Spring 2025 is soaking the Netherlands in sunshine, and the rainclouds? Nowhere to be seen.
Letโs dive into whatโs going on, what the forecast looks like, and what all this means for summer. ๐
Smooth sailing into the weekend
Last Tuesday brought textbook spring perfection, with highs between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius. It was the ideal day for a canal cruise or an outdoor picnic, which we took full advantage of. ๐
And the sunshineโs not packing up anytime soon. According to AD, this calm, dry weather, with slightly cooler temperatures, will stretch into the weekend.
Expect temperatures ranging from 15 degrees Celsius along the coast to around 20 degrees inland. A light northerly breeze will keep things comfortable, especially by the sea. ๐ฌ๏ธ
Heading into next week, you can look forward to a few fluffy clouds drifting by, but rain? Still not invited. The mercury will sit nicely between 17 and 22 degrees.
As for the second half of May, brace yourself: temperatures are climbing even higher. ๐ฅต
A spring full of sunshine, and summer thatโs looking hot
This spring hasnโt just been sunny โ itโs been record-breaking. ๐
Since March 1, AD reports that the Netherlands has seen 37 very sunny days, edging past the previous record of 36 set in 2020. (For context: 2024 had just three. Ouch. ๐)
And itโs not just about how often the sun shines, because its overall intensity is rising, too, prompting cities like Amsterdam to look into sustainable ways to stay cool.
And, while we’ve been steadily racking up over 660 sunshine hours this year, Dutch UV levels have also been climbing. This week alone, they reached a 5 to 6 on the UV Index, which is strong enough to burn unprotected skin in 15 to 30 minutes.
A recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, there are so many things to do in Kinderdijk, a small village in the south of the Netherlands.
If youโre looking for a break from the bustling cities of the Netherlands, Kinderdijk is our top recommendation.ย Whatever you desire, there’s always things to do in Kinderdijk!
Perhaps youโll cycle beside the water and admire the ingenuity of Dutch water control or take a peek inside a real 17th-century windmill.
Out of a disaster rose something beautiful. However, if you do choose to visit, remember that 17 of the 19 windmills are private residences, and no drones are allowed. ๐ซ
๐ฐ Price: โฌ19.50 for adults, โฌ8 for children โฐ Opening hours: 9 AM to 5:30 PM ๐ Location: Nederwaard 1, 2961 AS Kinderdijk
2. Check out the Blokweer Museum Mill
One of the most important things to do in Kinderdijk is to actually look inside the windmills โ and Blokweer Mill is one of the two mills in Kinderdijk that remains open to the public.
Experience the Dutch past at the Blokweer Mill in Kinderdijk. Image: Kinderjik.nl/Supplied
You can explore inside the mill and take a peek into what life was like in the Netherlands in the 20th century. How? The mill has been built to recreate it!
3. Quench your curiosity in the Nederwaard Museum Mill
You can also peek inside the second of the two mills. This mill allows an accurate look into what everyday life was like for millers in the 18th century.ย
Visiting the Nederwaard Museum Mill is just one of many things to do in Kinderdijk. Image: Kinderdijk.nl/Supplied
Originally inhabited by the Hoek family as early as 1744, the mill has real items from the millersโ lives, as well as historical photographs. Upstairs, you can even see the old bedroom, in which up to ten children would sleep together.
4. Rent a bike and enjoy the landscape from the comfort of your saddle
A wonderful way to take in the landscape in Kinderdijk is to rent a bike and cycle the many pathways.
Renting a bike and cycling is a wonderful thing to do in Kinderdijk. Image: Depositphotos
You can spend a relaxing afternoon with a loved one cycling around the village, admiring the genius of Dutch millers and builders who managed to claim the land by building windmills.
With a huge selection of different cycling routes, youโre sure to find the path to suit you so you can chat, cycle, and feel like a true Dutchie. ๐ตโโ๏ธ
5. Take an inspiring boat tour along two different routes of your choice
Hop on a boat in Kinderdijk and take in the epic views in comfort. Image: Kinderdijk.nl/Supplied
Using the same ticket that also grants you entrance to the two mills (and the pumping centre! ๐), you will get a canal tour included in your visit to Kinderdijk.
An opportunity you just canโt pass up, a boat tour around Kinderdijk will allow you to admire the windmills from a very important perspective โ the water. ๐
The tour boats run all day long, and you have your own choice between what routes you would like to take.
One boat, The Hopper, goes along a fixed route and will take you to the Nederwaard Mill and the Blokweer Mill.
For the second route, youโll board The Cruiser, which sails for half an hour along the Lage Boezem of the Overwaard, a section of the river surrounding Kinderdijk.
Unable to choose? Geen probleem! You can hop onto both of these cruises if you have the time to spare. โ
Got any engineering nerds in need of a bit of excitement? This ancient pumping centre, built in 1868, is one of many wonderful things you can do at Kinderdijk!
Visiting the Wisboom pumping centre is a great thing to do in Kinderdijk. Image: Kinderdijk.nl/Supplied
The pumping centre was originally operated by a steam engine, but as modern technology advanced, this engine was replaced by an electrical engine.
At the pumping centre, thousands of litres of water were pumped through from the polders into the river beyond.
Travelling by waterbus not your style? You can also get the bus from Dordrecht and travel with ease on the bus to Kinderdijk.
Got a bike? You can bring it along with you and save yourself the cost of renting a bike once you get there!
๐ฐ Price: From โฌ9.60, and bringing a bike is free! โฐ Opening hours: Runs from 9 AM to 6:30 PM ๐ Location: Erasmusbrug, 3011 BN Rotterdam
8. Check out the floating exhibition at Kinderdijk
Right in front of the Blokweer Mill is the floating exhibition at Kinderdijk. This exhibition is hosted on a barge called โEverything has a time.’ The barge has been restored and is now a part of the World Heritage Site.
