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Wearing shoes in the house in the Netherlands: the cultural differences

Wearing shoes in the house in the Netherlands: it’s a thing. For those of us who come from different cultures, it’s a strange thing โ€” but where does this custom come from? 

I’ve already written about other interesting Dutch habits and have since bought a house in the Netherlands. That’s when a discussion came up when talking about visitors: will we have an Austrian household or a Dutch one?

Most importantly, how do we make Dutch guests understand my strange, urgent need that they have to take off their shoes in the hallway?

Cultural differences: Austria

Every time I enter a house, I take off my shoes immediately at the front door. I never considered that other people donโ€™t do that or questioned why I do it. It’s in my system and has been a habit for as long as I remember.

My mom was especially nitpicky about it since we always had wooden floors, and she never liked dirty shoeprints on the floor.

Thatโ€™s why my brother and I always took our shoes off so as not to drag any dirt or snow inside the house. We didn’t want to make our mom mad… or clean the floor afterwards. ๐Ÿซข

READ MORE | 9 differences between Italians and Dutchies

So, when coming to the Netherlands and visiting Dutch households, I always automatically took off my shoes โ€” that is until my boyfriend told me that it is not common here.

At first, I was a bit confused. But it was summer, the weather was warm, and I wore sandals
โ€” so I just listened.

Female-wearing-heels-in-her-home- sitting-down
Wearing heels in Dutch households is common! Image: Freepik

Looking around, I noticed that nobody else was walking in socks or barefoot either. People even wore high heels in the living room and walked on tiny stilettos, pinching holes in the wooden floor. ๐Ÿ‘ 

So, why do Dutch people wear shoes in the house?

Afterwards, I couldnโ€™t help but initiate a conversation about it with my boyfriend, who explained this Dutch phenomenon.

When I started to work here, I noticed that all the students ran around in their shoes too.

In Austria, that would never happen. From kindergarten on, every kid wears slippers. You come to school, take off your shoes, and walk in slippers all day long.

Our teachers and parents always told us that it would be healthier for our feet, and the cleaning personnel were especially happy because we dragged less dirt inside. Only the teachers were allowed to wear their normal shoes.

Young-woman-tying-her-shoelaces-sitting-on-couch-with-shoes-around-her-in-living-room
No rush taking off your shoes in a Dutch household. Image: Freepik

Once I became a teacher myself, I was a little bit proud to have that privilege. But seeing Dutch students coming to school completely soaked from cycling through the rain and then walking around on a carpeted floor at school left me quite surprised.

A quick search on Google

So pretty obviously, we have a cultural difference here. I was so completely taken by the subject that I googled it.

“In Northern Europe and Austria, it is considered rude and unhygienic to wear shoes in the house.” I like how Austria even got its special position in this sentence.

Then I found out that โ€œin the Netherlands, people donโ€™t usually wear shoes in the house.โ€ That means that it is not usual but still common, especially for visitors.

READ MORE | The 19 biggest differences between Germany and the Netherlands

I grew older, I grew wiser, and, to be honest, I inherited many characteristics of my mom. I know that I donโ€™t want to have people walk around in my house in shoes.

I love walking around in socks, and I simply have this โ€œno-shoe attitudeโ€ deeply anchored in my Austrian heart.

So when it comes to having our own house in the Netherlands, I am probably a pretty annoying host. My boyfriend at least stands behind my rule, but I guess his main reason is “happy wife, happy life.” ๐Ÿ˜†

What is your opinion on wearing shoes in the house? Tell us in the comments below!

Sinterklaas for expats: all the Dutch you need to make it through the holiday season

“It’s almost Pakjesavond!” Almost what? Yup, to internationals, Dutch traditions can seem confusing or just plain weird. But you’ve come to the right place: our (unofficial but absolutely excellent) guide to Sinterklaas for expats.ย 

While the rest of the world spends December waiting for Christmas, the Netherlands has its own way of fooling kids during the winter period: Sinterklaas.

Sinterklaas refers to two things. Firstly, it is the name for the Dutch equivalent of Santa Claus โ€” except this one’s from Spain for some reason.

Secondly, it refers to the actual holiday โ€” the Dutch version of Christmas, which takes place on December 5.

Regardless of where you’re from, youโ€™ve probably heard about Sinterklaas due to the controversial nature of his helpers, the Zwarte Pieten.

To understand this Dutch holiday tradition in all its controversy and to fully enjoy what happens on December 5, youโ€™re gonna need some proper Dutch vocabulary. So, here’s our guide to Sinterklaas vocab for expats โ€” featuring all the wonderfully Dutch things that come with the holiday!

Some Sinterklaas vocab for expats

Get your notebooks ready, here we go. ๐Ÿ‘‡

Intocht

Sinterklaas season starts with the arrival of Sinterklaas into the Netherlands, called “intocht van Sinterklaas.” This usually takes place in mid-November.

