[Cthulhu_]

I don't live in the Randstad but I'm sure in some years everything will have closed up.

One thing I will say though is that the area outside of it - pick any direction - is idyllic and doesn't seem to be struggling economically. Loads of local businesses, loads of people just going about their day, buying houses, having kids, etc. It's idyllic and I don't really understand why all the activity seems to be in the Randstad.

I mean I do get it, it's a chicken / egg problem; talent travels to the cities because that's where the best jobs are, the best jobs go to the cities because that's where talent is.

But I would like the government to incentivize more "work where you live" schemes; smaller sattelite offices for larger employers, remote work (obviously), extra income and subsidies if you work remotely (because of reduced office costs and to discourage commuting, since our roads and railways are all full up).

[BytesAndGears]

I totally agree about how the lower investment in the non-Randstad parts of the country does not seem to have a negative affect. At least the further-away cities/towns that I’ve visited have been absolutely gorgeous. People are friendly, streets are clean, parks are well-kept, public transportation is world-class even in small towns.

[CalRobert]

I think part of the issue is that if you're a couple there's a huge advantage to being within commute distance from multiple cities.