Step back in time at the floating exhibition on a day trip to Kinderdijk. Image: Kinderdijk.nl/Supplied
On the barge, you can learn more about the St. Elizabeth flood, and get some insight into the kind of challenges that climate change will bring to polders such as those in Kinderdijk.
At Cafรฉ de Klok, you can take part in an organised group hike. The cafe offers a breakfast deal followed by a hike, or, if youโre a late riser, you can opt for an afternoon start! ๐ถโโ๏ธ
A wander around the countryside in Kinderdijk could be the cure for autumn blues. Image: Unsplash
There are hiking trails winding their way around the village, so whatever your energy level, youโre sure to find a trail to enjoy when youโre in Kinderdijk!
Take part in a group tour, or, if youโre the more silent type, take a hike by yourself and let your thoughts wander awayโฆ ๐ญ
๐ฐ Price: โฌ25.95 for the morning package, โฌ31.95 for the afternoon package โฐ Opening hours: 10 AM to 1.30 PM ๐ Location: Molenstraat 117, 2961 AK Kinderdijk
10. Hop across the water and grab dinner
While there are many things to do in Kinderdijk, for dinner youโll have to hop on over to Ridderkerk, a nearby town.
Grab a bite to eat after a long day of exploring. Image: Unsplash
There, you can have your pick between many different restaurants, though perhaps you could grab yourself some tasty seafood dishes, or even try a few different cheeses and eat like a true Dutchman!
๐ฐ Price: Depends on what you order โฐ Opening hours: Usually 5 PM to 12 AM ๐ Location: Ridderkerk
11. Bring a picnic and eat with a spectacular windmill backdrop
If youโre looking to cut down on expenses (we all are during this cost-of-living crisis), one of the cheaper things you can do in Kinderdijk is bring your own picnic and eat while you watch the marvellous sight of the windmills operating.ย
Enjoy a picnic in the classic Dutch countryside. Image: Unsplash
Like true Dutchies, pack your own krentenbol for the day, and eat for cheap once you arrive. Then, simply hop on the waterbus home, and make sure you take lots of pictures to show your ever-eager friends.
As Kinderdijk is a protected World Heritage Site, not only will you be able to see centuries-old windmills, but you will also spot some very rare birds.
Bring your little ones along and let them try to find the birds. Image: Unsplash
Inside the bird theatre (the Vogeltheater), you will be guided through the different species of birds (and other protected animals!). Keep your binoculars and camera close because you might just catch sight of something awe-inspiring!
13. Pop into a cafรฉ for a coffee and a wonderful view
To us, there seems no better way to enjoy the view of the majestic Dutch countryside than by grabbing a steaming hot lattรฉ and a plate of poffertjes while you visit the windmills.
Enjoy a hot cup of Joe on your visit to Kinderdijk. Image: Unsplash
What could be a better thing to do in Kinderdijk than relaxing with your loved ones as you recount the day (and ponder all the iconic history youโve learnt!)
๐ฐ Price: Dependent on what you order โฐ Opening hours: Typically between 9 AM to 5 PM ๐ Location: Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk is an iconic village in the Netherlands, packed full of history, intrigue and many things to do.ย
Will you be heading to Kinderdijk soon? Let us know your plans in the comments below! ๐
We’ve no doubt all heard about tourist traps in the Netherlands and Amsterdam, and many of us have probably even been to them.
What begins as a way for a country to teach people about their culture ends up being overrun with irritating tourists, overcrowded spaces, and selfie sticks ruining your ‘original’ photo.
Tourism in the Netherlands has become such a problem that the Dutch Tourism Board has taken measures to discourage visitors โ but many of them have been rendered futile, with tourists continuing to flock to the city.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the biggest tourist spots in the Netherlands with advice on whether we think they’re worth a visit or if there is a better alternative (for your sanity, wallet, and the country)! ๐
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1. The Heineken Experience
An inside view into The Heineken Experience Museum in Amsterdam. Image: Pixabay
The Netherlands is home to one of the world’s best-selling beers โ Heineken! This museum (and prior Heineken factory) will tell you about the history of the beer and the brewing methods and give you a chance to draw your own beer! ๐ป
The tour costs โฌ24.95, but this price does include two free beers at the end of the tour. Sign me up! ๐
Is the Heineken Experience worthwhile?
Perhaps. It can definitely be fun to do with friends โ but it is certainly not cheap.
Many other breweries offer tours in Amsterdam, such as House of Bols (โฌ19.50 per person) and Brouwerij de Prael. That means you can easily find a cheaper brewery tour that offers a more intimate experience.
If you want a lasting experience, you could even go for the Brew Bus Craft Brewery Tour, which lets you visit three (yes, three) microbreweries with a biertje from each. Lekker!
2. Keukenhof
Tulip season begins in spring which is March, April and May in the Netherlands โ and thousands of tourists flock to Keukenhof to see the blooming flowers.
Whilst it is beautiful (it’s tulips, after all), it’s also a tourist trap as it costs a whopping โฌ20 for entry. That’s some expensive tulips (but not as expensive as when a single bulb of Semper Augustus cost an astonishing โฌ2,819 in 1633).
Strictly speaking, there is no alternative, so it is an easy day activity. But, if you catch a train out into the Dutch countryside and cycle around, you are bound to come across equally beautiful fields as tulips are grown across the whole country.
Or just watch this YouTube video instead. It’s almost the same, right?
3. Giethoorn
Despite being a relatively small town, Giethoorn has become a popular tourist spot due to its reputation as the โDutch Veniceโ and receives around 800,000 tourists annually.