Sintaklaas-arriving-on-boat
Sint arrives in a different Dutch city each year. Image: Depositphotos

The word intocht is actually a normal Dutch word for arrival, but somehow we only use it in the context of our bearded holiness. ๐ŸŽ…๐Ÿป

Pakjesavond

The traditional night of the Sinterklaas celebration, the night of December 5, is called pakjesavond (gift evening). On this day, parents offer gifts to their kids, which of course, come straight from Sinterklaas himself. ๐Ÿ˜‰

In order for children to actually believe that there is an old guy buying gifts for the whole of the Netherlands, the evening usually consists of a neighbour (buurman) slamming on the front door, throwing pepernoten and leaving some presents on the doorstep. ๐ŸŽ

Surprise

The most common way of celebrating Sinterklaas for adults is with a surprise (pronounced in proper Dunglish: suprieseh). This is preferably a handmade creative work of art in which an actual gift is hidden.

In the month before pakjesavond, everyone participating in the celebration pick straws to sort out who’s surprising who.

Then they buy a gift for the person they picked โ€” but it has to be cheap! In typical Dutch style, gifts must be bought within a cadeaulimiet (present limit). The crafted gift has to be accompanied by a poem, called a “sinterklaasgedicht” about the person the surprise is intended for.

Sinterklaasgedicht

The Sinterklaas poem is an important aspect of the celebration. It’s usually written in a simple AABB/ABBA rhyme scheme and contains embarrassing/fun information about the person the poem is written for.

READ MORE | The complete guide to writing a top Sinterklaas poem

The poem is always written from Sinterklaas’s or Zwarte Piet’s perspective since they are meant to know all your dirty little secrets. ๐Ÿ˜‚

man-sitting-in-cafe-writing-poem
Time to get your creative juices flowing! Image: Depositphotos

Pro-tip: This is how you start all traditional poems: “De Sint was eens aan het denken, wat zou hij XXX nou eens schenken?” (The Sint was just thinking, what he would be gifting to XXX).

Pro-tip 2: The unimaginative ones use a poem generator. Here’s a really basic one… ๐Ÿ‘€

Sinterklaasliedjes

We could write a whole article about the Sinterklaas songs. I always get nostalgic when I think about the many raunchy songs I’ve learnt in childhood. But since DutchReview is a PG-rated website, we’re gonna keep it clean and just switch to this short and sweet traditional song:

Sinterklaas Kapoentje,
gooi wat in mโ€™n schoentje,
gooi wat in mโ€™n laarsje.
Dank u, Sinterklaasje.

Which translates into:

Sinterklaas Kapoentje,
Throw something in my shoe-ie,
Throw something in my booty.
Thank you, Lil’ Sinterklaas.

So I hear you thinking: What the heck is Kapoentje? After some extensive research, the first link on Google told me it was slang for either a eunuch, Jewish person, bandit, or villain. Ouch! Again, no political correctness points for the Sint. ๐Ÿ˜ฑ

Strooigoed

Literally translated, strooigoed means “sprinkling good.” That makes no sense, but the better translation of “sprinkling candy” only does a slightly better job. It’s the sugary sweets that Zwarte Pieten throw around when they enter a room.

Chocolade krijtjes

Chocolade krijtjes are chocolate cigarettes.

Yup, this is what Zwarte Piet or your parents gave you when you were too young for real cigarettes, but you needed a fix.

You could say that these sweets allowed many generations of Dutch people to link that lovely feeling of fake chocolate to that other feeling ร _
Pepernoten vs Kruidnoten

When Moses came down that small Dutch mountain, he gave the Dutch two holy points of discussion: Zwarte Piet and his colour (almost there) and the great debate of whether pepernoten in the shops in August is a national outrage or an accepted form of making a living for the shopkeeper.

To get a true (and slightly simple-minded) Dutchie really riled up, you can also just carelessly say pepernoten when you really want to stuff your mouth with kruidnoten. So let’s get this one right once and for all:

These are kruidnoten:

kruidnoten
KRUIDNOTEN. Image: Pixabay

And these are pepernoten:

pepernoten
Know the difference! Image: M. Minderhoud/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

Chocolate letters

This isn’t a Dutch word, but it is by far the best Dutch tradition. It’s exactly the right brown stuff you want to find in your shoe.

chocolate-letter-for-sinterklass-on-top-of-kruidnoten-and-other-candies
The best part of our year is munching on chocolate letters โ€” no doubt about it! Image: Depositphotos

So was there anything else we didn’t cover yet when it comes to Sinterklaas for expats? Oh yeah, right…

The Zwarte Pieten discussie

woman-dressed-as-zwarte-piet
Zwarte Piet is an annual cause of protests in the Netherlands. Image: Pixabay

Oh, and of course, there’s the Zwarte Pieten discussie (Black Petes’ Discussion). To be able to participate in this ongoing Dutch tradition, you have to understand a couple of Dutch concepts.

Roetveegpiet

This is probably going to be the key to the transformation of Pete’s appearance. The story about Sinterklaas’ helper using the chimney and therefore being black is an often-heard argument to support that his black skin has nothing to do with racism.

But when RTLNieuws changed their Piets to an actual soot-Piet, all hell broke out in little Holland. There was further controversy when Google stepped into the debate and blocked all ads of Zwarte Pieten.

Regenboogpiet

Let’s also try to include all the orange, purple, pink, and green people in Dutch society and produce a Rainbowpiet โ€” that should be a great idea!”ย said no one ever. The Pieten in all the colours of the rainbow are equally controversial throughout the Netherlands.

