Profile of Emma

The inadvertent expatriate blogger behind SunsetCipherMeadow

Emma van der Berg - Founder of SunsetCipherMeadow Photo: SunsetCipherMeadow

Hi there, I'm Emma

I work as a project manager, am a parent, and live abroad in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Several years ago I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually became a new chapter of life overseas.

Origins of the Move

Moving to Netherlands wasn’t part of the long-term plan. Like many expat relocations, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something far more significant.

The first months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should have.

City skyline in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Life in Amsterdam brings surprises. Photo: SunsetCipherMeadow

The Adjustment Phase

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt stable.

Why I Built SunsetCipherMeadow

Most information online was either corporate relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.

This site aims to fill that gap — practical guidance grounded in real life in Netherlands.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site IS:

  • Hands-on experience from living in Netherlands
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever something meaningful changes

This site ISN'T:

  • Not affiliated with a tourism authority
  • A platform for sponsored reviews
  • Just another generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our stay in Netherlands continues, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll continue documenting what we uncover.

If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Best regards,

Emma

Amsterdam, Netherlands