Brin Andrews

Brin is an avid ice cream eater from the US, calling Amsterdam home since early 2019. As a lover of mountains, life below sea level has been a bit of an adjustment, but she manages to stay afloat with long runs, wine, and frequent travel. Incidentally, these are a few of her favourite topics to write about.

Zwarte Piet: the full guide to the Netherlands’ most controversial tradition

Many in the Netherlands view Zwarte Piet (Black Pete) as an innocent addition to the Dutch holiday season. But for others, the figure is...

Hiking in Amsterdam: top 7 places for wandelen near the city

Hiking and Amsterdam are two words that are not often paired — but that didn't stop us from trying.  Escaping to the wilderness is an...

7 reasons the Dutch don’t do debt

Dutch culture tends to be pretty opposed to credit cards and debt, but why is that exactly? Since there's never just one easy answer...

The narrowest houses in Amsterdam: everything you need to know

Amsterdam’s architecture is unique and varied. You’ll find tall houses, historic houses, slanted houses, and even sinking houses. But Amsterdam's homes are perhaps best...

Your guide to drop: the Dutch take on liquorice

The infamous Dutch drop: some salivate at the thought of it, while others wince and pucker. Dutchies love it, but it can be a real...

Case Studies