5 Years in The Netherlands (An Honest Review from an American)

It's been 5 years in the Netherlands...here are 5 reasons why I am still (happy) to be here.
Thanks for the warm welcome Dutchies,
- David
⏰ CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro
02:23 #1 Balance (Time over money)
04:46 #2 Safety & security
08:51 #3 Less comparison & expectations
10:40 #4 Healthier lifestyle
12:48 #5 Slower living
14:26 Ending
📽 OTHER VIDEOS:
• The Dutch Work the Few...
• Dutch 'Sixes' Culture ...
• Why are so many people...
🙏 IF YOU WANT TO SUPPORT ME:
PayPal Donations - paypal.me/davidswen
Buy me a coffee - www.buymeacoffee.com/davidwen
😁 WHO AM I?
I'm David, a Californian living in Amsterdam. I make videos about life in the Netherlands, hiking/traveling, and the Camino de Santiago.

[@thijsmuilwijk8517]

I feel like most Dutch people have forgotten how grateful we should be for living in this country. I hear so many people complain that our country is going to hell while others have it much worse

[@ShinAlive]

There's a lot of good things in the Netherlands, but you shouldn't dismiss the cries for help. Not to delve too deeply into the depressive part, because that would be the opposite of this video's message, but there are a lot of people stuck with their careers and living conditions. Not to be able to find housing can be really debilitating. My personal anecdote: with a well paying job, I couldn't find a place of my own and lived in a student room for 13 years. I was really close to emigrating, with housing being my main source of depression. Appreciate the good things, recognize and identify luck, and empathize with those who are unfortunate. Don't dismiss and ignore.

[@Harrypjotter7]

The danger is, thinking others have it much worse. Forgetting what we had is dangerous.

[@JeromDR]

@@ShinAlive Yeah the housing crisis is insane. Because The Netherlands is so attractive to live in, you're basically competing with the world for an appartment instead of your country. And worldwide there are a lot more rich people who can just buy a home in the Netherlands than a Dutch student who just graduated

[@hirsch4155]

@@JeromDRThere should be restrictions on foreign property ownership but of course your government is much too liberal for that .

[@irmabronder]

Wat is in je hoofd is hoe je de wereld ziet! Nederland is prachtig en een fantastisch land. Deze videos helpen in ieder geval om tijdens mijn verblijf in Engeland om mijn leven nog steeds op zijn Nederlands te leven.

[@Incorruptus1]

"Niet leven om te werken, maar werken om te leven". You learned that very well young sir! My Dutch compliments.

[@SensitivityGames]

now our corperations need to understand the memo XD

[@henkholdingastate]

the biggest mistake people make in life is thinking they have time (live is a short trip, enjoy it) And work is a means, not an end

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words :) And happy holidays!

[@foto2.090]

⁠@@hidavidwen go away, we, the dutch, have a beautiful country. We should never forget that. But, we have BIG problems. We have a big housing problem, we have a big problem with jobs, there are to many jobs. The housing problem is a big problem, but only gets worse because of people such as YOU. You come from a foren country so you come and study there wich costs the dutch government a lot of money. You get a house with tax discounts because you are an foreigner studying in the Netherlands. And you take up space! When you are ready to work (a big problem in the Netherlands is that to many people work part time) you are telling people how great it is that you can work part time! Go to America please

[@fixxa6455]

Thats exactly what Albert Einstein wrote on a memo paper that he handed over to a little child

[@samw5767]

As a 10-year-old American kid living with my parents in Amsterdam in 1970, I got to explore much of the city on my own, without adult supervision. It was the happiest time of my life. I would say to any advocate of true freedom, that you haven’t experienced it until you’ve gotten lost, on purpose, in Amsterdam. Of course, I had Wednesday afternoons off from school that gave me ample time to ride the trams. My parents’ main concern was that I didn’t fall into a canal… and, that I make it home on time for dinner.

[@josephnguyen4548]

Did you learn Dutch while you were there?

[@Wouter-yd3sj]

The good old days sam. Cheers.

[@lucasrem]

samw5767 My Family did the same, i was able to visit downtown LA, and saw how colorful 42 street NC was, Hell kitchen. Amsterdam 1982/1985 ish was the best, the Old Waterloo Square is my earliest memory, that era is lost forever. Nobody will harm a kid, never get involved was all they learned mee, understanding the Metro grid was all i needed.

[@samw5767]

@@josephnguyen4548 Yes- by the end of the year, I was fully conversant, speaking Dutch without my midwestern twang. Unfortunately, I haven't kept it up, although I very much enjoy listening to spoken Dutch-- when native speakers are speaking.

[@MyTubeSVp]

The 70’s were fantastic, right!? 🙌

[@Sarah_b_curiouser]

I moved to the Netherlands in the summer of 2022 to be with my Dutch husband and it has been the absolute best decision of my entire life. I feel more at home, less stressed, less anxious, more healthy and active. I struggle learning Dutch, but I want to because I absolutely plan to get my citizenship. I took a pay cut and sold my home and land to move, and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. The Netherlands isn't for everyone, and you're right, it's not perfect. But there are certainly a lot of things to love

[@chiefpanda7040]

Take your time learning Dutch learn when you are comfortable and not when you are trying to cram information, eavesdrop on people to understand speech patterns (even if it seems strange), listen to Dutch music even if you don’t understand it, and try to think in Dutch what I used to do was think and then try to say the same sentence in my target language

[@AdvdW]

If you ready and you wanna try a Dutch conversation, ask for it. As you know, almost all Dutch people can speak English fluently and we adapt quickly. Sometime too quickly. ☺ Anyways ... welcome to our country and the best wishes for 2024.

[@suicidalbanananana]

In my opinion it's ridiculous that we started demanding that people learn Dutch when since the beginning of time we've all been taught English so we could talk to people from other countries, my language is bonkers, not as bad as some of our neighbors either (looking at France or Germany) but it's still pretty far out there. Good luck trying to learn it, my advice would be don't try and make sense of the grammar rules, just try and memorize how certain things are said instead of trying to learn the weird quirky rules behind it. And know that there is no shame in leaning on spell checkers if Dutch isn't your native language (honestly fine even if it is!)

[@karelvandervelden8819]

Watch news bulletins.

[@sutreB]

@@suicidalbanananana Demanding learling the language the country you want to live in is ridiculous... 🤡

[@LennertWanders]

I love this, you are like a selling card for our country. And most dutch people don't realize this as it is "normal" here so we simply complain about the weather, cost of fuel etc. It is good to set it into a perspective of positivity. Thank you. If everyone contributes to a society, we all benefit. And in the end it will balance out anyway :)

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Lennert. Yeah I’m also comparing about the weather right now haha but overall, it’s a great place to be. Happy new year

[@rdb4996]

To add to the sick leave: we also have care leave. My mother was in hospital for 3 weeks after an accident and I needed to care for my terminally ill father. I could use emergency leave, short term care leave, both fully paid. When that ran out, I used long term care leave while receiving 70% of my salary.

