There are a lot of books that will give you a flavor for what it is like to live in Holland, but there is not much English information about living as an expat in Eindhoven, and especially not information describing the differences between Eindhoven and the states.  We lived in Eindhoven from December, 2001 (relocating from the U.S.) to December, 2004, and we’re happy to share here a few things that we learned in the process.

One recommendation we would like to make right away is that you set aside $300 to $500 to pay a consultant who can help you personally.  Often, a large company will have contracted with a Dutch agency that will help you relocate and settle in; the trouble is that the agency is Dutch, and often doesn’t have a good idea of what expats need or want.  If you ask them for a good Tae Kwan Do group, they call the first one in the phonebook and try to send you there.  Here are names of two consultants with whom we are familiar who will give you personalized service:

Lynn Sadok; expat experience in living in Eindhoven; 211-6043

Sabine Haenen; handling Dutch legal details, housing, etc.; 293-8098

We have kids!  So, if you are single or childfree, some of this information will be less relevant to you.  However, we hope to provide the most accurate picture we can.