I have met a plethora of fellow Expats. One group I got connected to through the Brazilian fight dance Capoeira. Since meeting we created a WhatsApp group that is fittingly named “Happy Amsterdam”. Its original idea was to make a video using the song Happy by Pharrell… But the video was never created. The group has morphed into an amazing network that continues to grow when new friends visit or move to Amsterdam. Now it is for helping each other out and making weekend plans, going to events or just out for drinks and always having company. Write it in the group and you are never alone. We have gone indoor rock climbing, taken cycle trips to Haarlem, enjoyed BBQ’s at the park, gone to festivals such as Madness, and 30+ of us journeyed to the seaside.
One group I got connected to through the Brazilian fight dance Capoeira…
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When I first moved to Amsterdam, I resisted the vibe, resisted the energy, questioned the culture. I had this love-hate relationship with the city because I had lived in Rotterdam before, where there’s a lot of big open space to be whatever you want. But Amsterdam, it gives you a tone, a color, it forces you to do something, to be something, it pulls something out of you. That’s what I love and hate about this city. Amsterdam brings the best and worst out of me, and I like it. It’s a push.
I came here, like so many others, with just my suitcase, but I’ve never been lonely because everyone is so friendly. Never in my life have I had so many random conversations on public transport with friendly locals and other Expats as I do here.
I love it here, it’s extremely balanced. I have never felt happier since arriving. I’m not shy anymore when it comes to telling people that I am gay. Now I am free. This city gave me the chance to relax and be myself. You have a right to choose to show who you are here, and it’s respected.