[@hidavidwen]

That’s amazing, so happy to hear this 🙏 thank you

[@Potatoeateriffries]

Im gonna be in the hospital for a long time. Not only do i get 100% of my salary for a year. Then 80%. My girlfriend works somewhere else. The company said to her come back when you feel better about it (also 100% paid leave) which has been 2 months ago now. If everything end this year. I will only pay about €1000 euros (excluding health insurance) I actually thought about this somerimes. If i was born in Amerika i would be dead

[@wn7915]

My parents are from Hong Kong and I am born in The Netherlands. I remember my little niece in Hong Kong, she was only 8 years old and had piles of homework! Even in her summer vacation, many many homework... I have children myself now and they do not have any homework (yet 😅). When I wanted to practice at home, the teacher told me not to do so. The teacher said, school is school and they need the time to breathe and play at home ❤ such an eye opener...

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing! Haha yeah I also had piles of homework in the US...mindset is so different... And hello fellow Canto =)

[@JohnnyJaxmusic]

Man, thanks so much for being such a great ambassador to our country. And im glad you like it so much :) have a great 2024

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the warm welcome :) Happy 2024 🎉

[@bararobberbaron859]

To your 5th point, I'm actually reminded of Lao Tzu: "Nature doesn't hurry, yet everything gets done". And I used that to slow down a bit more, because even as a Dutchy it can get slightly frantic, or at least feel frantic to my Dutch mind. It takes as long as it takes, and if you keep going eventually its done. Yeah I'd make a better profit per hour if I carved/built the tables faster, but I'd also be more prone to mistakes or accidentally cutting myself. I'd rather put in 12 relaxed hours compared to 10 sweaty or 8 frantic hours to get it done. We get very little time on this planet, the less of it I can spend stressed out or sad, the better.

[@nemanjadjukic]

❤ Fully agree, I remind myself daily not to rush anything, as it just contributes to unnecessary stress 😮‍💨

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the reminder! “Nature doesn’t hurry, yet everything gets done.” And happy holidays and new year!

[@jtb357]

The "Brood" painting in the back is the icing on the cake. Sometimes it takes the view of an outsider to appreciate my country a lot more. I glad you like it here. I wish you the best for 2024.

[@hidavidwen]

Aw yeah thanks, wishing you a great 2024 too

[@user-jy3io4iz2p]

I once bumped into Brood in my own street. Turned out he had an art exhibition in town. He did not recognize me 😅

[@liksar]

The Netherlands has been my home since 1987. I came with nothing, but now have more than enough. It was a best decision of my life (thus far). It has given me many chances, and many happy experiences. Once you learn the language, people accept you and involve you more in their lives, offer you promotions. Understanding (or at least doing your best to understand) the language and culture is always really appreciated, and it is basically plain sailing from then on.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks and glad to hear it’s your best decision ever!

[@DangerHuub]

It is very insightful for me, a Dutch guy who's never lived abroad, to hear your points. Thank you for that :) I am indeed very grateful that I'm able to make 'enough' money to live and do things I like and also have the time to do those things :) and ofcourse also to have an affordable health insurance :p

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@kristyoneill601]

Love this. I'm a fellow American living in the Netherlands also for 5 years and all the points you've raised resonate with me. I just desperately miss the sun during the winters lol

[@Iliketurtlezz]

We do as well, dont worry 😂

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Kristy! Glad to hear...oh yeah.....the winters still really bother me...but I do appreciate the seasons here (never had that in California)

[@sallymiller6139]

Yes the lack of sun in the winter

[@Nz-xc4jp]

Yes the winters are horrible, but I love the summers and springs in Netherland. I don't think any countries have better springs and summers.

[@alicekoppenol-pitti6257]

I always smile when I read comments like this. The thing is like anything you took for granted, you'll appreciate it more when the sun does shine through. Then again having a little more time to yourself the easy accessibility into Europe allows you to travel to the sun for a few days. Being originally from the Caribbean I have learned to appreciate the rain just as much as the sun because like in any meaningful relationship you learn to embrace the good and not so good.

[@moshemordechaivanzuiden]

As an ex-Dutch, I loooved your vlog. On food, you forgot: smaller portions. I like that with the Dutch, you can criticize from a good place without being perceive as being negative.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! Haha yeah criticism is acceptable here! For food, what smaller portions would you recommend?

[@loopingmoon1444]

@@hidavidwen I think they are referring to the amount of food you get served at restaurants being smaller then America which also helps regulate eating.

[@freekpluimers]

What is an ‘ex’-Dutch?

[@lilianhu4095]

Nice to hear your review. Im a Chinese born in the Netherlands and have had my share of cultural/family pressure and mental health issues arising from it. At the same time I realize that I sailed through it quiet smoothly thanks to the systems here. Very thankful for that and nice reminder hearing you explain it so well.

[@tomtom2806]

Europeans call their appreciation for life work life balance: Life matters more than work. And that means good food, nice urban and rural life styles, doing everything slowly, not in a rush, being relaxed, allowing to be free, happy and content in the present moment, perceiving and enjoying the beautiful world, being in harmony with your surrounding and yourself.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing, agree :)

[@henrietn]

It does depend "where" in Europe. I live in the Flanders region of Belgium, and work here dominates your way of life, a stark contrast to the Walloon part of Belgium. The Dutch in general have a more relaxed mindset when it comes to work, which I can appreciate

[@journeyofarealestateagent]

That's why i left holand for Portugal last year... Best decision i ever made

[@pfmiedke7085]

Wat ontzettend mooi dat je tot deze inzichten bent gekomen, dat zijn wijsheden waar je wat aan hebt in je verdere leven!

[@hidavidwen]

🙏🙏

[@ThaKnopMe]

Also our work culture where even if you work for a big corporation you can just address the CEO with their first name is so calming.

[@hidavidwen]

True! Less hierarchy

[@maya.nejmeh]

I told this to everyone and I still do, i get so high on life every single day realising and observing I’m in this beautiful country with all its things and I don’t think this feeling will ever stop. Grateful for every single detail (4 years so far in NL) en ik heb Nederlands geleerd binnen twee jaar omdat ik het heel graag wilde🤍en het is oprecht geen moeilijke taal zoals alle Nederlanders denken hahahaha

[@hidavidwen]

Great for you, go Maya!