This article could stretch on for days if we were to properly discuss the Pieten, so this is a very brief summary that we will offer for now.

If you’re curious about Sinterklaas’ arrival, the distribution of strooigoed, and the ugliness that is the Zwarte Piet debate, then watch our video on Sinterklaas’ arrival into Leiden:

Did we miss any Sinterklaas traditions? Let us know in the comments below.

Feature Image: Eric Bro/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

12 weird laws the Netherlands still has in 2024

In a country that’s described as overly bureaucratic, it’s not surprising that the Netherlands controls some things you wouldn’t expect them to.

From who can share houses, to where you can lock a burglar, and whether you can take an acorn from a forest tree โ€” let’s jump right into the world of strange Dutch laws!

1. Locking a burglar in your toilet? Illegaal!

Picture this: a robber breaks into your house while you’re at home. In a burst of adrenaline and quick thinking, you trap them in the bathroom. ๐Ÿช 

thief-entering-house
Don’t lock them in your own house! That wouldn’t be fair for the thief …๐Ÿคฃ Image: Depositphotos

Hoera, success! Well, nee.

By locking up that burglar and depriving them of the privilege of stealing your stuff, you’re simultaneously depriving the burglar of their liberty โ€” and that’s against the law.

2. Want a divorce? Your in-laws are forever after

Let’s hope that pesky mother-in-law isn’t the reason for your marriage breaking down.

The bad news is: in the Netherlands, they’re still your family โ€” even once the ink on your divorce papers has dried.

3. It’s illegal not to have lights and a bell on your bike (but helmets are optional)

In a lot of countries, this is the other way around, due to obvious safety reasons. And, of course, if you’re out with a small child, they usually have to wear some form of protection.

people-cycling-in-amsterdam-yellow-bikes
A helmet? We’ve never heard of that. Image: Depositphotos

Not in the Netherlands, though. In fact, a missing bell or light can land you a โ‚ฌ70 fine here.

But as long as you have lights for visibility and a bell to attract attention, you’re good to go.

READ MORE | Dos and donโ€™ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands

Is it safe or just stupid? The debate on whether we should all wear helmets continues for now. Luckily, the Netherlands does have great bike lanes, which definitely makes it a heck of a lot safer. ๐Ÿคทโ€โ™€๏ธ

4. Bikes have right of way: they rule over cars AND pedestrians

Say you were walking along a bike path and a bike hits you. In most cases in the Netherlands, the bike rider is not necessarily liable in this case.

That is because, unless indicated otherwise, bikes have right of way. So even if it wasn’t your fault, it was your fault. ๐Ÿคทโ€โ™€๏ธ

The same goes for a car hitting a bike โ€” that’s a big no-no too.

Please, people, watch out for bikes! And cars, you watch out for them too. They rule us all. ๐Ÿšฒ

5. Emergency sirens need to be tested every month

You may have all heard that weird and loud sound going off at 12 PM the first Monday of every month. No, we’re not under attack.

sirens-in-the-netherlands
Sirens basically dominate the Netherlands every first Monday of the month. ๐Ÿšจ Image: Pixabay

Instead, the Dutch government requires these emergency drills at least once a month to test the alarms. ๐Ÿšจ

While this is not technically a law, it does mean that we have to listen to it every first Monday of the month, FOREVER.

6. Taking a souvenir from the forest? Think again

Not only are many nature reserves not open before sunrise and after sunset, but all products of a forest belong to the municipality.

That means taking moss, mushrooms, or even a fallen acorn is strictly prohibited. ๐ŸŒฑ

7. You cannot legally marry in the Netherlands unless one of you has residency

Unlike in Las Vegas, you can’t come to the Netherlands from abroad to get married. ๐Ÿšซ๐Ÿ’’

If you’re wanting to get hitched on the canals of Amsterdam and neither of you is a registered resident, forget it.

dutch-wedding-with-guests-drinking-champagne
No getting hitched, unless one of you is a resident, says Dutch law. Image: Freepik

In order to get married, the Netherlands requires at least one of the partners either be Dutch or to legally live in the Netherlands.

8. House sharing is technically not allowed

Three or more young singles are technically not allowed to live together, not without the required permit, at least. This is to prevent a load of house shares.

It’s a law that is pretty much never enforced, though, so it’s just pointless and bizarre and definitely doesn’t help the housing crisis.

9. It’s illegal to go into a coffeeshop if you’re under 18

It’s not illegal for individuals under 18 years old to go into a regular coffee shop or ‘cafรฉ’. Coffeeshops in the Netherlands, however, are special.

READ MORE | Is smoking weed in Amsterdam legal? (+ 7 best coffeeshops!)

As you probably know, Dutch coffee shops sell weed, so if you’re underage, you aren’t allowed in.

photo-of-woman-entering-coffeeshop-in-amsterdam
Don’t mistake coffeeshops for cafรฉs in the Netherlands. ๐Ÿ˜‰ Image: Depositphotos

Sorry, no drugs for those under 18! Seems fair enough though, as you can’t drink till you’re 18 either.

10. Trees must be reinforced to prevent them from sinking by canals

Since much of the Netherlands is built on water, structures must be reinforced, so they don’t sink. But it’s not just the houses, it’s the trees too!

