Profile of Sophie
The accidental expatriate blogger behind Calm Valley Mint
Photo: Calm Valley Mint
Hello, I am Sophie
I work as a project manager. I'm a parent. I'm an expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
A few years back, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.
How It Started
Moving to Netherlands wasn't in the long-range plan. As with many international relocations, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something far bigger.
The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, and fresh expectations. Everyday tasks seemed more complex than expected.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and plenty of hands-on learning. Yet gradually, routines took shape. We found places that fit us, connected with other families, and began building something that felt steady.
Why I Built Calm Valley Mint
Most online guidance was either corporate relocation advice or just surface-level travel content. What was missing was a genuine, everyday family viewpoint.
This site aims to fill that void — practical advice drawn from real life in Netherlands.
What This Site Is (And Isn't)
This site is:
- Practical insight gained from living in Netherlands
- Centered on family life and day-to-day realities
- Updated whenever there is a meaningful change
This site isn't:
- Not a tourism authority resource
- Not a sponsored review platform
- Not a generic travel blog
Looking Ahead
Our time in Netherlands goes on, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue documenting what we discover.
If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, don't hesitate to get in touch.
Best regards,
Sophie
Amsterdam, Netherlands