Reflecting on this year, the biggest change for me was moving to the Netherlands after 13 years in the UK. I won’t lie—it hasn’t always been easy. London still feels like home in many ways, and I doubt that will ever fully change.
The city shaped so much of who I am—providing lifelong friendships, career opportunities, and a feeling of home. It holds a permanent and special place in my heart, and I think I’ll always carry a little bit of the Londoner identity with me.
The Netherlands also has been also a positive change in many ways. I’ve found a wonderful new department (and the bar was already high here) with great colleagues. Working alongside engaged scholar-activists has made settling much easier. I’m so grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received!
Quality of life here is another huge shift, in beautiful Utrecht. The list is long but a good cycling infrastructure really makes a difference! The higher salaries, better healthcare and housing quality is also a big plus. I’m not sure Dutch people fully realise how high their living standards are!
Being closer to friends and family was one reason to move for us. London’s sheer size often made it difficult to see people. Here, I managed to reconnect with old hobbies, spend more time with friends, & rediscover joy outside academia. That balance has been invaluable for my well-being.
Of course, there are challenges too. Homesickness hits now and then, and not everything is perfect here. The Dutch government often feels like a continuation of the UK’s Tory chaos—also with blond hair but in a new language.
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