James Bogué

An Englishman fascinated by Homo sapiens and their cultures, and by extension the influence of politics, history, and psychology. But his absolute favourite? The perils of miscommunication (four words that accurately describe his journey with the Dutch language). Besides writing, he enjoys running, cycling and thinking about his next meals; and aspires to write a bestseller and speak at least ten languages.

This weekend’s forecast: naked people on bikes

Enjoy riding your bicycle with others? Love going around in your birthday suit? Stuck for ideas for your next Tinder date? You’re in luck:...

Communication breakdown: understanding the Dutch approach to conversation

Dutch communication, eh? Now, I know what you are thinking. As the infamous stereotype goes, just go into every conversation like a bull in...

Know your Dutch slang: coronavirus edition

It’s quite easy to view the Dutch language as an ugly duckling. One that will, helaas, never become a beautiful swan. But while choking...

What can we learn about the Dutch from their literature?

Dutch books, fiction, literature, whatever you want to call it, there is such thing as a Dutch literary soul. But what can we learn...

Know your Dutch athletes: 5 names to impress natives (and get your sporting fix)

The Netherlands, like every country, has a string of god-like Dutch sporting legends. Want to impress Dutchies with some local knowledge? Having these names...

Case Studies