[@hollydingman7455]

Language learning tips??? Ik ben hier al drie jaar, en mijn schoonmoeder heeft me heel veel geholpen met mijn Nederlands, maar ik zou heel graag een cursus vinden om mijn grammatica te verbeteren…

[@Eind_hoven]

​@@hollydingman7455Maybe take a page from the teacher's books how they teach their children? And yes, that is a serious suggestion. You can't understand the basics if you start from a fluency in another man's tongue. It took me a brain heamorage and relearning my native tongue. As an explanation: Native Dutch speaker using learnt English to transition back to Dutch. (A completely destroyed speaking centre combined with an aphasia)

[@BrazenNL]

It's surprising to me that it takes someone a couple of years to understand what we think about how life should be lived. Arrogant as I am, I always think that "they" don't understand. I love seeing how people go through that journey, that change, and I accept if they don't end up in the same place. Thank you for sharing your view on life and I hope you will be able to accomplish the goals you've set, if any. Happy holidays, and I'm sure you're taking them now. 😄 Have a great 2024, David.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks :) Haha yeah…I’ve realized there’s a difference between understanding and actually living certain values/mindsets-and it takes time! And let’s say for example…it took (sometimes not so nice) life experiences for me to truly ‘experience’ what a social system is like and having a safety net (plan to talk more about it later) (Oh sometimes I wish things were faster in life haha) Happy holidays! David

[@libbywish7123]

You are blessed to be living in the Netherlands. The US has become extremely divided over the last decade and exceedingly expensive. The work/life balance you describe sounds like a dream. I work excessive OT just to stay afloat. I don’t have a car payment or credit card debt but the cost of living has become so unreasonable that everyone I know is struggling, depending on what area they live in due to housing costs.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Can only hope that things get better 🙏 Happy holidays

[@ryanalexander5438]

Plenty of people here are in the same situation. Mostly the middle class.

[@ml8022]

Divided by 2 grandpa's lol....crazy country usa has become

[@annekathleen4498]

The Netherlands is also divided and very expensive

[@ml8022]

@@annekathleen4498 The Netherlands isn't any way near as divided as the US are.

[@hernantibolla64]

I got quite emotional at 13:50 because the same thing happened to me and that is one of many reasons I'm moving to NL. I want a simple and happy life now, not in 30 years. Thanks for this and for sharing, David!

[@sutreB]

Germany and Belgium are also nice countries and probably more change of getting a house. Greetings a Dutch guy (looking for a house).

[@kankerbanaan]

@@sutreBdoor deze video nog minder huizen XD verdomme haha

[@sutreB]

​@@kankerbanaan Kan Ken ermisschien wat aan doen in ruil voor wat bananen?

[@hernantibolla64]

Thanks for your feedback@@sutreB ! The housing crisis is the only thing that really worries me. But we are up to taking that risk, because we've been in Germany and Belgium too and we haven't fell in love of those places as we did in NL. We really think it's the place for us. Hope we are right haha (we also don't mind living in the outside or rural areas the first years)

[@melissavang3167]

I have been feeling exactly the same way about my life in the US as you described. Thank you for the videos and creating this community! It's nice to know I'm not alone in my thoughts and feelings. Hoping to some day make life in the Netherlands a reality and this gives me hope.

[@hidavidwen]

Aw thanks for sharing. And you’re welcome. You’re definitely not alone! My favorite quote from my favorite book “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” - The Alchemist Best of luck!

[@richardheumann1887]

We need people to come and work here. We need you badly because we are all getting old and there are not enough young people to take care of things. So now is a good time to come here!

[@zarakikon6352]

You're more than welcome here, should you be able to move. We're not perfect but definitely less fear- and stressful than the US.

[@eddim1433]

I moved to the Netherlands from Seattle in October, 2022. My partner and I were able to buy a small apartment for 160k euros (which would NEVER happen in Seattle) and we are living a simpler and happier life that doesn’t revolve around work and status. My biggest worry is learning Dutch well enough to pass the assimilation exam.

[@strawberrykatnz]

It's doable, I did them! If you can access online or in person classes I highly recommend Direct Dutch in Den Haag. They got me from beginner to B2 minus within two months flat as I did the intensive courses. They're pricey, but worth every single cent. I found the integration exams insanely easy as a result. I literally laughed out loud at some of the questions in the exam room by accident 😂 the supervisor was like, "everything alright?" And I was like, "Perfect, thanks."😂

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing and glad to hear you’re able to buy your own place. 160k euros…yeah impossible in Seattle! Best of luck learning the language and to a new life! 🎉🎉

[@LisaKokx]

I've heard that it can be a difficult language to learn but I'm sure you've got this! I know I'm just a stranger but if you ever need someone to practice with I wouldn't mind exchanging socials and helping you out a little

[@hollydingman7455]

It’s not so difficult to learn if you can just find an older Dutch person to practice with (more patience and more “proper” than young Dutch). I have an older neighbour who likes to practice her English and wants to help me with my Dutch - we swap practice session some times. I think there are also language learning clubs where retirees volunteer. Would highly recommend something like that. The more you can listen to real Dutch being spoken, the better. You’ll just soak it up!

[@KelvHuff]

As a Dutchy (born and bred) I really don't mind people that come here and are able and willing to adept to it's culture, work ethics and laws. But what is becoming worse, is that some who come here don't learn to speak Dutch. More and more I feel a tourist in my own country.

[@puciohenzap891]

The Netherlands is crumbling because of the asylum seekers, it has and must be told and it's the last call of duty for the native Dutch to stand up and fight.

[@dmadhav4867]

learning a new language takes time

[@KitGerrits]

There is also a reason not to invest in learning a very complex language: the first few years, you get a discount in income tax, so most people only plan to stay a few years. When the icin😢g tax goes up (significantly, often from 30% to 50%), people will often move to another country that accepts English speakers.

[@dmadhav4867]

@@KitGerrits yes sir , but it is what it is.

[@ankapabu2834]

Liebe Niederländer, mein schriftliches Niederländisch ist noch schlechter, als mein gesprochenes. Deshalb schreibe ich auf Deutsch. Jedesmal wenn ich in den Niederlanden bin (ziemlich oft) und es mit meinem schlechten Niederländisch versuche, wird mir auf Deutsch oder Englisch geantwortet. Wie soll ich es dann lernen? Falls jemand hierauf antworten möchte, gerne auf Niederländisch. Lesen kann ich es nämlich meistens. ❤ Groetjes

[@peterv8]

Wow what a beautiful story, it makes me appreciate my country even more. Naval Ravikant's saying is very much a thing we live by.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words 🙏 And yes!

[@noimnl]

I really love this latest vlog. It made me realize more that NL is really my dream country to settle down. Thank you and congrats on your 5 years in The Netherlands! 🎉

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words and best of luck to you! Happy new year

[@noimnl]

@@hidavidwen Happy New Year!! ✨🌷

[@jharrisvball]

Another great video David! Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! And happy 2024 🎉

[@shanicestella2226]

I also like the Dutch concept of” Its okay to be average but nothing taboo to being excellent at something , but once you’re succeeded , don’t be arrogant “ I think the over-competitive and capitalistic American society are very empashized on Keeping Up with the Jones aspect of “ You are loser for being average and cannot stand the heat of competition “ I feel everything in America is competition even in the area that supposedly not touched by competitiveness

[@FrankHeuvelman]

Competition is for apes. We, as in we humans, are supposed to be beyond that evolutionary state. But If we truly stand above the animals, we should already have learned that cooperation is the logical next step to grow as a species. I.o.w, smart, but not smart enough.Those in power prefer us that way.

