Profile of Femke
An unplanned expatriate blogger behind Bright Garden Lamp
Photo: Bright Garden Lamp
Hey, I'm Femke
Project manager. Parent. Expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
A few years ago, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually blossomed into a new chapter of my life abroad.
How It Started
Moving to Netherlands wasn’t part of the master plan. As with many moves for expatriates, it began as a job opportunity and soon grew into something much larger.
The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, and new expectations. Everyday tasks seemed more complicated than expected.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and plenty of learning by doing. But gradually, routines settled into place. We found places that fit us, connected with other families, and began building something that felt steady.
Why I Built Bright Garden Lamp
Most information online was either corporate relocation advice or surface-level tourism content. What was missing was an honest, everyday family viewpoint.
This site aims to fill that void — practical guidance drawn from real life in Netherlands.
What this site stands for (and what it does not)
This site is:
- Hands-on experience from living in Netherlands
- Centered on family life and everyday realities
- Updated whenever something genuinely changes
This site isn't:
- An official tourism authority resource
- A funded review platform
- Just another generic travel blog
Looking Ahead
Our time in Netherlands continues, and the learning journey goes on. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue documenting what we discover.
If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Best regards,
Femke
Amsterdam, Netherlands