Casper Van Diemen (43) from the Netherlands decided to settle in Kristiansand after several holidays in the region. He has now bought a house in Grimstad, after spending half a year on Flekkerøya in Kristiansand.
From holidays to permanent residence
Van Diemen first discovered Agder on a motorcycle trip. The scenery and the short distance between coast, fjords and mountains made a strong impression. After several holidays in the area, the family decided to spend a year in Kristiansand.
He says, “I suggested the idea of staying, and surprisingly my wife agreed. She works in the same company as I do, but she also dreams of starting her own business.”
The family has three children: two aged 8 and 9 have moved to Norway with them, while their oldest, who is 17, is still in the Netherlands.
Here is the family on the boat when they first moved to Kristiansand six months ago.
Quick integration
Van Diemen owns Continews, a subscription-based PR agency that produces news for sustainable brands. He now wants to connect with Norwegian copywriters and journalists to expand his network and share similar stories in Norway.
He has been involved in volunteer work to become part of the local community, for instance by coaching his son’s football team and acting as a class contact at the international school.
“I’ve read that some people find it difficult to make connections here, but my message is that you have to put in a bit of effort. I’ve been well received, especially through the football club and the motorsport community,” he says.
A Facebook group for Dutch people in Norway has been a useful resource for practical queries about renting accommodation and dealing with bureaucratic processes.
“Agder offers much of what Norway has to offer, but all in one place.”
The family on an outing nearby on Flekkerøya, just outside Kristiansand city centre.
An attractive choice
Choosing Agder was deliberate. The short travel distance to the Netherlands, a milder climate than in other parts of Norway and the combination of coast and mountains made the region an ideal place for the family.
“Many people think that the weather in Norway is poor, but here in southern Norway it’s much better than many believe, and often better than in the Netherlands,” he says.
He also highlights the Norwegian school system as a major advantage.
“The teachers are enthusiastic, and the children have more freedom to explore creative abilities than in the Netherlands. My son loves drawing and painting, and here this is appreciated and encouraged,” he explains.
Encourages more people to try Norway
Van Diemen believes it’s relatively easy for Dutch people to try living in Norway if they are considering moving.
“It’s easy to rent out your own home in the Netherlands and find a place to rent in Norway. The job market is decent, and you can start somewhere and build on that,” he says.
Video: Dutchman Casper Van Diemen shares why he chose to move to Kristiansand from the Netherlands with his family.