Travel Treasures (Issue 3)

🍂 Exploring the Netherlands

By C. Clark

🍁 When we lived in Germany, the trip to the Netherlands—especially our visit to Rotterdam and the day-trip to Amsterdam—left a lasting impression on me. My father was attending a medical conference in Rotterdam, so we used that as our base and ventured into Amsterdam, and I found the experience so warm and inviting that I often think: if I were to leave the United States, the Netherlands would be a strong contender for my next home.

A Day in the Lowlands

In the morning in Amsterdam, we wandered along the canals, admired the narrow gabled houses, and paused to take in the buzz of bicycles and trams. In the afternoon, we explored Rotterdam—a city defined by sleek, modern architecture, international commerce, and one of the busiest ports in the world. That combination of old-world charm and forward-looking innovation captured my imagination.

Not far from these two cities lies The Hague—the elegant administrative heart of the Netherlands. Known for its tree-lined boulevards, embassies, and international courts, The Hague also hosts a thriving IT and cybersecurity sector. The city blends the calm of a coastal town with the sophistication of a global hub, making it an appealing option for professionals seeking balance between work and lifestyle. I don't remember visiting this area but came across it during my living abroad research.

A Country Wired for Innovation

Beyond the travel memories, the Netherlands shines as a modern, digital powerhouse. The country boasts a superb infrastructure, an entrepreneurial culture, and world-class innovation ecosystems in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital health.

Amsterdam remains a magnet for tech talent, offering countless IT roles—many of which don’t require fluency in Dutch. Eindhoven, home to the renowned High Tech Campus, has been dubbed the “Silicon Valley of Europe.” Meanwhile, The Hague is carving its own niche in peace, justice, and digital security, hosting global conferences and a growing number of international startups.

Together, these cities make the Netherlands a country where innovation feels accessible, creative energy thrives, and English is widely spoken in professional circles.

Diversity & Inclusivity in the Dutch Workplace

For anyone considering relocation—especially a woman of color working in IT—the question of inclusivity is key. The Netherlands consistently ranks among the world’s most open-minded and diversity-friendly societies.

Dutch workplaces are known for their international culture, and many tech companies use English as their main language. Studies have even named the Netherlands home to “the world’s most inclusive workplaces.” Legally, the country upholds strong protections against discrimination, and socially, there’s an emphasis on equality, collaboration, and transparency.

While learning some Dutch can be helpful for daily life, most expats describe a welcoming, multicultural environment that encourages professional and personal growth.

Why the Netherlands Feels Like a Good Fit

With decades of software engineering experience and a background in mathematics, I could easily envision myself thriving in the Dutch tech ecosystem. My interest in back-end development aligns with local demand, and my visual nature feels perfectly at home in a country known for design, art, and innovation.

From Amsterdam’s cosmopolitan buzz to The Hague’s international diplomacy, and Eindhoven’s cutting-edge technology scene—the Netherlands offers both inspiration and opportunity.

Things to Consider Before Making the Move

• Visa & Work Permits: Explore the “Highly Skilled Migrant” visa program for experienced professionals.

• Language: English is widely used, but learning basic Dutch can ease integration.

• Work Culture: Expect direct communication, flat hierarchies, and strong work-life balance.

• Housing: Amsterdam and The Hague can be expensive, so plan early.

• Networking: Join local meetups, tech conferences, and expat groups to connect quickly.

Final Reflection

The Netherlands feels like a natural bridge between comfort and innovation—where old-world beauty meets a forward-thinking spirit. It’s a country that values balance, intellect, and community. Whether walking along the canals of Amsterdam, admiring the architecture of Rotterdam, or sipping coffee near the peace palaces of The Hague, you feel an underlying harmony that makes this small nation one of Europe’s brightest treasures.

🍂 If I ever needed to start anew, I know where I’d go—and it just might be back to those canal-lined streets, beneath the crisp Dutch sky.