Building a social life
Making friends is a big part of settling in. During your time in Utrecht Right, you probably want to meet people, expand your social circle and find support groups. In this section, we offer some suggestions to help you on your way.
1. Learn the language
One of the best things about living abroad is that you get an opportunity to learn a new language. Learning Dutch or improving your English is a great way to meet people and make friends. Local people will appreciate the effort you are making to speak their language. It will definitely make you feel more at home and is essential if you want to become part of the culture. By speaking the language, you can better understand Dutch habits and it certainly makes life easier when looking for employment. Whether it is enrolling in a language course, using apps or visiting relevant websites, there are plenty of free and paid opportunities to learn Dutch.
2. Attend events and join (support) groups
One of the best things about living abroad is that you get an opportunity to learn a new language. Learning Dutch or improving your English is a great way to meet people and make friends. Local people will appreciate the effort you are making to speak their language. It will definitely make you feel more at home and is essential if you want to become part of the culture. By speaking the language, you can better understand Dutch habits and it certainly makes life easier when looking for employment. Whether it is enrolling in a language course, using apps or visiting relevant websites, there are plenty of free and paid opportunities to learn Dutch.
3. Join a sports team or workshop
Do you like playing tennis or football? Or how about taking part in theatre or dance? Participating in activities that you would do in your own country can make you feel much more at home. It is also the perfect way to build friendships. And you will also meet a lot of Dutch people. The Dutch like their sports and find it important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some sports even have special moments for socialising, called ‘the third half’, in which you share a drink with your teammates.
International groups and communities
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ACCESS
ACCESS![]()
For more than 30 years, ACCESS has been helping international employees, expats on assignments and others who have moved to the Netherlands. At ACCESS, those who provide the answers to your questions are themselves expats.
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Expats Utrecht
Expats Utrecht![]()
With over 33,000 members, this is the largest Facebook group in Utrecht Region for expats. You can ask questions 24/7 and receive responses from your peers.
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Parenting across Borders
Parenting across Borders![]()
Are you an international parent in the first 1000 days of your parenting role? Check out the social initiative Parenting across Borders for individual support in a dialogue group setting with a goal of self-reflection, personal learning, and a sense of belonging to a community.
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Amersfoort Expats and Int'ls
Amersfoort Expats and Int'ls![Via City marketing Amersfoort]()
A Facebook community for internationals in Amersfoort that is open to anyone living in the city or the surrounding areas (Woudenberg, Soest, Hilversum, Zeist, Leusden, etc.)
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Erasmus Student Network
Erasmus Student Network![UM toolkit]()
Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is the biggest student association in Europe and organises all kinds of activities for exchange students from across the world.
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Internations
Internations![]()
A global networking community that actively seeks to connect people both online and at their many in-person events.
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Meet-up
Meet-up![]()
At Meet-up, you can find vibrant and welcoming groups for just about any activity, from drinks with your fellow expats to cinema nights, language cafes and more.
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Utrecht Mamas
Utrecht Mamas![]()
In many ways, mothers knit societies together. Here, you can find a supportive, funny and caring group of Dutch people and expats (which also welcomes papas).
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Home-Start
Home-Start![]()
Increase your self-confidence as a parent and strengthen your social network with Home-Start. Home-Start is a programme with trained volunteers that offers support, practical help and friendship to parents with children up to 18 years, and to parents-to-be.
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SPEAK.UTRECHT
SPEAK.UTRECHT![]()
SPEAK.UTRECHT connects local people to migrants and newcomers in the city of Utrecht. Their language and culture exchange program breaks the linguistic barrier and brings people of different origins together. Join one of their events to make new connections and friends.
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Bridging the Gap Foundation
Bridging the Gap Foundation![]()
This foundation helps integrate Indian expats living in the Netherlands into the Dutch community. It also hosts many events, exposing Dutch people to diverse, vibrant aspects of Indian culture.
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International women’s contact Utrecht
International women’s contact Utrecht![]()
With events occurring almost daily, this group is an excellent way to build friendships and create a sense of community across the region. Open to both expat and local women.
