Nicoleta – from move to home, in Småland
When Nicoleta van der Vaart moved to Småland 2019 for work, she discovered a slower, more grounded way of life. What started as a career opportunity with Konecranes Liftrucks soon became a long-term move, shaped by nature, family life, and a calmer everyday rhythm.
Tell us about your move – what made you take the leap?
I moved to Sweden 2019 after being offered the opportunity to relocate through work at Konecranes Lifttrucks. I now live in the small town Markaryd, in south of Småland.
What worried you before moving?
I initially moved on my own, so being separated from my husband for a while was of course difficult. Still, I felt confident that he would eventually be able to relocate and find a job here as well—which he did in 2021. Apart from that, I wasn’t particularly worried. I already knew the company and some colleagues, which made the whole move feel smooth and well supported.
What turned out to be easier than expected?
Understanding Swedish! Even though the pronunciation is very different, there are many similarities with Dutch, which made reading and everyday life easier than expected.
What do you wish you had known before moving?
That there are no streetlights along highways and many rural roads, unlike in the Netherlands. And that wildlife is much closer to homes than I expected—not only out in the forests.
How does everyday life in Småland actually work?
Everyday life in Småland is quite straightforward and down-to-earth. Life moves at a different pace—you really notice that people aren’t rushing all the time. Many plans revolve around home, family, and spending time together.
What made you stay?
Life here feels stable and grounded: kids, home, work. Nature is always close by, and spending more time outdoors has made life feel healthier and more balanced. People don’t rush as much, and everyday life feels far less stressful.
What would you tell someone standing where you were today?
Give it time to really settle in. The best parts aren’t loud or immediate; they’re the kind that slowly grow on you.
Don’t judge it too quickly. At first it can feel quiet or even “too slow,” but that calmer pace often turns into a sense of freedom.
Lean into the lifestyle. The focus on family, steady routines, and simple everyday life isn’t a lack of things to do—it’s the point.
Use nature as your reset button. If you make the outdoors part of your weekly rhythm, life here becomes noticeably better.
Be honest with yourself about what you need. If you thrive on constant buzz, big-city variety, or spontaneous social life, it might feel limiting—so it’s worth reflecting on that early on.
