'Experiencing history and nature at the same time'

'I am an American expat on a 1 year assignment working in Nijmegen. Nijmegen was ideal for a work assignment for several reasons. It has been a great place to experience a new culture. I have met new people through English expat groups and work collegues. Since almost everyone speaks English, this made the transition to living, working and playing in a foreign country much easier.

Nijmegen is also in a great location for travelling. This city itself is beautiful. My favorite location in Nijmegen is the Valkhof, where you are experiencing history and nature, overlooking the river, at the same time.

Because Nijmegen is centrally located, there is easy access to flights at nearby airports. It is also close enough for road trips to the surrounding countries. For me, it was very important to be in a location where I have the opportunity to travel almost every weekend. I have learned about the history and different cultures through these travels.

For any new expat moving to Nijmegen, it is very important to ensure that you have close contacts with the local Dutch people to help you through the process of setting up all of your affairs in the Netherlands (work permits, residence permits, bank accounts, etc.). Either through your work collegues or an expat organization, you will need someone that speaks Dutch and has time to spend with you, because most correspondence is in Dutch.'

Christine Walker from the U.S.A. works for Synthon in Nijmegen on a one year assignment