Culture Shock

Moving to a new country is for the traveler that seeks to challenge themselves on a daily basis, right? Well, for those that have decided to pack up and call Holland their new home, it couldn't be more true. It's not to say that there aren't good times to be had in this small European country, but from my experience it is one of the most difficult places in the world to obtain great food, an affordable lifestyle, and most importantly a friendly social group!! There are many pieces to the expat puzzle that are often only revealed when you are in your new host country trying to establish a "normal" life. For an aupair in Holland, these pieces tend to be realizations that constantly being broke is inevitable (due to the high prices for food, bars, clothes...etc.) and that the Dutch are not the easiest to befriend. Despite their open-mindedness towards drugs, sexuality, and religion, their everyday social gatherings do not allow for expats to try and find their niche within their new surroundings. This is not to say that there aren't great Dutch people out there, but I must say it is one of the hardest challenges I have faced during my time here. On the plus side, most people speak English and are willing to help an American in need of some directions or suggestions!! I have also come to find that there are TONS of ways to travel in Holland (via bus, tram, metro, train...etc.) which makes things easier at times. Overall, I would let future aupairs know that life in Holland is not a walk in the park and to think if this would be the right fit for them, because this culture is not for the timid!