When moving to a city in a neighbouring country, there’s a risk that some expats will be ‘one foot in, one foot out’. But expat partner Linda de Klerk plans to fully embrace a new culture, even if she’s just a five-hour drive from home.
Over the border
“We had always wanted to live abroad as a family. To be honest, I didn’t expect the destination to be Germany! As we’re from Amsterdam, we haven’t gone far. In some ways, perhaps it’s easier to move further away. You might assume that we’d travel back home frequently as it’s only a five-hour drive,” says Linda. “But I know we need to meet people and develop new relationships here in Frankfurt. I’d like to fit in here, feel at home and perhaps set up a business. That won’t happen if I drive back to Amsterdam at every opportunity.”
Back to school
“When you move to a neighbouring country, maybe there’s part of you that thinks everything will be the same or very similar. Or you won’t have to adjust so much. But in reality the culture is very different,” says Linda. “I studied German in high-school and I’m looking forward to brushing it up. I have signed up for a three-week intensive course (five hours a day, Monday to Friday) at the Goethe Institute, which will also be a good way to meet people.”
Home sweet home
“We’re very happy with the area we chose in Nordend. For me it’s the coolest area of Frankfurt. It’s family friendly but not too polished. Our home is actually part of an old school that’s been reconverted. We’re on the ground floor and other families and the landowner live upstairs. I really wanted to live in the heart of Frankfurt and get to know the city well.”
Inspirational journey
“Before we relocated, I’d only just started a new job, which I really loved and it was disappointing to give it up. But now I have an opportunity to try something new here in Frankfurt. For a long time I have had it in my head that I would like to do something entrepreneurial. In a way it feels safer to do that here. We’re on an adventure, so why not go all in? Everyone is telling me to be patient but I’m really eager to start something and make the most of this inspirational journey!”
Photo: Linda with her family
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