[@EGO0808]

The Dutch are even arrogant in their strive for mediocrity, go figure...

[@ryanalexander5438]

Like it or not , that competition is what has lead to the innovations we enjoy. There is almost zero Innovation in Europe which piggybacks off of America. Now is all of this innovation a good thing? I'd say it's arguable. But humans are competitive by nature and progress is ingrained in us.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing…I’ve come to appreciate the concept as well. Though…what I do like is that it’s acceptable and OK to be average. And not to be arrogant if you do succeed. What I personally still value about American culture is going ‘above and beyond’ (for something you care about)…if you have a dream, GO FOR IT-I value the optimism. And the pursuit of excellence. So competing against yourself to make yourself better…but hopefully not competing just to be better than others. Not sure if that makes sense, getting late haha…thanks for sharing, happy holidays

[@j.p.vanbolhuis8678]

@@ryanalexander5438 I think you underestimate the innovation in europe. ASML would be an indication that your view may not be fully correct.

[@senoner90]

You mentioned the Polish girl who liked coming to a country where there aren't the social pressures. But I think that one needs to take into account that a lot of social pressure comes from family and close friends and if you move to another country, you don't have your family there and initially you have few friends, so of course no random person who doesn't know you is gonna put social pressure on you. Certainly there are differences between the Netherlands and Poland, but this may be the main factor at play in my opinion.

[@deleteme924]

I think Western Europe in general has less family pressure than Eastern Europe

[@user-jy3io4iz2p]

Maybe these pressures come from within ourselves. Giving in into something one does not really want... Changing location make it look like it is the environment that has changed but actually it is you avoiding argueing/dissapointment/shame?

[@mauroivaldi1818]

My girlfriend and I we are looking forward to move to the Netherlands this year…this videos are super helpful. Thanks

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks 🙏 best of luck! 2024!

[@NinaAnthonijsz]

I only started to appreciate my country of birth, The Netherlands, after a disastrous attempt to make a life for myself in the USA. Unfortunately the last 20 years, The Netherlands is deteriorating badly, more and more adopting structures from the USA. Up until 20 years ago our medical insurance system used to be a non profit one. It used to be perfect for the people but companies were able to convince the government to change it.

[@onnol917]

It was not perfect. The cost efficiency was not up to par and would bankrupt us today. How free the market is now however also leaves a lot to be desired. Mainly how insurance companies control prices

[@Samplesurfer]

In the 1990s only 65% of the Dutch population had "Ziekenfonds" health insurance, which was only for lower incomes in regular jobs. 35% had "Ziektenkostenverzekering": * higher incomes (the threshold was roughly the wage after 1 year for a typical academic degree job) * entrepreneurs, shop owners, farmers, agricultare contract workers and other self-employed * students on scholarships / bourses / grants / money from parents, who didn't had a side job (allowing them into Ziekenfonds) * some categories of retirees. Most retirees however moved into "Ziekenfonds" after retirement, as their pensions payed out 70% of the last earned wage. A well known problem was MDs and Dentists were allowed to refute "Ziekenfonds" patients and only accept privately insured patients in their practice. Your idea about "how good the old health care fund / health insurance" system was is a bit to much seen through pink glasses.

[@NinaAnthonijsz]

Compared to today, what was _not_ better, regarding Ziekenfonds healthcare, in your opinion? Dentistry is not covered at all, right now, without paying for extra insurance. Which is a huge problem for the state of people's oral health in general. Then there is also the different insurance companies where the medical professionals are opting to be working with. Which ultimately gives the same result as them rejecting ziekenfonds patients in the 'olden days'.

[@rutgerb]

​@NinaAnthonijsz as someone who has worked for several branches of the Dutch government I can say: everything in the private sector is cheaper and more efficient

[@gilibran]

​@@Samplesurfer Not to mention you still payed for it only your employee witheld the contribution for "het ziekenfonds" from your monthly income but people just never checked their payslip. When the system changed the part that was witheld monthly by the employee was now added to the monthly income and people had to start paying the contribution themselves and choose their own insurance. Offcourse the cost increased over time, not just inflation but rising cost due to more elderly needing care and a growing population. All in all cost did not increase that much and it's still relatively cheap compared to the cost of treatments, there are also alot of people who pay less becasue they dont earn that much and the government pays part of their contribution. In the end nothing is for free, it might have looked like it but it never was.

[@hermandegroot1946]

I am a 77 yo male from Venlo, (70km) very very good video. I am a little happier now. Money is not everything. You are a clever man. Dutch Congress ? Happy 2024.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Herman. Haha Dutch Congress. I am not into politics…happy holidays

[@bertkassing8541]

Hello David, So nice to see another video from you. I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying your stay in the Netherlands. Five years already. Worthy of congratulations. You know, every country has advantages and disadvantages compared to other countries. But on average we are doing quite well in the Netherlands. People can be themselves and I quite like that. Whoever or whatever you are, it's okay. I hope you can last a while in the Netherlands. Big regards, Bert

[@FrankHeuvelman]

We are one, Bert. That's all there is to it. When your country is flooding, you have no time to fight about trivialities. Bit like Japan, only without the vertical power structure. That's why you don't see people looting stores in times of crisis. Just like in our country. We are one. Always have been. With thanks to the Spanish Inquisition and 80 years of war against Spain and a few wars against the budding British Empire.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Bert for always being welcoming. Yeah, I like how people can be themselves. Enjoy and happy new year!

[@ghostindamachine]

Really awesome video :) Glad you feel at home here and have adapted well. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and process.

[@hidavidwen]

You’re welcome and thanks for the kind words 🙏

[@carinamarques92]

Love this content! Bringing awareness is such an important step into moving forward!

[@MartinWebNatures]

You always have a positive look on our country. Glad you love it here. I wish you a happy healthy 2024

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! And happy and healthy 2024 to you too!

[@stella505]

Great video David, I really appreciate that I found your chanel!

[@hidavidwen]

Aw thanks for the kind words! And happy new year 🎉

[@aislingbooks]

Very nice compilation of choices, David - weighing them and even using interesting charts to back your opinions and personal conclusions. I feel the same as you. Happy New Year!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! I usually do a lot of reflection during year end and especially hitting 5 years…thought to share. Happy holidays!

[@newagepianist]

Hi David, great observation! I live 21 years in The Netherlands and feel absolutely the same 🙂.

[@hidavidwen]

Aw glad to hear even after 21 years, you still feel the same. I wonder how 21 vs. 5 years feels like but hey…if I get there, I’ll see :) Happy new year 🎉

[@Sammy-1304]

respect, for leaving everything behind and coming here!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks. It’s not easy and I do find it challenging to be away from loved ones…happy holidays

[@debby7535]

Hi David, I sent your vidio to my boyfriend in Indonesia, who wants to come to me in the Netherlands, to learn the culture. Thank you for your detailed information. Have a nice day 😊

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words 🙏 Glad to hear!