It is quaint and looks like something out of Lord of the Rings, with trees spilling over onto the canals and thatched houses tucked behind rose bushes. ๐ฎ
If this doesn’t scream Bilbo Baggins’ residence, ‘Bag end’, then what does? Image: Pixabay
Is Giethoorn worthwhile?
Giethoorn is nice, but it’s stuffed with tourists. Instead, head to Elburg, a wee town that is aiming to be the first grid city in the Netherlands.
4. Canal boat tours in Amsterdam
A myriad of companies provide canal boat tours of Amsterdam, offering you a chance to see the sights from a unique perspective. These companies are expensive and force you to listen to trite commentary blaring through a speaker while on the tour.
The boats waiting to take you on a leuk canal cruise of Amsterdam. Image: Depositphotos
Are canal boat rides in Amsterdam worth it?
If you don’t have much time, then jump on one of these cruises just so you can see the city from down below.
However, with a little more effort, you can rent a self-drive boat for a whole day or hire a private boat with a skipper for more autonomy and better bang for your buck. They cost anywhere from โฌ10 to โฌ50 per hour, but if you split this between a few friends, it is very affordable.
What’s more, if you head to a lesser-known city, such as Delft (which is also a gorgeous small town), you can rent a self-driving boat for as little as โฌ25 per hour! The canal tours will be just as beautiful, but more intimate.
5. Scheveningen beach
Though the pier at Scheveningen can get busy, it sure is pretty to look at! Image: Depositphotos
Scheveningen is the district situated on the coast of The Hague. It is one of the most popular beaches in the Netherlands as it is very big with loads of events that are hosted along the waterfront. But is it…nice? Good question.
I grew up in New Zealand, so when it comes to pristine beaches, I am truly spoiled. It begs the question, is Scheveningen actually crap, or am I just biased? ๐ค
If there is a designated reason for you going (an event or a nice cafรฉ, maybe?) then sure, but otherwise I would not recommend for someone to visit the beach in and of itself.
Enjoy feeling the sand between your toes? Then mudflat walking will be a leuk experience that will give you the chance to explore and dip your toe in!
6. Red Light District
It’s what springs to everyone’s mind when they think of Amsterdam. The district was created way back in the 1300s for sailors to avail themselves after many months at sea.
However, you could just as easily be disappointed (like many fantasies). There is a reason people say expectations are resentments in the making.
Is the Red Light District worth it?
Yes, because it is one-of-a-kind, an intriguing place to walk around, and good for a one-off visit. It’s even better if you take the chance to learn about the history of the district on a tour. But please be respectful and please do not gawp.
7. Rijksmuseum
Ah, the architectural beauty that is the Rijksmuseum. Image: Nikolai Karaneschev/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
The Rijksmuseum is arguably the most famous building in the Netherlands. Images of it are splayed all over Dutch tourism magazines and the museum is mentioned as a must-do on many “what to do in the Netherlands?” lists.
Is the Rijksmuseum a tourist trap?
No, especially if you’re interested in art that focuses on the Dutch nation and its history (Rembrandt’s The Night Watch is on permanent display here).
But there are so many museums (with cheaper entry and no waiting lines) that offer an equally valuable art experience.
For example, a mere 40-minute train from Amsterdam is the beautiful town of Leiden. This city boasts 14 diverse museums that promise to pique the varied interests of everyone in your travelling group.
8. Anne Frank House
Anytime you walk near Westerkerk in Amsterdam, you will come across hordes of people lining up for the Anne Frank House.
Tourists waiting in long lines to experience the Anne Frank House. Image: Depositphotos
This building is a biographical museum and home to the secret annexe, where diarist Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during WWII.
You must reserve your place online, and tickets cost โฌ26 for an adult.
Is the Anne Frank Museum worthwhile?
Yes. The ability to walk through such a historical place is incredibly moving.
I would recommend reading her diary before going, as it makes the experience more personal and will add depth to what you see and read.
That’s right, we are ending on a bang โ the Venustempel sex museum in Amsterdam! It is the oldest sex museum in the world and is situated on the outskirts of Amsterdamโs famous Red Light District.
The entry of Venustempel Sex Museum. Image: Depositphotos
For as little as โฌ10, you can enter a world that traverses the history and culture of sex with an extensive collection of erotic pictures, paints, recordings, photographs and more.
Should you visit the Venustempel Sex Museum in Amsterdam?
This extensive collection was gathered by the museumโs owners throughout the years and is now on permanent display.
There is no alternative in the Netherlands and if you’re not too prudish, then it is worth the money for an afternoon of giggles and learning.
Did you visit and still want more? Amsterdam also has a 5D porn cinema available for you! ๐
So there you go โ a list of some of the biggest tourist traps and whether they are worthwhile or not. Have you been to any? Do you disagree with what’s said in this list? Let us know in the comments below!
Following Amsterdam, several other Dutch municipalities are formally recognising the Gaza crisis as a genocide and are urging the cabinet to condemn Israelโs campaign of destruction and mass killing.
Although municipalities typically do not intervene in international politics, growing pressure from residents has pushed local governments to acknowledge the severity of the situation and make their voices heard. ๐ข
Yes, it’s a genocide
Amsterdamโs mayor, Femke Halsema, has been among the outspoken voices, calling the cabinet out to put pressure on Israel. But Amsterdam is not alone in the fight, either.
According to the NOS, various other Dutch municipalities โ including The Hague, Groningen, Tilburg, Apeldoorn, Arnhem, Amersfoort, Leiden, and Utrecht โ have also passed motions to name the violence in Gaza a genocide.ย
While this is long overdue, it’s a decision that reflects what many have been saying for months. In a recent NRC report, seven respected scientists have unanimously concluded that Israel is, indeed, committing genocide in Gaza.ย ๐
Incredibly powerful investigation in Dutch newspaper NRC: Seven of the worldโs leading genocide scholars โ including renowned Holocaust experts โ describe Israelโs actions in Gaza as genocidal.
