Profile of Emma

An unplanned expat blogger who runs Aura Forest Path

Emma van den Berg - Founder of Aura Forest Path Photo: Aura Forest Path

Hello, I'm Emma

Project manager. Parent. Expat currently based in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

A few years ago I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.

Origins of the Move

Moving to Netherlands wasn’t in our long-term plan. Like many international assignments, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something far more significant.

The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Daily chores felt heavier than they ought to be.

City skyline in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Living in Amsterdam brings surprises. Photo: Aura Forest Path

The Adaptation Phase

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt steady.

Why I Created Aura Forest Path

Most information online was either corporate relocation guidance or superficial travel material. What was missing was an honest, everyday family perspective.

This site aims to bridge that gap — practical guidance drawn from real life in Netherlands.

About This Site (What It Does and Doesn’t)

This site IS:

  • Practical insights from living in Netherlands
  • Centered on family life and everyday realities
  • Updated when a real change occurs

This site ISN'T:

  • A tourism authority resource
  • A platform for sponsored reviews
  • A generic travel blog

Looking Forward

Our stay in Netherlands continues, and so does our learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll keep recording what we find.

If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,

Emma

Amsterdam, Netherlands