For me, my dream destination is my retirement destination.

It’s going to be at least another ten years to get there, living in other places and working a lot, saving, preparing.

It’s worth it.

Amsterdam was tough back in 2017. Imagine it’s worse now. Market is tight on supply, high price, and moves incredibly fast.

I’ve lived in several countries now, and my happiness levels varied. I have lived in four countries outside the US over the past 15 years, and I’m batting .500. Things to keep in mind: you can’t change cultures, you can only change yourself. You can’t change the number of other expats in any given area, you can only change how you interact with the ones that are there, and by extension how you integrate into the local community. But you know all that, since you’ve been there twice for extended stays.

I think you carry an advantage vs. some who’ve had bad experiences - you’ve already been there, 9 months at a time. You didn’t expatriate after a nice holiday or after a two week business trip. Your eyes are open as to what you’ll face. Don’t worry.