All municipalities mentioned above have now committed to using the term genocide when addressing Gaza during official communication.ย
Meanwhile, other cities have taken a different approach.
Rotterdam is still on the fence and is planning further discussions. Almere, Zaanstad, Den Bosch, and Eindhoven have declined to comment so far.ย Haarlemmermeer and Zwolle do not support this call.
However, in moments like this, silence does not stand neutral.ย ๐
No more looking the other way
Residents and civil society groups have been calling out the crisis in Gaza for well over a year. Yet, it seems it took tens of thousands of deaths before many local officials were willing to shift their language from โconflictโ to โgenocideโ.
As Lucas Bolsius, mayor of Amersfoort, explained, โWhen an event has a major impact on Amersfoort society and how we as Amersfoorters live together, that is differentโ.ย
Meanwhile, Apeldoornโs mayor, Ton Heerts, urged the Dutch cabinet to take a clear position: โThe Netherlands must commit itself to real de-escalation and humanitarian support.โ
Will this do anything?
Pushing the national government through local channels is the first step.
Local representation matters, and when municipalities voice what residents are feeling, it can help build momentum for broader political action.
As professor of decentralised government, Geerten Boogaard notes, โif this feeling lives among the local population, then it is also the task of the municipal council to convey that.โ
However, others remain cautious.
Pieter Jeroense of VNG International (the association of Dutch municipalities) warns that while municipalities can express opinions, national governments will likely resist direct interference with international policy. โIn that case, too much interference with foreign policy is not appreciated,โ he explains.ย
In parallel with these political developments, Amnesty International is organising a demonstration on Sunday, May 18, in The Hague. The protest, titled โDe Rode Lijnโ, aims to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and call for an immediate end to the genocide.ย
Are Wilhelmina pepermunts a token of Dutch heritage, or a disastrously large block of chalk?
Now, we donโt mean to start a controversy here, but it is nearly unfathomable to us that any person in their right mind would enjoy the โroyal freshnessโ of this Wilhelmina mint nonsense.
We get almost enraged upon receiving one of these deceivingly horrible palate cleansers at the end of a meal, and there are a few somewhat rash and likely exaggerated reasons for that.
What is it?
Simple: Wilhelmina mints are a Dutch mint made by a brand called Fortuin. They were created in 1892 as a tribute to Princess Wilhelmina, who turned twelve years old that year.
In our humble, international opinion, they have the texture of chalk and a taste that screams, โWe havenโt touched the recipe since 1892.โ
But let us tell you, Dutchies love them โ so much so that they insist on handing them out everywhere, to everyone, all the time.
Now, we are sure most of us have graciously attempted to make our way through one of these enormous mints, only to be caught spitting out that seemingly never-ending block of chalk. So it’s hard to answer this question.
The only logical explanation is that, for example, the Dutch like to refresh their breath after devouring a lekker portion of pickled herring.
Makes sense. But why not just chew a nice, soft piece of gum?
Quite frankly, we donโt even think Wilhelmina herself would be too happy with all this…
Why is it quirky?
Well, theyโve named their national brand of mints after a royal. Mind you, from what weโve gathered about this Wilhelmina lady, she was anything but your standard royal.
The former Queen of the Netherlands was the longest-reigning monarch and saw the country through WWI and WWII.ย ย
Wilhelmina was thrust into power at a mere 10 years old after her father’s death, although her mother carried out the Queenโs duties until her 18th birthday.
An unshapely statue of Queen Wilhelmina in The Hague, with engravings of the ominous title of her autobiography, “Eeenzam maar niet alleen”, in the background. Image: Depositphotos
This might be why she gave her autobiography the chilling title โEenzaam, maar niet alleen,โ or โlonely, but not alone.โ Or maybe that was because of her unfaithful husband. ๐ค
It seems that Dutchies love this chalky mint, not necessarily for its taste, but because it’s a token of their heritage.
Should you join in?
Many people dislike Wilhelmina mints, finding them too large and too chalky.
That said, they are vegan, claim to be sustainably packaged, and are probably the classiest mint youโll ever see, sporting the portrait of a literal Queen.
Don’t be fooled by the accents on screen โ Dutch actors appear more frequently in Hollywood movies and TV shows than you might realize.
The Netherlands is a small country filled with straight-shooting, honest people who donโt pretend to be someone else.
Yet, the nation has produced enormous talent for doing just that โ in the acting world.
There are many famous Dutch actors in Hollywood with Dutch heritage. Bogart, Brando, De Niro, Theron, Akroyd, the Carradine’s, Van Dyke, Fonda, Aguilera.
But letโs look at nine Nederlanders and people with significant Dutch heritage who play on screen. ๐ฅ
1. Audrey Hepburn
Being one of Hollywood’s most widely recognised Dutch actors, Hepburn was born in Belgium in 1929 but grew up in Arnhem with her mother, a Dutch Baroness. ๐
They fell on hard times in her teen years when the Nazis took over the Netherlands, suffering malnutrition to the point of grinding tulip bulbs as bread flour to survive.
Always a stunning beauty! Image: Pixabay
At 16, she was a volunteer nurse during the Battle of Arnhem and worked with the Dutch Underground. After liberation and a few movie roles in Europe, she headed for Hollywood.
Audrey Hepburn was an iconic Hollywood actress playing wholesome parts. She starred in movies in the โ50s and โ60s, including Roman Holiday, Funny Face, Sabrina, Breakfast at Tiffanyโs, Charade, and My Fair Lady.
She received three Academy Award nominations and won Best Actress.
Hepburn also turned down a role in the movie Anne Frank, as having watched people be executed in Arnhem would be too emotionally painful for her. She was very philanthropic and died in 1993.
