Profile of Sophie

An accidental expatriate blogger behind Wild Meadow Lab

Sophie de Vries - Founder of Wild Meadow Lab Photo: Wild Meadow Lab

Hello, I am Sophie

Project manager. Parent. Expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

A few years back I moved here with my family. What began as a short-term assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Started

Moving to Netherlands wasn’t part of the long-range plan. As with many expatriate relocations, it started as a job chance and soon grew into something far greater.

The early months were demanding — unfamiliar processes, new habits, fresh expectations. Daily tasks seemed more complex than expected.

City skyline in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Life in Amsterdam holds its share of surprises. Photo: Wild Meadow Lab

The Adaptation Period

Culture shock, ambiguity, and plenty of hands-on learning occurred. Yet gradually, routines took shape. We found places that fit us, connected with other families, and began creating something that felt steady.

Why I Created Wild Meadow Lab

Most online resources were either corporate relocation guidance or superficial travel content. What was missing was an honest, everyday family viewpoint.

This site aims to bridge that gap — practical advice grounded in real life in Netherlands.

What This Site Does (And Doesn't)

This site is:

  • Real-world experience from living in Netherlands
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated when something truly changes

This site isn't:

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

Looking Ahead

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

If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, please get in touch.

Best regards,

Sophie

Amsterdam, Netherlands