READ MORE | The Dutch built cities on sinking land: how will this fare with climate change?

While this sounds like a strange law, we think it’s great that trees are just as protected as canal-side houses! ๐ŸŒณ

11. Keep off the grass โ€” by law

A walk in the park or a picnic on the grass? Not in Oldenzaal, and many other Dutch towns.

young-woman-writing-dutch-learning-goeals-in-notebook-outside
Who knew it was possible to study and commit a crime at the same time? Image: Depositphotos

Walking, sitting, or just generally hanging out beyond the designated paths in parks, public gardens, green areas, and lawns are technically not allowed โ€” unless you get a permit from the municipality, of course.

12. Tenants have incredible protection when renting

A law that’s good for tenants and not so good for landlords, tenants have an incredible amount of protection. In fact, the landlord can’t kick you out unless a court rules that they can.

Pretty bizarre if you aren’t paying the rent and trashing the place. Great if you don’t want to be made homeless by your landlord for literally no reason.


While some are good, others are just bizarre. But after all, the Netherlands seems to be functioning quite well โ€” so these 12 weird laws that the Netherlands has must be doing their job!

What other Dutch laws do you find weird or cool? Tell us in the comments below!

Dutch savings accounts: Best interest rates in the Netherlands in December 2024

Dutch savings accounts have increased their interest rates in recent years, but to get the best interest rate for your savings, you need to know where to look.

We regularly search and uncover the best rates so you can find the best savings accounts in the Netherlands.

Currently, Trade Republic offers the best interest rate in the Netherlands for the best value, offering 3% interest on savings with unlimited withdrawals โ€” for an unlimited time.

Here are the Dutch banks with the best interest rates.

This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.


The best savings accounts in the Netherlands

We’ve found the highest interest rates, best banks, and best accounts to earn interest on your money.

All of the companies below are regulated financial institutions, so your money (up to โ‚ฌ100,000 per person, per bank) is guaranteed.

Overview: our top picks

BankInterest Rate
Trade Republic3%
bunqUp to 3.36%
Scalable2.6%
Raisin2.9%
BigBank3.15% for the first six months
Openbank3.25% for the first six months
N26Up to 2.5%
ABN AMRO1.5%

Trade Republic: best for growing your income

trade-republic-logo-best-dutch-banking-apps

Trade Republic is a German bank offering an unbeatable 3% interest on savings of up to โ‚ฌ50,000.

In addition to this, an account comes with the ability to withdraw weekly at no cost, pay low account costs, and invest in stocks and ETFs.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Current rate: 3%
๐Ÿ’ถ Withdrawals: Yes
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง Available in English: Yes


bunq: best for tech-lovers

bunq-logo-with-rainbow-stripes

The Netherlands’ very own neobank, bunq, offers up to 3.36% on personal savings accounts of up to โ‚ฌ100,000. There is a threshold system to determine your exact interest rate.

Interest is paid weekly, and the account is completely free! Best of all, you can open an account and start earning interest in just five minutes.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Current rate: Up to 3.36%
๐Ÿ’ถ Withdrawals: Yes, two per month
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง Available in English: Yes


Scalable Capital: best for those who want to invest while enjoying good interest rates

scalable-capital-logo

Scalable offers 2.6% interest for the first four months for accounts under โ‚ฌ1 million, and it’s also a great way to try out investing.

This simple investment app offers automated investing plans to help users build their savings and enjoy great interest rates.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Current rate: 2.6%
๐Ÿ’ถ Withdrawals: Yes
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง Available in English: Yes


Raisin: best for people who want the highest rates in Europe

raisin-logo-bank-savings-account-netherlands

Raisin isn’t a bank; instead, it’s a platform that offers different accounts from European banks to get you the best rates in the continent. Raisin continues to offer many ever-changing offers on its site, and it’s best to check these yourself.

One account with Raisin gets you the best rates in Europe. Savings account interest rates can be as high as 2.91%!

๐Ÿ“ˆ Current rate: 2.91% (Distingo)
๐Ÿ’ถ Withdrawals: Yes
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง Available in English: Yes


Bigbank: best for people investing long-term

logo-from-bigbank-bank-netherlands-three-black-stripes

Bigbank is a European bank with an interest rate of 3.15% for the first six months on savings of up to โ‚ฌ100,000 on flexible savings accounts. 

However, fixed-rate savings accounts can have an interest rate of up to 3.2%, starting at โ‚ฌ1,000 for a minimum of 12 months.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Current rate: 3.3%
๐Ÿ’ถ Withdrawals: Yes
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง Available in English: Yes


Openbank: best for people who want access to their money

logo-of-openbank-netherlands

Openbank‘s Spaarrekening account currently offers a 3.25% interest rate for the first six months for new clients up to โ‚ฌ1 million. Use the code WELKOM to get this offer.

Your money is always available for withdrawal, and there are no account costs.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Current rate: 3.20%
๐Ÿ’ถ Withdrawals: Yes
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง Available in English: No


N26: best for people who want easy access

teal-coloured-n26-bank-logo

N26 is offering 1.3% interest per year on a free (and freely withdrawable) online savings account in the Netherlands.

If you’re up for paying an extra fee, you can get a premium account with up to 2.5% interest on your savings (fancy metal card included ๐Ÿ˜‰).

