Kobus van der Walt

Hi Kobus, when did you arrive in the Netherlands?
I believe I arrived on October 25th 2022, so almost 2 years ago.

How did you experience the first few months in the Netherlands?
It was honestly very busy, from the language lessons, and paperwork to meeting new people, figuring out how the supermarkets work, where to buy what and how to get around on the transport network.

Does it feel like home?
In some ways yes, in others no. In June I went back to South Africa to visit my friends and family, and after landing in the Netherlands again I was very happy to ride the trains, shop at the “appie”, eat the cheese, and talk to my friends and collegues. I said to someone that it feels like I have two homes now. However, I still long for the warm african sun in a way that is hard to describe to native Dutchies, and I don’t think that will ever go away, but in its place I have discovered new things I cherish.

Do you still live in the same house as in the beginning?
No I was fortunate enough to buy an apartment in Ede, which is 10kms away from Barneveld where I first lived.

How was it to learn the language? Was it easier or harder than expected?
Progress went quick at first, but it slows down as you get better and better. I now am at a point where I can speak Dutch at work, watch Dutch TV & YouTube. Read the local town newspaper. Though I still have a way to go before I can fully express myself in Dutch at the same level as in English or Afrikaans.

What do you miss most about South Africa?
I think it has to be the weather. The Netherlands can have pretty summers too, but it doesn’t quite feel the same as in SA.

What appeals to you most in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is a very safe place to live. I have completely lost that subconscious alertness that is required when living in South Africa, especially the bigger cities. The safety is also reflected all around you, the homes don’t have giant walls, with barb wire, security cameras and rapid response signs plastered over them. This I really appreciate, it’s a whole slice of life that I no longer have to worry about.