Moving to Wassenaar, The Netherlands
Last updated on Sep 04, 2024
Summary: Expats move to Wassenaar, Netherlands for its high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities, and close proximity to the vibrant city of The Hague. The town is known for its beautiful parks, beaches, and forests, as well as its excellent public transportation system. Wassenaar is also home to a number of international organizations, making it an ideal location for those looking to work in an international environment. Additionally, Wassenaar is a safe and secure place to live, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community.
What do I need to know before moving to Wassenaar?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Wassenaar, they said:
"Wassenaar is a small, affluent town located in the province of South Holland, Netherlands. It is known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and forests, as well as its close proximity to The Hague and Amsterdam. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Wassenaar is higher than the national average, and that the town is quite small, so it may not offer the same range of amenities as larger cities. Additionally, the town is quite international, so expats should be prepared to meet people from all over the world. Finally, expats should be aware that the Netherlands has a temperate climate, with cold winters and mild summers," commented one expat who made the move to Wassenaar.
How do I find a place to live in Wassenaar?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"The best way to find a place to live in Wassenaar is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet are popular rental websites in the Netherlands and offer a wide variety of rental listings in Wassenaar. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents in Wassenaar to inquire about rental listings," replied a member in Wassenaar.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Wassenaar?
"Expat homes and apartments in Wassenaar are typically spacious and modern, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the homes and apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furnishings and feature high-end appliances. Expats in Wassenaar can also enjoy access to a variety of amenities, such as parks, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions," commented one expat who made the move to Wassenaar.
What is the average cost of housing in Wassenaar?
If you are thinking about moving to Wassenaar, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Wassenaar is generally quite high, with the average price for a single-family home being quite steep. Renting is also expensive, with the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment being quite high," said one expat in Wassenaar.
Should I buy or rent a home in Wassenaar?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Wassenaar, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Wassenaar depends on your individual circumstances and objectives. Buying a home can provide a sense of security and stability, as well as being a valuable asset that can increase in value. However, it involves a substantial initial outlay, and costs such as insurance, repairs and maintenance, as well as major expenses like mortgages. On the flip-side, renting a home can provide a flexible living arrangement and it doesn’t involve the same level of financial commitment as buying. Furthermore, in Wassenaar it may be possible to find long-term, rent-controlled properties. Ultimately, you should weigh up the pros and cons of buying and renting in the context of your own needs and situation," commented one expat who made the move to Wassenaar.
What should I pack when moving to Wassenaar?
We asked people living in Wassenaar to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Wassenaar, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate is generally cool and wet. Rain gear such as a raincoat and umbrella are also essential. Comfortable shoes are also important, as the terrain is often flat and easy to walk on. Additionally, it is important to bring a valid passport and any necessary documents for residency. Finally, it is a good idea to bring a few items to make your new home feel more comfortable, such as pictures, books, and other personal items," remarked one expat who made the move to Wassenaar.
Get Quote
We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.
We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Netherlands. If you're moving to Netherlands, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Netherlands.
Get Quote
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Wassenaar?
We asked people in Wassenaar if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be aware of the cultural norms in Wassenaar. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and to be respectful of them. For example, it is important to take off your shoes when entering someone's home, and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as religion or politics. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to make an effort to speak Dutch when possible," said one expat who made the move to Wassenaar.
Why do people move to Wassenaar?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Wassenaar, they responded:
"Wassenaar is an attractive destination for expats due to its close proximity to the vibrant city of The Hague, its excellent transport links to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, its high quality of life, and its safe and secure environment. The town is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, its picturesque canals, and its many cultural attractions. Wassenaar also offers a wide range of international schools, making it an ideal place for expats with children. Furthermore, the town is home to a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to explore and enjoy," stated one expat who made the move to Wassenaar.
Get Quote
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote
How are healthcare services Wassenaar?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Wassenaar, they replied:
"Wassenaar offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The municipality has a number of general practitioners, dentists, and specialists available to provide medical care. Additionally, there are several hospitals and clinics in the area that offer a variety of services, including emergency care, maternity care, and mental health services. The municipality also provides access to home care services, such as nursing and physiotherapy, as well as a range of preventive health services. Furthermore, Wassenaar has a number of pharmacies and health food stores to provide residents with the necessary medications and supplements," commented one expat living in Wassenaar.
What are medical services in Wassenaar like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Wassenaar, they replied:
"Wassenaar offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The town has a number of general practitioners, dentists, and specialists available to provide medical care. Additionally, there are several pharmacies and hospitals in the area, including the Leiden University Medical Center, which provides a range of specialized services. The town also has a number of health centers and clinics that offer a variety of services, such as physical therapy, mental health services, and home care. Furthermore, Wassenaar has a number of medical research centers and laboratories that are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and treatments," wrote one expat living in Wassenaar.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Netherlands Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Netherlands on our Netherlands forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Netherlands by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Netherlands.
Digital Nomads in Netherlands offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Netherlands.