๐Ÿ“ˆ Current rate: 1.3% on free accounts
๐Ÿ’ถ Withdrawals: Yes
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง Available in English: Yes


ABN AMRO: best for those seeking a traditional bank

logo-of-abn-amro-dutch-savings-bank-green-badge-with-yellow

ABN AMRO might not have the highest interest rates for savings in the Netherlands, but it is a brick-and-mortar bank.

If you feel more comfortable with a traditional bank, this is a solid choice โ€” your money will still grow, just a bit slower.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Current rate: 1.5%
๐Ÿ’ถ Withdrawals: Yes
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง Available in English: Yes


What to know about savings accounts in the Netherlands

Interest rates on savings in the Netherlands

Now, let’s talk about interest rates. The Dutch have a saying: “Don’t count your tulips before they bloom.” That applies to savings rates too. In recent years, rates have been on the lower side โ€” even threatening to go into the negatives for a while.

Luckily, they’ve since taken a turn for the better, and now it’s really worth putting your money into a Dutch savings account.

However, to get the best possible rates on savings, it’s often worth looking for a neobank like bunq or Revolut or a platform like Raisin to earn the highest interest rates in Europe.

Safety of Dutch savings accounts

The Netherlands is known for its impressive banking system. The banks here are regulated by the Dutch Central Bank, so you can rest easy knowing your hard-earned cash is in safe hands. Just make sure to choose a bank that’s as solid as the Dutch dikes!

Happy-man-looking-at-his-savings-accounts-on-his-phone
Banking and finances CAN be stress-free! Image: Freepik

When it comes to safety, European banks, in general, are solid. Thanks to the Deposit Guarantee Scheme (DGS), your savings are protected up to โ‚ฌ100,000 per person, per bank.

Even if your bank decides to do the unthinkable and go belly-up, the DGS will swoop in and save the day.

Before you start socking away your euros, keep in mind that some savings accounts in the Netherlands might have a few rules.

They can be as strict as not eating cheese with your hands (which, let’s be honest, is impossible) or as reasonable as limiting the number of withdrawals you can make in a specific period.

Just make sure to read the fine print and choose an account that fits your needs, like a well-fitted pair of wooden clogs.

History of Dutch interest rates and saving

Now, let’s talk history. Did you know that the Dutch have been saving money since before bicycles were cool? It’s true! The Netherlands has a long tradition of frugality and financial prudence.

Perhaps it’s because they want to save up for endless amounts of cheese and stroopwafels. Whatever the reason, the Dutch know a thing or two about growing their savings like tulips in a sun-drenched field.

Taxes on Dutch savings accounts

Now, when it comes to taxes, the Dutch take it seriously. You don’t want to end up in a fiscal maze, do you? Consult a tax advisor or financial pro to understand your obligations and make sure you’re not caught off guard.

Trust us, you don’t want to experience the wrath of the Dutch taxman.


In a nutshell, Dutch savings accounts are as reliable as tulips popping up in spring. Do your research, compare rates, and find a bank that makes you feel like you’re floating through a canal of financial bliss.

With a bit of Dutch determination and a pinch of cheese-loving frugality, you’ll master the art of saving money in the Netherlands โ€” and earning some extra cash on it too. ๐Ÿ˜‰

Do you have any money-saving tips? Tell us in the comments!

Disclaimer: This article offers general financial advice. If you are looking for more specific and personal advice, we suggest checking in with a financial expert (or just turning to your mattress stuffed with cash).


Frequently asked questions: Dutch savings accounts with the best interest rates

Can I open a savings account in Europe outside of the EU country I live in?

What is a fixed-rate savings account?

What does it mean if a savings account is freely withdrawable?

The ultimate Dutch Christmas playlist

4

Even though many people dislike Mariah Carey’s All I want for Christmas is You’, every year on December 1 at 8 AM sharp, every radio station in the UK plays it. And when there’s no escape, the festive cheer overtakes you. ๐ŸŽ‰

But, move over, Mariah! Bog off, Bing Crosby! Sayonara Shakin’ Stevens! Here we are giving you the ultimate playlist for your Dutch Christmas dreams. ๐ŸŽ„๐ŸŽถ

So crack out the advocaat (thick Dutch eggnog), hang up your kerstkransjes (Christmas wreaths) and letโ€™s get this party started! ๐Ÿฅณ

Kling Klokje Klingelingeling

A childrenโ€™s song that is as catchy as it is angelic. ‘Kling Klokje Klingelingeling’, translating roughly to “bell ringing” in English, is a song about a clock counting down to Christmas.

READ MORE | Christmas in the Netherlands: your guide to Dutch holiday foods and celebrations

Loved by the masses and sung by five-year-olds everywhere, ‘Kling Klokje Klingelingeling’ is a Dutch Christmas classic.

Marco Borsato โ€” ‘Kerstmis’

There is magic, there is fake snow, there is Marco Borsato. Such a powerfully festive recipe right there. Itโ€™s a feel-good movie song and they basically shout Christmas at nearly every other line โ€” and we are totally fine with that.

