Monika le Roux

Hi Monika, when did you arrive in the Netherlands?
I arrived in the Netherlands in August 2023, so it’s been almost two years now.

How did you experience the first few months in the Netherlands?
The first few months were challenging. Everything was new, from the job to everyday life. At the same time, it felt a bit like being on holiday in a beautiful European city. It was exciting, but also a bit overwhelming at first.

Does it feel like home?
Yes, it’s starting to feel more like home every day. We’ve settled in, built routines, and made some great memories here.

Do you still live in the same house as in the beginning?
No, we started out in an apartment in Rijswijk. Later, we moved to a place in Den Haag with a small garden, which has been great. We’re now looking into buying our first home here.

How was it to learn the language? Was it easier or harder than expected?
It was harder than I expected. Even though Afrikaans and Dutch are similar, there are lots of differences too. Speaking Dutch regularly, even if it wasn’t perfect, really helped me alot.

What do you miss most about South Africa?
I miss my family and friends the most. I also miss nature and the unique South African culture.

What appeals to you most in the Netherlands?
Things here are very organized and efficient. I love the culture, the strong work-life balance, and how easy it is to travel around Europe. Traveling was one of the reasons we moved here, and it hasn’t disappointed.