Webinar with Andrew and Sylvia
Spotlight on Amsterdam, Netherlands
Spotlight on Amsterdam: Living The Good Life in the Netherlands
Discover what a month in Amsterdam looks like with The Good Life Abroad—from canal-side living to Dutch culture, community connections, and day trips beyond the city.
Introduction: Beyond the Tourist Stereotypes
When most people think of Amsterdam, bicycles, canals, and tulips come to mind. But there's so much more to this historic Dutch city than the usual tourist attractions.
In our recent webinar, Andrew Motiwalla, founder and CEO of The Good Life Abroad, sat down with Sylvia von Stuijvenberg, one of our Amsterdam Community Managers, to explore what makes Amsterdam an exceptional destination for month-long cultural immersion—and why it's the perfect base for exploring the wider Netherlands.
Meet Sylvia: Your Guide to Amsterdam
Sylvia von Stuijvenberg brings over 30 years of tourism experience to her role as Community Manager. After working aboard Holland America Line cruise ships around the world, she returned to her hometown and now lives in Naarden, a UNESCO-listed town just 10 minutes south of Amsterdam.
Sylvia works alongside two colleagues—Ben, who lives in the heart of Amsterdam and knows every corner, and Sabine, an expert on art and history. Together, this team welcomes Good Life Abroad participants and ensures they experience authentic Amsterdam beyond the typical tourist trail.
What Makes Amsterdam Special?
A Step Back in Time
"If you decide to come to Amsterdam, it's like being thrown back in time about 300 years," Sylvia explained. The city is actively reducing cars and buses in the historic center, so walking along the canals truly feels like stepping into the 17th century.
Around every corner, you'll find museums—from the Rijksmuseum to hidden gems tourists never discover. The diversity is striking: quiet, intimate streets that feel almost private, then bustling squares filled with outdoor cafés where dozens of languages fill the air.
Beyond the Stereotypes
Yes, Amsterdam has a red light district and cannabis cafés—but these are now primarily tourist attractions. The red light district is home to the Oude Kerk (Old Church), where Amsterdam began, and it's perfectly safe to visit.
"For Dutch people, it's not as special anymore," Sylvia noted. The real Amsterdam experience lies in its neighborhoods, its people, and its unique way of life—something you'll discover during a month-long stay.
Your Home in Amsterdam: The Plantage Neighborhood
Modern Comfort in a Historic Setting
All Good Life Abroad apartments are in one beautifully renovated building in the Plantage neighborhood. While thoroughly modern inside, the building is historic—part of the Lutheran community with beautiful inner courtyards and an antique clock.
Apartments feature:
Weekly cleaning service
Fully equipped kitchens
Elevator access
Air conditioning and heating
Walk-in showers
Some units with loft areas
The Perfect Location
Plantage (meaning "forest") was historically Amsterdam's Jewish quarter. It sits at a unique intersection—bordered by the famous canal ring and greener, wider streets with the historic Artis Zoo nearby.
From the apartments, you can walk to most major attractions. The Anne Frank House is about a 40-minute walk or 20 minutes by public transportation.
Pro tip: Book Anne Frank House tickets online six weeks in advance—it fills up quickly.
Community Activities: Your Month in Amsterdam
Tuesday Lunch Club
This beloved tradition is about discovering local cuisine, exploring new neighborhoods, and building community over long, leisurely lunches.
Weekly Cultural Activities (may vary by season)
Dutch Delft Tile Making Workshop
Tulip Season Excursions (April-May at Keukenhof)
Cheese and Local Beer Tastings
Museum Visits (major institutions and hidden gems)
Neighborhood Walking Tours
Happy Hour
Every Friday, the community gathers at different locations around the city before the weekend opens up for independent exploration.
Bicycle Tours
For experienced cyclists, the team can organize bike tours outside the city through windmills and fields at a relaxed pace.
Important: Amsterdam is bike-friendly, which means navigating around cyclists. The community managers teach you how to safely cross streets and watch for bike lanes during orientation.
Who Is This Program For?
The Ideal Participant
Active adults 55+ who have traveled extensively
Cultural enthusiasts interested in art, history, and local life
People seeking depth over breadth
Both couples and solo travelers (about one-third are solo)
Average group size: 15-16 participants (age ~67-68). About 90% from the US, 9% from Canada.
What This Program Is NOT
Not a tour: No bus picking you up
Requires independence: You create your own schedule with support
Physical activity required: Comfortable walking 2+ miles on uneven surfaces
Consider mobility: Old buildings, narrow stairs, cobblestones
Creating Your Own Experience
"We provide structure and support, but it's up to you to paint your own picture," Andrew explained. Whether you want to learn Dutch, dive into history, explore art museums, or relax in cafés—the community managers help you achieve your vision.
Ready to Experience Amsterdam?
The Amsterdam program provides the framework, support, and community to create your perfect month—whether exploring art, learning Dutch customs, cycling through tulip fields, or simply soaking in café culture. Sylvia, Ben, and Sabine are ready to welcome you to Amsterdam and help you discover the city most tourists never see.
Questions? Contact us or watch the full webinar recording to see more about life in Amsterdam with The Good Life Abroad.