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8 weird things about dying in the Netherlands

Heather Slevin
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19
8 weird things about dying in the Netherlands

So, you’re planning on dying in the Netherlands. Well, not so much planning as… you know, planning the unplannable. 

Death plays a significant role in many world cultures, and like with cultures, there are certain differences you’ll notice.

Let’s just say reaching your final destination in the land of cheese, krentenbol, and toilet calendars has its own quirks.

1. You can rent a grave 

photo-of-people-carrying-a-coffin-through-amsterdam-cemetery-death-in-the-netherlands
Mourners carrying a coffin through Zorgvlied cemetery in Amsterdam. Image: Hans Peter/Wikimedia Commons/CC1.0

Rather than buying a grave, in the Netherlands, it’s common to rent a grave space for up to 20 years, and then have the remains relocated to a communal grave.

This is mostly due to a lack of grave space. The estimated number of occupied graves currently sits at 2 million, with each grave containing two or three bodies. 

With such high demand for grave space, it’s common for families to have general graves in which up to three coffins are buried on top of each other.

This allows for them to keep their loved ones together in death, without taking up that much space. 

However, even though families can choose to rent a grave rather than purchase a plot, the price of this can still be steep. 

For example: The most expensive lease for a grave for up to 30 years is in Esserveld cemetery, which will cost you an eye-watering €7,000. 😲

You can still go budget-friendly, though! The cheapest grave rental rests at about €700 in Losser. 

2. You can apply for assisted suicide

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Euthanasia can offer patients a solution to their low quality of life. Image: Magnific

In the Netherlands, patients suffering from chronic health issues can request to be euthanised if they feel that it is the only solution to end their pain and low standard of living.

While a sad solution, it does offer patients and their families some peace of mind. 

Children under the age of 16 can also request to be euthanised, but need their parents’ approval.

READ MORE | Children under 12 could qualify for euthanasia in the Netherlands

The act of euthanasia has been legal since 2002, when the Netherlands became the first country to pass such a bill. 

Note: While euthanasia is legalised, patients have no absolute right to euthanasia and doctors have no absolute duty to perform it.

3. You can opt for a compostable coffin

The compostable coffin, also known as a “living coffin”, was designed by a Dutch start-up and now offers a more sustainable alternative for those who are buried in the Netherlands. 

READ MORE | A woman has been buried in the Netherlands’ first “living coffin”

The coffin, made out of fungus, biodegrades. This boosts the natural process of the breakdown of the body, helping to integrate the body back into the environment and soil. 

Fun fact: When using a normal wooden coffin, it can take the body up to 20 years to decompose, but when buried in a biodegradable coffin, the decomposition of the body can take only three years.

4. You can choose to have a natural burial 

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With a natural burial, you can be re-integrated into nature. Image: DepositPhotos.com

While we stay on the topic of burials that benefit the environment, in the Netherlands, you can choose to have a natural burial, such as in a forest.

People who choose to do this are laid to rest without a coffin.

Instead, they are wrapped in a shroud, and the body is left to biodegrade into the soil, once again becoming part of the earth and the natural cycle of life. 

However, those who choose to do so can’t have a gravestone to mark their resting place. In place of this, they can choose to plant a tree over the grave or to have a simple inscription as a marker. 

Seems like a sweet and simple way to be laid to rest and return to the soil. 🌼

5. There’s a service that writes poems for those who died alone

This one’s a sad but uber kind one; there’s a service that writes poetry to remember the people who had no friends or family to attend their funerals. 

Established in 2002, the Lonely Funeral Foundation was created to respect the dead and remember their lives. 

According to their website, the main goal of the foundation is to “offer the unclaimed lonely dead a dignified and respectful valediction.” 

READ MORE | Calvinism in the Netherlands: why are the Dutch so Calvinist in nature?

Though we wouldn’t like to think that we’d have no friends or family to remember us after we passed, it’s a comforting thought to know that someone, somewhere, will be thinking of us.

Plus, the poetry is just beautiful! 😍

6. Most people choose to be cremated in the Netherlands

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Scattering a loved one’s ashes somewhere they loved can be a sentimental activity. Image: DepositPhotos.com

In 2019 alone, 66.95% of the people who died in the Netherlands were cremated. 

Cremations can also be a sentimental choice for many families.

While you’re not bound to the space of a grave for mourning purposes, scattering a loved one’s ashes in their favourite spot can be a cathartic and loving way of saying vaarwel. 

This option is also quite a bit cheaper than burial, costing between €725 and €1,000. 

7. Organ donation in the Netherlands works slightly differently

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At the age of 18, all Dutch citizens receive a letter asking them to opt in or out of organ donation. Image: DepositPhotos.com

In most countries, people can choose whether or not their organs will be donated to those in need after their passing. 

For the Dutch, however, it’s slightly different. They receive a letter on their 18th birthday giving them the option to opt out of organ donation. 

If they fail to respond to this letter, after death, their choice will be marked as having “no objection to organ donation.”

This means that, in the Netherlands, unless you explicitly state that you don’t wish to donate your organs after death, it’s taken as a given that your (presumably) healthy kidneys are up for grabs!

While it may sound a bit morbid, we can find solace in the knowledge that we are contributing to the prolonged life of another human. That’s something to celebrate, anyway!

8. You are buried no more than six days after death 

photo-of-a-family-visiting-grave-of-a-deceased-loved-one-in-the-netherlands
According to Dutch law, a person’s remains must be disposed of no less than six working days after death. Image: Magnific

Well, either buried or cremated. The Dutch like to organise funerals quite soon after the death of their loved ones, offering time to gather together and mourn their loss. 

With Dutch funerals, a wake is usually organised, and is very much a family affair.

Held most commonly in the home of someone close to the deceased, the wake offers a moment to somberly reflect on the life of the person who has passed. 

However, it is actually a law in the Netherlands that a person’s cremation or burial occurs no more than six working days after their death. 

A quick turnaround, but at least once all the chaos of planning is over, the family can grieve in peace. 

Hopefully, we’ve given you some clarity on what to expect if you or a loved one ever passes away in the land of the Dutch — or perhaps even just a bit of niche cultural insight. 

What do you think is the weirdest thing about dying in the Netherlands? Tell us your thoughts in a comment below!

Turns out, the Dutch are Europe’s most reluctant investors (but champion savers)

Liana Risseeuw 🇱🇰
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0
Turns out, the Dutch are Europe’s most reluctant investors (but champion savers)

While Dutch households are brilliant at squirrelling money away into their savings accounts, they invest far less cash than any of their European neighbours.

That finding comes from a fresh study by research firm Ipsos, commissioned by ING.

Despite the European ambition to “steer more savings towards investments”, as many as 42% of the Dutch “completely rule out investing”, compared to 30% of the other countries surveyed.

It’s official: the Dutch are champion savers

Dutch households saved over 6% of their income in 2025 alone, more than two percentage points higher than they did on average during the decade prior to the pandemic.

Needless to say, that leaves lots of cash sitting in savings accounts. According to the research, Dutch bank accounts hold about €10,000 more on average than other countries in the eurozone.

“The Dutch are champions at saving money,” says ING Chief Economist Marieke Blom. “This provides security and fits our strong pension system, but it also means that households benefit less directly from corporate growth.”

European politicians are keen to change this, she explains, because more Dutch investments mean that “households can build up more wealth in the long term, and companies gain more risk-bearing capital to invest and grow”.

Why don’t the Dutch invest?

Nearly three in ten Dutch people don’t feel the need to invest, “because their pension provision and accumulated assets are sufficient”. In a country with a strong pension system, where people also build wealth through home ownership, that’s certainly a fair point.

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More Dutch people place trust in their pensions and accumulated wealth (through home ownership, for example), than investments. Image: Dreamstime

Yet, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Some hesitation stems from far more emotional reasons — a striking 44% of Dutch people view investing as “gambling in a casino”, while 39% admitted that they don’t know enough to start.

Meanwhile, a third admitted they’re inclined to sell in a panic if their investments drop sharply in value, a reaction that ING notes is at odds with long-term investing.

“Many people think that successful investing revolves around the perfect entry point or beating the market,” says Blom. “For private investors, however, it is actually about time, diversification, and peace of mind. Simple and boring investing also reduces risks in the long run.”

The younger generation tends to invest more

Reluctance to invest is strongest among the older generation in the Netherlands, while 25- to 34-year-olds invest “almost at the same level as in the other countries surveyed”.

Younger Dutch people are also more likely to admit they’d consider investing. As they’re still beginning their wealth accumulation journey, ING notes that their habits could slowly reshape the composition of Dutch household wealth.

READ MORE | Investing vs saving in the Netherlands: What’s the right choice in 2026?

And this so-called “first shift” is already visible. Last year, just 76% of Dutch households’ liquid financial assets were bank deposits, which is a slight dip compared to 2022.

To Blom, this dip is hopeful: “Particularly among younger generations, we see that the step towards investing is becoming more normal. This development can help households build wealth and contribute to the European ambition to put more savings to productive use.”

However, whether that dip turns into a meaningful shift is anyone’s guess. For now, the Netherlands remains a nation of diehard savers, who prefer cash in the bank over playing the stock market.

Do you prefer to save, or do you like a healthy balance of savings and investments? Share your opinions in the comments below.

Is Simyo a good mobile provider for life in the Netherlands?

Liana Risseeuw 🇱🇰
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1
Is Simyo a good mobile provider for life in the Netherlands?

With affordable prepaid and SIM-only plans, eSIM functionality, and excellent customer service, Simyo is a solid choice for internationals looking to get connected in the Netherlands.

Getting a Dutch mobile data subscription in-store can be a hassle, and plans themselves can get quite expensive.

One great alternative to this is Simyo — a budget mobile data provider that offers excellent value for money.

But is it a good mobile provider for life in the Netherlands? We put it to the test. 🤳

✅ The pros: affordability, flexible contracts, and excellent network access

If you’re living in a country as expensive as the Netherlands, Simyo’s biggest advantage has to be its unbeatable price-to-quality ratio.

With plans starting at €6, you can choose between handy prepaid and SIM-only plans that offer you features like large internet bundles, unlimited calling/texting options, and even free number portability.

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Money-savvy expats enjoy the combo of low prices and a wide range of features. Image: Dreamstime

However, one of our favourite things about Simyo is the fact that they also sell eSIM variants of their SIM plans, letting you bypass the hassle of getting a mobile data subscription in-store.

And, in contrast to many other mobile data providers, Simyo customers don’t need to commit to a SIM-only contract that lasts a year or longer.

You’ve also got the option to change your SIM-only plans monthly — or even terminate your subscription altogether if it just isn’t your cup of tea, saving you the cost of shelling out for a data plan you’d rather do without.

Speaking of data plans, another massive benefit of Simyo prepaid/SIM-only packages is their access to KPN’s speedy, extensive, and ultra-reliable mobile network.

friends-talking-about-affordable-mobile-data-packages-from-simyo
Paying a quarter of the price for the same mobile data connection as your friends? Sign us right up! Image: DepositPhotos.com

With KPN being Simyo’s parent company, you can surf, call, and text via one of the Netherlands’ highest-rated networks for a fraction of the cost of a monthly KPN package (which can add up to an eye-watering €40).

❌ The cons: slow unlimited data packages, high out-of-bundle costs, and more

Simyo offers a range of options for data packages, but their unlimited data option for prepaid has a major downfall: a speed cap of 128 Kbps. 

This means that trying to stream Netflix or Spotify on the train might get a little spotty, although you’ll still be able to plan your route on Google Maps and catch up on your WhatsApp messages.

However, there are still dedicated SIM-only internet bundles up to 40GB, which offer far speedier upload and download rates of 150 Mbps and 300 Mbps, respectively.

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Unfortunately, you probably may not be able to stream your fave artists while on the train. Image: Dreamstime

In addition, while Simyo’s prepaid and SIM-only plans are some of the cheapest on the Dutch market, their out-of-bundle costs can be rather high.

Though their out-of-bundle costs can add up to €0.15 per MB (and €0.31 per minute or SMS), you can opt to activate a data cap (dataplafond) for an additional €1.

Whilst you may be left with no internet connection once your bundle has run out, you’ll be saved the hassle of keeping a watchful eye on how much data you’re using.

The verdict

We loved Simyo’s price point as one of the most affordable mobile providers in the Netherlands.

If you’re happy with a 30GB data limit and want the flexibility to build a package that suits your needs, we’re confident that Simyo is a strong choice.

Sign up with Simyo!

Have you ever tried a Simyo mobile data plan? Tell us about your experiences in the comments below!

The best banks in the Netherlands for internationals in 2026

DutchReview Crew
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8
The best banks in the Netherlands for internationals in 2026

Finding the best banks for expats in the Netherlands can be a real challenge.

Many factors influence your decision, from extra features to the bank’s accessibility in English.

We’ve explored and tested the best banks in the Netherlands, testing them for accessibility for expats, features, pricing, mobile apps, and more.

All the banks in our list below tick off two important boxes:

  1. They’re available in English, especially in their mobile banking apps.
  2. They offer debit card options because credit cards aren’t widely accepted in the Netherlands.

TIP: In a rush? Our top pick for a bank for expats is ING. They have a top-notch mobile app, heaps of features, and are tailor-made for expats in the Netherlands.

Ready to find the best bank accounts for expats in the Netherlands? Let’s jump in!

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 banks for expats in the Netherlands

ING: Our top choice for a traditional Dutch bank

ing-best-banks-in-the-netherlands

One of the biggest and most well-known Dutch banks, ING, is a popular choice among locals and internationals alike for its accessibility, affordability, and handy range of banking features.

With its English mobile app, expat-friendly website, free (yes, free!) bank accounts for students, handy money-management features, and €100 welcome bonus, the switch to Dutch banking is as seamless as can be.

Sign up for ING

bunq: Best for money-management features and cashback

bunq-best-banks-in-the-netherlands

Between the ability to earn Points for free perks, use a personal AI banking assistant, and access some of the best interest rates in the Netherlands, bunq is futuristic and feature-packed. 

As a neobank, this Dutch bank has no physical branches, but we can attest that its app has everything you need.

Sign up for bunq

Revolut: Best for international banking and money transfers

revolut-best-banks-in-the-netherlands

When it comes to multi-currency accounts and international transfers, Revolut is a true banking heavyweight.

Saving in multiple currencies is a breeze, even on a free plan. Plus, you can seamlessly and speedily transfer up to €1,000 internationally — with no hidden fees!

Sign up for Revolut

N26: Best bank that doesn’t require a BSN

n26-best-banks-in-the-netherlands

In addition to handy money-management features, an excellent free plan, and investment opportunities, N26 is one of the few banks that doesn’t require a BSN.

However, let op: N26 will provide you with a German IBAN, not a Dutch one.

Sign up for N26

ABN AMRO: Best for sheer banking flexibility

abn-amro-best-banks-in-the-netherlands

With free plans for students and a 120-day grace period to provide a BSN, ABN AMRO is a solid choice for internationals in the Netherlands.

Even better? ABN AMRO’s Basic Payment Package allows you to create a flexible banking package of a current account, cards, and features tailored to your needs.

Sign up for ABN AMRO

🏅 Other banks in the Netherlands

You might be wondering why we chose to highlight these banks in particular — after all, there are plenty of other banks in the Netherlands.

Our main reason for not doing a full section on these is their lack of English-language options. For something as important as banking, it can be crucial to have information available in a language you understand.

But if you’ve been here a while or you aren’t afraid of doing some Google Translate work, then any of these other banks are worth investigating.

Bigger banks in the Netherlands

  • Rabobank
  • De Volksbank

Smaller banks in the Netherlands

  • Amanah Group Holdings
  • Anadolubank Nederland N.V.
  • Bank Mendes Gans (cash management)
  • Bank Nederlandse Gemeenten (financing for (semi-)publicly owned organisations)
  • Credit Europe Bank
  • Demir Halk Bank (commercial bank)
  • GarantiBank International NV
  • Kempen & Co (merchant bank)
  • Knab
  • Nederlandse Waterschapsbank (financing for (semi-)publicly owned organisations)
  • Netherlands Development Finance Company (development bank)
  • NIBC Bank (commercial bank)
  • Regiobank
  • Saxo Bank
  • Triodos Bank
  • Van Lanschot Kempen (private bank)
  • Yapi Kredi Bank Nederland N.V.

💰 Best banks to earn interest on savings in the Netherlands

Savings rates have increased recently in the Netherlands, making it possible to really earn money on your savings.

However, most traditional brick-and-mortar banks are offering far lower interest rates than other neo-banks or online banks.

Find out more about savings accounts in the Netherlands, or check out our top recommendation below.

Trade Republic — earn better interest on your hard-earned savings

Not only is it free to set up an account with Trade Republic, but they also offer some of the highest savings deposit rates in the entire EU, so you can actually get rewarded for your savings abilities. (Pssst! They also have no minimum fixed term.) 💪 💶

Sign up for Trade Republic

🌱 How to grow your money in the Netherlands

If you have some savings that you want to earn money on or just want to save more than you spend, there are a few ways to do it:

Disclaimer: Investing involves risk of loss.

🤔 What to consider when choosing a bank account in Holland

There are lots of things you should keep in mind when you’re opening up a bank account in the Netherlands.

Some of them are purely down to personal preference, but others are things every expat opening a bank account in the Netherlands should be aware of.

How ethical is the Dutch bank?

Something you might be wondering about is whether a bank makes ethical investments.

Obviously, “ethical” is a pretty subjective term, but there are some banks that do markedly better on this than others.

bunq, for example, is ethical in both its investments and its practices as a company.

Triodos is also pretty good in this regard: they publish the details of all the companies they invest in on their website, so you can check if their actions align with your ethics.

Do I need a credit card in the Netherlands?

Almost all Dutch banks will offer you a credit card so long as you meet several conditions.

READ MORE | The best credit cards for expats in the Netherlands

Most Dutch banks work with Mastercard over Visa, and you’ll also notice that many stores in the Netherlands prefer to take Mastercard over Visa.

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A Visa card being accepted in the Netherlands? A miracle. Image: Pexels

This all comes down to Dutch cheapness, really: Visa charges stores a higher fee than Mastercard.

Do I need to transfer money abroad from the Netherlands?

As an expat in the Netherlands, you’re likely to want to transfer money abroad at some point and also need to be able to receive it.

READ MORE | Money transfers in the Netherlands: the easy (and cheap!) guide

Some traditional banks will charge you quite a bit in fees when doing this. Many people choose to transfer money directly via money transfer providers like Xe or Wise, which offer very competitive rates.

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Dealing with countless fees can be such a hassle. Image: Magnific

Some Dutch banks have already paired up with one of these transfer providers and so will offer you low rates that way as well.

bunq, for example, works with Wise, and that means that you can save up to 3% on each transaction compared with a traditional bank.

How good is the mobile app?

If you like to know what’s going on in your financial life on a moment-to-moment basis, then choosing a bank with a good app is crucial.

Online banks like Revolut, bunq and N26 naturally do well in this category.

ING’s app is simple and easy to use, and does everything you’d need it to, but it doesn’t provide much in the way of analysis.

🧳 Why you need a Dutch bank account in the Netherlands

Your plan might be to use your overseas bank account while living in the Netherlands, but you will quickly change your mind.

The Netherlands is pretty high-tech, but it still requires Dutch bank accounts for many things. For example:

  • While credit card payments are becoming more popular, some Dutch stores (including major supermarkets) still only accept debit cards. Even Visa Debit and Debit Mastercard are not accepted!
  • Your Dutch employer typically wants a Dutch IBAN to pay your salary. Technically, you should be able to pay into any EU IBAN, but some employers make this very complicated.
  • You’ll need a Dutch IBAN for automatic direct debits, like for your gym, monthly public transport bills, and health insurance.

What has your experience of banking in the Netherlands been? Share it in the comments below!

❓ Frequently asked questions about banking in the Netherlands

How do I open a bank account in the Netherlands?

What do I need a bank account for in the Netherlands?

How can I set up a business bank account in Holland?

Does the Netherlands use internet banking?

What is an IBAN, and where can I find it?

What types of bank accounts are there in the Netherlands?

How do I pay for things with my phone in the Netherlands?

Are there any free banks in the Netherlands?


Disclaimer: Investing involves risks, and you can lose your investment. DutchReview is not a financial consultancy. The content shared on the website and on DutchReview’s social accounts does not contain any financially binding advice

The best apps for ordering food in the Netherlands: 2026 guide

Liana Risseeuw 🇱🇰
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5
The best apps for ordering food in the Netherlands: 2026 guide

The Netherlands has a bunch of food delivery apps that bring dinner, or the ingredients for it, straight to your doorstep.

Despite the generally high prices of food delivery or getting takeaway in the Netherlands, they’re a great relief on those days when you just can’t be bothered to cook.

(Or when you’re all out of groceries and a ferocious Dutch rainstorm is raging outside.)

Feeling peckish already? Let’s run through the best apps for ordering food in the Netherlands! 👇

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

🤳 Ordering food via an app

With Deliveroo exiting the Dutch market, the two main food delivery apps in the Netherlands are Thuisbezorgd and Uber Eats.

READ MORE | Online grocery shopping: a guide to Dutch grocery delivery services

Thuisbezorgd: average price, great for comfort food

What has a patriotically orange app and a wide range of moderately priced restaurants? That’s right, it’s Thuisbezorgd!

If you’re craving good, old-fashioned comfort food like burgers, pizza, or Chinese and Surinamese food, then you’ll probably enjoy the selection on this app.

If, however, you’re looking for trendier restaurants — like niche vegan places or fancy steak joints — then you may not have as much luck.

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Hungry for a late-night snack? Thuisbezorgd has loads of options. Image: Thuisbezorgd

Range of eateries aside, Thuisbezorgd has a handy feature that lets you track when your food is in the process of being made and when it’s been collected by the delivery driver.

With an estimate of how long the process will take, you can feel free to slip into the shower or pop on a Netflix show, knowing you won’t miss your order.

I also like the fact that if I order five times from specific restaurants, I can receive a certain percentage off my next meal from them. Depending on the price of your orders, this can range from €6 to €15 or higher.

Start ordering!

Uber Eats: pricier, but a wider range of restaurants

In contrast to Thuisbezorgd, Uber Eats often has slightly more expensive restaurants for you to choose from.

However, you get what you pay for, as Uber Eats partners with certain restaurants to be their ‘exclusive’ delivery partner.

What this means is that some restaurants will only deliver through Uber Eats, making the somewhat higher price a good deal if you want access to a far wider range of restaurants than its competitors.

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If you’re looking for trendier restaurants, Uber Eats will probably deliver. Image: Uber Eats

Uber Eats also has a fantastic tracking system that lets you watch your food hurry its way to you. (So you’ll probably not have to dash to the door in your undies if your order arrives a whole half hour before it’s supposed to! 😉)

However, one of my favourite parts about Uber Eats has to be how functional and easy to navigate its app is. It ‘learns’ your preferences and suggests new restaurants to you based on the selection you already enjoy.

Start ordering!

🛒 Ordering food via a meal delivery service

Let’s face it, many of us hop on food delivery apps like Thuisbezorgd or Uber Eats because we’re trying to avoid the hassle of grocery shopping and meal prepping.

If you’re not averse to hopping in the kitchen after work, but still want the “boring” aspects of cooking taken care of, you may fancy a meal delivery service.

HelloFresh: wide meal selection, fresh ingredients

While HelloFresh doesn’t exactly deliver a piping hot meal to your door, it does deliver a box of pre-portioned ingredients, along with a recipe card.

If, like many of us on the DR Team, you like the idea of home-cooked meals but hate the meal-planning and shopping aspect, then HelloFresh effectively takes that right off your plate.

You just select your recipes for the week, and the box turns up on a set day, with everything measured out for you. I also like the fact that HelloFresh has calorie-conscious options, too — as well as boxes for vegetarians and pescatarians.

While it’s pricier than doing your own grocery shopping or ordering your groceries online, we’ve certainly found it far cheaper than ordering takeaway regularly.

Start ordering!
family-eating-pasta-created-from-meal-delivery-service-netherlands
Prefer to do the cooking yourself? We get you. Image: Magnific

Marley Spoon: pricier, premium recipes

Like HelloFresh, Marley Spoon is a meal kit service; you get a package with fresh ingredients and a recipe card, and do the cooking yourself.

However, I find the recipes the real draw here. Unlike the usual Dutch AGV/Aardappelen, Groente en Vlees (potatoes, vegetables, and meat) selection, you get global flavours and some real exotic twists.

That said, the wider selection does come with a higher price tag than HelloFresh, and delivery isn’t free.

If you’re ordering for a family or with your flatmates, however, Marley Spoon does work out cheaper in the long run. Boxes cater to 2-6 people and come with a variety of options, like Protein+, Family-friendly, No added gluten, Vegan, and more.

Start ordering!

🛵 Opting for the restaurant’s own delivery service

Some restaurants in the Netherlands choose not to partner with a third-party delivery service like Uber Eats or Thuisbezorgd. This means that you’ll have to place your order through the restaurant’s website or just call them.

Whilst this may not sound super convenient, it may actually help you save money!

I’ve found that several delivery services will add a percentage to your order price for service costs (not delivery fees), which isn’t the case when ordering directly from a restaurant.

If you feel like taking a page from the Dutch’s book and saving like a pro, this is the way to go.

What’s your go-to choice for getting food delivered in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!

Moving to the Netherlands: all you need to know in 2026

Emily Burger
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3
Moving to the Netherlands: all you need to know in 2026

So you’re thinking of taking the leap and moving to the Netherlands? Congrats! Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a simple change of scenery, it could be your best decision yet.

The Netherlands is a great place to settle and build a life (assuming you don’t mind a little rain).

People here enjoy a high quality of life, well-maintained infrastructure, great quality of education, low crime levels and a healthy work-life balance. 

Of course, there’s a whole host of things to think about when moving to a new country — but I’ve been through it all, so let me run you through them.

Moving to the Netherlands? Kick-start your new life with ING, the trusted banking partner of the Dutch! 🦁

With a multilingual team, ING is a great choice for expats when it comes to banking, insurance, and mortgages. Even better: thanks to their handy mobile banking app, there’s a plethora of money-management tools right at your fingertips. Learn more.

Do I need to learn Dutch to live in the Netherlands?

When you move to a new country, you want to be sure that you’ll be able to communicate and get around, so let’s answer the most important question first: Do you need to learn Dutch to live in the Netherlands?

In short, it’s recommended to learn Dutch if you’re moving to the Netherlands — but even if you only speak English, you’ll still get by 100% fine.

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Good news: Coffee in Dutch is just ‘koffie’! Image: Magnific

The Dutch are famously good at speaking English, and most people in the cities can communicate easily. In the Randstad, there are heaps of jobs for English speakers, and Dutch universities offer a wide range of degrees taught entirely in English. 

While English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, having a basic understanding of Dutch can significantly ease your daily activities, like grocery shopping and using public transport. Plus, it opens up a much wider range of job opportunities.

Things to arrange before moving to the Netherlands

Got your heart set on the land of windmills and bikes? Let’s make sure your dream can come true. These are the things you should take care of before taking the leap.

Getting a residence permit

Unless you’re an EU, Swiss, or EEA citizen, you must be granted a residence permit to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days. 

This is most commonly issued based on a work, family, or student visa and can be applied for via the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

There are heaps of different permits available, and your personal situation will determine which one you may be eligible for. One of the following might apply to you:

Check out our complete guide to visas and residence permits in the Netherlands to learn more about all the available visas, treaties, and residence permits.

Let op! You will likely need to apply for the MVV visa to enter the Netherlands unless your nationality exempts you from this. Once you have arrived, you can make an appointment with the IND to collect your residence permit.

Deciding on a place to live

While the Netherlands may be a small country, each city has its unique vibe, from Eindhoven’s modern buzz to The Hague’s beachside charm. It’s up to you to find the one that best fits your lifestyle.

Wherever you may end up in the Netherlands, one thing is certain: You’ll need a Dutch bank account. That’s where ING comes in. With expat hubs, 200 branches, and service points across the country, you can count on ING’s experts to always be nearby.

Fancy an extra €100 in your savings? With ING’s latest welcome bonus, new customers are rewarded for saving at least €250 and making 5 payments within 8 weeks.

Open an ING account today

Living in the Randstad

Living outside of the Randstad

Finding housing

Once you decide where you want to live, the tricky part begins: Finding accommodation.

As you may know, this can be quite a challenge in the Netherlands, thanks to the ongoing housing crisis. The shortage of homes has bumped up housing prices quite a bit, so be prepared to open up those wallets a little wider when living here. 

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Looking for accommodation in the Netherlands can be frustrating, but don’t lose hope. Image: Magnific

The key to finding a place to live in the Netherlands is to start looking early and to look everywhere. The most popular websites to look for housing are Pararius.com and Funda.nl.

Tip: Not quite sure where in the Netherlands you want to live? Get temporary accommodation while you figure things out. You could, for example, stay with friends or family, or even a serviced apartment or short-stay rentals. 

The cost of renting a home in the Netherlands

The cost of buying a house in the Netherlands

Arranging relocation to the Netherlands

Once you’ve settled on the specifics, such as where to live and when to move, it’s time to arrange the actual move.

When organising your relocation to the Netherlands, there are several key aspects to address to ensure a smooth transition. These include:

✈️ Booking your flights
📦 Packing and moving your belongings
🐱 Arranging relocation for your pet (if applicable)
🔕 Cancelling services and subscriptions in your home country
👋 Say your goodbyes

Things to do as soon as you get to the Netherlands

The Dutch take bureaucracy very seriously, so once you arrive, there are some things you should get sorted as soon as possible. 

Registering at the local municipality

Once you arrive in the Netherlands (whether or not you are an EU national), you must register at the gemeente (municipality) where you will live.

READ MORE ︱ Registration in the Netherlands: the complete guide for 2026

You can do this online or in person, but keep in mind that it can sometimes take weeks to get an appointment.

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Head to your local “gemeente” to officially become a resident of the Netherlands! Image: DepositPhotos.com

Once you’ve done this, you’ll get your burgerservicenummer (BSN), a resident identity number with which you can open a bank account, apply for health insurance, and more.

Opening a Dutch bank account

Using credit cards or international cards in the Netherlands is not always possible, so you must open a Dutch bank account to avoid having your card declined.

The Netherlands has many great banks for you to choose from, from traditional ones like ING to neobanks like Revolut.

READ MORE | What documents do you need to open a Dutch bank account?

To set up an account with a Dutch bank, you can either make an appointment online or simply rock up to a bank with the following items:

  • Your BSN,
  • Proof of address (such as a rental contract),
  • A valid ID, 
  • Residence permit (if you’re not from the EU).

All set? Your bank of choice will send you your brand-new pinpas (bank card) to your home address within about a week. Happy banking!

Still trying to decide which bank to go for? We recommend ING! As one of the Netherlands’ most reputable banks, you can trust that you’re getting quality service and top-notch security.

Whether it’s credit cards, savings or joint accounts, ING has it all.

Taking out Dutch health insurance

Here’s a point you want to write down: it’s compulsory to have health insurance in the Netherlands if you are working. Yes, compulsory. 

A basic healthcare package will cost you around €130 to €150 a month.

Even better, if you earn less than €40,857 per year (or €51,142 with a partner), you can apply for zorgtoeslag (health insurance benefits) and pay as little as a few euros a month. Amazing!

Registering with a general practitioner

When your health insurance is set up, you should find a general practitioner (huisarts) to register with. 

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We recommend registering with a GP as soon as possible; you never know when you might need them. Image: Magnific

READ MORE ︱ The ultimate guide to going to a doctor in the Netherlands in 2026

Doctors in the Netherlands will only see registered patients in their practice, so it’s a good idea to get this out of the way while you’re fit and healthy.

Finding a school for your kids

If you have children, perhaps the biggest decision you’ll have to make is where to send them to school. You’ll have the choice between Dutch schools, bilingual English-Dutch schools, or international schools. 

If your child is older, enrolling them in an international school might best suit their needs. However, if your kiddies are still tiny, learning Dutch in a local primary school should be easy for them. 

Other factors to consider include how long you plan to stay in the Netherlands and your budget.

Good to know: In the Netherlands, children must attend school from age 5 to 16. Homeschooling is not allowed in the Netherlands.

Challenges after moving to the Netherlands (and how to overcome them)

Leaving behind your home country, family and friends to move to the lowlands comes with many challenges — especially emotional ones. Let’s talk about them. 

Dealing with culture shock

Culture shock when moving to the Netherlands is real, especially if you’re coming from a faraway place. 

You’ll notice Dutch habits such as perfect punctuality, Dutch directness, and love for rules in no time — and you might feel a certain type of way about them. 

But culture shock isn’t all bad; you’ll get used to your new environment eventually. In fact, many Dutch habits may initially shock you, but you will end up falling in love with them. Just trust the process.

Making friends in the Netherlands

​​The Dutch can be reserved, so building friendships might take time. Unlike in some cultures, greeting strangers with a hug and a BBQ invitation isn’t the norm here.

However, don’t be discouraged! The Dutch are sweet and friendly in their own way, but you have to break through their shell. 

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Friends make everything better. Image: Magnific

Join a sport or social club, have drinks with colleagues, and introduce yourself to neighbours. If you’re invited for dinner next month, it’s a sign you’ve made it into their schedule!

The Netherlands also has a vibrant international community. Facebook groups and international meetups can be great ways to connect with others going through similar transitions as you. 

How to handle the Dutch weather

Depending on where you come from, the onslaught of rain can shock your system when moving to the Netherlands. 

Not knowing what to wear can cause real stress, and the overwhelming grey can quite literally send you into periods of depression. 

But fear not! There is a whole string of tips and tricks for beating the woes of Dutch weather. 

Most importantly, remember that, with time, temperatures will rise again, and so will the tulips. Until then, snuggle up, have a cup of tea (and a stroopwafel!) and enjoy the downtime. 🙌 

Moving to the Netherlands can be scary, but these tips will help you make your move to the Netherlands as smooth as possible.

And while you’re going through it, don’t forget to smell the tulips and taste the pannenkoeken along the way. Enjoy the journey — it’ll be worth it. ✨ 

What tips and tricks would you suggest for moving to the Netherlands? Let us know in the comments below!

18 ways to actually make friends as an expat in the Netherlands in 2026

Christine Stein Hededam 🇩🇰
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3
18 ways to actually make friends as an expat in the Netherlands in 2026

Making friends in the Netherlands as an expat can be truly difficult. So, first of all, big kudos to you for trying. 🥰

Meeting new people can be hard at the best of times, and doing so in a country known for being blunt is even harder. 

I’ve spent years living in the Netherlands, both studying and working, and I’ve seen it all: from loneliness to finally making friends, and now, having a great group of pals.

That’s why I’m bringing you the best tried and tested ways to make friends in the Netherlands, including tactics used by us at DutchReview, and told to us by our readers!

Whether you’re hoping to make friends with Dutchies or other internationals, here are the top tips for finding friends in the Netherlands. 

1. Join a sports club ⛹️‍♀️

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There’s nothing like a bit of competition to bring people together! Image: Pixabay

There’s nothing that gets people together like team sports and a little sweat.

It might seem weird, but there’s just something about physical exercise that loosens people up and gets the conversation going. 

READ MORE | 6 outdoor sports to try this summer in the Netherlands

Additionally, if you join a club that’s focused on a specific sport, say rowing or salsa, you’re sure to at least have one common interest in that sport — a.k.a. ready-made conversation topics.

Plus, Dutchies tend to be pretty sporty, so it’s an excellent way to mingle with both internationals and locals. 💪

2. Use Meetup to make new connections 👋

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Your besties are waiting for you out there! Image: DepositPhotos.com

If you have a specific interest that you’d like to continue in the Netherlands (or if you want to discover something new!), you can find a group to do it with on a site like Meetup, which advertises events and spaces for like-minded people.

Plus, some Meetup groups are also just for hanging out with new people and making friends — no hobby needed!

There are already hundreds of Meetup groups in the Netherlands, so you’re almost sure to find something in your area. Alternatively, you can create your own group and let people come to you!

3. Find events near you on Facebook 📆

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Turns out Facebook can still be useful every now and then! Image: DepositPhotos.com

While many of us may not use Facebook as our main social media (or be huge fans of good old Zuck knowing which events we go to), it’s a handy platform for meeting new people and making friends when arriving in a new city.

READ MORE | These are some of the best Facebook Groups for internationals in major Dutch cities

Many social events, from poetry and spoken word hangouts to openings of trendy new clubs, will be shared on Facebook so you can get an easy glance at what’s happening in your area. 

4. Take the initiative and create your own club! 📰

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You don’t need a crowd to have fun doing something you love. Image: Magnific

If you aren’t a fan of big events or just want to get to know a few people with similar interests as you, why not make your own club? Sure, it may sound a little middle-school-project-ish, but people admire it when someone takes the initiative!

Creating your own club is a great way to put yourself out there and show people what you like doing. 

Having something to do together, whether it’s knitting, hiking, or attempting to make fancy cocktails, makes the conversation flow much easier than if you just invite people over for coffee. (Especially with the latter option 🍸).

💡 Some ideas: Invite your neighbours to cooking evenings and alternate whose place you dine at, start a book club, a board-game group, or organise themed drinks evenings. The possibilities are endless!

5. Take hobby classes 🎭

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Making friends and learning a skill — what’s not to like? Image: Magnific

Are you the type of person who would’ve dragged your best friend to a flower-binding workshop or barista course back home?

While we know it’s not the same without having someone to giggle with over your lacking latté art skills, there’s no reason why you can’t go to hobby classes alone!

READ MORE | The best extra-curricular groups for expats in Amsterdam 

In fact, it’s an experience that’ll likely boost your sense of independence and confidence. Plus, it’s a great place to meet new people who may not be in the same social circles as you. 

6. Join a group for internationals in your area 🙌

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Share all your travel stories with others who know what it’s like to move around. Image: DepositPhotos.com

One of the great things about being an international in the Netherlands is that there are plenty of others in the same boat as you, especially if you live in the Randstad region!

Every year, people move to the Netherlands for their studies or work and — luckily for you — they all need to make friends. 

With so many people in the same boat, that means there are tons of groups and networks for internationals scattered across the country. Some groups are general and welcome all, and some are for a specific nationality.

7. Take Dutch classes 📣

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Hey, learning het Nederlands can bag you some really great friends. 💁🏻‍♀️ Image: DepositPhotos.com

A great way to kill two birds with one stone is to take Dutch classes. You’ll meet other internationals who are either new to the country or have decided to integrate further, plus, you’ll learn the Dutch language. Leuk! 🎉

READ MORE | Dutch Language Schools for internationals

Taking Dutch classes is a great way to make friends because you and the other students are all struggling through the five stages of learning Dutch together.

Seriously, nothing can be as bonding as seeing each other try, fail, giggle, grow, and finally master the guttural Dutch ‘g’-sound!

8. Get to know your colleagues 👩‍💼

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The easiest way to make friends at work? Borrel! Image: DepositPhotos.com

Before venturing out of your immediate social circle, why not draw on the network you already have? We asked DutchReviewers on our Instagram, and many said their first friends in the Netherlands came from work! 

This will be easier if you work in one of the many companies in the Netherlands that hire internationals, but you can also make friends with Dutchies — even if you don’t speak Dutch at work.

To break the ice, you could always try to pull off a few Dutch workplace idioms! 🙊

9. Plan ahead (and buy an agenda) 🗓

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Take a leaf out of Dutchies’ books and buy an agenda! Image: Magnific

After you’ve made the initial introductions, whether at the office or out and about, you’ll need to find a time to meet and hang out.

That’s where the Dutch agenda comes in. Since Dutchies are notorious for having plans lined up months ahead, you shouldn’t count on arranging a last-minute gathering. 

So, even if it feels unnatural to you, make sure you find a date well in advance (even if it’s just going for a cup of coffee!).

Planning a coffee date or a movie night weeks in advance is actually very typical in the Netherlands. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to the planning mania pretty fast. 

10. Be direct 👉

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Unleash your inner Dutchie and be direct! Image: DepositPhotos.com

Hand in hand with the last tip, and especially if you’re trying to get to know some Dutch folks, be direct. Cut the fluff and just tell your potential friend you’d like to know them better — after all, everyone likes compliments. 

And, if you struggle with the Dutch directness, just ask yourself whether you’d rather have friends who are honest and to the point, or who sugarcoat. If you’d vote for the former, you’ll love having Dutchies as friends.

11. Ask for an introduction 🤝

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Let some Dutch directness rub off on you and go make some new friends! Image: DepositPhotos.com

Rolling with the Dutch directness, don’t be scared to ask people for introductions!

If you keep hearing about this one person who just sounds like your friend-made-in-heaven, ask people who know them if they can work some magic. 🙋‍♀️

Simply say that you’d love to meet the person they’re talking about and tell them why you think you have something in common.

The mutual connection will likely let you know if they think it’s a terrible idea, and, if not, you might have yourself a new friend!

12. Use Bumble BFF 📱

photo-of-two-female-friends-hanging-out-drinking-coffee-at-dutch-terrace
Seriously, finding friends in the Netherlands has never been easier. Image: DepositPhotos.com

A tip from our readers is to use Bumble BFF. Perhaps you know Bumble as the dating app that lets women make the first move — but they also have a version for making new friends in your area. 😍

Similar to the dating version of the app, you complete your profile by uploading pictures, interests, and indicating what you’re looking for (e.g. a travel buddy, workout partner, fellow coffee addict, or crazy cat lady — the possibilities are endless!).

Then, it’s ready, set, swipe, and soon you’ll hopefully have met new people with similar interests as you in the Netherlands! 

13. Head along to a borrel 🍻

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Say a big cheers to making new friends! Image: DepositPhotos.com

Borrelen is typically described as the Dutch art of going for a drink with co-workers, but you can also borrel with friends or any social gathering.  

It’s the Dutch way of winding down after a long day, eating some deep-fried snacks (which, honestly, are pretty delicious), and bonding over a few beers or glasses of wine. 

And while you can’t always join a random borrel, you should certainly accept when invited by your colleagues or Dutch acquaintances! 

14. Join a study association 📚

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You’ll make friends AND ace your courses! Image: DepositPhotos.com

Although studying in the Netherlands means that you’ll have a network of peers, you don’t necessarily have to click with the person sitting next to you in the lecture hall.

So, if you’re new to the Netherlands as an international student, we’d highly recommend joining a study association.

Study associations in the Netherlands are connected to your degree and organise academic and social events. Essentially, they’re a great way to hang out with the people you’ve seen every week but may not have talked to yet. 

15. Become a member of a student association 🍺

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While it’s part of it, student associations aren’t only about drinking. Image: DepositPhotos.com

Not to be confused with study associations, student associations are a big deal in Dutch culture.

They encompass everything from the big sororities and fraternities you see on American TV (though it’s not quite the same) to just very active clubs of all sorts.

They can be a bit of a culture shock at first, but are also potentially a great way to integrate and get the authentic Dutch student experience. 

READ MORE | Dutch sororities and fraternities: yep, they exist (and are ‘echt’ bizarre)

Though many student associations in the Netherlands only accept Dutch-speaking members, some do welcome internationals. 🎉 If you join, you’ll get to dress up fancy, drink lots of beer, and join sub-committees that spark your interest. 

Usually, they have open-door parties or events at the start of the academic year, so you can always drop in and see if it’s something for you.  

16. Join Girl Gone International (GGI) 👩🏼‍💻

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It’s girl power, ladies! 🙌 Image: Unsplash

This one is for the ladies out there. Girl Gone International is a global community for women who travel and work abroad.

Along with a solid online presence, GGI has local communities worldwide for you to meet up with like-minded women. Their motto is “Friends make our world go around!”

As corny as that sounds, they are a forward-thinking, inclusive, and passionate community.

There are chapters in every major Dutch city, and if yours isn’t on the list, you can volunteer with GGI to open a new community in your area. 👐

17. Find a volunteer opportunity 🦮

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Volunteering with some cute, furry friends is a real mood-booster! Image: DepositPhotos.com

Just like you can volunteer with GGI, there are tons of other organisations that’d love for you to help them out. 

Since people aren’t in it for the cash, volunteering in the Netherlands is a reliable way to make friends because you get to work with people who are passionate about the same thing as you. 

Additionally, a volunteer position is usually more chill than a regular job, giving you more time to chat with your colleagues and — since you’re all there for a reason — you won’t have to search long for something to talk about!

In our experience, people who volunteer also tend to be kind-hearted and easy to talk to.

Plus, the Netherlands is home to stacks of international organisations and local initiatives that look for volunteers, so you can take your pick. 🏃‍♀️ 

18. Use online communities like Discord or Reddit 🕸

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Joining an active Discord group is a fabulous way of making new friends. Image: Magnific

Lastly, for the introverts out there, there is quite a strong presence of people living in the Netherlands on platforms such as Discord and Reddit.

Online communities are a perfect way to make new friends on days when you don’t feel like changing out of your PJs or if you want to lay the groundwork for your Dutch life before moving to the Netherlands.

The benefit of online communities is that you aren’t reliant on connecting with someone living in your area. Perhaps you’ll become friends with people in different places and can even organise a physical hangout one day — road trip, whoo! 🎒 

The ability to join a subreddit or Discord also means that you can find people who share similar, and perhaps niche, interests. 🧙‍♂️

So, there you have it! 18 ways to actually make friends as an international in the Netherlands that’ll make your stay (whether temporary or indefinite) so much more fun.

What are your best tips for making friends in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!

The Netherlands is in for a warm, sunny weekend with highs near 30 degrees

Liana Risseeuw 🇱🇰
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0
The Netherlands is in for a warm, sunny weekend with highs near 30 degrees

The Netherlands is racing towards a warm, late-summer weekend, with Sunday and Monday promising plenty of sunshine and summery temperatures.

If you’ve been mourning the end of Dutch summer, you may want to hold on to your swimming trunks, because the weather has one last hurrah up its sleeve.

A high-pressure system is drifting our way from the west, reports Buienradar, bringing clearer skies and warmer temperatures. However, before you make any outdoor plans, we have to weather a blustery Friday.

When does the warm weather arrive?

Temperatures will start trending upwards this Saturday (September 5), when the high-pressure area hits the Netherlands.

Expect alternating bouts of clear sunshine and clouds, and a few isolated showers in the north. By afternoon, it’ll be dry in most places, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 22 degrees Celsius.

Come Sunday, warm air blowing from the south to southeast will turn the Netherlands summery, with temperatures around 27 to 28 degrees.

Monday will offer much of the same, with temperatures close to 30 degrees possible in the south. While the day will offer plenty of sunshine, Buienradar warns that nighttime may bring a few local showers.

@dutchreview

There go my small talk abilities 😅 #dutchreview #dutch #dutchweather #summer #netherlands

♬ original sound – DutchReview

Enjoy it while it lasts

Helaas, good things don’t last. From Tuesday, a new low-pressure area will move southwards across the North Sea, turning the weather cooler and more changeable.

By Wednesday, Buienradar notes that temperatures will “struggle to reach the 20-degree mark”, putting the final nail in the coffin to any plans for tapas on a terrasje.

Want to make sure DutchReview pops up on your news feed more often? Just add us as a preferred news provider, and we’ll handle the rest.

MoverMate: one student’s solution to the Netherlands’ moving madness

Ida Allen-Auerbach
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0
MoverMate: one student’s solution to the Netherlands’ moving madness

After you’ve fought your way through the Dutch housing market and somehow sweet-talked a viewing out of a landlord with 200 other applicants, the last thing you need is to spend €500 getting your stuff from one apartment to another.

Yet that’s exactly where most people end up — paying a fortune, or begging every friend they have for help and owing them all dinner forever.

Moving as an expat is wildly overcomplicated for no reason

If you’re an expat or recent arrival, the traditional moving company model just doesn’t make sense for you. 

You’re not moving a four-bedroom house full of heirlooms. You’ve got a mattress, a few boxes, and a lamp that probably won’t survive anyway. Yet most moving companies charge as if everyone’s relocating an entire household!

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When you only have a carload of stuff, big moving companies don’t make sense! Image: Mihai Tulbure

That means €350 to €800-plus for full-service moves with large crews and a price tag that assumes you’ve got a proper Dutch salary to match.

This is the awkward moving gap so many students and expats fall into: too much stuff to carry yourself, not enough to justify a full moving company. 

That’s why founder Mihai Tulbure created MoverMate, a moving service built specifically for this middle ground.

MoverMate was born out of personal experience

MoverMate has humble beginnings. Unlike many big moving companies, it didn’t start in a boardroom. It began with a smart student at the University of Twente who owned a van. 

After a few dozen rounds of helping friends stuck in that same transport gap move between rooms and apartments, he thought: Why isn’t there a proper service for this?

That insight grew into a reliable van-and-driver operation built for student and city life. And now, you can use it too!

What you actually get — and what you save

MoverMate keeps it simple: a van, a professional driver, and an hourly rate of €49. Fuel is calculated separately, but most local moves come in between €110 and €140 total.

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Keep it simple (and affordable) with MoverMate! Image: Mihai Tulbure

Compare that to traditional movers charging €80 to €120 per hour with a minimum of three or four hours, and you’re looking at savings of up to a whopping 40%. 

The service covers 24+ cities across the Netherlands — Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, Eindhoven, Leiden, Delft, and more — with intercity moves typically wrapping up within half a day.

A few things to keep in mind:

  • MoverMate is transport-focused. The driver loads and unloads; packing and disassembly are on you. For most studio moves, that’s a non-issue.
  • Preparation saves you money. The clock starts when the driver arrives — boxes by the door mean fast loading, which means a lower bill.
  • There’s same-day availability. Last-minute move? MoverMate often has slots the same day or next.
  • The process is entirely English-friendly. Booking, communication, and the move itself — no Dutch-language websites required.

For students, expats, and anyone who’s done the maths on a studio move and quietly wept, MoverMate is the option that should have existed all along.

Just message +31648852148 with your pickup address, destination, date, and a brief description of what needs to be moved. You can also book via the MoverMate contact page.

Have you ever paid way too much to move to the Netherlands? Tell us your moving horror stories in the comments.

How to use your bike like a real Dutchie: from trampling pedestrians to running red lights

James Bogué
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5
How to use your bike like a real Dutchie: from trampling pedestrians to running red lights

The bike industry is booming. In the Netherlands, life without a bicycle is already unthinkable.

However, owning a bicycle is just the beginning. The Dutch definitely have an unwritten code when it comes to cycling.

So the real question is this: are you doing it correctly? Are you cycling like a true Nederlander?

If not, here are some easy tips to get you pedalling like a native in no time.

Cruise like a Dutch e-bike user

The main misconception with e-bikes is that although the regular version assists you up to 25 km/h (speed pedelecs up to 45 km/h), it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be going faster.

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Like a true Dutchie, once you hit old age, it’s e-bikes all the way. Image: DepositPhotos.com

In reality, cycling like a Dutchie means you’ll find it is best practice to go unbearably slow to the point where it’s almost harder to keep your balance.

READ MORE | 7 things you need to know when buying a refurbished e-bike

Here are some additional points to keep in mind:

  • Take up the whole cycling path (especially in pairs).
  • Buy a mirror that is attached to your handlebars and that you have no intention of ever using. 
  • Under no circumstances check behind you, signal, or give other people the right of way — or better yet, don’t even look ahead of you, look to the side and point at a bird or something.
  • Have the turning circle of a lorry.

For extra style points: Perform the Gazelle mount. This is where an e-bike owner uses the pedal to hoist themselves up onto the seat as if they were climbing up onto an unruly stallion.

One foot is placed on the pedal while the other pushes off the ground, causing the bike to begin its unsteady, juggernaut-esque forward motion.

Remember, don’t look behind you before attempting this, and preferably swerve dangerously in the direction of other cycling path users.

The trick is to let others know that you have no control over your heavy bike.

Remember: weight limits are subjective

If you take a closer look at your bagagedrager (pannier rack), many recommend a weight limit of just 25 kilograms.

Similarly, many wheels actually have weight limits of around 125 kilograms.

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Who cares about weight limits? Certainly not Dutchies transporting couches on their fietsen. Image: DepositPhotos.com

But don’t worry, these are obviously subjective. The natives carry their friends on the back all the time, and they are fine, which is all the evidence that you will ever need.

READ MORE | 22 TikToks explaining why Dutch biking culture is wheely ahead of its time

For extra style points: Parents with young children have a wonderful opportunity to really embrace Dutch life.

You can get yourself a front rack with a basket, a front baby seat attached just under the handlebars (with an additional windscreen to protect your baby and impair your vision), another child seat on the pannier rack, and perhaps a big bag or two for your shopping.

The trick is to make it as heavy and unsafe as possible! 😉

First rule of bike maintenance: don’t bother

Your bicycle probably didn’t cost much to begin with, so that voids pretty much all the necessity for bike maintenance.

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Unlike these guys here, the Dutch tend to be anti-bike-repair. Image: DepositPhotos.com

Is your chain so rusty and loose that it impairs performance and could snap at any moment? Are the tyres so soft that you have a higher risk of punctures?

Listen, if you can still get from A to B, then that’s all that matters. Don’t complicate your life.

For extra style points: If you’re aware that your wheels are not wonky and are feeling somewhat self-conscious about it, then don’t worry.

Next time you have your bike parked in a stand, give your wheel(s) a good kick. Combine it with a wonky, loose mudguard for additional authenticity.

Traffic light blindness is a thing

It goes without saying that if the traffic light is red, you need to stop.

However, don’t be surprised to see natives suffering from temporary colour blindness and mistaking all colours for green.

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The Dutch believe in bike supremacy, and that means they never stop at a red light. Image: DepositPhotos.com

Years of interpreting traffic laws to suit their own personal situation have left the Dutch very capable of not getting hit by an oncoming car whilst breaking the law.

READ MORE | Dos and don’ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands

But this is a cultural trend we recommend you simply observe and absolutely do not copy.

For extra style points: To most people, traffic lights have three colours — green, orange, and red. But did you know that many Nederlanders can only see three shades of green?

Green-green means go, orange-green means go but hurry up, red-green means go but be wary that cars will probably be coming your way (and be very angry).

Parking your bike

This one is easy.

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Parking your bike in the Netherlands can be an impossible task. For most Dutch people, they simply don’t bother. Image: DepositPhotos.com

Unless the pesky gemeente starts intervening and takes your bike away, you have more or less free rein to park your two-wheeled amigo wherever you find necessary and convenient to you.

READ MORE | Take it from a former thief: this is how you can prevent your bike from being stolen

Chances are, it will probably get stolen anyway.

For extra style points: Park your bike in front of a window with a sign asking you NOT to park any bikes there.

It’s important to let people know that you are in charge of your own decisions and won’t be told what to do.

If you follow all these cycling tips, you’ll be looking like a pro in no time!

What’s your top tip to cycle like a native Dutchie? Tell us in the comments below!

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