[@DevonHolzwarth]

I really enjoyed your video and perspectives! We moved from California to Germany in ‘12 for work, but stayed so our kids could grow up here. It’s not always great (the winters can def be depressing), and there are challenges with language. You usually make less money here, but you have more time, more security and overall it feels more peaceful and safe. Not having to worry about school gun violence is life changing. The biggest drawback for us is not having family here.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Devon! Can totally relate. I also find it really challenging to be so far from family. Luckily with hybrid/remote work now + amount of vacation days…ironically I see my family in San Francisco more living in Europe than when I lived in Los Angeles… But it’s still hard being so far away. If you have any tips, would love to hear!

[@DevonHolzwarth]

Or you could get a ‘sad lamp’ for more light exposure. Getting out everyday for walks seems sufficient for us…the sun is there, just on a dimmer 😆

[@nannik432]

Great story, beautiful honesty. As for the US, I hope it will make its society more humane🙏

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks 🙏

[@raymonddekkers9194]

Thanks for sharing and explaining it so well.👍🏻 The way you have described it. It gives a renewed sense of pride to be Dutch. Something I think a lot have forgotten. I'm a sucker for sayings. And with social media and all. I think to many people live their lives by the saying off; "The grass is greener on the other side." Instead of "NOT always greener on the other side. Thanks for reminding us.

[@axllii]

From your name i see you're a man of elevated culture and physical conditioning! ❤👍👍😀

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words 🙏 🇳🇱

[@TheSimArchitect]

Happy holiday season and thanks for another greatly put and accurate video! 🥂🥂👏🏻👏🏻

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words and happy holidays 🎉

[@TheSimArchitect]

You surely deserve it! Happy New Year! 🥂@@hidavidwen

[@commentsarefree4311]

Great Video David. Glad you enjoy the Netherlands and are happy.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words, take care 🙏

[@Recraw7]

Great video David. Thanks for sharing!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks and happy new year!

[@DrDanielRoberto]

Cheers friend for making this interesting video. It makes me realize I take too much for granted here in de Netherlands. I hope you are well and are finding a good home here.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks 🙏

[@randomoto928]

I've lived in SF and abroad, and have recently started contemplating moving somewhere in the Netherlands (or Brussels, or Paris). I've spent plenty of time there and agree on all your points, though I'd add the automotive "culture" in the U.S. is totally out of control, and personally I'm desperate to escape it. So it's great to hear the perspective of someone with a similar background who's lived there a while. Thanks for sharing your experiences. I'm genuinely excited to watch more of your videos. Nice pigeon shot at the end, too. That's Kubrick-level stuff! Keep up the great work, dude.

[@bebobism]

Most Dutch hate pigeons and call them 'vliegende ratten' ( flying rats) 😁

[@mabu1760]

@@bebobism That's is not true and the flying rats thing may have come from a certain game called GTA. #gelul#dus

[@bebobism]

@@mabu1760 GTA , laat me nie lachen. 😂

[@Niosus]

I'd recommend against Brussels. If you're looking for a big city, Antwerp or Ghent are probably going to be a nicer experience. Not that you can't have a good time in Brussels, but it has more of those "big city problems".

[@randomoto928]

@@Niosus Thanks. I love Brussels, even with its big city problems. Antwerp and Ghent are great, too.

[@jorgegustavoortiz7717]

I worked in a Hospital lab for 28 years in several states in the US and MANY people would NOT take vacations to get that time paid instead, or towards retirement. Some people died of heart attacks at work or right after retirement... I never did that. I took my time to travel. Some people in Miami had three jobs or two and a half... Crazy. Some others continue to work to their age 80's... I retired last year at 61, ALWAYS took my vacations to travel, and this August 2024 I am MOVING to France to study French, and truly doubt I would EVER come back to live here. Right now I live in Los Angeles, the MOST expensive city in the US. This is it... Enough abuse...

[@edebruinify]

What a great, analytical and honest video! Thanks for sharing your thoughts, greetings from Rotterdam

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks and happy holidays!

[@joseemartin1689]

Dear David, thank you so much for this video. I'm quite aware of how privileged we are here in our little country. You said it so eloquently, and you made us realize that we should be grateful and that we must work diligently, in order to keep it this way. Have a very happy live among us.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words and wish you a great year :)

[@Eitner100]

I was born in Amsterdam, but also grew up in Germany and Spain. Retired going towards 70 in a year and a half, I live in Germany for several reasons. The Netherlands is much faster than Germany (except when I drive 250 km per hour on the Autobahn, feeling like a slug when entering The Netherlands). Germany lives in the 80s. We still use the fax, write letters, put them in envelopes and send them on their way. The level of education in Germany is far lower than in The Netherlands (place 13 worldwide against place 9 for The Netherlands. See OESO). Internet in Germany is amazingly slow and only on place 52 worldwide. We have a huge national debt and only 42% of the Germans speak another language but their own, and mostly a very mediocre English Arnold Schwarzenegger style but far worse. I visit The Netherlands once a month to buy Asian food unavailable here. From curry to Indonesian spekkoek (my stepfather was Indonesian). It always surprises me how extremely expensive The Netherlands are. From food to gas and from a stay in a simple hotel to restaurants. But I like The Netherlands and its people.

[@suicidalbanananana]

🤤God yes ima get me some spekkoek, thanks for the idea.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing. I’m currently in Spain traveling with Germans and so I can understand :) happy holidays to you

[@nnnn7404]

Very well explained, glad to have you here in the Netherlands. Keep working (not too much )and enjoying the Netherlands.

[@ErinMcCoy3]

Great video as always, thanks David!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks Erin!

[@m4rcuz701]

Good to hear you're enjoying yourself. As a "Hollander" I can totally agree on what you say about "it doesn't have to be done instantly, it doesn't (always) have to be done right now". In a way that's "key". Just ensure that you're doing it properly.. Wishing you many happy years over here. (As long as you keep up with the; doe maar normaal, dan doe je al gek genoeg.. 😜) 👊🏻

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@Michael154]

Slow living and living in the present moment is what life is all about. It makes for the most rewarding life.

[@hidavidwen]

Agree Michael. Happy holidays

[@kaydesign]

A very good combination from experiences and (social) data. Very impressive insights. Thanks!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks =) Happy holidays and new year!

[@bjorncamps4841]

Insane video! Makes me appreciate my country more and more. Thank you for that.

[@hidavidwen]

🙌🙌

[@Lintary]

When people asked me why I worked 4 days even when I was in retail vs now doing a bit better the answer was and always will be the same, I value time more than money. Money is a resource you can earn more or less as you choose to a degree, time is simply what you have been given it is the most precious of resources you have. As they also put it here, no one on their death bed will say that they wished to have spend more time in the office, enjoy your life, be around friends and family, that is what matters not the number on your bank account, half of which goes to the government when you die anyway.

[@TrinyDade-cm8oc]

I also work 4 days. It gives me time to spend with my children, they are grown ups now but still need my help in one way or another. Making memories is more important than making loads of money in my opinion. I have my apartment, my small car and not that much to worry about tbh. Yes I complain sometimes, I am Dutch and it's in my genes. :-) I don't think I would like to live in a country where it's everyone for themselves and f#ck the rest of the planet. Peace of mind is priceless.

