Another shocking event has taken place in Dam Square as a car, with its driver inside, caught fire. The police suspect intent.
The driver is injured, and medical assistance was provided.
A public ordeal
A car caught fire next to the Dam Square National Monument in Amsterdam. The driver was seen exiting, still in flames.
The fire started after an explosion in the car, a considerable number of people were watching nearby.
“My eyes happened to be focused on Dam Square and then I saw that little car that was almost against the monument. A few seconds later I heard a bang. It was quickly clear that it was intentional,” one witness told the NOS.
The police and the fire department arrived quickly to put out the fire.
The footage included in this article might be distressing to some viewers.
VIDEO: Man steekt voertuig (rode auto), en daarmee zichzelf, in brand op De Dam in Amsterdam. Beelden kunnen als schokkend worden ervaren. pic.twitter.com/yuPCOiSBhd
The Dutch skies are slaying today, and weโre living for it. After what felt like a never-ending greyscale saga, spring has finally strutted into the Netherlands with full main character energy.
In other words, the weather is about to be glorious. Hereโs why you should enjoy every second. ๐
Today itโs almost flip-flop weather
It may be a Thursday, but itโs time to get that holiday feeling. Weeronline forecasts temperatures between 18 and 22ยฐC across most of the country today.
After a chilly start (3ยฐC up north, 10ยฐC elsewhere), the sun will quickly warm us up, reachingย 14 to 16ยฐC by late morning, with Limburg basking in a toasty 22ยฐC this afternoon.ย
Yep, the lucky ones are down south! ๐ However, aside from the most northerly regions (which will sit between 14 and 17ยฐC), the rest of us will still enjoy temperatures between 20 and 21ยฐC.ย ย
Skies will stay mostly clear, with some clouds in the southeast. There will also be light to moderate easterly winds. These will be stronger near the coast and IJsselmeer โ so maybe watch out for flying menus.
Tonight will remain calm and clear, but temperatures will dip to 3ยฐC in the east and 5 to 10ยฐC elsewhere. Perhaps bring a comfy jacket if you plan to stay on the terrace for the evening. ๐
Friday will offer one more day of glory
Friday brings more of the same: sunshine, light breezes, and highs between 19 and 22ยฐC.
However, if you plan on spending Friday evening on the terrace, just know that the weather will start to drop again.
Northern areas may cool down by the evening, with a chance of low clouds and sea mist. Meanwhile, the south stays slightly more terrace-worthy with a balmy 15ยฐC forecast by sunset.
Nighttime temperatures will dip to between 3 and 6ยฐC inland, and around 7ยฐC along the coast. Yep, hoodie weather will re-enter the chat.ย
And the weekend? Classic Dutch spring
This is the Netherlands weโre talking about, so we know it canโt last forever.ย
Saturday will cool off slightly with 11 to 14ยฐC forecast in the north and 15 to 19ยฐC in the south. It will still be sunny, just less “heatwave,” and more “mild spring glow.” ๐
Sunday? It will be cooler again with highs of around 10ยฐC up north, and 12 to 15ยฐC elsewhere. It will be dry and bright, with a fresh breeze from the east-northeast.ย
Whatโs your plan for the sun? Share your plans and let us know where youโll chase the rays in the comments below! ๐ญ
Everyone, from wildlife watchers to cultural connoisseurs, is in luck when it comes to things to do in the Veluwe.
Spending just one day in the spectacular Veluwe is a special opportunity to go from spotting rare animals one moment to admiring rare artwork the next.
Thereโs plenty to do, and weโve got just the guide to fill your Veluwe diary. ๐
1. Discover the stunning Hoge Veluwe National Park
Thereโs a reason Dutchies voted the Veluwe region one of the finest areas of scenic beauty in the country โ actually, there are MANY reasons.
From rich forests to sand dunes, the spectacular landscape offers all the natural beauty (and photo opportunities) you want to see while hiking or biking.
Make the most of the sights by foot with plenty of walking routes, including the oh-so-Dutch Klompenpaden or โclog pathsโ that allow you to pass through privately owned estates and farms.
So grab those hiking boots and get planning a wonderful walk โ it will be one of the best things you can do in the Veluwe (but definitely book your entry ticket before arriving).
Tip: The National Park is big โ and we mean BIG โ so make sure you leave enough time to take it all in and get back to your car before the park shuts at sunset!
