Moving to a new country often comes with unexpected surprises, especially when it comes to everyday life and culture. Vina from Indonesia shares her experience of adapting to life in the Netherlands, from food and weather to independence and daily routines. Through relatable culture shocks and personal reflections, she shows how these challenges can turn into meaningful growth. Discover what it’s really like to step out of your comfort zone and build a new life abroad.

Moving from Indonesia to the Netherlands was exciting, but it also came with culture shocks I didn’t fully anticipate. Studying abroad here taught me that university life is not only about academics, but also about adapting to a new culture and learning how to live independently. Despite the challenges, this experience has been incredibly rewarding, and it’s one I would choose again.

When food tastes different and grows on you

Growing up in Indonesia, I was used to bold, comforting flavours: spicy sambal, sweet soy sauce, and rich dishes full of taste. When I arrived in the Netherlands, my taste buds were surprised almost immediately. The coffee was stronger, the chocolate darker, and even some vegetables tasted more bitter than I was used to. At first, it felt unfamiliar, and I missed Indonesian food a lot especially sambal.

Over time, however, I learned to appreciate the simplicity of Dutch cuisine. The flavours are subtle but comforting, and I realized that food doesn’t always need to be sweet or spicy to be enjoyable. I even discovered some Dutch snacks I genuinely love, like bitterballen and poffertjes, which quickly became comfort foods for me. While Indonesian food will always feel like home, I’ve grown to truly enjoy Dutch food as well.

Cycling in the snow: A very Dutch reality

Winter in the Netherlands brought one of my biggest culture shocks. The first time it snowed, my instinct was to stay inside and avoid going out. Then I looked outside and saw Dutch people cycling: to class, to work, and to the supermarket - as if snow was just another part of the day.

Cycling here isn’t just a sport; it’s part of everyday life. Watching people continue their routines regardless of the weather showed me how practical and resilient the Dutch mindset is. Life doesn’t pause because it’s cold - you simply adapt.

Living alone: Learning independence and discipline

Living alone in the Netherlands has been one of the most transformative parts of my experience. Back home, daily life felt more shared and flexible. Here, everything depends on me - managing my schedule, cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, and meeting academic deadlines. No one reminds you what to do or when to do it.

At first, this was challenging. But over time, I became more independent, disciplined, and organised. I learned how important time management is and how to take full responsibility for my daily routine. These are skills that go far beyond university life and will stay with me in the future.

Culture shock: part of the learning process

Being an Indonesian student in the Netherlands taught me that culture shock isn’t something negative. It’s part of the learning process. From adjusting to new flavours and colder weather to building independence, each challenge helped me grow more confident and adaptable. There are moments when I miss home, but there are also moments when I realise how much I’ve grown since moving here.

Final thoughts for future students

If you’re considering studying in the Netherlands, don’t worry about being fully prepared. You’ll learn along the way. Be open to new experiences, give yourself time to adjust, and allow yourself to grow. The food may taste different, the winters may feel long, and yes, people really do cycle in the snow. But if you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone, the experience is absolutely worth it.