Profile of Ella
The unplanned expat blogger behind Garden Maple Crest
Photo: Garden Maple Crest
Hello, I'm Ella
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 overseas.
How It Began
Moving to Netherlands wasn't in the plan for the future. Like many international moves, it started as a work opportunity and soon grew into something far bigger.
The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Daily tasks felt more complicated than expected.
The Adjustment Phase
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning on the job. But gradually, routines settled. We found places that fit us, connected with other families, and began building something that felt steady.
Why I Created Garden Maple Crest
Most information online was either corporate-level relocation guidance or shallow tourism content. What was missing was genuine, everyday family insight.
This website aims to fill that gap — actionable guidance drawn from real life in Netherlands.
What This Site Does (And Doesn't Do)
This site provides:
- Hands-on insights from life in Netherlands
- Centered on family life and day-to-day realities
- Updated when genuine changes occur
This site is not:
- Not a tourism authority resource
- Not a sponsored review platform
- Not a generic travel blog
Looking Forward
Our stay in Netherlands continues, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll keep chronicling what we discover.
If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Warm regards,
Ella
Amsterdam, Netherlands