Paréa Books: creating space for connection
For many internationals, moving to a new country means finding more than a place to live. It also means finding a sense of belonging. For Sofia Doulgkeridou, owner of Paréa Books in Maastricht, that feeling inspired her to leave a secure university job and open an independent English-language bookshop that brings people together.
Born and raised in the Greek town of Drama, Sofia first came to Zwolle as an exchange student before completing an internship in Maastricht. 'I really liked the Netherlands and the quality of life here,' she says. The south of the Netherlands felt like somewhere I might also be able to call “home”, so I decided to stay.'
Turning a dream into reality
After working at Maastricht University for several years, Sofia took a leap of faith. In December 2025, she left her job and, just 2 months later, opened Paréa Books. Books have always been part of her life. 'My parents would always read to us before bed,' she says. 'We had a limit on toys and clothes, but we never had a limit on books.' As she grew older and moved abroad, Sofia naturally began reading more books in English. Though she did miss the experience of visiting the small independent bookshops she knew in Greece, where staff knew their customers and recommended books based on their interests. 'I wanted that feeling again,' she explains. 'I wanted a place where everything there is something you can read.'
More than a bookshop
That personal wish became the inspiration for Paréa Books, which specialises in English-language books for Maastricht's growing international community, while welcoming readers of every background. The name itself reflects Sofia's vision. In Greek, “paréa” describes a close group of friends or people who enjoy spending time together. 'If I would loosely translate it, it would mean maybe the feeling of togetherness, bringing people together,' she says. That idea is already shaping the shop. Alongside carefully chosen books, Paréa Books hosts community events, collaborates with authors and local organisations, and creates opportunities for people to meet and share experiences. 'I really want to be involved with the community,' Sofia says. 'The reception so far has been very heartwarming.' Many customers now return regularly, not only to buy books but also to spend time in the shop. 'They come and have a chat, or they just come and sit here and read.'
A place to connect
Sofia hopes this welcoming atmosphere will continue to thrive. She has applied for a licence to serve coffee in the hope to expand on her offerings to her growing customer base. 'I don't want it to be the biggest shop in Maastricht,' she says. 'I just want it to be maybe like a small hub.' One initiative already proving popular is the shop's second-hand book collection. Customers donate books, which Sofia sells for just 5 euro each, making reading more affordable for students and young professionals. 'I really appreciate it because you have students that maybe don't have a big budget to spend on books,' she says.
Expert support for all stages of your expat journey
Like many internationals, Sofia also experienced the challenges of settling into a new country. While administration and the formalities process in the Netherlands was generally straightforward, knowing what needed to be done in the first place was often the difficult part. 'I had no idea health insurance was mandatory,' she recalls. 'Then I got a letter that said you need to have health insurance. Otherwise, you need to pay a fine.' Looking back, she wishes she had known earlier about the support available through organisations such as Expat Centre Maastricht Region. Later, when preparing to start her business, she found valuable guidance through StartersCentrum Limburg, including English-language information sessions and practical advice on everything from business planning to local permits. For international graduates considering entrepreneurship, Sofia encourages good preparation but also taking advantage of the support that exists.
'I think the Netherlands really helps you start as an entrepreneur,' she says. 'It makes the process very easy.'
Creating a home away from home
Her advice for newcomers extends beyond paperwork. Building friendships and joining local activities made all the difference in helping Maastricht feel like home. 'I would say what helped me really was doing a lot of hobbies, joining extracurricular activities outside of work,' she says. 'You really need to have your people around you.' That message perfectly reflects what Paréa Books has become: not simply a bookshop, but a place where stories, friendships and new beginnings come together. For newly arrived internationals – whether to study, work or build a business – finding your own paréa may be one of the most important chapters in your Maastricht Region story.
Passport
Name: Sofia Doulgkeridou
Nationality: Greek
Living in: Maastricht
Working in: Jekerkwartier, Maastricht
Favourite spot: Cycling across the JFK bridge