[@ryanalexander5438]

​@@TrinyDade-cm8oc in a way it sounds like you do live like that. Maybe I'm wrong but you seem to be more concerned about how you feel than contribute to society. Working 4 days means that you pay less taxes and less work is done. Then more people need to be hired. So they get them from abroad. Then more houses are needed but there aren't enough so prices go up.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Could be different if one loves their job but data shows 70-80% of people worldwide are not engaged in their jobs…so yeah quality time > money

[@ryanalexander5438]

@@hidavidwen if your comment was directed at me, that would be a different issue and I don't disagree. I was referring to the other commenter who seemed to infer that Americans are only concerned about themselves. I'm not American but I think that the entrepreneurial spirit there is in fact very altruistic

[@laurascheenloop9475]

@@ryanalexander5438 Are you seriously questioning my contribution to Dutch society? Roflmho. Alright, I'll bite. I am 59 years old and have been working since I was 15. I raised a family during time while also doing a HBO study. I don't know you and you obviously don't know me. I do the work I was hired to do, plus extra, in 4 days and the owner who pays my salary seems to be very pleased. Not more people needs to be hired to do my job. You seem to have negative feelings about immigrants, you are entitled to your feelings. Just don't try to mirror them on me. Thanks.

[@ghostqueen2082]

Nice to hear a young person choosing the Dutch Dream; I like your insights into Dutch lifestyle...hopefully you find some gezelligheid here as well...

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the warm welcome! I’ve definitely found some gezelligheid (getting more of it) during my time here (especially after COVID)…happy holidays and new year!

[@ghostqueen2082]

@@hidavidwen yes indeed; the world could use more gezelligheid right now...Happy New Year to you I look forward to more videos of your adventures in Nederland it certainly is a very interesting time to be alive 🥂🫶🍀🐉🌷✨

[@Ashburnmom]

Literally everything I noticed on my 4 day trip to Amsterdam. Really loved it there and felt happier there than I have been in a long time… thanks for the awesome video!!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@wpapril1978]

so well explained, thanks you for sharing your honest story❤

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words :)

[@huishaai]

Great stuff, and love the Herman Brood :)

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! 🖼️ happy holidays

[@neoxochitl]

This is how I felt when I first moved to Norway from Los Angeles. I took the time to study Norwegian (I love the language and still try to study up Nynorsk but read books in Bokmål) Sadly I made a huge mistake of going back to the USA after a bad break up and now I feel stuck here. :(

[@Ni5ei]

If it's not family obligations the only thing that can keep you stuck there is in your mind. Go back to Norway and be happy.

[@neoxochitl]

@@Ni5eiyou’re so right and what I needed to read this morning ❤ thank you.

[@kellypeters5379]

How sad to hear that. It must feel strange feeling home sick for a country that used to be foreign to you. Norway is a beautiful country and the people are so friendly, I get why you would miss it. I hope you will find your way back very soon, good luck. 😊

[@neoxochitl]

@@kellypeters5379thank you for your kind words ❤

[@PhilG221]

Good luck on making the move back to Norway. You got this.

[@MarkGelderland]

Interesting video, good arguments. Love the Herman Brood on your wall btw

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks! 🖼️🌞

[@curwinsamuels5773]

Great video. Family of 4 from South Africa, been here just over a year. It's challenging, but all the reasons you mentioned resonate.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks, best of luck and to a great 2024!

[@plumbummanx]

It's not the country one lives in, it's one's personal attitude toward life. Good philosophical Vlog.

[@dlovas]

The points made here were all sociological, precisely addressing how numerous factors beyond personal choices impact one's life.

[@joostdriesens3984]

This is a terribly superficial comment.. 😆 I live in the Netherlands and have many international colleagues. I would not dare to say this to my colleagues from Iran, Ukraine, Zimbabwe, former East Germany etc.

[@dlovas]

@@joostdriesens3984 Don't confuse them with countries they couldn't spot on the map 😉

[@VincentGroenewold]

And having money and no kids. :)

[@LeftoverHamsters]

As I work toward moving my family to the Netherlands, your videos have been very helpful. Thank you!

[@MisterRockAlot]

Don't it's full

[@vestbentje8931]

We are full

[@lucasrem]

Wow, that's a big steep for a Hamster, why leave it all behind ?

[@bryan2c854]

Dont do it. High taxes, terrible healthcare, housing crisis, energy crisis/cost of living in general for most people is almost impossible to get by, and depressing weather year round. Idk where you are from. But these videos hide how it actually is like living in this country. Dutch people have this superiority complex if you point out the issues in their country. They refuse too look at the bad things ''because atleast we arent like ...

[@ChristiaanHW]

@@bryan2c854 let's put your negatives into some context. high taxes: yes the taxes in The Netherlands are on the high side, but you get a lot back for it (safety, good healthcare, good infrastructure, being safe from the sea etc). if we would lower taxes and let the population pay for all those things themselves (the US model) you would end up with a lot less disposable income afterwards. terrible healthcare: where do you get that from? our healthcare is advanced and the prices are decent for most on the citizens. there's a reason out life expectancy is on of the highest in the world. housing crisis: yes we have a big housing shortage resulting in higher prices for the existing housing stock and long waiting lists for social housing. this is partly because there simple aren't enough houses build, partly because of the people immigrating to The Netherlands, partly because of investors buying up houses to make a buck and partly because of the high amount of "refugees/asylum seekers" coming to The Netherlands. each of these situations are partly to blame for the housing crisis and together they make it a big problem to. add to that that we want to be on the forefront of lessening climate change. so the government has set really ambitious goals, and because of those climate goals we now have to much nitrogen in our nature areas. and because those nitrogen levels are higher than the set goals a lot of building projects are on hold, which in turn makes it so even less housing is being build. high energy prices: this is something most of the world is dealing with right now because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and other smaller conflicts around the world. but we aren't as bad of as a lot of other places. and if we accelerate our transition to wind and solar power those costs will come down quick. the weather: not everyone thinks 20> degrees and ample of sun is perfect weather. it's all about personal preferences, so what you would call "depressing weather" someone else might call "his/hers ideal weather" and vise versa. as long as the people that come over to The Netherlands come via the legal way and will contribute to the nation/Dutch society there is a place for them. and most Dutch people would welcome you. ps: and please if you come over and plan to stay for 5> years learn Dutch, we understand and mostly speak English pretty well but if you're really want to become part on the people it's just polite to learn the local language. this also will mean it will be a lot more easy to find Dutch friends and integrate into other groups. because we don't always like to have to translate everything because 1 of the group doesn't speak Dutch, it's takes more effort to speak another language.

