“Leaving Myanmar was one of the hardest decisions of my life,” says Thidar. “Because it is a country full of warmth, deep traditions and strong community bonds. People are very close to their families, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. They a strong sense of belongings, shared culture, and resilience. Daily life was slower, and relationships mattered more than schedules.” Still, Thidar left the country where she spent most of her life there. “It was not just about opportunity—it was about safety, stability, and the hope for a future that felt secure. The current political and economic situation made daily life uncertain for everyone in Myanmar. I realized that if I wanted to be safe and secure, and grow and build something stable, I needed to step outside my comfort zone and uncertainty situation.”
She found her way to the Netherlands and eventually to Rotterdam. “When I first arrived, I felt a deep sense of excitement and curiosity. The city felt quiet compared to Myanmar. Everything was organized, structured, and calm. And the city is very different from many traditional European cities, it is bold, diverse, and practical. I was impressed by how efficient public administration and transport are and how people respect rules and personal space.” In Myanmar she experienced another lifestyle, mindset and emotional atmosphere. “There, life feels slow-living, closed, and connected. Here, people value independence, direct communication, work-life balance, people respect each other’s personal life, space, and independence, which I admire, but sometimes it feels distant. And surprisingly there is no customer service.”
Beginning of growth
Sometimes, that felt uncertain, unfamiliar and overwhelming. “But instead of seeing that as loneliness, I chose to see it as the beginning of growth, a new chapter where I could learn, adapt, and slowly build my own place in this city.”
And she did. She created a deep appreciation for the city. “I appreciate the safety, freedom, and equality here. Also, I can walk alone at night without fear. Next to that, I can plan my future without constant uncertainty. That is something I do not take for granted. The city is very multicultural, which makes it easier to adapt as a foreigner. But I struggle with the weather, especially the long, grey winters. And sometimes the culture can feel emotionally distant compared to Myanmar’s warmth and closeness.”
Myanmar food and traditions
Luckily Thidar can keep Myanmar close with food and traditions. “They keep me connected to who I am. Even thousands of kilometers away, Myanmar lives inside me. For example, I cook my traditional food because it reminds me of family gatherings. Also, I keep the habit of caring deeply for elders and community.” This is important, because Myanmar will always be the place of her childhood, family, and roots. At the same time, Rotterdam has become familiar over time. “It feels now welcoming, and comfortable in its own way. And it is where I build my future and create new memories.” And so she lives between two cultures. “It’s a privilege to carry two homes within me. It has taught how to belong in a new place while honoring where I come from. That gave me resilience, adaptability, and empathy.”
Thidar sees herself staying in Rotterdam long-term “Because it offers stability, freedom, and opportunities. It allows me to grow, mature, and resilience. I believe Rotterdam is a stronger city because of diversity and I’m grateful to be part of it. At the same time, I hope one day Myanmar would be peaceful again so returning or contributing back becomes a real option.”