About Emma

The accidental expatriate blogger behind Coast Garden Bloom

Emma De Vries - Founder of Coast Garden Bloom Photo: Coast Garden Bloom

Hi, I'm Emma

I work as a project manager. I'm a parent and an expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

A few years ago, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary contract gradually became a new chapter of life living abroad.

How It Started

Moving to Netherlands wasn't in the original plan. As with many international relocations, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something far more substantial.

The initial weeks were demanding— new processes, new habits, new expectations. Day-to-day chores seemed more cumbersome than they ought to be.

City skyline in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Life in Amsterdam keeps you on your toes. Credit: Coast Garden Bloom

The Adjustment Period

There was cultural adjustment, doubt, and plenty of hands-on learning. Gradually, routines took shape. We found spots that fit us, connected with other families, and began creating something that felt secure.

Why I Built Coast Garden Bloom

Most online guidance was either corporate relocation tips or shallow tourist content. What was lacking was an honest, everyday family point of view.

This site aims to bridge that gap with practical guidance drawn from real life in Netherlands.

What This Site Represents (And Does Not)

This site is:

  • Practical experience gained from living in Netherlands
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever something truly changes

This site is not:

  • A tourism board resource
  • A platform for sponsored reviews
  • A generic travel blog

What Lies Ahead

Our stay in Netherlands continues, and the learning process goes on. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll continue documenting what we discover.

If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Best regards,

Emma

Amsterdam, Netherlands