She is one of 19 people who have won an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award). ๐
2. Carel Struycken
Born in The Hague, Carel Struycken played many quirky parts in Twin Peaks, Star Trek, Men in Black, Witches of Eastwick, and Haven.
He also played in the popular The Addams Family movies, where he portrayed Lurch (one of my favourite characters growing up), among many other roles.
This Dutch actor in Hollywood usually played a giant in non-leading roles, but is an extremely recognizable character.
3. Michiel Huisman
Michiel Huisman, a Dutch actor and singer, was born in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
He starred as Daario Naharis in Game of Thrones and as Ellis Jones in the fantasy romance film The Age of Adaline.
Michiel Huisman on the red carpet of Game of Thrones. Image: Jagpal Khahera/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0
Other notable titles you might recognise him from are Orphan Black, The Invitation, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, Black Book, and HBOโs Treme. ๐บ
But with 56 screen credits to his name so far, there are many more stories you’ve probably seen him pop up in.
4. Jeroen Krabbรฉ
Born in Amsterdam, Jeroen Krabbe is known for acting in The Fugitive, Immortal Beloved, The Living Daylights, Jumpinโ Jack Flash, and Transporter 3.
Who said Krabbes can’t be handsome? Image: AVRO/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
You might also recognise him from his role as Otto Frank in The Diary of Anne Frank. He came to prominence playing opposite Rutger Hauer in Soldier of Orange.
If you’re not yet impressed, Krabbรฉ has over 100 credited roles in his career โ woah! ๐ฎ
5. Rebecca Romijn
Born in California, Rebecca Romijn is the daughter of a Dutch mother and a half-Dutch father.
A Dutch actor in Hollywood that everyone can be proud of, she has played the character Mystique in four X-Men movies and also appeared in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me.
Romijn has 61 acting credits, including the TV series Ugly Betty, Just Shoot Me!, The Librarians and Eastwick.
6. Famke Janssen
Famke Janssen was born in Amstelveen, Netherlands, and is a writer, director, and actor.
Famke’s career is certainly an impressive one! Image: Gage Skidmore/Flickr/CC2.0
She’s played many major roles, including Xenia Onatopp in the James Bond Series Golden Eye, Jean Grey/Phoenix in the X-Men films, and Lenore Mills inTaken.
Janssen has also had recurring roles on the TV series Nip/Tuck, Hemlock Grove, and Black List.
The actress has been outspoken in her disagreement with Hollywoodโs ageism for women when not cast in the last X-Men movie. ๐
7. Jane Seymour
Jane Seymour was born in England, but her mother was Dutch. She spent much of her childhood in Vught, the Netherlands, and speaks fluent Dutch.
Serving royalty!๐โโ๏ธ Image: Alan Light/Wikimedia Commons/CC2.0
As an actress and producer, she is known for the TV series Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, the James Bond movie Live and Let Die, Wedding Crashers, several mini-series, and TV movies.ย
Seymour has over 220 credits to her work, with twenty-two award nominations and nine wins, including two Golden Globe awards and an Emmy.
8. Carice Van Houten
Carice van Houten was born in Leiderdorp, Netherlands. With 55 credits as an actress, Van Houten is most recently known for her dark role in Game of Thrones and her role in Black Book.
Carice van Houten at the Game of Thrones Season 8 World Premiere. Image: Sachyn/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
Her Dutch-language film Love Life broke box office records in the Netherlands. ๐ฅ
She also played opposite Tom Cruise in Valkyrie and was nominated for several Saturn and SAG awards (amongst others), winning many awards, predominantly in Europe.
9. Rutger Hauer
Ever heard of Blade Runner? Rutger Hauer starred in this legendary sci-fi flick as self-aware android Roy Batty. He delivered a brilliant performance and even rewrote the ending dialogue.
While a little older now, Hauer remains a big name. Image: Depositphotos
Hauer has over 100 movies to his credit, taught a master class in the Netherlands, and is a โKnight of the Order of the Dutch Lionโ for his contributions to acting and philanthropy.
Hauer had a Best Supporting Actor Golden Globe award for Escape from Sobibor.
So there you have it. Who’s your favourite from the list? Are there any Dutch actors in Hollywood that we missed? Tell us in the comments below!๐ฌ
Whether youโve got to do groceries for a big family, work long hours, or are simply someone whoโs very short (and feels too embarrassed to ask someone for help ๐), buying groceries online is a trouble-free alternative.
For online grocery shopping virgins and veterans alike, this guide will introduce you to some of the best grocery delivery services in the Netherlands. ๐ง
If Albert Heijn (AH) is the one thatโs won your heart, youโll be excited to know that the chain offers two kinds of monthly subscriptions for delivery. You can opt for a one-month or a 12-month subscription.
With AH, you can also select your โpersonal delivery momentโ (aka persoonlijke bezorgmoment) to get your groceries at the same time every week.
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ50 (or โฌ25 if you opt to have your groceries delivered to a pick-up point) ๐ Delivery cost: โฌ1.95 to โฌ7.95, depending on your chosen delivery time ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Check your address online
Do you support Jumbo in the Jumbo vs. Albert Heijn debate? That’s good for you because the cheaper alternative to Albert Heijn also offers a wonderful grocery delivery service.
You can choose from about 20,000 different products when doing your groceries online at Jumbo. The store delivers from Monday to Saturday, from 7 AM to 10 PM.
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ50ย (or โฌ25 if you opt to have your groceries delivered to a pick-up point) ๐ Delivery cost: Depends on the time of delivery ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Fill in your postcode and house number on Jumboโs website to see if they deliver to your address
While PLUS is on the more expensive side of places to get your groceries, the supermarket is known for high-quality meat and bakery products.
