An Indian techie, Pratim Bhosale, recently shared her experiences of living in Amsterdam for six months after relocating from Bengaluru. Her candid reflections on the cost of living and lifestyle differences between the two cities have garnered significant attention online.India Today+3The Financial Express+3www.ndtv.com+3
In her social media post, Bhosale highlighted that dining out in Amsterdam can be expensive, with a decent meal for two costing around €50. However, she was surprised to find that café prices were comparable to those in Bengaluru, spending €13 for two desserts and teas .www.ndtv.comHindustan Times+1www.ndtv.com+1
Beyond food, she noted that her monthly grocery expenses in Amsterdam are about €500, approximately three times higher than in Bengaluru. Despite the higher costs, she appreciated the quality of fresh produce available in local supermarkets like Jumbo and Albert Heijn .www.ndtv.com+2The Financial Express+2Hindustan Times+2The Financial Express+2Hindustan Times+2www.ndtv.com+2
Bhosale also praised Amsterdam’s efficient public transport system, describing it as a “blessing” compared to her experiences in India. However, she expressed frustration with the Dutch healthcare system, mentioning difficulties in registering with a General Practitioner even after six months .www.ndtv.com+1Hindustan Times+1www.ndtv.com+2Hindustan Times+2The Financial Express+2
Despite these challenges, Bhosale reported an overall improvement in her well-being, stating that she feels more disciplined, active, and happier in Amsterdam. Her honest and balanced account has resonated with many, sparking discussions among those considering a move abroad.
An Indian techie, Pratim Bhosale, recently shared her experiences after relocating from Bengaluru to Amsterdam, highlighting the stark differences in cost of living and lifestyle. Her detailed account, posted on X (formerly Twitter), has garnered significant attention for its candid comparisons between the two cities.India Today+4The Daily Guardian+4www.ndtv.com+4
Key Observations from Bhosale’s Experience:
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Housing Costs: Bhosale noted that renting a one-bedroom apartment in a decent Amsterdam neighborhood costs around €2,000 per month. She described the rental market as extremely competitive, likening it to a “Hunger Games” scenario. However, she appreciated the tenant protection laws in the Netherlands, which she found more structured compared to India. The Daily Guardian+2Hindustan Times+2The Financial Express+2
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Dining Out: While she found the cost of dining out in Amsterdam to be high—approximately €50 for two people—she was surprised that café prices were comparable to those in Bengaluru. For instance, she paid €13 for two desserts and teas. However, she felt that Indian restaurants in Amsterdam offered basic and touristy menus. The Daily Guardian+2Hindustan Times+2www.ndtv.com+2Hindustan Times+2www.ndtv.com+2The Daily Guardian+2
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Grocery Shopping: Bhosale expressed delight in shopping at local supermarkets like Jumbo and Albert Heijn, praising the quality of fresh produce. She mentioned that her monthly grocery bill for two is around €500, which is about three times higher than in Bengaluru, but she felt the quality justified the cost. www.ndtv.com+3Hindustan Times+3The Daily Guardian+3The Financial Express+3www.ndtv.com+3The Daily Guardian+3
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Public Transport: She lauded Amsterdam’s public transportation system, describing it as a “blessing” compared to her experiences in India. She appreciated the clean and punctual buses, trams, and metros, as well as the dedicated bike lanes and scenic ferry rides. Hindustan Times+2www.ndtv.com+2The Daily Guardian+2The Financial Express+3Hindustan Times+3www.ndtv.com+3
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Healthcare: Bhosale expressed dissatisfaction with the Dutch healthcare system, stating that even after six months, she hadn’t been able to register with a General Practitioner. She found the system sluggish and lacking in preventative care, leading her to consider returning to India for medical treatments. The Daily Guardian+3Hindustan Times+3The Financial Express+3Hindustan Times+2www.ndtv.com+2The Daily Guardian+2
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Work Culture and Lifestyle: She observed that while tech salaries in Amsterdam rarely exceed €100,000, people seem more passionate about their work, valuing the “art” over monetary gains. She also noted that fitness is a significant part of life in the city, with many residents leading active lifestyles. Despite the challenges, Bhosale reported feeling happier, more disciplined, and more connected to her Indian roots in the multicultural environment of Amsterdam. The Financial Express+3Hindustan Times+3www.ndtv.com+3
Bhosale’s comprehensive comparison offers valuable insights for those considering a move from India to Europe, shedding light on both the advantages and challenges of adapting to life in Amsterdam.