I have been coaching expats here and abroad for over a decade. I have friends and family from all over the world, and I have experienced life up close in expat communities here in Amsterdam and also those abroad.
The most pertinent examples of this include my brother, who emigrated to New York many years ago and is now completely settled there with a family and career, and also my best friend who emigrated to Hong Kong in the past and has now recently returned to Amsterdam with his family.
I have already helped many expats adjust to Amsterdam; most often people with prestigious jobs and busy lives. When you emigrate you naturally need plenty of help and support to get your life in order. I assist with all areas; finding an ideal home, choosing the right schools for the children, registering with a good GP, find a dentist, joining clubs, ensuring your partner has something to occupy and fulfill them, maybe learning a little Dutch, etc etc; I have you covered for everything you could think of and more.
Expat Coach and Concierge Service
In Hong Kong they refer to this kind of guidance as Concierge service. Emigration involves so many factors that don’t always occur to expats or that they underestimate. The expats I helped were happy with my assistance, not least because I have an unparalleled knowledge of Amsterdam life, through being born and raised here, not to mention the vast and diverse network I have built up over my life here.
I do something similar for young Dutch people who move here from elsewhere in the Netherlands, and help them transition to life in the big city. For them I am the New In Amsterdam Coach.
Make the Adjustment to Amsterdam Life with Expat Coaching from Simon Markx
There are increasing numbers of expats settling in the Netherlands, and Amsterdam in particular is a common destination for many. There are additionally many Dutch people who move to Amsterdam later in life, perhaps for an employment opportunity, a relationship, or to pursue a course of study. But however you have ended up here, or wherever you have come from, moving to a new city like Amsterdam brings many challenges as you adapt to a new way of life.
It is common knowledge that moving is one of the most stressful things we do in our lives. Add to this the unique complications and difficulties faced by expats, and it can feel too overwhelming to navigate alone. I have spent more than ten years providing guidance to people newly transitioning to Amsterdam, and I am confident I can assist well with any troubles you have.
Practical help
I am myself born and raised in Amsterdam, and I know it like the back of my hand. The city is rich with possibilities; filled with art, music, history, cinema, sport, food, canals, festivals, clubs, you name it. Naturally, it is hard to know where to begin in taking advantage of what Amsterdam has to offer you.
Moreover, when it comes to the less exciting but just as vital matters of practicality, I can comfortably assist you in making decisions surrounding your career or studies, navigating the infamously impenetrable housing market and provide guidance as you make long term plans for your family and children, as they grow up far from home. You should also know that I myself have a large network encompassing many areas.
I also know, on a basic cultural level, how things are ‘done’ in Amsterdam, and what is considered rare or unacceptable. These adjustments are bigger for some people than they are for others. A common gripe among expats is the bluntness of Dutch people, which many see as harsh, and incredibly different to what they are used to in their own culture. If such aspects of life are approached with judgement and a closed mind, then it will be hard to ever feel at home here. It is important instead to possess the same understanding and acceptance that you hope others extend to you.
New friends and opportunities
Just as it is important to seek out new friends and opportunities as you build your Amsterdam community, so is it vital to maintain your friendships and relationships, particularly familial, from back home. This is easier said than done, but many expats feel regretful if they neglect to do so. It is necessary for us to tend to all our gardens, not just the one we are in at the moment.
Ultimately, this transitional period will inevitably have moments of difficulty and unexpected problems will present themselves. It can sometimes feel like many things are coming at you that you cannot control. I am here to guide you through this process, provide clarity and simplicity, and together we can create a new life that you are excited to live.
Expat coach Amsterdam | Markx Coaching
