The Netherlands Offers Au Pairs a Relaxed Environment and Access to All of Europe
November 7, 2011
Almost every country around the globe offers its own unique sights, sounds and experiences, but some also offer a fantastic work environment. CBS’ Moneywatch.com reports that Brookfield Global Relocation Services, a company that helps businesses set up offices around the world, released its list of the top 10 places to live and work over the summer.
Unsurprisingly, some of the big growing markets like China, India and Brazil made the cut, but coming in at number five was the oft-overlooked the Netherlands.
Nestled between Germany and tiny Belgium, the Netherlands offers an unexpected option for adventurous young people looking to the explore Europe. Through its long history and strong ties with the United Kingdom, the Netherlands has come to be one of the most English language-friendly countries in the world.
A report commissioned by the European Commission in 2006 found that 87 percent of Dutch residents could speak English, more than anywhere in Europe short of Malta, Sweden and the U.K. itself.
Because it’s located on the mainland unlike the U.K., the Netherlands provides easy access to the rest of Europe through the extensive network of trains crisscrossing the continent. Given its small size and flat terrain, it is not entirely unreasonable to simply ride a bicycle to the nearest border.
And many options exist for U.S. citizens to find work in the Netherlands. The cultural exchange organization InterExchange runs an au pair program to the Netherlands that offers young people the opportunity to work in the country for between 10 months and one year.
These kinds of cultural exchange programs offer a unique opportunity for U.S. citizens to experience a different culture first-hand. Unlike simple vacations, or even some study abroad programs, Americans working as au pairs are exposed to these different cultures constantly, as they share a home, meals and even a car with their “host family.”
Between the potential to learn a new language and exposure to new thoughts, traditions and even foods, working as an au pair can easily provide a broader experience than just traveling. Plus, there is the benefit of working and earning wages, in addition to traveling.
With two weeks of paid vacation each year and at least two days off per week, au pairs can still easily find time to make use of the extensive travel opportunities both within and around the country. And working no more than 30 hours per week allows for plenty of time to explore the vibrant nightlife of places like Amsterdam or the rich traditions of the Dutch countryside.
Those looking for an edge in the business world can also find it in the Netherlands, with seven of the world’s top five hundred companies located in the country and a major financial sector centered around Amsterdam.