De Jeugd van Tegenwoordig & Katja โ€” ‘Ho Ho Ho

Get that groove on and feel hip this festive season. Think “The Fresh Prince” โ€” its 90’s Hip Hop style, and who doesnโ€™t love a bit of rap every now and then?! Get those shoulders bouncing and be a Kerst-baller with the rest of us!

Nick & Simon โ€” ‘Vrolijk Kerstfeest

They are sickly sweet and devilishly handsome: Nick en Simon! Their countrified Christmas tune will have your feet tapping and hips swaying from the first second. Be it the bells or just the tune, ‘Vrolijk Kerstfeest’ has got us right in the mood!

De Toppers โ€” Een Heel Gelukkig Kerstfeest!

This tune never leaves us throughout the Christmas period, and the video to this one from De Toppers is like the most clichรฉ Christmas party ever.

READ MORE | What happens during Christmas in the Netherlands? A guide to the winter holidays

We hope your attempt at hosting family this Christmas plays out just like this! Thatโ€™s why ‘Een Heel Gelukkig Kerstfeest’ has to be our number one!


To sing us out, we’ll leave you with the Helemaal Hollandsโ€™ ‘Kerstmedley’, which has ALL of your favourite tacky Christmas songs (in Dutch!) to get you in the spirit of Christmas and have you dancing around like a buffoon in a festive sweater.

What’s your favourite Dutch Christmas song? Tell us in the comments below!

How Dutch people get rid of their Christmas trees

Where do all the Christmas trees in the Netherlands go after the holidays? Unfortunately, not a better place.

Quite a few internationals have asked us how to get rid of their Christmas trees in the Netherlands. They thought that a neatly organised country had some kind of decent system in place.

Indeed, in some municipalities, there’s a pick-up scheme for Christmas trees right after New Year’s Day.

But there’s, of course, a traditional way of getting rid of the old tree in the Netherlands that warms my heart, figuratively and literally.

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Travelling by bike to dump your Christmas tree? No problem! Images: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Lots of people making their way to get rid of Christmas trees in a bonfire. Images: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied

Burning the old Christmas tree

As a kid, I grew up with the burning of Christmas trees tradition that takes place every year in the Netherlands โ€” the more trees burning, the better!

It brings back the primal being in you, and, well, big fires are awesome!

So, at DutchReview, we totally dig this photo report by Renzo Gerritsen on a good-old-burn-your-tree gathering in Amsterdam: it’s seriously lit!

READ MORE | Christmas in the Netherlands: your guide to Dutch holiday foods and celebrations

If you like Renzo’s photos, then follow his Facebook page.

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Bye 2024! Images: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Children carrying their Christmas trees to a bonfire. Even the little ones are in on it! Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Can’t be a tradition in the Netherlands without a bicycle. Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Amsterdam after the fire. Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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A crowd awaits the yearly spectacle of the Christmas Tree bonfire. Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Just WOW! Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Groups of Dutch children marvelling at the sight. Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Huge flames! Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Doie doie Christmas tree! Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Safety first! Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied
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Another one to the fire! Image: Renzo Gerritsen/Supplied

How do you get rid of Christmas tree in your home country? Tell us in the comments below!

7 things to know before surfing the web on your mobile in the Netherlands

Whether youโ€™re looking for super-fast 5G coverage, ironclad data protection, or an affordable prepaid/SIM-only plan, thereโ€™s a lot of info to wade through when it comes to Dutch mobile data.

So hereโ€™s a handy breakdown of the most important things to note when it comes to surfing the web in the Netherlands! ๐Ÿ‘‡

1. Wi-Fi is widely available, but not always

If youโ€™re visiting the bigger Dutch cities and dying to post a picturesque canal-side snapshot to the โ€˜gram, connecting to public Wi-Fi should be a pretty seamless experience.

However, the same certainly isnโ€™t true when you venture further afield.

The rolling hills of heather in the Hoge Veluwe may look glorious, but youโ€™d stand a greater chance of winning the lottery than navigating them using Wi-Fi.

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Mobile data is an absolute must-have when it comes to navigating through the Dutch countryside. Image: Dreamstime

For wandering outside of the Randstad, itโ€™s ideal to have the safety net of your own mobile data.

Prepaid or SIM-only SIM card packages generally offer unlimited data options for you to Google Map your way around the countryside โ€” and their expansive mobile networks will ensure that youโ€™re never left high and dry with no internet connection. ๐Ÿคณ

2. Strict data protection laws ensure your privacy

Whilst the Dutch may embrace passersby peering through their curtainless windows, the thought of someone spying on their browser data understandably raises more hackles than a cornered dog.

READ MORE | Why donโ€™t the Dutch like to use curtains?

The good news? Thanks to the GDPR (or General Data Protection Regulation), your data is protected under EU law.

This means that the websites you visit while browsing the net are not allowed to collect your data without your explicit consent.

3. Cellular data offers more security than public Wi-Fi

When it comes to using public Wi-Fi, itโ€™s like that bowl of potato salad at an office party thatโ€™s been sitting out for several hours โ€” itโ€™s a bit of a risk.

Similarly, using an unsecured Wi-Fi network might expose you to hackers, snoopy government entities, and marketers who canโ€™t wait to sell your data.

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Public transport will offer you an unsecured WiFi network โ€” to use at your own risk! Image: Dreamstime

Using your own mobile data, on the other hand, is generally a far safer bet. 

