How I Learned to Live More Like a Local While Studying Abroad in Amsterdam
Create a Routine
During my time studying abroad, I learned that having a routine was the best way to feel at home. Doing a daily routine helps you learn important things about the place you are in. In Amsterdam I learned more about the culture and attitude of the local people. For example, I learned that committing to biking, new grocery shopping methods, and navigating the local health system are vital.
Embrace the Bikes
Amsterdam is known for its biking culture and it's important that you go all in. Renting a bike and riding it everywhere was one of the cornerstones of my experience. At first the ride to school and into the center was daunting and stressful, but I stuck with it and eventually felt like a natural. The Dutch biking infrastructure is purposeful and straightforward, just like the Dutch people. Over time you’ll form a relationship with other local cyclists on the road, and learn to detest and watch out for tourists.
The most important part of my time abroad, my bike
Take Care of Yourself
While studying abroad may initially feel like a four-month vacation, you may become unwell at some point so it's important to take care of yourself. I hurt my ankle playing soccer and had to make an appointment to see the doctor. Luckily, CEA CAPA had already set me up with the local doctor, but I still had to navigate the different system and work through the language barrier. When I got sick, I went to the local pharmacy and talked to the staff about what medicines were similar to US medicines. Getting a haircut, buying some decor for your apartment, making your comfort meal—all of these activities and more will make you feel at home and like you belong.
Shop Like a Local
Long grocery lines at 7-8pm at night are not uncommon in the Netherlands, and most people go every day. Also, most buy just enough for dinner that night and breakfast in the morning.
There are no elaborate specials or overly colorful cereals; baskets consist of vegetables, meats, and carbs.
American Food Night!
Become a Regular
Amsterdam has so much to do and so much to see that it can be overwhelming. You will try to see it all and do everything; however, I argue that the best way to truly live and experience a place is to become a regular. During my time, my friends and I had a regular bar, a regular park, a regular market we went to every Saturday. Having places where the workers start to know your name, where you know the crowd schedule and the best way to get a seat, is so important to understanding the new culture you are in.
Showing my hometown friend around Amsterdam!
Pick a Favorite Grocery Store
“Albert Hein over Jumbo, that's crazy,” was a real statement made by a 20-year-old three weeks into living halfway across the world. That 20-year-old was me, because I had already explored the local grocery stores in the area and very much had an opinion of them. Complaining about and comparing grocery stores is a great way to feel integrated into the community.
Shopping the local markets!
Find a Local Hangout Spot
For example, there was a pool bar where we would go to watch big soccer games. Eventually the bar staff started to recognize our group and would get us in line without us asking. We would run into the same locals and even met someone who works for the former head of Nike (very random). I spent my 21st birthday there and had some of the best memories of my trip in some tacky sports bar beside Vondelpark.
Join a League
During my time I joined a local pickup soccer league. This allowed me to meet locals while doing something I love. While Amsterdam has all different types of people, meeting new ones outside of school can be difficult. Interacting with new people while doing something I was comfortable with was perfect. As I continued to go once a week I would remember people’s faces and they would remember mine. I began to make friends. When I skipped one week, the next time I went people asked where I had been. Near the end of my program I was asked to play in a Sunday League team filled with other students.
Bonus: Achieved my lifelong goal of skiing in the Alps
Studying abroad in Amsterdam was the best four months of my life and I am so glad that I took it slow and embraced everything. Moving to a different country and culture for so long can be scary and sometimes it will seem impossible to do everything. And honestly, it probably is. So instead of worrying about missing out, enjoy every moment and don’t forget to make yourself at home.
P.S. You will embarrass yourself at the grocery store self-checkout. It's ok, if you’re like me you don’t speak Dutch.
TLDR: My Essential Study Abroad Tips
1. Form a Routine
Embrace the local transport methods (in Amsterdam: bikes!)
Make yourself at home
Explore the grocery stores and markets
2. Embrace the Local Lifestyle
Find a local hangout spot
Join the sports league
Watch the local TV programs
3. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself
Get a haircut
Go to the doctor
4. Come Prepared to Engage in Your Favorite Activities
Do research and find that perfect league/club for you
