Recording summary · September 2020
This country is TOO EXPENSIVE
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Overview
Living in Rotterdam involves challenges such as high rent costs compared to Osaka, lack of Visa debit acceptance in local stores, a quiet and lifeless central shopping area, and complex street layouts, contrasted with satisfaction over quietness and food quality like bacon, sausages, and bread.
Preparations are underway to depart the Rotterdam apartment the next day due to its £3,000 monthly cost and move to an undisclosed location before seeking another place.
Daniel experienced cooking difficulties when seasoned meat burned quickly, managed smoke with an extractor fan, heated microwave rice, and decided on beer and kimchi while reflecting on the poorly planned meal and intense frustration over a critical woman.
Themes
High cost of Airbnb rentals in Rotterdam compared to cheaper monthly accommodation in Osaka.
Payment difficulties in Dutch stores, restaurants, and supermarkets due to Visa debit rejection, necessitating cash withdrawals.
Perceptions of central Rotterdam feeling deserted compared to lively Japanese streets.
Street crossing complexities involving distinct lanes for cars, bicycles, mopeds, and tram tracks.
Appreciation of local quietness and Dutch food items such as bacon, sausages, and bread.
Food preparation, burnt meat, drinks, and meal reflections.
Frustrations regarding a woman who constantly complains, nags about DIY and gardening, and makes Daniel feel useless.
Developments
Daniel attempted to purchase groceries at a Dutch supermarket with a Visa card and left empty-handed when payment was refused.
Daniel stepped outside onto the wet apartment balcony to check for people on the street below.
Daniel seasoned two pieces of meat with shawarma powder, salt, and pepper.
The meat sizzled rapidly and burned after ten seconds.
Daniel turned down the heat and allowed smoke to vent through the extractor fan.
Daniel microwaved rice for one minute.
Daniel decided to have a beer and kimchi after noting the meal was not planned well.
Uncertainties & gaps
The reasons why Rotterdam rents are so high and why many Dutch shops and restaurants do not accept Visa cards.
Whether the burned meat is completely ruined or salvaged by the smoky flavor.