A remarkable Love Story: Overcoming Obstacles
The love between two people sparked and Reaching Expatations was born! Overcoming obstacles is what we fight for, to reach expectations and improve the integration and quality of life of expats starting their new life in the Netherlands.
How it all began
In the spring of 2022, I met the love of my life—a remarkable woman from a distant land. Our paths crossed in the historic city of Alkmaar, Netherlands, during her exchange program, and our connection quickly grew into something special.
The months that followed were a whirlwind of dates, laughter, and shared dreams. But as summer approached, we had to face the reality of her limited options to stay in the Netherlands. Despite the challenges, our love persevered.
After a year of navigating complex immigration processes and cherishing a memorable winter reunion in the enchanting city of Tbilisi, Georgia, we were finally back together in September 2023 in Amsterdam. Yet, our journey was far from over.
Being in the same place was just the beginning. My partner had to face the challenges of adapting to a new country—understanding unfamiliar systems, finding meaningful opportunities, and bridging cultural differences. As I watched her go through this, I saw firsthand how complex and overwhelming the experience can be. It made me realize how many others face the same struggles, often without knowing where to turn for support.
That’s how Reaching Expatations was born—a program dedicated to helping newcomers navigate their first days, weeks, and months in the Netherlands. By offering guidance on Dutch culture, systems, and everyday life, we aim to make the transition smoother, so expats can focus on building a future full of opportunity and belonging.
If you or someone you care about is starting this journey, know that you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help, just like I wanted to help the person I love. Let’s make a new beginning worth it!
Bart Rotteveel
Founder of Reaching Expatations
Why we are here
At Reaching Expatations, our mission is to empower expats to confidently navigate their new lives in the Netherlands. Through practical support, cultural insights, and community-building, we strive to make the transition smoother and more enriching for newcomers, giving them the tools they need to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
What we see in our future
We envision a world where moving to a new country feels less like an uphill battle and more like a path to opportunity and growth. By fostering understanding and connection between cultures, Reaching Expatations aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of expats, helping them feel at home in the Netherlands while building bridges between people from diverse backgrounds.
Partner with us to make a difference
We believe that building a supportive community for expats is a shared responsibility. By partnering with us through sponsorship, your company can help us expand our reach and provide essential guidance to even more newcomers in the Netherlands. Together, we can create a welcoming environment that fosters growth, connection, and understanding.
Let’s discuss how we can work together to make a positive impact. Contact us today to explore sponsorship opportunities and join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of expats.