Whether you’re feeling hungry or just forgot to buy your favourite flavour of hagelslag, their PLUS Express option gets you your online groceries delivered in as fast as two hours.
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ25 ๐ Delivery cost: โฌ3.95 to โฌ5.95, depending on your chosen delivery time ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? Noย ๐บ Delivery regions: Fill in your postcode on the PLUS website to find the nearest store that can deliver to you
Want your groceries delivered from Coop? Select your nearest Coop store online and fill your basket with delicious products.
There are currently 170 Coop stores across the Netherlands that deliver groceries at accessible prices โ so you needn’t go premium (and pay premium prices!) to feed yourself.
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ40 ๐ Delivery cost: โฌ4.99, free delivery for orders above โฌ70 (or โฌ2.99 if you opt to have your groceries delivered to a pick-up point) ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Look at Coopโs website and fill in your postcode to pick the nearest store to deliver to you
In the era of remote working, online shopping, and apps ruling the world, it is no surprise that some grocery delivery services in the Netherlands decided to base themselves exclusively online.
The minimum spend at Picnic is lower than other supermarkets, making it the perfect option for singles or smaller households looking to order a smaller quantity.
If youโre still not convinced, Picnic delivers your groceries with an adorable mini truck that is 100% electric โ a nice option if youโre looking for an environmentally friendly grocery delivery!
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ40 ๐ Delivery cost: No delivery costs ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Check out Picnicโs website to see all their delivery locations. You may be placed on a waiting list.
Another Berlin-based company, Flink, promises to deliver more than 2,000 items straight to your door. Type your address into the app to see exactly how long delivery will take.
The best thing? Flink offers fresh and organic produce at regular supermarket prices! Plus, they’re open seven days a week from 8 AM to 12 PM โ beating most supermarket opening hours.
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ10 ๐ Delivery cost: Depends on the size of your order ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? Yes ๐บ Delivery regions: 31 cities, primarily in the Randstad region.
Crisp is a fully online supermarket that prides itself on delivering farm-fresh groceries directly to your door. By only ordering when the customer does, Crisp doesn’t overstock.
This means that you can’t get same-day deliveries, but if you order before 10 PM, the Crisp car will be at your gate between 6 and 10 PM the next day.
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ35 ๐ Delivery cost: Between โฌ1.95 and โฌ8.95, free delivery above โฌ100 ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Across the Netherlands, except for the Wadden Islands and Kaageiland
Getting your ingredients from HelloFresh is fast and easy, and their boxes are highly personalised. You can decide whether you want meals that are vegetarian, family-friendly, or super fast to make.
You just browse through the delicious recipes and pick your three to five meals for the week. They give you the exact amount of ingredients you need, which means less food waste, too!
๐ฐ Price: Varies according to your subscription ๐ Delivery cost: โฌ5.99 ๐ฑ App? Yesย ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No (for orders in the Netherlands), but you can find their recipe cards online in English ๐บ Delivery regions: Across the Netherlands
With Marley Spoon, you can choose from 80+ different recipes every week โ plus, their quick and simple recipes mean you can whip up a delicious dish in just a few minutes.
One thing to keep in mind is that you can only pick the day of your meal box delivery, not a specific time. Alternatively, you can pay a few euros extra to have your box delivered in the evening.
๐ฐ Price: โฌ49.95 for three meals for two people per week ๐ Delivery cost: โฌ6.99 ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No (for orders in the Netherlands) ๐บ Delivery regions: Across the Netherlands, except for the Wadden Islands and Zeelandic Flanders
Born out of a passion for delicious and healthy food, Boerschappen offers various types of meal boxes.
You can select a vegetarian, or vegan one, and thereโs also one for meat lovers or a harvest box. They typically include three meals for up to six people.
๐ฐ Price: Between โฌ16.70 to โฌ49.50, based on the box you order ๐ Delivery cost: โฌ6.95 per box ๐ฑ App? No ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Across the Netherlands, except for the Wadden Islands
Considering this countryโs emphasis on sustainability, it was pretty difficult to find a supermarket that didn’t use plastic packagingโฆ until Pieter Pot came along.
On a mission to make groceries fully packaging-free, Pieter Pot delivers your groceries in aesthetic reusable jars (on which you pay a deposit) and then picks them up on your next delivery (and, obviously, gives your deposit money back).
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ45 (excluding deposit) ๐ Delivery cost: โฌ1.95 to โฌ5.95, free delivery above โฌ70 ๐ฑ App? No ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Across the Netherlands (except for the Wadden Islands). You may be placed on a waiting list.
Wondering if you can get your groceries delivered from the Dutch organic supermarket Ekoplaza? Yes, you can!
Ekoplaza aims to make an organic lifestyle accessible to everyone, so you can select from more than 7,000 of their organic products to be delivered to your home.
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ60 ๐ Delivery cost: Between โฌ2.50 and โฌ8.50, depending on the distance ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? Yes ๐บ Delivery regions: Across the Netherlands
Too Good To Go works together with supermarkets, bakeries, restaurants, and fresh produce stores to prevent food waste and save surplus food โ meaning that their daily offer differs based on whatโs left over that day.
How does this work, you ask? You simply order a so-called Magic Box and only find out whatโs in it after youโve picked up your order! ๐คฏ
๐ฐ Minimum spend: No minimum spend ๐ฑ App? Yes ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? Yes
GroenteBroer, which translates to Veggie Brother, is the biggest online retailer of fruits and vegetables, ranging from local and seasonal to exotic fruits, smoothies, and pre-cut veggies for soup.ย
If youโre organising a big garden party or just donโt want to go through the process of picking each piece of fruit separately, GroenteBroer also offers fruit baskets of different kinds and sizes.
