It's not easy

I just had a drinks reception last night for expats and locals. Let me tell you, everyone has it hard. I heard several stories, some of it taking people nearly 4 years to settle here and now scared to leave having put so much effort into moving here, only now not really sure if they want to stay.
Accommodation is tiring, and will wear you out unless you have the contacts. Its all about meeting and building contacts. Most agencies demand that you sign a contract with everyone and we have all had a variety of experiences. I once answered to an add for girls only house and who ever wants to move in just al meet up at same time and check the house out together. Those that were happy, got it, and pulled straws if there was too many. It's desperate, and not easy. And otherwise very pricey. One of my places was costing me 700euros for a tiny single bedroom, in a shared apartment not even in the city. But i was desperate so i had it for 4 months to give me time to search for somewhere else.

Its scary, and frustrating, and I really would recommend you keep doing the expat meet up groups, as its all about who you know, not just about finance. There are so many groups to meet up its hard to list them here, but do some research, just to enter the name of the country from where you are from, and the Netherlands, into Google with Amsterdam, you might find a grouping just for that.
Anything is possible!

Gymmin It

I caved in and joined a gym. And it's a difficult decision in any country you live in. Here in Amsterdam, you are out to fend for yourself. There are such a variety, from international, national and basic gyms to choose from,  I would suggest you decide which one you generally like and try them out. Some gyms can offer a weeks trial period, but not many.
I joined the local gym, 2mins cycle from my house, which shows how lazy someone can really be!
But, as typical goings on in the Dutch hospitality, upon registering they were delighted to take my money and make me sign up, but never told me where the locker rooms were, how to use the card or even suggested the intake most gyms demand you do upon registering with a gym. I had to ask for everything myself which just left me feeling I am left to fend for myself and useless, and not really wanting to go there as the are signs all around the gym with pictures I don't understand (you cannot wear a t-shirt with no sleeves, yet i see plenty doing so!?) And a machine people punch a code into and it gives them some info. Again. I have no idea.

On the other hand, if the gym isn't your thing, check out the different options: Yoga, Pole Dancing, Zumba, Dancing lessons, Martial Arts, Boxing and everything else this city has to offer from Noord to Zuid, Oost to West, there are sports facilities in every nook and cranny of the city, so it just depends on what you like. You can do some trials with the groupbuying websites like groupon etc. to try something new, or just join an expat website as they can give dancing lessons so you get to meet the international group and its all done through English.

Beauty and the treats!

I was recently under a panic of needing my nails done last minute, and as a 9-5er it is difficult trying to get anything done, but I came across a great place in the zuid which is beyond accommodating and they even offered me this 10e voucher to be used with any facial/fake nails to anyone reading this.

Just print out this picture and bring it with you to:

Aesthetic Beauty on Rijnstraat 2 or call 020 4707014. With a great variety of facials to treat yourself to, and with the flexible time slots (I got my nails done on a Monday even at 7pm!) I would recommend!

St Patricks Day

In just 7 days, the Irish will be celebrating their national day - St Patricks Day under the guise of drinks, leprechauns, drink and well more drink. Whilst in Amsterdam, there are numerous pubs - Molly Malones, Balarney Stone, Mulligans, Dan Murphys, Jame's Gate, Hole in the Wall to name but a few.. a few things to know.
Their websites might not be up to scratch ( or working at all) but please note a few options:
Dan Murphys are known for their extended opening hours for the occasion, either 5am, or until the place is empty enough. As this St Patricks Day falls on a Saturday, I think they might be kicking people out.
Hole in the Wall just across the street is like Murphys bar the late license, and more over priced drinks!
The others are more northers, near Centraal Station so more dedication is required for these venues, unless you do brave the bike. Though please note, if you are ridiculously drunk on the bike and a police person catches you, you will get in trouble. You don't need the motorized vehicle to get in trouble here!