Traveling in Europe

• Europe is still vacation destination number one for most Dutch people. After a vacation at home, France and Spain quickly emerge as top destinations. They are almost a model for everything Europe has to offer with rustic (camping) surroundings, beautiful mountain areas, large lakes, a beautiful coast, lots of culture and culinary delights. Those who want more or something different can head out to the far north in Scandinavia, visit the Balkans or hit the Greek islands. The classic among first-time travelers, or among Australians and Americans, is the “Europe in one month” trip.

Living in Europe

• Language: almost every country has its own language or accent, those who want to integrate will have to learn about the local language and culture.
• Living climate: countries that score high with expats and emigrants are, in order: Spain, Portugal, Finland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, and Greece.
• Health care: the quality of health care in most countries is comparable to that of the Netherlands good.
• Health care costs: once you start working in another country, your Dutch health insurance often expires, then you will have to get insurance locally (and not everywhere coverage is comparable to that in the Netherlands). Seek advice on insurance policies that provide adequate coverage for proper care and also repatriation in case of emergency.