Profile of Sophie

The inadvertent expatriate blogger behind Green Trail Studio

Sophie van Dijk - Founder of Green Trail Studio Photo: Green Trail Studio

Hi, I'm Sophie

I work as a project manager. I'm a parent. An expatriate living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

A few years back, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually turned into a new chapter of life overseas.

How It Began

Moving to Netherlands wasn't on the grand plan. Like many international relocations, it started with a job opportunity and soon grew into something grander.

The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks seemed more complicated than they ought to be.

City skyline in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Life in Amsterdam brings surprises. Photo: Green Trail Studio

The Adjustment Phase

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning on the fly. But gradually, routines took shape. We found places that fit us, connected with other families, and began building something that felt steady.

Why I Created Green Trail Studio

Most online resources were either corporate relocation guidance or surface-level tourism content. What was missing was an honest, everyday family perspective.

This site aims to fill that gap — practical advice drawn from real life in Netherlands.

What this site does (and does not)

This site covers:

  • Hands-on experience from living in Netherlands
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever there is a real change

This site doesn't:

  • Not a tourism authority resource
  • Not a sponsored review platform
  • Not a generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our time in Netherlands continues, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll keep recording what we discover.

If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, please reach out.

Best regards,

Sophie

Amsterdam, Netherlands