Building a social life
Making friends is a big part of settling in. During your time in Utrecht Right, you probably want to meet people, expand your social circle and find support groups. In this section, we offer some suggestions to help you on your way.
How to meet people
Learn the Dutch language
One of the best things about living abroad is that you get an opportunity to learn a new language. Learning Dutch or improving your English is a great way to meet people and make friends. Local people will appreciate the effort you are making to speak their language and it will definitely make you feel more at home. Whether it is enrolling in a language course, using apps or visiting relevant websites, there are plenty of free and paid opportunities to learn Dutch.
Join events or workshops
Events are great for meeting new people. The Utrecht International Center organises bimonthly networking events for newcomers: an informal and great opportunity to meet like-minded people. Joining a sports team or taking workshops are also nice ways to get to know fellow internationals and locals. The Dutch like their sports and have special moments for socialising, called ‘the third half’, in which you share a drink with your teammates.
Visit the buurtcentrum
Every neighbourhood in Utrecht has its own buurtcentrum (community centre). It is the perfect place to meet, share and connect with co-residents, have a cup of coffee, or join existing activities. Visit your local Buurtcentrum to check out the activity schedule. You can also book rooms to organize your own activity, for example cooking classes, language courses or game evenings (most of the times for free, depending on your offering). Find more info.
International groups and communities
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UR-Glocals
UR-Glocals
Meet the UR-Glocal ambassadors! They work on fun and inspiring projects to further improve the region as a welcoming place for internationals, and organise free events such as a King's Day event, language café, movie nights and crafternoons.
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Expats Utrecht
Expats Utrecht
With over 37,000 members, this is the largest Facebook group for expats in Utrecht Region. You can ask questions 24/7 and receive responses from your peers. You will also find many social activities organised and promoted in the group.
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Parenting across Borders
Parenting across Borders
Are you an international parent in the first 1000 days of your parenting role? Check out the social initiative Parenting across Borders for individual support in a dialogue group setting with a goal of self-reflection, personal learning, and a sense of belonging to a community.
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Amersfoort Expats and Int'ls
Amersfoort Expats and Int'ls
This is a Facebook community for internationals living in Amersfoort and the surrounding area of Woudenberg, Soest, Hilversum, Zeist, and Leusden. The community arranges activities in and around Amersfoort such as walking/biking tours, and quiz nights.
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Erasmus Student Network Utrecht
Erasmus Student Network Utrecht
Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is the biggest student association in Europe and organises all kinds of activities for exchange students from across the world. Utrecht has its own local section. They offer a wide range of activities, suitable for everyone!
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Internations
Internations
Internationas is a global networking community that actively seeks to connect people both online and at their many in-person events. Amsterdam is a closeby Internations hub that you can join to network, socialize, and make new international friends.
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Meet-up
Meet-up
At Meet-up, you can find vibrant and welcoming groups for just about any activity, from drinks with your fellow expats to cinema nights, language cafes and more.
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Utrecht Mamas
Utrecht Mamas
In many ways, mothers knit societies together. Here, you can find a supportive, funny and caring group of Dutch people and expats (which also welcomes papas).
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Home-Start
Home-Start
Increase your self-confidence as a parent and strengthen your social network with Home-Start. Home-Start is a programme with trained volunteers that offers support, practical help and friendship to parents with children up to 18 years, and to parents-to-be.
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SPEAK.UTRECHT
SPEAK.UTRECHT
SPEAK.UTRECHT connects local people to migrants and newcomers in the city of Utrecht. Their language and culture exchange program breaks the linguistic barrier and brings people of different origins together. Join one of their events to make new connections and friends.
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Bridging the Gap Foundation
Bridging the Gap Foundation
This foundation helps integrate Indian expats living in the Netherlands into the Dutch community. It also hosts many events, exposing Dutch people to diverse, vibrant aspects of Indian culture.
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International women’s contact Utrecht
International women’s contact Utrecht
With events occurring almost daily, this group is an excellent way to build friendships and create a sense of community across the region. Open to both expat and local women.