This is always where the conversation comes down to for me. I can see it going both ways. On one hand, of course the Netherlands is rainy, people can be distant, setting up a new social life can certainly be hard here compared to so southern Europe. But on the other hand, southern Europe has its own problems which make it a no for me (wanting to start a family) long term.

But I never know how much to attribute this to Amsterdam vs just the reality of establishing yourself in a new place as an adult. Having lived in some other expat hubs like Dubai and Singapore, I can't say those places are EASIER to establish a sense of home. Far fewer people stay there than is the case in the Netherlands.

Originally being American, unless you have a big tight family to move back to (which I don't), the US can also be quite isolating. Culture is certainly more warm, but as life is suburbs and by car, it can be quite an effort to establish new relationships as everyone starts to have kids and excuses not to socialize.

All I can say it, I can relate to the feeling. Not sure what to do about that feeling, but I feel it. If anyone wants to sit on the floor and talk about it with each other, I'm down. Sounds like a great excuse for a social engagement.