๐ฐ Minimum spend: โฌ50 ๐ Delivery cost: โฌ2.95 to 11.95, free for orders above โฌ75 ๐ฑ App? No ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Across the Netherlands, Belgium, and the Wadden Islands
You know whatโs better than drinking a glass (or two) with your dinner? Having a wine bottle (or three) delivered straight to your doorstep. Thanks to Baltazarโs wine box subscription, this is now easier than ever.
The way it works is that you pick three unique wines as part of your monthly box, which is then delivered to your home at your convenience. Baltazar buys directly from winemakers, so they offer wines that you wonโt find anywhere else.
๐ฐ Subscription price: โฌ342.50 per month ๐ Delivery cost: Included in the subscription priceย ๐ฑ App? No ๐ฌ๐ง Available in English? No ๐บ Delivery regions: Across the Netherlands
Which of these grocery delivery services have you tried? Did you find any new favourites on this list or are there some that we should add? Tell us in the comments below!
KLM plans to resume flights to Tel Aviv at the end of May, after suspending service nearly a year ago.
Although the airline insists the conditions are now safe enough, the decision draws sharp criticism from crew members.
Meanwhile, Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema has urged the Dutch government to stop ignoring the atrocities in Palestine.
KLM staff push back on Israel flights
Plans to resume flights to Tel Aviv have sparked backlash from KLMโs employees, with unions representing crew members and pilots raising concerns about passenger and crew safety.
Tensions grew even higher on May 4, when a rocket just missed Ben-Gurion Airport, the main Israeli airfield from which KLM operates its flights.
In comments reported by NOS, one employee narrated the harrowing ordeal, recollecting that their colleagues “had to go into bomb shelters under loud sirens and be quickly repatriated home.”
Responding to the growing unease, the union of KLM cabin crew members proposed relocating layovers to Larnaca, Cyprus.
Despite these fears, KLM maintains that safety assessments have been thorough, with a spokesperson for the airline stating that they will ensure โeveryone feels safe when carrying out these flights.โ
Two senior staff members, including the chief pilot of KLMโs Boeing 737, will be on the first flight to reinforce that message.
While the airline denies that financial pressure played a role, it has previously acknowledged that suspending flights to Tel Aviv negatively impacted its revenue.
Mayor Halsema adds her voice: donโt ignore Gaza
Beyond the airline industry, concern is growing over renewed ties with Israel.
One of the loudest voices at the moment is Amsterdamโs mayor, Femke Halsema. In a speech to the city council, she urged the Dutch government to take a firmer stance on the ongoing violence in Gaza, and plans to send a formal letter to the cabinet calling for immediate action.
Though the video of her speech is in Dutch and may not be understood by all, her message is unmistakable: โThe destruction of Gaza must stop. The starvation must stop. The murder of Palestinians must stop.โ
Halsema also stressed that human rights must apply across the board. In her speech, she called for Hamas to be convicted and prosecuted, but emphasised that antisemitism should be โcondemned and combated at all times and everywhereโ.
Her position reflects a wider political shift. Just last week, Utrechtโs city council backed using the term โgenocideโ to describe whatโs happening in Gaza.
For many, silence is no longer an option, whether in politics or at 30,000 feet.
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Written by Seliz Demirci, employment lawyer at GMW lawyers.
Burnout can happen to anyone and almost always leads to an inability to work. Itโs important to get the necessary medical help and focus on recovery. So, how can you do this in the Netherlands?
When dealing with burnout, many may first want to sit down and discuss how to tackle it with their employer.
However, as an international employee, itโs very important to be aware of your obligations and rights during sick leave in the Netherlands before you do so.
Before we get into the legal matters, itโs important to first determine whether or not youโre suffering from burnout. Reading an article about it? That might be indicator number one.
But seriously, tension at work can have a very real negative effect on your health and lead to burnout symptoms.
The first step is to determine whether you have symptoms of burnout. Image: Freepik
Consider, for example, long-term overwork โ which is a regular occurrence in today’s tight labour market. This often leads to additional pressure on staff members.
It could also be that thereโs a conflict between you and your manager or a colleague and, as a result of this, you may experience stress symptoms and become unable to perform your duties to the best of your abilities.
Developing heart disease, high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes,
Being more likely to get sick.
Recognise a few of these? You may be suffering from occupational burnout.
Burnout and Dutch labour law
In the Netherlands, your employer has a duty of care. This means Dutch law stipulates that an employer must observe good employment practices.
This is largely thanks to what is known as the Working Conditions Act (Arbowet), which is very important when it comes to protecting employees against health risks, including burnout.
Being burnt out doesn’t mean the end of your career in the Netherlands. You have many employee rights that will help you. Image: Freepik
The Working Conditions Act obliges employers to create and maintain a safe and healthy working environment. For example, the Act includes provisions on taking breaks and the maximum working hours an employee can work per week.
The prevention of psychosocial workload, which includes stress and burnout, also falls under the employerโs duty of care. No distinction is made in this respect. After all, burnout may manifest itself physically in some people, while it may manifest mentally in others.
Steps to take when youโre experiencing burnout
If you are experiencing burnout symptoms and can no longer perform your duties, the first step is simple.
Notify your employer
You can call in sick by sending your employer a message. Does your employment contract or staff handbook contain more specific instructions on calling in sick? Great, follow these.
It’s important to notify your employer of your burnout. Image: Freepik
However, whatโs important to remember is that you do not have to give a reason for your illness when reporting sick.
Consult with a company doctor
So, what happens next? Itโs up to your employer to involve the company doctor to assess your incapacity for work.
The company doctor is not a doctor who gives you medical treatment. Instead, they will:
Advise you and your employer about your incapacity for work,
the expected duration of your sick leave,
the extent to which you can or cannot perform your duties,
and whether there are any steps that can be taken to stimulate your return to work.
Follow the company doctorโs advice
As an employee, you are obliged to attend a consultation with the company doctor.
