Amsterdam
is one of the most appealing cities for foreigners across the globe. It has a
population of around 900,000 people, and 95,000 of those are expats. And
with the population of Amsterdam growing by 10,000 each year, it's safe to say
that that number will only increase.
Amsterdam
is a very welcoming city that offers countless benefits for its residents.
There are numerous job opportunities for locals and foreigners, especially for
high-skilled migrants. The country of the Netherlands is economically and
politically very stable. That stability makes it a great place for starting a
family and planning your future.
It
is well-known that Amsterdam has exceptional nightlife. It has various
concerts, festivals, and sporting events being held throughout the year.
However, Amsterdam also has a rich culture and history, with a theater, museum,
or art gallery always close by.
This
city is truly made for everyone, regardless of age and lifestyle. But, as its
popularity is growing and more and more people are coming in, finding
accommodation becomes difficult.
Every
part of this city offers something special and exciting. However, there are a
few districts where you'll feel the most comfortable as an expat.
South
Amsterdam (or Amsterdam-Zuid) is the poshest area of Amsterdam, with many
western expats living there. It’s a business-centered district with numerous
large and small companies. This district is ideally suited for a
family-oriented lifestyle.
There
are various entertainment sources for the young ones. Many playgrounds and
parks, swimming pools, ice skating spots, and other activities are options to
have fun.
The
adults can also enjoy many cultural exhibits, such as the Van Gogh Museum,
one of the world's most popular museums. Furthermore, there are also multiple
theaters, cinemas, luxury restaurants, shopping centers, and natural sites to
explore.
Amsterdam
Zuid is also known for education opportunities, with four international
schools in the area.
This allows the kids to start their education and
socialization quickly and easily.
Amsterdam
North (or Amsterdam-Noord) is, as the name implies, the northern part of the
city above the river IJ. It's the fastest-growing part of Amsterdam,
with the most recently built buildings in the city. This part of town is best
known for the incredible A'DAM
LOOKOUT, an observation deck to see the beauty of Amsterdam
from 100 meters above the ground.
This
area has countless green surfaces, parks, and even a petting zoo, meaning that
you won't lack spots for recreation and relaxation. The most notable location
is the Noorderparkbad.
This
is a swimming pool complex that offers all kinds of activities for children and
adults.
What
makes this district special is the fact that it's not packed with tourists,
so it's calmer compared to the city center and other areas. Still, it has a lot
of nightclubs, music festivals, and similar events that you might enjoy in
other areas that are popular among visitors.
In
addition, the Amsterdam North district is much more affordable than the city
center, even though it's very close to it (you can get to the center with a
free ferry ride).
Amsterdam
South-East (or Amsterdam-Zuidoost) is another excellent district for expats in
Amsterdam. Its most popular location is the Johan Cruijff ArenA,
the home stadium of AFC Ajax. So, if you're a football fan, we highly recommend
watching a game and experiencing the electric atmosphere.
The
South-East is probably the most artistic part of Amsterdam. The largest cinema
in Amsterdam, the Pathé
Arena, is located in this part of town. It has two floors,
14 rooms, and a capacity of 3,250 seats that create a fantastic ambiance.
Furthermore, street art
is a very popular activity here, with countless
murals, graffiti, and colorful facades decorating the buildings.
Regarding
cultural exhibits, here you can find one of the unique museums of the
Netherlands - the Vrolik
Museum, which has a collection of vintage medical items. Or,
if you'd like to spend your time doing something a bit more relaxing, you can
visit the Bijlmerweide farm and cafe and sample local beers.
This
district is heavily populated with expats from all parts of the world, making
it very easy to settle and fit in. Furthermore, it's much more affordable than
other parts of the city, making it a great choice for saving up on cash while
keeping comfort.
Are
you looking for a peaceful, family-oriented location close to the city center?
In that case, Amstelveen would be your best choice. Amstelveen is just under
the Amsterdam center (on its southern side).
It's
a trendy choice among expats and students, as the International School of
Amsterdam is here, and more than 1,000 students attend it.
The
Amstelveen is culturally packed, such as the:
· Amstelveen Puppet Theater
· Cobra Museum
· Jan van der Togt Museum
· Schouwburg Dance theatre
The
Amstelveen is bordered by the Amsterdamse Bos Park,
a huge park great for taking a walk, cycling, or even skiing in the winter
months. In addition, the entire district is rich with green areas and nature,
so it would be a great choice if you’re the athletic type.
Overall,
its central position, presence of many internationals, and peaceful environment
make it an excellent location for starting a family as an expat.
Although
Amsterdam is considered a small city compared to other world capitals, it's
expanding rapidly. Every year it becomes the home to thousands of new
internationals. As a result, there are a few great options to choose from when
moving there as an expat.
Yet,
with so many people wanting to move here, there is a shortage of housing
spaces. So, it's becoming a little difficult to find an apartment that will fit
your criteria.
Luckily,
services like Dutch
Renting
can help you find the best location according to your
preferences and advise you on choosing the best accommodation that will be
reliable and hassle-free. Besides, they will ensure you don't overpay for a
property and give you all of the info for free - you are charged only when you
successfully rent out a property.
The
only thing left to do is to pack your bags and start your new chapter in one of
the most beautiful cities in Europe.
