Expat Life in Utrecht, The Netherlands as Described by an American in Holland

by Tiffany Jarman Jansen
(Utrecht, The Netherlands )

1. In which city are you living?

Utrecht, The Netherlands

2.What is the spoken language, and how much local language do you need to know for daily living?

Dutch is the spoken language. After a year here, I am able to do all my daily activities is Dutch. This is not always necessary, however, as most everyone understands English and speaks it quite well.

3.How is the weather?

It rains a lot and can get pretty windy. Winter days are very short and summer days are very long. There is usually only a week or two of real summer weather. The Netherlands, beautiful as it is, is certainly not known for stellar weather!

4. Is this a good city for families/singles/couples?

Excellent for all the above. Studies have been done that show that the Netherlands is one of the happiest countries in Europe. There is a lot to do and everything is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation. It is one of the major cities in the Netherlands as well as a university city, so there’s always something going on for all ages from all different backgrounds.

5. How are the preschool and day cares?

I do not have personal experience with this, though I have heard nothing but good things. The Dutch Government does give childcare allowances.

6. Are their international schools/American Schools?

There are no international schools directly in the city that I know of, but there are many in neighboring towns and cities that are quite good.

7. Any after school activities?

Yes, there are many varied activities for both Dutch and International schools. I, myself, run such a program.

8. Are there English speaking universities? Or any special programs in the English language at a local university?

I have some Dutch friends that do study in English at the local universities, though I am not aware of any English-only universities in the city.

9. How is the accommodation?

Locations towards the city center can get expensive. There are many nice areas inside and surrounding the city center.

10. How is the healthcare?

The healthcare is fantastic. It is illegal for one to be without healthcare if living or working in the Netherlands and no insurance company can deny you coverage, regardless of financial situation, pre-existing conditions, etc.

Healthcare programs are good and affordable.

11. Is it a pet friendly city?

Yes. You find cats in most restaurants. There is actually a book highlighting the cats of Utrecht. Dog parks and dog toilets are readily available throughout the area. You often see dogs accompanying their owners into shops, restaurants and pubs. My dog is often served at restaurants before I am!


12.Is household help easy to find?

Unfortunately, I have no experience with this.

13. How is the traffic and the public transportation (busses, trains, taxis)?

Public transportation is fantastic – fast, cheap, and easy to use. Buses run regularly and there is a large train station in the city center. Bikes remain the best way to get around. Much is within cycling or walking distance. Car traffic getting around the city is very congested.

14.How is the communication - Cell/land phone, T.V/Cable/Satelite, Internet connection, international calls?

The communication is fantastic. I have been very pleased with calling, internet, and television services.

15.What is the dress code to work and in public?

Most people wear jeans to work actually. Dress is very relaxed. My husband likes to say that the dress code is either suits or jeans – no in between! In public, most Dutchies tend to layer. With the fickle weather this is ideal as you are prepared to add or take away layers as needed.

16.How is shopping for groceries, household items and clothing?

Shopping is a bit expensive. It is cheaper to cook in than it is to eat out. Prices in clothing, groceries, and household items vary based on shops, brand, and availability.

17. Tell us about sport, entertainment, night life, restaurants.

There are many great restaurants, many of which lay right along the canals. It makes for a beautiful dining atmosphere. The city holds frequent running events and there are many gym and sporting facilities to choose from. Utrecht University also has a fantastic sports complex. The Tivoli and Winkel van Sinkel have frequent dance parties and Philimon and Havana are two of the more popular clubs. For great mixed drinks, head to Zussen.

18. How is the expats community?

There is such a large expat community in Utrecht. I am constantly amazed by the number of expats living here. There are many meet up groups and the International Women’s Contact Utrecht is a great community to be involved in. You will often hear people speaking English while walking through the city. Mick O’Connell’s is an authentic Irish pub in the city run by expats from Ireland. It is a popular hangout for expats and they hold several expat events throughout the year.

To learn more about Tiffany 's life in Utrecht visit her blog Clogs and Tulips