new job, new city: why moving to rotterdam was the power move I didn’t know I needed.
Hello peeps!
Let’s be honest: the idea of uprooting your life for work sounds intense. Didn’t I just left Singapore few months ago? and again, with the new city, new people, new everything. But when the opportunity came to relocate to Rotterdam for new job, I do hesitate — and I’m so glad I decided to go ahead.
Because Rotterdam? It slaps.
This isn’t your average “new job, new commute” story. This is a full-on reboot in one of the most exciting, future-forward cities in Europe. Here's what it's been like swapping my comfort zone for high-rises, hustle, and a whole lot of stroopwafels.
why rotterdam?
It all started during the decision made a few months ago to have a career break and return to Kuala Lumpur. And with a job offer that sounded too good to pass up — an international role, more responsibility, and a serious step up in my career. The catch? It was based in Rotterdam. But spoiler alert: that wasn't a catch. It was a bonus.
Rotterdam is one of Europe’s fastest-growing business hubs. It’s smart, innovative, and buzzing with talent from around the globe. Startups, big corporates, creatives, tech heads — they’re all here, building something exciting.
And the city itself? Industrial edge meets futuristic vibes. It’s like working in a city that’s already living in 2030.
And don’t start talking about the architecture, it is different level here in Rotterdam.
office life meets big city energy.
The first time I walked into my new office (called as groothandelsgebouw — constant grid of concrete columns in which the building rests, with coworkers from 21 different countries), I knew I’d made the right move. Meetings happen in English, ideas fly fast, and everyone bikes to work like it’s no big deal (spoiler: it’s a big deal to me, I’m still getting used to not showing up sweaty).
The best part? Work-life balance here actually exists. People leave the office at 4. They take lunch breaks away from their desks. They value quality over hustle-for-the-sake-of-hustle. And guess what? The work still gets done — better, even.
life after 9 to 5.
This city is alive after hours. After work, it’s drinks by the water at a floating bar, live jazz in a hidden alley, or dinner at a restaurant you randomly stumbled upon — and it turns out to be incredible.
Weekends? Art museums. Rooftop parties. Vintage markets. Biking through parks that feel like movie sets. Rotterdam rewards curiosity — the more you explore, the more you find.
the expat experience.
Moving for work can be overwhelming, but Rotterdam makes it easy. Everyone speaks English. The expat community is thriving. The city is super international, but still proudly Dutch in all the right ways — efficient, stylish, a little quirky, and big on biking.
I’ve already made friends through coworking spaces, after-work drinks, and random conversations at coffee spots. People here connect — it’s not just surface-level.
quick tips if you're thinking about moving for work:
Register quickly with the gemeente (city hall) to get your BSN number — it unlocks everything from bank accounts to healthcare.
Rent can be competitive, so start your housing search early. Funda.nl and Pararius are your best friends.
Get a bike, and a good lock. Trust me.
Don’t skip learning a little Dutch — even a few words make a big difference.
final thoughts: this city works.
Rotterdam isn’t just where I work now — it’s where I live. And not in the “go home, make dinner, repeat” kind of way. In the “I’m growing, exploring, and building something cool” kind of way.
This move was a leap and fast, but it landed me somewhere that feels right. Somewhere sharp, smart, and full of opportunity.
Lets catch up again soon with another writing.
I am loving it so far, hopefully more write up in the future.
Lots of love,
EMIR xx