[@helenooft9664]

Happy New Year David, and what a beautiful vlog, and you are already 5 years in the Netherlands and i always enjoy your vlogs. I am Dutch and happy in my country, because i live my live the way i want to complement it. Nothing to do with act Normal. And yes i love the working hours in the Netherlands, and free and payed holiday's. When i worked 8 hours a week, i was very ambitious, i want to be the best, but only at working hours. And i didn't look what other people buy in their houses, or cars, if they are happy with its ok. I just dont want to live from paycheck to paycheck, or with stress. And not everything is ok in the Netherlands, women still dont earn the same salary as a man, if they have the same job. I dont mind to pay high taxes in the Netherlands, because we get a lot back.

[@albertofourie3294]

Well said! Wish you many more happy years in NL!

[@hidavidwen]

Aw thanks means a lot!

[@freekoverdevest235]

We moved as a Dutch family of four to Denmark this year. It is even more quiet here and cheaper . It is the Netherlands of at least 25 years ago. We are loving it.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing oh wow…Netherlands 25 years ago? Would be interested in hearing how that’s like vs. modern day NL?

[@teunvdkeur9615]

Isn’t it ‘more quiet’ because you don’t talk / talk less to the people there bcs you don’t speak danish?

[@freekoverdevest235]

@@teunvdkeur9615 no, that’s not the case. People are less in a rush here. Are definitely more friendly and social then the Dutch. And my danish is coming along very well thanks to free danish lessons and the will to learn it as quickly as possible. My kids, 6 and 8 years old are even going faster. I need to keep up.

[@VincentGroenewold]

Agreed, lived there for a year as well. Couldn't get to speak Danish unfortunately, but liked it a lot. Taxes and any communication with the government is so easy, fully digital, it was great in my opinion. Quiet as well, kinda miss it.

[@JJimsky]

I have lived in both. The Netherlands and Denmark are very comparable. However The Netherlands density is way higher than in Denmark. So i get your point, it is more "quiet" but it is more expensive to life there (not housing).

[@alfreddaniels3817]

Very good observation and understanding 👍👍. In the 90’s I spend seven years in the USA, mostly California. The only relaxing factor there was the weather. I think the American lifestyle is very detrimental to mental health.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing. The weather helps a lot but I get your point :)

[@teresanaranjo490]

Yes, I agree with you. I lived in UK and, unfortunately, the conservatives are trying to mirror the US. They started the process by leaving the EU. Many Brits do not realised that at some point their working rights will not mirror the European ones anymore.😢

[@Wouter-yd3sj]

I wish you a happy new year David. Cheers.

[@hidavidwen]

Happy new year to you, Wouter! Hope you have a great 2024

[@alanaUK]

❤Beautifully expressed and I couldn’t agree more. Thanks for sharing your experience and view❤

[@hidavidwen]

🙂 Thanks for the kind words!

[@DeSjeft]

Living, or being born in The Netherlands is like winning the jackpot. There's no other place where everyone has it as good as in The Netherlands.

[@hidavidwen]

🙌🙌

[@nicmemak]

Switzerland?

[@DeSjeft]

@@nicmemak That would be very good too :)

[@titisariman8381]

You can choose to live in Suriname an ex-Colony of the Netherlands and have the same benefit what you have in the Netherlands more freedom less money but still cheaper with extra bonus the tropical weather what you can not enjoy in the Netherlands . I have been living in the US for 30 years and I am choked up till my neck . Decided to go back to my sweet Suriname . We always think that the grass is greener at the other side . But like David said live comfortable with less money and less stress will prolonged your life health and happiness . Do not chase wealth in exchange for the precious life that is freely given to us by the Creator. Look for Happiness within a small budget.

[@edwinvdv7030]

In The Netherlands it's perfectly normal to work part time, especially for couples. When I was younger (25-35) I worked fulltime, but after I married, I shifted to 4 days a week and later on to 3,5 days a week. My wife is working 3 days a week. Together we have a good income and my pension will be sufficient. It helps that we live in a small town, where life (especially housing) is much cheaper than in Amsterdam. Time is the most precious thing you have in your life. Thank you for your review; as you say: my country is not perfect but it has some very positive things to it that are so common for me that often I don't realize how precious they are. I wish you all the best!

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words, yeah always good to look at the positives too!

[@erikabee3498]

I think it is so great for you to see the advantages of the Netherlands And still remind all your Japanese and American mindsets. David, you are so welcome here (for me!) Yes! You are very welcome here!

[@deezet9518]

I don’t know what you’re aiming at, but of course he is welcome here! Everybody that adds something to our community is welcome for every Dutch person. It’s the people that come here and do not add, but only want to profit without contributing and still complain and demand more, that are not welcome. I think that’s only logic and natural.

[@Aatje21]

Fun video, great to watch! Thanks for coming over :)

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!

[@just1it1moko]

As a dutchman being in a relationship with a Japanese women we can't really convey our feelings on work to each other. I'd always ask japanese people, "whats the point in working this hard if you don't have a life outside of it to enjoy the money you're working so hard for?" Usually the answer is "its just what it is." In Japan your job is your life. Quitting your job is seen as extremely shameful and being fired even moreso. In the netherlands we put our live as the center around which we work. My boss has always understood that I have no desire to be busy with work outside my working hours. and I even flew to Japan for 1 and half months this year while getting paid. Whenever I meet people from all these beautiful places around the world (Caribbean, Indonesia, Australia) I always ask them: "why would you choose to live in this dreary boring and often depressing looking place while you used to live in a paradise." And all of them always say, beaches and the sun are nice but the fun often wears off quite fast with lots of social and economic problems they still prefer living here. We're not perfect but life here is good.

[@bryan2c854]

I feel like if you are satisfied working part time and staying poor than the Netherlands is for you. We have a great work life society and an even better support system. But if you want more i feel like that is impossible to gain in the netherlands. There are too many blocks in the way too work your self up. Many people who come here first wanting a better life love how much they earn and how easy it all seems. But after living here for a couple of years they come too the conclusion that its a downgrade as why would you want to move to a dark cold rainy place where living life is too expensive and things that are free such as walks areimpossible for most of the year due too the weather. And as a reward for that you pay 50-90% tax if you include all the taxes you pay such as income tax too BTW.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Yeah I don’t want to say one is better than the other but we all have our own preferences. I know some who left ‘developed’ countries for ‘developing’ countries and love it there too but yeah…NL does have a lot of characteristics that lead to high quality living (even according to all the science of happiness)

[@sjoerdmhh]

@@bryan2c854 That's quite a different perspective. It's nice that we are all different in our preferences! Personally, I don't see your point at all. What is the "more" that you want? Do you want a bigger car? More empty space in your house that needs cleaning? And I go for walks / bike rides all year long! Put on some warm clothes and go for a walk on a misty grey morning, with nice cold air in your lungs... and then get home and warm yourself with a cup of tea. It can be beautiful! And I'm not bothered by the tax at all. I don't think "they are taking half my money", because I don't ever look at the gross figures (before tax deduction). Your salary is in the "net salary" box. And even if try thinking about the tax I pay, I consider that my fair contribution to all the things that make the country work, with roads and services, shelters for homeless people, healthcare and education for all, and all the things mentioned in this video. I don't see why those things would be free and I find 50% of my net income (whatever that theoretical number is) quite a fair proportion for everything I get in return. If you feel like you can achieve more in a society that's more money based, like the US, I guess that's a good thing, because that part of the world needs inhabitants too ;). It definitely means that you can buy more and bigger stuff as long as you're one of the high-income people. If you loose your job/health, you might be in trouble, but it can be worth the risk if this makes you happy!

