a week in rotterdam. chaos, cheese and little win.
Hello peeps!
One week ago, I rolled my suitcase through the sliding doors of Rotterdam Centraal, eyes half-open from an early flight, heart wide open for whatever was coming next. I’d been planning this move for months—lists, documents, late-night panics, and even later-night Pinterest boards labeled “new life in NL.” But still, nothing quite prepares you for the moment when the planning ends and real life begins.
So, here it is: my first week in Rotterdam. It’s been a mix of culture shock, small joys, unexpected calm, and a surprising amount of cheese.
day 1: touchdown & tunnel vision.
The first day was a blur. Everything felt unfamiliar—but in that cinematic way where your senses are on high alert. I kept noticing the smallest things: the way everyone actually waits for traffic lights, how the air smells like spring (and bikes), and how quiet the trams are.
I checked into my temporary place, forced to take a walk in the city as my suite is not ready yet. Apparently, last weekend was the annual Rotterdam Marathon and the city was packed with marathoners checking out from their accommodation.
One of my first stops was the famous Cube Houses. They look like something out of a sci-fi movie, and honestly, that’s exactly how I felt being here—like I’d landed on another planet where bikes rule the roads and architecture has no rules.
This photo pretty much captures how I felt in the moment: excited, curious, and just trying to take it all in. I’d read about these houses before I arrived, but standing in front of them made it real—I’m actually here. I spent 20 minutes trying to understand Dutch packaging and still came home with mustard instead of butter. But hey—first meal in the books.
day 2: first day in the office.
First day in the new office today—and honestly, it felt like the beginning of something good. I had that mix of excitement and jitters walking in, but the team was warm and welcoming, which made it easier to settle in. I have worked with them before, but such a welcoming committee. Reunion back with Ariff my dear best friend, Vincent greeted me like I was the guest of honour. Alfred, as tall as local Dutch people and Ivano, my boss, with his Italian courtesy? (hugging like there is no end tomorrow).
The office space itself has a great vibe—clean, bright, and full of energy. And looks like some fancy tech company. It’s always a bit surreal starting over somewhere new, but I’m feeling optimistic.
day 3: the dreaded admin day.
Ah yes, bureaucracy. Spent the better part of the day sorting out my BSN appointment, registering at the municipality, opening a bank account, and trying to make sense of Dutch apps that looked like encrypted puzzles.
Spoiler: I still don’t fully understand how DigiD works, but I’ve downloaded the app and that feels like a step in the right direction.
day 4: lonely, but not alone. welcoming party.
Vincent was kind enough to invite me to his housewarming, which was such a warm welcome to Rotterdam. It was a great way to meet new people and get to know the city a little better. His hospitality made me feel right at home, and it was a great opportunity to connect with locals and work colleagues. I’m truly grateful for the invite and looking forward to settling in more with such thoughtful gestures from people like him.
day 5: finding rhythm (and cheese heaven).
I found a little Saturday market and wandered through it like a kid in a candy store—except it was cheese, fresh bread, olives, and tulips. I bought way too much Gouda, sat on a bench in the sun, and let myself just be.
Something clicked that day. Maybe it was the sunshine, or the smell of fresh stroopwafels in the air, or maybe just the quiet knowledge that I was exactly where I needed to be—even if I didn’t quite feel settled yet.
I then take the metro and stroll through Hoek van Holland beach to soak up the sunny rays. Never felt how appreciated I am with the sun before, while living in Kuala Lumpur. But now, won’t miss a chance at the sun that glares behind thick clouds.
day 6: sunday easter stillness.
Sunday, Easter in Rotterdam is slow. Shops closed. Streets quieter. Everyone is in windbreakers and sneakers, walking their dogs or biking to the park. I then went to the Eid Open House organised by Malaysians who work in my company. Big turnout! It felt like a wedding event. The food was great. Can you believe that there is tempoyak there!
I then went for a long walk through Strand Nesselande. It was peaceful in a way I hadn’t felt in months.
I didn't check my phone much. I didn’t rush. I just listened to the birds and the wind in the trees and let my mind go still.
day 7: a beginning.
One week in, and I’m starting to find the corners of my new life. I have a go-to grocery store. I’ve found a café I love and a park that feels like a mini escape. I’m not settled yet—not even close—but I’m starting to feel rooted, even just a little.
What’s surprised me the most is how much the quiet has taught me. In the still moments, I’ve learned to trust myself. In the unfamiliar, I’ve found clarity. And in the chaos of moving, I’ve found a strange, soft joy.
So, here’s to week one: to getting lost, learning the hard way, laughing at myself, and remembering that starting over doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful.
Rotterdam, we’re just getting started.
Speak to you soon,
EMIR xx