Making yourself unavailable to the company doctor, failure to attend consultations or not following their advice will be considered a violation of your reintegration obligations.
This can have consequences on your salary payments.
Sick leave in the Netherlands when struggling with burnout
Speaking of your salary, what happens to this when youโre burnt out? How will you keep a roof over your head? Letโs walk through your rights when it comes to sick leave in the Netherlands.
Under Dutch law, an employee is entitled to a continued payment of salary for up to 104 weeks of illness. By law, this must be at least 70% of your salary and correspond to at least the national minimum wage.
When you take sick leave for burnout in the Netherlands, you will receive at least 70% of your pay. Image: Freepik
However, this rule may be deviated from in the employee’s favour. For example, many employers agree with their employees to continue paying 100% of the salary in the first year of illness and 70% in the second year. However, they are not obliged to do this.
Just how much salary you receive depends on your specific employment situation. You should be able to find the stipulated provisions concerning pay during sick leave in your employment contract, an employee handbook or, if applicable, a collective labour agreement.
Can you be fired due to burnout?
In principle, a prohibition to terminate your employment contract applies during sick leave. Put simply, this means that your employment contract may not be terminated unless the termination is unrelated to your illness.
This is often difficult for employers to prove. As a result, the prohibition on termination during illness is interpreted broadly. This means the prohibition applies even if you are partially working and partially on sick leave โ in other words, as long as you have not made a full recovery.
However, once you reach 104 weeks of illness, your employer no longer has to pay your salary and can terminate your employment due to long-term illness.
It must then be established that your employer has fulfilled their reintegration obligations and that no recovery is expected in the next 26 weeks.
Do you want to understand your obligations during sick leave better, hold your employer liable for your burnout, or is your employer not fulfilling their reintegration obligations? Reach out to GMW lawyers. They are happy to advise international employees of their rights.
What if your Dutch employer doesnโt support you?
If your employer doesnโt take your burnout seriously, itโs up to the company doctor to assess your situation and advise them.
If your employer doesn’t believe you’re suffering from burnout, you can turn to the company doctor. Image: Freepik
If the doctor agrees that you are suffering from burnout, then you canโt be obliged to return to work until the company doctor advises it.
If your employer doesnโt want to comply with the company doctorโs report, itโs time to seek legal advice.
Do you disagree with the company doctor’s advice? Then you can request a second opinion from another company doctor or ask for an expertโs opinion from the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV).ย ย
Reintegration after burnout
During your sick leave, you must remain available to your employer (unless the company doctor explicitly advises that this is not in the interest of your recovery) and you must cooperate in drawing up a reintegration plan.
As part of this plan, you may start with reintegration for a few hours a week and will be given a modified workload by your employer. This should always be in accordance with the advice of the company doctor.
The first track of reintegration
During reintegration, the first step is to see if suitable work can be found or organised for you with your current employer.
This could consist of doing part or all of your current job, but other work with your employer can also be considered. This is called the first track of reintegration.
Within this first track, the possibilities of adapting your work, making adjustments to your workplace, partially resuming your work or scheduling your shifts at different times are considered. These possibilities are included in the Action Plan for your reintegration.
The second track of reintegration
In the second year of sick leave, the so-called second track programme begins.
In the second track, the focus is not only on returning to your current employer but also to other suitable positions outside the organisation.
Burnout is never a pleasant experience, but that doesnโt mean you should immediately lose your job and your income.
In the Netherlands, you are protected by acts, unions and employment law, so familiarise yourself, take the steps you need to take, and โ most importantly โ take a break.
Have you experienced workplace burnout in the Netherlands? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.
According to UNICEFโs latest research, Dutch children are officially the happiest kids in the world. Not bad for a country that spends half its time under the rain.ย
How did they reach this conclusion? Itโs not as simple as asking children to give a thumbs up or thumbs down.
UNICEFโs Innocentiย Report Card 19 ranks countries based on factors such as mental and physical health, life satisfaction, and academic skills.ย
The top three? The Netherlands, Denmark, and France โ which sounds suspiciously like the start of an interesting Eurovision lineup.
Dutch children are pretty satisfied
Ok, so why should parents in the Netherlands feel smug right now?
Between 2018 and 2022, life satisfaction among Dutch children barely budged, dipping just slightly from 90% to 87%. In a world full of chaos, thatโs pretty impressive.
It turns out that bikes, stroopwafels, and a healthy work-life balance might actually do wonders for a child’s mood.
Letโs get into the specifics. Dutch kids rank first in the world for mental health, fourth for physical wellbeing, and 11th for skills.
Letโs take a look at the top ten countries overall. ๐
Ranking
Country
Mental Health
Physical Health
Skills
1
Netherlands
1
4
11
2
Denmark
3
3
8
3
France
11
2
9
4
Portugal
2
10
22
5
Ireland
24
11
1
6
Switzerland
13
7
6
7
Spain
4
25
16
8
Croatia
9
31
3
9
Italy
8
16
23
10
Sweden
14
13
14
But donโt brag too much yet
However, itโs not all sunshine. The report also revealed a worrying trend: academic skills are slipping.
Despite being among the happiest, Dutch 15 year olds experienced a drop in functional literacy and numeracy, from 66% down to just 49%.
In other words, more than half of them may now struggle with basic maths or reading.
The culprit? Unsurprisingly, the pandemic. School closures and remote learning left a mark, proving once again that trying to learn algebra over Zoom is no one’s idea of a good time.
Letโs end on a positive note
However, itโs very important to note that COVID-19 has had no effect on their social and emotional skills, meaning that 15 year olds are still capable of making friends, even if itโs from behind a screen.
While Dutch kids may be smiling, there’s still work to be done to keep both their spirits and their grades high.
Do you agree with these findings? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.
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