Data thatโ€™s transmitted over these networks is usually encrypted, meaning that your personal information is less likely to find its way into malicious hands.

4. Your home countryโ€™s phone plan will have limits

Letโ€™s face it โ€” with the advent of eSIMs, data roaming is slowly going the way of the dodo bird: extinct.

For those travelling to the Netherlands on holiday, an eSIM from a Dutch provider will often offer far more features than a data roaming package from your home country. (Plus, you can order one before youโ€™ve even set foot in the country! ๐Ÿ˜‰)

READ MORE | eSIMs in the Netherlands: The ultimate 2024 guide + the best options

And what if youโ€™re travelling from the Netherlands, instead? Well, thanks to the  EUโ€™s โ€œroam like at homeโ€ policy, if you have a Dutch SIM card, you can travel to any EU country and pay the same rate for your calls, texts, and mobile data as you would in the Netherlands. Handig!

A local (Dutch) SIM will also provide faster data speeds, as many mobile networks prioritise their users over those connected to one of their roaming partners. 

5. You can save money with a local SIM card

Planning on staying in the Netherlands for a longer period? In addition to offering a wider range of features than roaming packages, getting a Dutch SIM card will save you major euros in the long run.

READ MORE | The best SIM-only plans in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide

Many mobile data providers offer budget-friendly prepaid SIM cards and SIM-only plans at rates far lower than those supplied by the average roaming package. ๐Ÿ’ธ

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Spending less on your mobile subscription frees up more cash for sightseeing and making memories! ๐Ÿ™Œ Image: Freepik

Plus, if youโ€™re here for the long haul, the rates for one- or two-year contracts are often cheaper than the monthly terminable ones โ€” ensuring that you get the most bang for your buck.

Good to know: If youโ€™re looking to get connected ASAP, you can buy affordable prepaid SIM cards at Schiphol Airport โ€” without the hassle of needing a Dutch bank account. Many supermarkets and corner shops also offer this option by the checkout aisles.

6. Expect excellent mobile coverage and speed

Though it may be a hassle to find housing in the Netherlands and the trains here frequently experience delays, Dutch mobile data is nothing if not speedy and reliable.

According to Ookla, a global index of mobile and broadband speeds, the Netherlands currently ranks 5th in the world for the fastest mobile data download speeds.

READ MORE | Setting up internet in the Netherlands: the complete guide

And just how fast are we talking? Well, with mobile download speeds averaging a blistering 142.22 Mbps, thatโ€™s more than capable of handling 4K video streaming and intensive multi-player games.

If youโ€™re from the US, Australia, or India โ€” countries with average mobile download speeds of 107.87 Mbps, 100.51 Mbps, and 91.72 Mbps respectively โ€” youโ€™re likely to feel a jump in speed immediately.

Plus, with the Dutch government continuing to work towards its 5G goals, we can only expect that figure to increase over the coming years.

7. You should use a VPN to access content from home

If you were getting excited at the prospect of devouring a few more episodes of your favourite show, you may be disappointed to know that streaming services often region-lock content. ๐ŸŽฅ

This means that the new season of Emily in Paris youโ€™re dying to hate-watch may not be available on the Dutch version of your streaming platform.

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With a VPN, you can easily bypass regional blocks on your favourite streaming services. Image: Freepik

However, thereโ€™s a super-handy workaround: downloading a VPN.

READ MORE | Travelling through the EU? Hereโ€™s why you should use a VPN

A VPN (or virtual private network) is a service that encrypts your data and hides your IP address, allowing you to access content thatโ€™s not available in your area and prevent your internet provider from throttling your data.

Good to know: VPNs also allow you to browse the web securely, by shielding your online traffic from would-be hackers.

As a result, itโ€™s always advisable to use one if you frequently connect to public Wi-Fi or conduct bank transactions while on the move.


Combining affordability with excellent connectivity, thereโ€™s a lot to love about surfing the web with a Dutch mobile data provider. โœจ

What are your favourite features when it comes to staying connected in the Netherlands? Tell us all about them in the comments below!

Three-course dinners and free beers?! Here’s what KLM’s crew allowance looks like (for now)

KLM staff working in the skies are getting stellar treatment: from comfy hotel rooms to sumptuous breakfasts, their daily allowance truly covers all kinds of benefits… for now.๐Ÿ˜ถโ€๐ŸŒซ๏ธ

If you’ve flown with KLM at least once, you might have wondered what it’s like to fly for them: here’s an overview of the flying staff’s current daily allowance. ๐Ÿ‘‡

Sky-high standards

As RTL Nieuws reports, cabin and cockpit staff of the Dutch koninklijke (royal) airline are used to a royal daily allowance when travelling for work, comprising quality boarding and lodging. ๐Ÿ‘‘

Food

Regarding food, KLM’s flying staff receive a variable daily allowance calculated to allow for three meals, four hot drinks, and, depending on the destination, up to three glasses of soft drinks and… beer. ๐Ÿคฏ

A daily menu, therefore, might look like this:

  • Breakfast: fruit juice, two eggs with ham, bread, butter and tea or coffee
  • Lunch: simple dish and coffee
  • Dinner: soup, a main course, dessert and coffee
  • Drinks: soft drinks or biertjes ๐Ÿบ

Accomodation

As for accommodation, KLM’s current collective labour agreement states that reflecting “the status of KLM and the pilots,” its flying staff should stay in hotels “reasonably situated in relation to the airport, shops and recreational facilities (…) in or near the city centre.”

