Profile of Sophie
The unlikely expatriate blogger behind GladDuneCipher
Photo: GladDuneCipher
Hello, I'm Sophie
Project manager, a parent, and an expat based in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
A few years back I moved here with my family. What began as a short-term assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.
How It Started
Moving to Netherlands wasn't part of the long-term plan. Like many expatriate relocations, it began as a job opportunity and soon grew into something much bigger.
The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt stable.
Why I Built GladDuneCipher
Most information online was either corporate-level relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.
This site exists to close that gap — practical guidance based on real life in Netherlands.
What This Site Does (And Doesn't)
This site is:
- Hands-on experience from living in Netherlands
- Centered on family life and daily realities
- Updated whenever something truly changes
This site isn't:
- A resource from a tourism authority
- A sponsored review platform
- A generic travel blog
Looking Ahead
Our time in Netherlands continues, and so does the learning process. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll continue documenting what we uncover.
If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, please feel free to reach out.
Best regards,
Sophie
Amsterdam, Netherlands