Amsterdam is a city full of surprises. The city is vibrant and full of young professionals working in many industries. You meet people from all walks of life and from all over the world! Not only are the people amazing, it's also a genuinely beautiful city full of picturesque 400 year old canals and interesting architecture. There is more to Amsterdam than just cheese, tulips and clogs! Companies like Philips are known for their offices and renowned worldwide. Perhaps you want to do something in the finance industry? How about an Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme internship at ING Groep in Amsterdam?
What should you know about Amsterdam before starting an Erasmus+ or Turing Mobility Scheme?
Cycling
There are more bicycles than people in Amsterdam. Currently, the city counts over 800,000 bicycles. Bicycles are considered the main mode of transport in Amsterdam, and they are treated with the same respect as cars. They have their own wide alleys, tunnels, special roads and intersections. If you visit the countryside, it’s easily accessible by bike so you get to see the local areas and to experience the beautiful scenery that this city has to offer.
Be Aware of the Law
Due to its relaxed drug laws, Amsterdam is a popular place for tourists. Cannabis is generally allowed and you can smoke it in public. In Amsterdam, this is completely normal and there are an endless number of cannabis cafes. But not many of the locals smoke it themselves – it is mainly a tourist attraction.
Art
You will find art almost everywhere in Amsterdam. Whether it’s public murals and sculptures in the streets, modern art in the Stedelijk Museum or the professional works of Vincent Van Gogh in the Van Gogh Museum. No matter if you're an art fan or not, there's something for everyone in the Amsterdam art world.
A Sense of Adventure
No matter how long you want to stay in Amsterdam, you should definitely explore the areas that are outside the city, because they are just as beautiful as the city itself. With a ticket for rail and local transport, you can reach most destinations outside the city by bus or train.
Go swimming in the sea in the north of the city or visit the famous Tulipfarmen, just 15-20 minutes outside the city. In Haarlem you can see castles and amazing historic buildings surrounded by green hills and gardens and it’s only 20 minutes from the city.
Don't be Shy!
There is so much to experience, and you can meet so many different types of people. There are tourists and locals, business people and young people, Bohemian people and stylish people, and in between every other kind of person too!
This city is an attractive place to do an Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme internship. So go out and meet as many people as you can. If you are on a student internship or an intern job, you should definitely participate in all the social activities that your colleagues and staff invite you to. Don't be shy, the Dutch are super friendly!
Business
For business life in Amsterdam, there is a lot to consider during your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme internship. First of all, one of the most important business rules; practice modesty. After all, the Dutch do not like it at all if you’re arrogant. You should always keep that in mind and appear modest.
The next tip is in the Netherlands, for example, business lunches begin with employees getting to know each other in a cosy atmosphere. During your lunch break in your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme internship, it should be similar. Get to know your colleagues personally, before you ask them questions about the job and the company.
Have we inspired you to participate in an Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme adventure in Amsterdam? Remember, your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme internship abroad in Amsterdam needs to be well organised. Contact us and get information about costs, application and financing.
See our blog article: What are the Basic Requirements to Participate in An Erasmus+ Mobility?
Feel free to read our Educator’s Handbook and Guide for Erasmus+ Funding Applicants. By the way, you can subscribe to our Newsletter to always stay up-to-date.
Comments: