After a hantavirus patient from the affected MV Hondius cruise ship was admitted to Radboudumc in Nijmegen, an incorrect handling of their blood and urine has led to further risk of infection among staff.
As reported by AD, the staff followed standard procedure in the handling of the patient’s fluids, despite a recognised need for increased precautions and safety controls.
What happened?
Three passengers from the cruise who developed symptoms were evaluated at hospitals across the Netherlands, including the LUMC in Leiden, Amsterdam AMC, and Radboudumc in Nijmegen.
Radboudumc is known for being especially equipped to handle infectious diseases, reports AD. However, in this case, the patient’s fluids were improperly handled.
Firstly, blood was drawn from the patient on admission and processed under standard procedure, when a much stricter protocol should have been used.
Then, on Saturday, it emerged that the disposal of the patient’s urine had also not followed the required heightened precautions.
Now what?
12 staff members have been identified as being at risk of infection. They will be isolating for six weeks and monitoring their symptoms. It is unclear if their isolation will be conducted at home or elsewhere, reports AD.
Bertine Lahuis, Chair of the Executive Board of Radboudumc, stated that Radboudumc “regret[s] that this has happened.”
“We will carefully investigate the course of events to learn from this, so that it is prevented in the future,” he also said.
Human-to-human hantavirus infection spreads through close, prolonged contact. However, according to the WHO, “little evidence is available due to the scarcity of hantavirus outbreak related to human-to-human transmission.”
What are your thoughts on how this case was handled? Let us know in the comments!
A man from Zwaag spent his Saturday evening visiting a friend in Anna Paulowna (and his Sunday morning walking nearly 40 kilometres home after missing the last train).
The man cycled to Anna Paulowna station after a night of drinking, hoping to catch the last train back to Hoorn.
In a nightmare scenario that we have all faced at some point, he realised he had missed it.
However, rather than ring his wife or look for alternatives, he set off on foot into the dark. With his phone switched off, might we add.
Police launched a full search
By Sunday morning, his wife had heard nothing. No call, no message, no sign of him.
She contacted the police, who kicked off a search across the region, checking roadsides, ditches, waterways, and stations in Anna Paulowna. Officers in Hoorn swept the area around that station, too.
At one point, police were even considering whether he’d fallen asleep on a train and woken up in Nijmegen. A reasonable theory, all things considered.
He made it home
After hours of searching, the man’s wife contacted the police again. Her husband had made it back to their house in Zwaag.
He had walked for eight hours on foot, covering roughly 40 kilometres from Anna Paulowna to his front door.
So, you’re looking to get an STD test while living in the Netherlands. Good for you!
There are several different ways to get tested for STDs (or SOAs [Seksueel Overdraagbare Aandoening], as the Dutch say). Let’s answer some of your questions and point you in the right direction. 👇
Where can I get an STD test in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, you can get an STD test at your huisarts (GP) or at the GGD (Gemeentelijke Gezondheidsdienst or municipal health services).
If you are not comfortable with either of these options, you can also opt to order an STD test online and take it at home — just make sure they are reliable.
You’re eligible for a free STD test from the GGD if you’re believed to have a higher chance of catching an STD.
This means that you can typically get a free STD test in the Netherlands if:
You’re under 25 years old
You have symptoms that could indicate an STD
You come from a country where many people have STDs. According to the GGD’s questionnaire, these areas include Asia, Africa, South and Central America, Eastern Europe and Russia
You’ve had sex with someone who comes from the above regions
You are a man or trans person who has sex with men
You have sex with people as part of your job
You’ve had sex with someone who has an STD
Do you meet any of the above conditions? Congrats! You can apply for a free STD test on the GGD’s website.
However, you may have to travel far to find an available appointment or wait a while before the next time slot, but it’s worth it.
Note: If you meet the above requirements, you can only get a gratis (free) test from a GGD. If you want to be tested at your local doctor’s office, you’ll need to claim that on your insurance.
I don’t qualify for a free STD test; now what?
Don’t meet the conditions on the above list? Or want a test before you can make an appointment at the GGD? Then you may have to fork out a bit of money.
*Shocked gasp from the audience*
We know, you’d think a country that’s so liberated about sex would supply its entire population with free STD tests, but helaas, this is not the case.
If your situation doesn’t match the above conditions, you’ll have to get tested by your huisarts (GP).
In some cases, you will have to pay for this test yourself, depending on your health insurance deductible.
I have already paid my full health insurance deductible this year. Your health insurance will cover any further medical costs — including your STD test. Rejoice!
I haven’t paid my full health insurance deductible this year. If you haven’t paid your deductible this year or only paid a portion of it, you will have to cover the cost of your STD test until it reaches the limit of your deductible.
For example: Let’s say your health insurance deductible is €395 per year. If you haven’t paid any of this amount so far, your insurance won’t cover the cost of your STD test yet.
Once you spend your full deductible on eligible healthcare covered by insurance, your insurance will begin to cover other health issues — like STD tests.
How expensive are STD tests in the Netherlands?
The cost of an STD test at your GP can vary depending on how many STDs you are getting tested for. For example, a chlamydia test may cost €40.
However, a complete checkup could amount to around €300.
Your sexual health is very important, which means, no matter the cost, it should be prioritised.
Do you think all STD tests should be free in the Netherlands? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
Buying and driving a second-hand car in the Netherlands comes with a few advantages. They are usually cheaper to buy, more sustainable, and you might find reduced costs elsewhere.
But like the rest of the Netherlands, getting a car (whether it is new, second-hand, electric, hybrid, or fuel) is not always cheap.
If you are looking for something casual to get around or if you are strapped for cash, a €60,000 Tesla might be a bit too much. Most Dutchies buy second-hand cars, so it may be in the cards to purchase one yourself.
So what are the costs you need to know when buying and driving a second-hand car in the Netherlands?
Looking for a reliable second-hand car in the Netherlands? Carvendo helps you compare trusted listings, check vehicle histories, and find the best deal for your budget. Their team works with certified dealers across the country, making it easy for internationals to find a reliable used car without the guesswork.
Initial purchase costs of your second-hand car in the Netherlands
An obvious cost, but the most prominent one.
The initial purchase cost is likely to be the biggest expense when buying a second-hand car in the Netherlands.
When buying a second-hand car, the price is determined by the vehicle’s condition.
These include the type of engine (internal combustion, hybrid, electric), the size of the car, the age, the mileage, battery health for EVs, and more.
Second-hand cars in the Netherlands can cost anywhere from a few thousand euros to well over €40,000, depending on the model and condition. Market conditions and inflation also influence prices.
Financing your second-hand car
If you are planning on buying and driving a car in the Netherlands but you are unsure of how much everything will cost, there are a few financial aid options for internationals:
Bank loan: Some banks are willing to loan you money to buy and even help maintain a second-hand car in the Netherlands.
Car dealerships: Some car dealerships make adjustments or deals in their pricing to make it easier for customers to buy their cars.
Leasing a car: It’s also possible to lease a car. You pay a fixed monthly fee, which includes maintenance, taxes, and insurance, but the car won’t be your property.
Running costs of your second-hand car in the Netherlands
These are the costs associated with day-to-day driving. While they may not be as hefty as the initial purchase, running costs can rack up over time.
Fuel and charging costs
To make sure your second-hand car actually runs, you will need fuel or electricity.
Fuel prices in the Netherlands remain on the high side and fluctuate frequently. Petrol and diesel currently sit above €2.30 per litre, especially along motorways.
Electric charging costs vary depending on whether you charge at home, at a public charger, or at a fast-charging station, but home charging generally offers the lowest rate.
Charging stations are pretty standard across the Netherlands now — it makes charging your electric car a lot more convenient! Image: Freepik
Your monthly fueling/charging costs depend on a lot of things: how often you’re driving in a week, how far you’re driving, where you’re driving and refuelling/recharging your car, and of course, current fuel/electricity prices.
Once you have had your car for a few months, it becomes easier to calculate your average monthly spending.
Tip: If you’re looking for somewhere to refuel or recharge your second-hand car in the Netherlands, there are plenty of handy resources. You can find the cheapest fuel prices and also check for available charging stations all around the country.
Road tax (MRB)
Road tax in the Netherlands is called motorrijtuigenbelasting (MRB). This is the ongoing tax you pay to keep your vehicle legally on the road.
The rate depends on the vehicle’s weight, province, and fuel type. Petrol cars generally pay less than diesel cars, and fully electric cars currently benefit from a reduced rate.
It is important to note that MRB is not the same as BPM (the Dutch private motor vehicle and motorcycle tax).
BPM is a one-time tax paid when a vehicle is first registered in the Netherlands. When you buy a second-hand car already registered in the country, BPM has usually already been paid by the first owner.
Dutch car insurance
Getting the right car insurance is an essential part of buying and driving a second-hand car in the Netherlands. Insurance policies cover the car, not the driver, so anyone with a valid licence may drive your insured vehicle.
By law, you must have third-party insurance (WA-verzekering) to cover any damage or injury to others caused by the car. There are a few requirements for getting insurance for your car:
You must be a Dutch resident
You have a Dutch car or imported a foreign car
The car has a valid licence plate
Because the vehicle is insured rather than the person, it’s only possible to insure one vehicle per insurance policy. Some companies offer discounted insurance rates on extra vehicles.
In the Netherlands, car insurance usually costs between €30 and €100 per month, depending on factors like your age, driving history, postcode, car type, and level of coverage. New drivers and expats without Dutch no-claim years often pay more.
There are three main types of car insurance in the Netherlands:
Third-party liability (WA-verzekering): This is the mandatory, minimum level of vehicle insurance in the Netherlands. It covers damages caused by your car to other vehicles, property, and injuries to others. This insurance works if you drive an old or inexpensive car, or if you don’t drive often.
Extended liability (WA beperkt casco): This insurance covers damages caused by your car (as previously mentioned) and damage to your own vehicle in circumstances beyond your control, like theft, vandalism, fire, storm damage, and collision with animals.
All-risk (allriskverzekering): This is the most comprehensive insurance; it covers all damage done by and to your car. All-risk insurance is a good option if you have a new or expensive car, as the cost of replacement would be too high.
Parking costs in the Netherlands
While it’s not exactly the easiest or cheapest, parking your car in the Netherlands is relatively accessible.
Parking without a permit
If you have a designated parking space or a garage, you may not need a parking permit. But that does mean you’ll have to pay parking fees if you decide to drive to another part of the city or to an entirely different city.
Say, you go for a drive and need to park somewhere in the city. You can choose to park in a parking garage or somewhere on the street in a legal space, of course.
Payment is usually required at a ticket machine or via a mobile app, like Yellowbrick, Parkmobile, Park-line, and ANWB Parkeren.
Sometimes you might find yourself parked in the most random spots in the city. Image: Freepik
Parking costs in the Netherlands vary hugely depending on where you are.
In smaller towns, you might pay just €1 to €3 per hour, while larger cities like Utrecht, The Hague, and Rotterdam often charge between €4 and €6 per hour for street parking.
In the busiest parts of Amsterdam, parking can cost as much as €7.50 to €8 per hour! (Highway robbery, if you ask us).
Parking permits in the Netherlands
If you don’t have a permanent car parking space or travel with your car often, getting a parking permit is a convenient payment option. This permit is registered to your specific vehicle’s registration number at your municipality.
The quarterly or yearly payments for a parking permit vary depending on where you live and whether or not there is a waitlist.
For example, a parking permit in The Hague costs €97.05 for one car at one address in 2026, whereas it costs between €41.37 and €160.80 per quarter in Utrecht.
Getting a permit for a second car usually costs even more.
Tip: There are some areas with blue curbs, known as “blue zones”, where the municipality doesn’t enforce paid parking. You just have to display a blue parking disc, which you can buy at gas stations, tobacco stores, and police stations and use for any blue parking zones in the country.
Roadside assistance in the Netherlands
When buying and driving any car in the Netherlands, you may sometimes run into trouble when you’re on the road. If you have car problems, you can ask for roadside assistance anywhere in the country.
There are a few companies that offer towing services and repairs that’ll get your car back into shape for driving.
ANWB offers the most popular roadside assistance service with the following rates for regular membership in 2026:
Basic
Standard
Complete
Per month
€6.50
€10.70
€13.34
Per year
€74.25
€122.25
€152.40
They have other membership offers you might find useful. For example, you can get a youth benefit membership or a partner advantage if you want to have roadside assistance ready for your partner.
There are also membership options for roadside assistance across all of Europe — but of course, this is more expensive.
Buying a second-hand car should feel safe and secure. With Carvendo, every eligible car comes with a 12-month or 12,000-kilometre guarantee, giving you extra peace of mind on the road. It’s a simple and reliable way to make sure your new set of wheels stays in top shape. ⚡️
Maintenance costs of your second-hand car in the Netherlands
These are the costs associated with making sure your second-hand car is fit to drive on a day-to-day basis.
Periodic vehicle inspection (APK)
Algemene periode keuring (APK) or periodic vehicle inspection is an annual or bi-annual maintenance check to make sure your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards.
APKs are compulsory in Europe and are carried out by professional inspectors (so no worries about doing them yourself). After the APK, you receive an inspection report of your car.
There are plenty of licenced mechanics who can perform an APK on your vehicle — no doubt you’ll find someone on the regular! Image: Pexels
You can check with the Dutch Vehicle Authority (RDW) to see when, how often, and where to get an APK for your second-hand car.
The prices for an APK can vary from as low as €20 to as high as €70 every year or every other year.
However, on average, APK costs fall between €30 and €60, depending on where you can take it.
Most common replacements and maintenance
Part of buying and driving a second-hand car in the Netherlands is maintaining and replacing parts that need a little extra TLC.
Battery replacement
Batteries are essential to second-hand electric and hybrid cars — and sometimes they need maintenance or even replacement.
Depending on your second-hand electric/hybrid car model and its battery, the price of replacements varies.
For example, a battery for a Tesla Model S can cost roughly €13,000 to €20,000, while a battery for a Chevy Volt costs between €3,700 to €9,300 instead.
You can check with your chosen car repair and maintenance shop to see which batteries are available and how much it costs to buy the battery and get it installed in your car.
Tire replacement and maintenance
In the Netherlands, mechanics usually advise drivers to replace all of their tyres every three to four years, even if there aren’t any obvious signs of wear or damage.
You need to get all of your tyres replaced every few years. Better to be safe than sorry! Image: Pexels
Of course, you can get the replacement at your usual car repair and maintenance shop. The tyre replacement cost and services depend on your shop, but it ranges between €60 to €360 per tyre.
Charging system repair and replacement
Likewise, with a car battery, you might find your second-hand car has some hitches with the charging system, especially if the previous owner or you charged the car often.
For example, the wiring could have corroded or loosened, or a fuse could have blown. Whatever the issue is, car mechanics can resolve it. The exact costs depend on your car repair and maintenance shop.
You can also completely replace your charging system.
Cost-wise, the charging system depends on your second-hand car as well. A new charging system could cost between €800 to €2,700, depending on which station fits your car best.
How to estimate total monthly car ownership costs
Before buying a second-hand car, it helps to work out how much you will spend each month. A car comes with several recurring costs, and these can add up quickly.
The main expenses are fuel or charging, road tax, insurance, parking, and general maintenance. Once you know these five figures, you can make a realistic monthly budget.
Fuel or charging costs depend on how far you drive and current prices.
Road tax varies by weight, province, and fuel type, while insurance depends on your car and coverage level.
Parking can be a major cost if you live or travel in busy cities. Maintenance includes the APK inspection and occasional repairs or replacements.
Add these together, and you will get a rough monthly estimate. For many drivers in the Netherlands, this total sits somewhere between €200 and €450 per month.
This was your comprehensive overview of every cost to keep in mind when buying and driving a second-hand car in the Netherlands.
Tips on how to get laid and then make a run for it… a “love ’em and leave ’em” guide to finding love in the Netherlands.
No, not really. If you are that kind of person, then (hopefully someday) you will be slapped by the merciless dating love god and Zeus’ half-brother, Mike.
Unlike in your childhood, in your current adult life, starting a relationship or two is not quite so lemon-squeezy.
Work or commitments can get in the way of your free time. Plus, especially if you aren’t initially from the Netherlands, loneliness can creep up on you if you don’t have a special loved one to go to.
Dating in the Netherlands presents its own share of challenges. Image: Magnific
It can also feel awkward now to ask someone you barely know, “Hey, do you want to hang out?” *queue cricket chirp*
So, my fellow readers, this article is about finding that love. Luckily, love can take shape in many forms, be it an intimate one or just a casual friendship. There’s a two-metre-tall Dutchie out there for everyone. 🥰
1. Dating apps, the classic route
For the more socially inhibited ones, dating apps can help open the door to finding that special someone.
Whether you’re a fan of Tinder or not, in today’s world, apps can be essential for finding your partner.
As it happens, there are now some dating apps in the Netherlands that can help you find your knight (or dame!) in shining armour. Hey, it’s the 21st century! Anything is possible! 😊
First, there is a friendly dating app called Bumble. This is a great one to find friends, dates, and even networks for career building.
Apps are useful for a whole host of things, from delivering your groceries to finding the love of your life. Image: Magnific
Another exciting app is the ‘private’ dating app called Coffee Meets Bagel. It only shows you when the other person is interested in you.
CMB lets you see people who have liked you, so no torturing yourself about “the one that got away.” Time-effective indeed.
Finally, if you’re allergic to texting, we recommend Breeze: a Dutch dating app that, when you match with someone, directly organises your first date for you. Say doei to those awkward online conversations!
If you are interested in a new adventure, these apps can definitely give a boost to your smooch (or friend) life.
2. Join a group and meet someone “in the wild”
To build relationships and to find “true love”, you need consistency. In our younger years, this was simple. You went to school and summer camps and played outside with the other neighbourhood kids until ‘dinner is ready!’ was yelled from the window.
As grown-ups, it is unusual to have that kind of consistency outside of work. One way to solve that is by joining groups that meet regularly, such as associations, networking clubs, book clubs, classes, and workshops.
The best way to meet someone you’ll like? Through shared interests. Image: Magnific
For example, Meetup can help you join groups or clubs based on your interests and vicinity. Talk about practicality done right…
When you join a group, people will show up without you having to invite them. The purpose is to practice doing things together and piece together the common puzzle pieces in your lives.
However, don’t be discouraged, but keep in mind that it might take several practices with someone before you feel like you made a friend.
3. Go to a bar and get out of your comfort zone
Hey, there’s nothing wrong with doing it the old-fashioned way. 😉
The best thing to do is to drag a friend along who can play wingman (or wingwoman), and then you have a backup at hand.
If you’re going it alone, this can be more difficult.
If it’s in the daytime, take a book or a laptop, look like you’re clearly not hanging around to pull, then go in for the kill if the time is right. The number one thing is not appearing creepy. No. Nope. Nee.
Sometimes you’ve got to make the first step. Image: Magnific
If it’s in the evening, you’ve got to play the game a little differently. Sitting in the corner with a book while everyone is being social and having a good time just makes you look unapproachable as hell.
Get talking with people, mingle: if you find someone and offer to buy them a drink, they may just be sold.
4. Make your intentions clear
It’s a common belief that Dutch people aren’t very good at spotting the signs. So, if you do find someone you’re interested in and it’s going well, make your intentions clear — in the most non-creepy way ever, of course.
After all, if you really want to stand out, taking the Dutch trait of directness to your advantage is a good idea.
Again, you’ve got to be blunt to an extent, and you don’t want to come bounding up to the new love of your life saying, “Hi, we might get married and have six children; can we just date now?”
I mean, hey, it could work out, but chances are they’ll be cycling away faster than you can say, “marry….me…”
5. Check our guides to be a real pro
Hopefully, the above thoughts will help you to find that friend or loved one you can be silly with.
But if taking the step to putting yourself out there (or on a dating app *wink wink*) is still too daunting, we have some more detailed advice for you on how to date the Dutch — even in a video format!
Hey, you never know, the new love of your life could have been reading the same guides. 😏
Do you have any tips or funny experiences to share with us? Let us know them in the comments below!
If you own a car in the Netherlands, the APKis one Dutch acronym you absolutely cannot afford to ignore (and not just because forgetting it could cost you hundreds of euros).
The APK, short for Algemene Periodieke Keuring (Periodic Motor Vehicle Test), is the Netherlands’ mandatory vehicle roadworthiness inspection.
You can think of it as the Dutch equivalent of the UK’s MOT or Germany’s TÜV, a regular check to make sure your car is safe to be on the road.
If you’ve just bought a car here or you’re new to driving in the Netherlands, here’s everything you need to know.
Note: The APK is also sometimes referred to as the PTI (Periodic Technical Inspection), these are the same test.
1. It’s compulsory
Every car on Dutch roads must have a current APK. A trained inspector checks that your motor is safe to drive, environmentally compliant, and correctly registered.
Yep, the APK is not optional. Image: Freepik
No certificate? No driving. It’s as simple as that. There are no exceptions and no extensions. If your APK has lapsed, your car should not be moving.
2. When you need to do it depends on your car
When exactly you should bring your car for the APK depends on your vehicle’s fuel type and age. According to the RDW (the Netherlands Vehicle Authority):
Petrol, electric, or alcohol-fuelled cars (registered from 1995) should have their first inspection four years after registration, then every two years, then annually.
Diesel or LPG cars should have their first inspection three years after registration, then every year.
Vehicles aged 30 to 49 years should undergo an inspection every two years.
Vehicles over 50 years old are exempt, unless they’re used for public transport or transporting dangerous goods.
The schedule is based on the vehicle’s first registration date, not when you bought it. Always check this before purchasing a second-hand car.
Still not sure when exactly you need to bring your car in for a test? Geen probleem, the RDW will send you a reminder six weeks before your APK expires.
3. The inspection covers more than you might think
It’s not a quick once-over. An APK inspector works through a detailed checklist covering brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, shock absorbers, lights, and bodywork.
A number of important things will be checked during the APK. Image: Freepik
In other words, they look at all the things that could get someone hurt if they fail on the road.
Your exhaust emissions are tested too, to make sure the car meets environmental standards. From January 2023, all diesel cars fitted with a particulate filter also have to pass a dedicated particulate filter test.
4. Only RDW-approved garages can do it
You can’t just rock up to any mechanic and tick a box.
The inspection has to be carried out at a garage or testing station that holds official RDW approval. Look for the RDW erkend sign and an APKsticker on the premises.
You can find your nearest approved station via the RDW website. Most offer online booking, and availability is generally good.
5. You can book it early without losing time
Here’s an insider’s tip. If you bring your car in up to two months before the expiry date, your new expiry date is calculated from the original deadline, not from the date you walked into the garage.
For example, if your APK expires on October 1, and you get it done early on August 1, your new expiry date will still be set from October 1 — not from August 1.
In other words, you won’t lose any time on your certificate by being organised. Booking ahead is especially smart if your car is older and might need repairs before it passes.
6. Failing isn’t the end of the world (but act fast)
If your car doesn’t pass, you’ll receive a rejection report listing every failure. You then have four weeks to get the issues fixed and return to the same station for a free re-inspection.
Failed your assessment? Act quickly, if you don’t want to pay for a new inspection. Image: Freepik
Miss that window, and you’ll need to pay for an entirely new inspection.
A partial failure (kleine gebreken) means minor defects that must be fixed but don’t immediately prohibit driving.
A full failure (afkeuring) flags serious safety issues, meaning the car cannot go on public roads.
If you think the inspector got it wrong, you can challenge the result. The inspector contacts the RDW, who sends someone for a second opinion, but you cannot move or repair the car in the meantime.
Curious to know what the main problem areas are for brands? Here are some examples.
Brand
Performs well on
Scores less well on
Lexus
Steering
Bodywork
Porsche
Rust, cracks, damage to frame
Battery/wiring
Skoda
Battery/wiring
Shock absorbers
Land Rover
Suspension
Rust, cracks, damage to frame
Kia
Steering
Tyres
Toyota
Gearbox/drivetrain
Suspension
Dacia
Battery and wiring
Bodywork
Mazda
Suspension
Rust, cracks, damage to frame
Audi
Suspension
Gearbox/drivetrain
Subaru
Tyres
Rust, cracks, damage to frame
7. Driving without a valid APK is a serious and expensive mistake
This is where things get very real, very quickly. Fines for an expired APK can land anywhere between €180 and €500, and that’s before any additional police fines if you’re pulled over.
No APK? That’ll cost you. Image: Freepik
Even worse: if you’re involved in an accident in a car that’s failed or lapsed its APK, your insurer can legally refuse to pay out. So it’s not just a bureaucratic headache, but also a huge financial risk.
The only time you’re permitted to drive without a current certificate is on your way directly to your inspection appointment, with proof of booking on you.
8. You don’t need to carry the report while driving (except abroad)
You don’t need to bring any paperwork to the inspection itself, and once your car passes, you don’t need to keep the report in the car for day-to-day driving in the Netherlands.
That changes the moment you cross the border. If you’re taking your car abroad, make sure it has a valid APK for the duration of the trip and carry the inspection report with you in case you’re stopped by the police.
You can also have a Dutch-registered car tested at approved centres in Belgium and Spain if you’re already abroad when it comes due.
Have you had a nightmare APKexperience, or breezed through without a hitch? Let us know in the comments below!
Dating is all fun and games until your dinner date casually mentions, “I’m married.” Yikes.
Let’s back up here a bit.
One of our readers, Ashwin, has been on a fair share of dates. A total of 86 dates over a period of 29 months, to be precise. Just like the job market, it’s sometimes a numbers game.
Ashwin has been in the Netherlands for the past three years. He moved from India to pursue a master’s degree at Leiden University. Now he works in diplomacy (that’s what it takes to survive the dating pool).
What’s a rite of passage for all internationals in the Netherlands? Complaining. In “Expat experiences,” we reach out to our readers and compile the dirty details of their Dutch horror stories.
Enter: tall, blond, blue-eyed Dutch guy
Although he admits to attracting men who are “non-commital,” one particular encounter proved to be a bit of a stretch.
While swiping on Bumble, Ashwin matched with a Dutch guy in his early 30s. You know the type: tall, blond hair, blue eyes, gelled hair, big muscles. Countless expats fall victim to the allure of the basic Dutchie.
The pair decided to meet for a drink before the conversation died out. These matches are quite fleeting.
Note that meeting in person was the match’s idea. He thought our guy, Ashwin, was “interesting.” (Romance is so dead. Even among the gays).
At a decked-out cocktail bar in The Hague, neither party was disappointed. The music, overpriced drinks, and ambient lighting really set the mood.
Enter: the wife…
Ashwin complimented the Dutchie’s jewellery, including a golden finger band wrapped around his ring finger. So much for vintage jewellery, the Dutchie replied: “Thanks, it was an anniversary gift from my wife.”
“Your wife?” Ashwin asked politely.
“We’ve been married for five years and two months,” the Dutchman stated, as though it were obvious.
Ashwin was angry, confused, yet unsurprised. It takes a lot more to faze a city-dweller.
Upon further questioning, Ashwin learned that the Dutchie was in an open marriage. “We can see where things go,” proffered the match.
Despite a couple more drinks, Ashwin refrained from flirting. The biggest turnoff, possibly worse than the sanctioned adultery, was the Dutchie’s political standpoint. Pro-Israel. VVD-voter. Enough said.
Safe to say, that was their first and last date. But perhaps the biggest plot twist of all? The Dutchie paid the tab without a subsequent tikkie.
Throughout history, the Dutch have encouraged innovation, development, and creativity in many arenas.
In fact, the Netherlands is world-renowned for being progressive! So, naturally, I’ve compiled a list of the most forward-thinking things Dutchies do. 😉
1. Restrict single-use plastics
This is a big one! As of July 2021, the Netherlands banned the production, import, and sale of almost all single-use plastics in line with the EU’s Single-Use Plastics (SUP) guidelines.
From cutlery and Q-tips to balloons, these items were all outlawed (although stores are allowed to sell their current stocks).
This isn’t a complete ban. Businesses can’t offer single-use plastics in establishments when customers dine in, but they can offer single-use plastics when offering takeaway (so long as they charge a surcharge). However, it is a step in the right direction.
Want to know what makes things even better? There’s also a 90% collection target in sight for plastic bottles to be tackled next by 2029! ♻
2. Power transport hubs with the sun
Yep, you read that right. Dutch innovation, baby. Image: Depositphotos
The Netherlands may not see a lot of sunny days — even in the summer — but the Dutch sure are fans of solar-powering their methods of transportation!
3. Rehabilitate criminals rather than imprisoning them
Ter beschikking stelling(TBS) which translates into “detention under hospital orders,” is a system that ensures criminals in the Netherlands are rehabilitated in order to reintegrate into society instead of being locked up for their entire sentence.
The Dutch prison system aims at resolving criminals’ psychiatric problems as part of the sentence, rather than focusing on punishment methods only.
The result? Far more forward-looking verdicts overall. 👩⚖️
4. Lead the way for same-sex marriage
Amsterdam Pride is the event of the year. Image:Depositphotos
In the spirit of Dutch tolerance, let’s not forget that the biggest gesture of all! That’s when the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage on April 1, 2001.
This step has led to Amsterdam having the biggest share of same-sex marriages, with 45 in every 1,000 married couples being gay. 🌈
5. Offer an at-home nurse to new mothers
Kraamzorg is a postnatal benefit for mothers in the Netherlands, where a nurse will be available to new mothers for up to a week after their baby’s arrival.
We’re sure you can smell this picture of Dutch lavender too, thanks to bees. Image: Unsplash
Whether the Dutchies do this for the environmental impact or just to ultimately train the bees to sniff diseases, with their futuristic vision, the Dutch understood the bee’s crucial role in pollination and food supplies long before it was cool.
The nurse will offer help with baby-related tasks. This is a forward-thinking move on the Dutchies’ side to support new mothers and help them get back on their feet as soon as possible. 🍼
7. Tell people exactly what they think
Yup, it’s that infamous Dutch directness, where you can be asked, “Does that upset you?” on a whim if it seems like you’re unhappy.
The Dutch are mad efficient, so they don’t waste time beating around the bush.
Instead, they’ll tell you exactly what they’re thinking, no matter how rude or abrasive it might be. 📢
This church has welcomed a new flock of booklovers! Image: Bert Kaufmann/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
Dutchies are masters of DIY — their bigger projects involve giving old buildings a makeover into a modern shape!
In Utrecht, a 1924 post office was reconstructed into a modern library, and similarly, a thirteenth-century Maastricht cathedral was turned into a magical bookstore. 📚
Naturally, this is heavily regulated: patients will have to discuss their decision with their physician and the physician will have to follow a list of protocols before they honour the patient’s wish. 👨⚕️👩⚕️
10. Be masters of 3D printing
Opening of the world’s first 3D-printed bridge Image: Adriaan de Groot/Supplied.
Maybe it’s the DIY in Dutch blood, or maybe it’s just downright genius creativity — but to 3D print oxygen valves, steel bridges, and even houses is over-the-top forward-thinking by the Dutch. 🖱
But whether you’re a bicycle person or more of a pedestrian you’ll realise that the Dutch almost always weigh in favour of ANY transportation method that doesn’t involve moving in a personal car.
12. Take work-life balance seriously
A good mind and soul balance is not a luxury item. Image: Unsplash
In a fast-paced world, steering society away from workaholism isn’t an easy task to achieve!
But when a country enlists burnout, moving, or even taking an exam as pressing reasons for work leave, then you know the Dutch are looking ahead into the people’s future.
13. Ban diesel vehicles from city centres
What’s the best way to keep Dutch cities’ air clean? Get rid of anything diesel!
The Netherlands has introduced milieuzones, meaning that diesel cars, motorbikes, and trucks can’t enter designated areas — making the air cleaner and fresher to breathe. 🧘♀️🌱
As this list comes to an end, we give Dutchies a super 4.5 stars for their forward-thinking — but we left half a star out because there’s always room for improvement! 😉
What other forward-thinking things do Dutch people do? Tell us in the comments below!
The NS is launching a pilot programme that will let low-income residents of Amersfoort ride the train for free, and if it works, the scheme could eventually roll out across the country.
Starting July 1, residents who qualify can apply to the municipality for the Vooruitpas Amersfoort. This special pass covers all NS train travel at no cost until December 31, 2026.
Who can get it, and how?
The municipality of Amersfoort will contact eligible families directly. In total, 1,000 passes are available. If demand is high, the gemeente will organise a lottery.
This is a pilot, not a permanent scheme. After six months, the NS plans to study how participants used the pass and what they needed from it.
Those findings will inform whether a lasting version can be developed, and whether other municipalities could eventually join.
Why is the NS doing this?
In a press release, NS board member Daan Schut put it plainly: “Travel is freedom. If you can’t afford a train ticket, you’re constantly having to weigh up whether it’s even worth going out and what you’d have to sacrifice to do it.”
It’s a timely move. Dutch train fares rose by 6.5% at the start of 2026, pushing the mode of transport increasingly out of reach for people on tight incomes.
It’s not the first initiative of this kind in the Netherlands. Amsterdam previously trialled free public transport tickets for low-income households, though that scheme covered buses, trams, and metros rather than NS trains.
Let’s hope this trial proves a success.
Do you think free train travel for low-income households should become a permanent, nationwide scheme? Let us know in the comments below.
Eight Dutch passengers from the hantavirus-hit cruise ship MV Hondius landed at Eindhoven air base on Sunday evening.
They arrived on a government-chartered flight from Tenerife and are now heading straight into six weeks of home quarantine.
The flight touched down just before 8:30 PM, carrying not only the eight Dutch nationals but also 18 passengers from 10 other countries.
The Dutch government arranged the evacuation after the Hondius docked at Granadilla de Abona, a municipality in the south of Tenerife, earlier that day.
Six weeks at home, with daily GGD check-ins
The Dutch passengers are now making their way home, where they face a strict six-week thuisquarantaine (home quarantine).
For the next six weeks, they must take their temperature twice daily and keep the GGD (municipal health service) updated by phone each day.
A multinational evacuation
The Dutch were far from the only passengers being repatriated through Eindhoven.
The flight also carried people from Germany, the Philippines, Belgium, India, Argentina, Greece, Guatemala, Montenegro, Portugal, and Ukraine.
German authorities dispatched firefighters with a specialist infectious disease ambulance to collect their four nationals, broadcaster WDR reports.
Two Belgian passengers were taken by a Belgian defence ambulance to a hospital in Antwerp for examination. According to VRT Nieuws, those who test clear will return home for quarantine, while anyone who develops symptoms will remain in hospital isolation.
What happens next?
The Dutch government has another flight scheduled to pick up part of the Hondius crew from Tenerife today. Other crew members will sail the ship back to the Netherlands.
Both the WHO and the RIVM have stated there is no reason to anticipate a wider outbreak.
The Andes variant is only known to spread between people in very rare cases involving prolonged, close contact, and does not naturally occur outside North and South America.
Are you relieved the Dutch passengers are finally home? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