[@SonyaUsmanova2020]

Well I guess allowing yourself that mindset is a privilege not your personal achievement, no offense here but it is a privilege to choose more life than job, you can’t look down at people in those regions for having to live according to the inefficient economic conditions in their countries…..also please think about the colonial times and the heritage it left both on those who colonized and those who were colonized

[@maartenvz]

The best cure for dealing with the dark, grey and wet winter is to take at least 2 of your holiday weeks and fly to the sun. The south of morocco or the canary islands are less than 5 hours away. The area around tafraoute reminded me of the red rock wonderland that you see in utah/arizona.

[@lavonnealexander6936]

I am Canadian from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Amsterdam is the place for me. I would be happy there.

[@AzeroxDoomraider]

Nice view over the "Gracht". Sweet spot for reading/relaxing.

[@jansix4287]

Harsh winters make countries and people, who are prepared for all eventualities. If the climate is mild enough so that you could live in a barrel all year round, your society will never face its most urgent problems. 🇬🇷

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing that. Happy new year 🎉

[@jayandreas1131]

Goed bezig, David!

[@hidavidwen]

🙏🙏

[@moxxym]

especially the slowing down part I very much encourage in everyone, I've spent the past year and a half recovering from COVID related traumas and preparing myself for the Job market after graduating and those times have been some of the happiest I've ever had. I do need to get into a "real" job now but at least I can do that knowing I'm happy and mentally healthy so I don't burn out after half a year.

[@nanachikhladze6689]

Love your carhart beanies. Thanks for informative videos

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks!!

[@Cin.dutchtraveler]

I understand you in some things but it is not always fun here. Stress is also extremely high here, otherwise there wouldn't be many burnouts. The housing market is ruined. Everyday activities and groceries are getting hugely expensive. Fast food is also common. There are really certain expectations from work, family and friends. I travel to find more peace, experience less pressure and become happy again.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing your perspective

[@photoshopafficionado]

I can't thank you enough for making this video. Every person with Dutch voting rights should watch this and really listen to what you are saying. There are for sure problems that need addressing, however the base system we have should be cherished and maintained.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words 🙏

[@daproximus7833]

As a dutch, most thing you explain as different to you are so natural to me and thus we take it for granted. but your insight on our way of living opened my eyes again. thank you for that . And i hope you keep enjoying our country

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the kind words 🙏

[@Kaesekuchen002]

Really nice to hear your perspective on these things. 4 years ago, I moved from Germany to the Netherlands. I know, not the same. But even then, I really do appreciate the Dutch mentality. It is wonderful here, refreshing. And you found a nice way to put that into words. Thanks

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks and thanks for sharing too!

[@jannetteberends8730]

There is a video out there about experiences of American expats. One of the things they all mentioned was that the heard a loud noise, and automatically ducked, fearing it was a shooting. Funny thing is I experienced once a shooting, and thought it was a cap pistol. The police told me later it was a real shot. (It was a very good executed robbery in a warehouse, it wasn’t scary at all.) What I like about my country is that the environment in poor neighborhoods isn’t depressing. I live in such a neighborhood, but when you walk through it you won’t know. Lots of grass, trees, flowers in spring, attractive playgrounds for the children, well kept streets, and clean. The new built social houses have solar panels. (And nest opportunities for birds in walls of the houses on the corners)

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Unfortunately, some people do mistaken loud bangs for gunshots. I’ve been around one shooting myself when I was a kid and it’s devastating. The ‘bad’ neighborhoods here are not bad at all (in comparison). Happy holidays

[@JohanMartens1]

Great to have you as a fellow Amsterdammer

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks for the warm welcome, happy holidays 🙏

[@TimTheMain]

You really understand the Netherlands, glad to have you.

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks so much 🙏

[@icascone]

Thanks for this video! :)

[@bikinginboston]

Great video! I'm a "moving to NL KZbin channel" addict. And this video was a succinct, well-paced argument. Trying my hand at moving there in a few months. I'll direct people to this video when they ask me, "why."

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks bikinginboston, I can already understand why you want to move here and that you’ll enjoy it :) happy new year!

[@paulbeaucuse2092]

I am also an expat in The Netherlands, in Maastricht. Love the region, the mix of the three native languages, French, German and Dutch, "the big easy", nobody is in a hurry, nobody cares about deadlines too much, good food is more important than anything. The big nearby huge nature parks Ardennes and Eifel, perfect for mountain biking, both only a 45 minutes drive.

[@joostprins3381]

Eeehhh… German and French are not native languages. Thank god they are not.

[@coolrunnings3]

Those three languages are in Belgium! Very close to Maastricht indeed.

[@paulbeaucuse2092]

@@joostprins3381 They are, a 25-minutes drive from my home in Maastricht and really everything is in German, in 5 minutes (Petite-Lanaye) and all commercials and venues are in French, love it! It is a tri-langual region. Maastricht is just in the middle: In most shops in Maastricht there is personel which speaks either French or German (My mom from Switzerland only speaks French, German and Italian, she loves shopping in Maastricht). And the academic "linguaga franca" is English. They also have a beautiful regional language, which sounds like a mix of German and French. Love the culture here, so plural, open and "European". I was only working here for one year, but love it so much, it already got 5, no intend leaving, like many foreigners at my company.

[@freakie1nl449]

​@@paulbeaucuse2092leuk dat je Frans en Duits kan lullen maar dat maakt het geen moerstaal van Nederland. De typische expat arrogantie slaat hier weer aan hoor.

[@vanCaldenborgh]

@@freakie1nl449 Hij heeft het over Maastricht en in die regio worden wel degelijk drie native talen gesproken. Ik woon ook in Maastricht en doe mijn wekelijkse grote boodschappen in Aken en ga vaak uit in Luikse nachtleven, trouwens ook vaak voor concerten naar Aken. Allebij slechts 25 minuten afstand. En hier in Maastricht hoor ik alle talen door elkaar, daar zijn we hier oudsher aan gewend, het is een drietalige regio, iedereen groeit hier mee op, altijd al.

[@jan17355]

Great video. You learned something important on young age while sometimes others learn it the hard way when they are older. Having time to relax, make also trips to other parts of the country. Beautiful places to visit and relax away from busy Amsterdam

[@hidavidwen]

Thanks 🙏

[@drew-baby]

Thanks for the video, it has a lot of great information and perspective. I am living in the Bay Area now and am considering moving to Amsterdam so your opinions are even more valuable since you know the Bay Area plight.