Profile of Emma

The unintentional expatriate blogger behind PrismGardenSerene

Emma De Boer - Founder of PrismGardenSerene Photo: PrismGardenSerene

Hello, I'm Emma

I am a project manager, a parent, and an expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

A few years ago, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary contract gradually turned into a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Began

Moving to Netherlands wasn't in the grand plan. Like many international relocations, it started with a job opportunity and quickly grew into something far larger.

The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complex than anticipated.

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

The Adjustment Phase

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. Yet gradually, routines settled in. We found places that fit us, met other families, and began building something that felt secure.

Why I Created PrismGardenSerene

Most information online was either corporate relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was an honest, everyday family viewpoint.

This site exists to bridge that gap — practical guidance drawn from real life in Netherlands.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site IS:

  • Hands-on knowledge from living in Netherlands
  • Centered on family life and everyday realities
  • Updated whenever a real change occurs

This site ISN'T:

  • Not a tourism authority resource
  • Not a paid-review platform
  • Not a generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our time in Netherlands goes on, and the learning process continues. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll keep documenting what we discover.

If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Best regards,

Emma

Amsterdam, Netherlands