In a candid thread shared on social media platform X, Pratim Bhosale, a tech professional from Bengaluru, reflected on her transformative six-month journey living in Amsterdam. Her insights, which have resonated with many, highlight the stark contrasts between her life in India and her new home in the Netherlands, drawing attention to various aspects such as housing, grocery shopping, dining, public transport, and healthcare.
Bhosale began her narrative by addressing one of the most pressing challenges faced by migrants: housing. "The rent is approximately €2,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in a decent area," she wrote, likening the search for rental accommodation to a "Hunger Games level challenge." Interestingly, she discovered that purchasing property was easier than securing a rental. To aid her search, she utilized the platform @uprent_nl, which she described as "super helpful." Bhosale also appreciated the tenant protection laws in the Netherlands, which she found to be more favorable compared to those in India.
When it comes to grocery shopping, Bhosale expressed her delight in Amsterdam's offerings, particularly praising supermarkets like Jumbo and Albert Heijn for their fresh produce. She shared, "I don’t miss Zepto or Swiggy at all," emphasizing her enjoyment of high-quality whole foods. However, her monthly grocery bill for two, totaling around €500, is significantly higher than what she spent in Bengaluru, which she believes is justified by the quality of the products. She also highlighted the joy of visiting weekend farmers' markets.
Dining out in Amsterdam presented its own set of challenges. Bhosale noted that a decent meal for two typically costs around €50, while sandwiches and takeaway meals range from €7 to €15. Despite enjoying the variety of international cuisine, she found Indian restaurants to be lacking in quality, describing them as "basic and touristy." Interestingly, she found cafes comparably priced to those in Bengaluru, sharing that she spent €13 for two desserts and teas.
Public transport in Amsterdam has been a revelation for Bhosale, who called it a "blessing" compared to her experiences in India. She praised the city’s clean and punctual buses, trams, and metros, as well as the well-designed bike lanes and picturesque ferry rides. "One of the major reasons for me to move was Amsterdam’s clean parks and fresh air," she noted, reflecting on the fitness culture that permeates the city. Bhosale joked, "Almost everyone is jacked. I am the least jacked person in my gym," showcasing her admiration for the active lifestyle prevalent among residents.
While job opportunities in Amsterdam may be fewer than in Bengaluru, Bhosale found the work culture to be more fulfilling. She observed that tech salaries rarely exceed €100,000, yet employees seem to prioritize passion over profit. "People here are more passionate, doing it for the ‘art’ than the ‘money’,” she remarked, highlighting the employee-friendly employment laws, which she noted are less favorable to businesses.
Despite the various challenges she faced, Bhosale reported an overall improvement in her happiness since moving to Amsterdam. "I find myself smiling more since I moved. I enjoy going to work and traveling. I get out of the house more. I am physically and mentally more tired (still getting used to doing all my household work by myself)," she shared. This newfound joy is further amplified by her supportive partner, whom she credits with enhancing her experience in the city. She humorously noted that her Indian friends now call her "Europoor" due to the higher cost of living and her modest lifestyle.
Yet, not all aspects of her new life have been rosy. Bhosale candidly addressed her struggles with the Dutch healthcare system, describing it as "broken." After six months in the country, she found it challenging to locate a General Practitioner (GP) and is considering returning to India for medical treatments due to inefficiencies she encountered. She expressed concerns about the lack of preventative care and the slow pace of the healthcare system.
Bhosale’s reflections have sparked a wave of relatable responses on social media, with many users praising her balanced perspective. One commenter noted, "This is such a balanced take—love the honesty!" while another remarked, "Healthcare reality hit hard!" Her post has amassed nearly 800,000 views, drawing attention to the complexities of life as a migrant in a new country.
As she continues to navigate the highs and lows of her experience, Bhosale’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and rewards of relocating to a new country. Her insights not only shed light on the practicalities of life in Amsterdam but also highlight the emotional journey that comes with such a significant move. In a world where migration is becoming increasingly common, her honest account resonates with many who find themselves in similar situations.
Overall, Pratim Bhosale’s experiences in Amsterdam illustrate the multifaceted nature of expatriate life, where the thrill of new beginnings often comes hand in hand with challenges that test resilience and adaptability. As she continues to embrace her new life, her reflections offer valuable lessons for those contemplating a similar journey.
