Amsterdam versus Rotterdam: These are the differences

Wow, it's already been six years since I emigrated to the island. It was quite a culture shock. From people who only asked what business I was in, it suddenly became important what study I was doing. The jokes that flew around me when I moved to Amsterdam were mainly: ‘Liz, what's the best thing about Amsterdam? The train to Rotterdam?’

There are a hundred differences I could mention. But the most important ones are:

Directness

Real Rotterdammers tell you straight away where they stand. They either like you or they don't. It's completely normal to explain that straightforwardly to someone. Aren't they just honest? Amsterdammers won't say this so quickly, but they will to their girlfriend or boyfriend.

Workhorses/showhorses

In Amsterdam, it's important that your life is fun: going to many terraces and dining out a lot. In Rotterdam, the work atmosphere is much more prevalent. ‘Hard for little but never grumpy’ is a saying I've heard often.

Fashion trends

Real Amsterdammers turn their clothing into a work of art; it's important that you look good. Many people are aware of the latest trends. I've often experienced showing up in a (perhaps crazy) outfit in Rotterdam and suddenly feeling like the clown of the street. In Rotterdam, fashion is more about efficiency and the question ‘is it comfortable?’.

The island

When I still lived at home with my parents, I sometimes went with my mother for a day to Antwerp or The Hague to shop, but I also occasionally went to the beach in Noordwijk. Amsterdammers prefer to just stay within the Ring. Does a life exist outside Amsterdam?

For me, these are the four biggest differences between the two cities. Which city do I like more? No idea, they both have their charms, but I secretly think I’ll happily keep living in Amsterdam.

Geschreven door: Lizzy Perridon