Allard was born in 1970 in Zuidwolde. He came to Norway with his partner in 2004. He studied economics and worked in the banking industry for nearly 15 years. Before arriving in Norway, he was head of department in a bank. His main reasons for moving from the Netherlands to Norway were a sense of adventure and the outdoor life. Allard had been on holiday to Norway and it seemed like an exciting challenge to settle there.

He and Tjitske ran a restaurant in Ringebu, but later moved to Fagerhøy camp and mountain lodge. He works there as office manager, but in such a small business he actually has a variety of duties, such as selling in the shop, shifting snow or changing light bulbs. During their time there, he and Tjitske have had two children.
Moving to Norway meant major changes - an entirely new job, a new region and a new language, but he says he is a flexible person who can adapt to different circumstances, and he did not find the transition a problem.

He thinks it is good to be aware that the new lifestyle requires more effort at first, but it pays off. Allard has less stress in his everyday life, but because of where he lives, he needs to plan his days better.
Because he is middle-aged, he does not miss the nightlife that the Netherlands or a city can offer. He has chosen a quiet life surrounded by Norwegian mountains. Allard is very happy to be able to go walking or skiing without meeting a soul. In the mountains he is alone with the natural surroundings.