About Sophie
The accidental expat blogger behind Haven Bloom Matrix
Image: Haven Bloom Matrix
Hello, I am Sophie
I work as a project manager. I'm a parent and an expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
A few years ago I relocated here with my family. What started as a temporary contract gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.
How It Started
Moving to Netherlands wasn’t part of the long-range plan. Like many expat relocations, it began as a job opportunity and soon grew into something far bigger.
The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than anticipated.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But gradually, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt stable.
Why I Built Haven Bloom Matrix
Most information online was either corporate-level relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.
This site exists to close that gap — practical guidance based on real life in Netherlands.
The Purpose of This Site (And What It Isn't)
This site is:
- Practical knowledge gained from living in Netherlands
- Centered on family life and day-to-day realities
- Updated when genuine changes occur
This site isn't:
- 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 noting what we discover.
If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, please feel free to reach out.
Best regards,
Sophie
Amsterdam, Netherlands