Hanco Visagie

Hi Hanco, when did you arrive in the Netherlands?
We arrived on the 25th of April, 2021.

How did you experience the first few months in the Netherlands?
Unlike most people, we didn’t find the first few months difficult. In fact, we quite enjoyed them. summit developers played a significant role in helping us transition from South Africa to the Netherlands. They were more than accommodating and assisted us with every step of the immigration process.

Does it feel like home?
The Netherlands is home! I cannot stress enough how much we are enjoying the calm, safe and peaceful environment.

Do you still live in the same house as in the beginning?
We don’t, we do miss Barneveld however! We now live in Utrecht, where my partner started a business and we are much closer to my work place.

How was it to learn the language? Was it easier or harder than expected?
Learning a new language is never easy, and my experience with Dutch was no exception. However, my background in Afrikaans did provide some helpful similarities between the two languages, which made the process slightly easier. Additionally, I found that immersing myself in the Dutch language and culture and practicing regularly were key to making progress.

What do you miss most about South Africa?
Honestly, if it wasn’t for my family still living there, I would probably never go back.

What appeals to you most in the Netherlands?
What I particularly love about the Netherlands is the strong sense of community, which I experienced firsthand. I appreciate how people here are welcoming, helpful, and respectful towards each other. Additionally, the efficient public transport system makes it easy for me to get around and explore different parts of the country. Lastly, I am grateful for the various opportunities available here for both personal and professional development, which have allowed me to grow and learn in many different ways.