READ MORE |ย 11 unique jobs that could only exist in the Netherlands

Other criteria that the accommodation should fulfil include:

  • A room of a minimum of 3×4 metres
  • Separate bathroom with toilet
  • Seating and writing facilities and adequate reading light
  • Air conditioning and heating
  • Provision against noise pollution

Transport and leisure

Depending on the destination, the daily KLM allowance also allows for some recreational activities, such as cinemas, swimming pools and sports facilities.

Natuurlijk, they also cover transport: if free transport is not available, staff are entitled to up to four bus or tram rides or half a taxi ride per day.

And sky-high costs

Sounds pretty neat, right? But before you run off to apply for a KLM cabin or cockpit job, you should know that these amazing perks might soon become a thing of the past.

KLM worker unions are currently negotiating a new collective labour agreement โ€” and it looks like the company will make big cuts.

Some of the proposed changes include an end to complementary alcoholic drinks, the choice of hotels far from inhabited centres, and, most importantly, freezing off wages for the next two years. ๐Ÿฅถ

What do you think of the current and future working conditions of KLM flying staff? Fly to the comments to share your opinion with us.

The Netherlands has ‘singing bike paths’ and we’re absolutely obsessed

The Dutch are famous for doing all kinds of things on bikes โ€” holding hands, transporting furniture, and probably juggling stroopwafels while going backwards. Now, theyโ€™ve outdone themselves with roads that encourage bikers to sing aloud. ๐ŸŽค

Ten years ago a Dutch columnist pitched the brilliant idea of a zangfietspad (singing cycle path) โ€” a designated cycle path where people can, well, sing and cycle. 

She envisioned these paths to invite bikers to channel their inner Beyoncรฉ while traveling across the Dutch roads. 

Sounds awesome? Thatโ€™s what the Netherlands thought too. So, since the idea was first pitched, singing cycle paths have popped up in various Dutch cities, towns, and villages. 

Wanna sing and cycle your heart out? Hereโ€™s whereย 

According to the Fietsersbond, you can find singing cycle paths in Amsterdam, Almere, Hierden, Amstelveen, Dongen, Houten, Den Bosch, Drimmelen, Tiel, Veenendaal, Norg, Leiden, Zoetermeer, Lansingerland, Alphen aan de Rijn and Roermond.ย 

Donโ€™t feel down if thereโ€™s none on your usual route. If youโ€™re a zangfietspad enthusiast, and would like to set one up near where you cycle โ€” you can!

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #129: Bike recklessly โ€” and somehow remain unhurt 

Just reach out to your gemeente (municipality), and politely explain that singing your heart out to Bohemian Rhapsody on the way to work is non-negotiable. Yes, weโ€™re serious.

Oh, and before you ask: No, the police wonโ€™t write you a ticket for skipping the signโ€™s suggestion. The zangfietspad is just a cheerful reminder to take your spectacular singing beyond the shower curtains. ๐Ÿšฟ

How do you feel about dedicated singing cycle paths all around the country? Let us know in the comments below.

This Dutch Christmas festival was cancelled due toโ€ฆ wolves?!

Every December, the Schaapskooi, a natural area in the province of Utrecht, lights up with Christmas celebrations โ€” but this year, some unwanted guests spoiled the party. ๐Ÿบ

Due to the growing presence of wolves in the area, and some rather alarming close encounters, the annual Schaapskooi’s Kerstfeest (Christmas Festival) was cancelled, reports RTL Nieuws.

The party is off

The Grinch-esque decision was made by Utrechts Landschap, the organisation that owns and manages the Heidestein, which is the nature reserve where the festival usually takes place.

READ NEXT | Christmas in the Netherlands: your guide to Dutch holiday foods and celebrations

After deliberation with the Province of Utrecht, the organisation concluded that hosting the Christmas party would have been irresponsible โ€” especially considering its usual target audience.

Every year, the festival is attended by thousands of people, many of which are families with small children and pets: exactly the type of crowd that makes wolves protective of their cubs and potentially aggressive.

Close calls

The decision also happened in the aftermath of a few close encounters in the Province, especially around the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, where the Schaapskooi is also located.

This year alone, one girl was bitten by a wolf and another was injured.

READ MORE | Avoid this Dutch nature reserve after possible wolf attack on a child

Following these incidents, the authorities have advised hikers against visiting the province’s natural areas with children or pets.

Last summer, a portion of the Den Treek estate, also on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, had to be closed off for weeks due to the attacks. 

READ NEXT | Rare footage of Veluwe wolfpack captured by wildlife cam (video inside!)

Since then, the Utrecht Province has been trying to obtain permission to capture, sedate, and tag the wolves behind the attacks, who are now believed to belong to a single pack โ€” but so far, it has failed, reports RTL Nieuws.

For the time being, tracking the wolves is impossible, meaning that public events like the Schaapskooi Christmas Festival cannot be hosted safely.

What do you think of the decision to call off the Kerstfeest? Share all your thoughts in the comments below.