the same house as in the beginning?
Yes, we are in a very relaxed area with walking distance to all the shops and with two parks in the area where we can relax on a nice summer day. We have not really gotten the urge to move out yet and are still enjoying living in this house.

How was it to learn the language? Was it easier or harder than expected?
The language was easier to learn than expected. After a year and half of studying the language we passed the official Netherlands B1 exams and can speak comfortably with our colleagues and friends.

What do you miss most about South Africa?
The thing we mist the most in SA I would say is our family. Being able to hop in the car and visit family for a weekend or have a braai together. It is made easier being able to still call and send messages online.

What appeals to you most in the Netherlands?
The safety and work life environment. Being able to come home from work and seeing kids ride their bicycles in the streets, no fences around peoples properties and just being able to relax and feel safe. Another aspect is when you go to work and go back home you are expected to work further. You can relax and on Fridays enjoy a nice borrel.