From Amsterdam to Varde: The Vinke family found a new everyday life at Stilbjerg
Ten years ago, Esther and Ramon Vinke made a life-changing decision. Together with their three children, they left Amsterdam in the Netherlands and moved to Varde.
Ten years ago, Esther and Ramon Vinke made a life-changing decision. Together with their three children, they left Amsterdam in the Netherlands and moved to Varde. They were looking for a different kind of everyday life – with more space, fresh air and more quality time together as a family.
When the family first visited Stilbjerg in early 2016, they immediately knew it was the right place for them.
Just seven months later, they moved to Denmark, and they have enjoyed life in their new surroundings ever since.
“We moved to Denmark because there were simply too many people where we lived, and we were very close to both the airport and industrial areas. We wanted fresh air and a little more quality time together,” Ramon says.
Today, Esther runs Stilbjerg Sleep & Hygge, which includes five guest houses and a small campsite. In addition, she also works at Kvie Sø Efterskole. Ramon works as head chef at Øse Efterskole.
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For the family, life in Varde is not just about living in a different place. It is also about having a different kind of everyday life.
“Varde Municipality is a really nice place to live because there is plenty of space. You are also close to the town, close to the train station, close to Esbjerg – close to everything. The beach, nature. The area has it all,” says Ramon.
What has made the biggest impression on the family is the nature, the sense of peace and the way people live together.
“What we really like about Denmark is the area. The greenery. The nature. The people are very respectful. But also the sense of community. We do this together,” Esther says.
A strong sense of community and closeness means a lot to the family, who now call Stilbjerg and Varde home.
Of course, moving to a new country has also come with differences along the way – not least the humour, which the family takes with a smile.
“You Dutch people should be prepared. The humour is just different,” Esther and Ramon say with a laugh.