Devon Volkwyn

Hi Devon, when did you arrive in the Netherlands?
Hi there! My wife Cariece and I arrived in the Netherlands on September 21, 2021.

How did you experience the first few months in the Netherlands?
Those first few months were a whirlwind of excitement and change. Luckily, summit developers helped us with our relocation, was by our side, guiding us through the ups and downs of settling into a new country.

Does it feel like home?
Over time the Netherlands has started to feel more like home and we look forward to what the future holds.

Do you still live in the same house as in the beginning?
In just two years, we’ve had the opportunity to buy our own house in Arnhem.

How was it to learn the language? Was it easier or harder than expected?
Even though learning Dutch has been tougher than expected, we’ve learned that persistence pays off.

What do you miss most about South Africa?
Despite the new life we’ve built here, we do miss South Africa. The warmth, the African spirit, the delicious quality meat, and, of course, the biltong. But the South African community we’ve found here has helped ease the longing. We braai together, travel together and now friends have turned into family.

What appeals to you most in the Netherlands?
What we love about the Netherlands is the great work-life balance, the safety, the ease of mountain biking all over the country, and the fact that we can travel just about any where. To explore so many amazing countries, including Belgium, Germany, France, Monaco, Ireland, Iceland, and Switzerland. It’s been an incredible adventure.