๐ฐ Price: โฌ13.40 adult day pass, โฌ6.70 for children aged 6-13 โฐ Opening hours:Varies throughout the year ๐ Location: Houtkampweg 9 6731 AV Otterlo
2. Spot the rare Dutch wildlife
De Hoge Veluwe National Park is Northwest Europe’s largest lowland natural terrain, so there are plenty of furry and feathered friends.
Along with everything to do in the Veluwe, thereโs also an impressive array of wildlife to appreciate, from larger wolf packs to smaller birds and reptiles (keep an eye out for snakes). ๐
You have an even better chance of spotting the deer with antlers like that! Image: Depositphotos
Itโs a wildlife-watching haven, and if youโre lucky enough, you could spot the Dutchโs very own โBig Fiveโ roaming the fields: red deer, wild boars, roe deers, badgers, and foxes.
Whether you bring your binoculars (and a fair bit of patience) or book a tour with a forest ranger to help you out, there are plenty of chances to spot the special creatures.
๐ฐ Price: โฌ13.40 adult day pass, โฌ6.70 for children aged 6-13 (part of park entry) โฐ Opening hours:Varies throughout the year ๐ Location: Houtkampweg 13, 6731 AW Otterlo
3. Surf Europeโs largest sand drifts
One of the best things about the Veluwe landscape is the variety. Few places can offer thick forests and rolling sand dunes in one place.
Among the sights and things to do in the Veluwe, thereโs history too: from the top of the sand drifts, you will spot the Radio Kootwijk, a former transmitter park connecting the Netherlands and its then colonies over 100 years ago.
Catching the sunset over the sand drifts is a special experience and perfect photo opportunity. ๐ธ Image: Depositphotos
And we know what youโre thinking โ normally, the idea of a hill in the Netherlands amounts to a city bridge with minimal incline.
But these sand drifts are something different, and sometimes itโs nice to mix it up from the flat olโ Dutch roads we know so well.
๐ฐ Price: โฌ13.40 adult day pass, โฌ6.70 for children aged 6-13 (part of park entry) โฐ Opening hours:Varies throughout the year ๐ Location: Houtkampweg 9 6731 AV Otterlo
4. Peruse the picturesque Palais Het Loo gardens
Royal homes donโt get much grander than the impressive 17th-century Palais Het Loo, home to gorgeous gardens that rank among the most beautiful in Europe.
In the famous grounds of the original House of Orange, you will tread the same pretty paths as royals before you โ including the likes of Stadholder William III and Queen Wilhelmina. Itโs got to be one of the grandest things to do in the Veluwe!
Itโs not just about gawking at the sights; there are plenty of dynamic activities and exhibitions on offer all year round, like delicious high tea in the ballroom or learning more about the true Dutch royals from the Oranje family gallery.
Tip: Tickets to explore the palace are free for children aged 4-17 in June, or free all year round for Museumkaart holders! ๐ธ
๐ฐ Price: โฌ21 for adults, โฌ9.50 for children aged 4-17 โฐ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM ๐ Location: Koninklijk Park 16, 7315 JA Apeldoorn
5. Visit the historic Hanseatic towns
Did you know there are 22 Hanzesteden (Hanseatic cities) in the Netherlands? Three of the most charming are near the Veluwe.
The traditional towns of Elburg, Harderwijk, and Hattem are part of the medieval Hanseatic League, which brought merchants and market towns together across Europe.
That means theyโve been around since Amsterdam was just a village! ๐คฏ
This quaint history surrounds you when you visit: from old school fishing boats to educational museums to authentic delicatessens. You can easily spend a day soaking it all up.
Tip: The stunning Veluwerandmeer lake is just a stoneโs throw from Harderwijkโs town centre, so make sure to stop off at the โbeachโ there or even take a boat trip!
๐ฐ Price: Free โฐ Opening hours: All day, every day, for wandering around ๐ Location: Harderwijk, Elburg, Hattem
6. Admire the Krรถller-Mรผller art collection
Nestled in the beautiful landscape of the National Park is the Krรถller-Mรผller Museum, which gets its name from a couple who once owned the area.
This is certainly one visit you can tick off during a day in the National Park, so you get two of the best things to do in the Netherlands for the price of one!
The museum is home to an impressive array of art, including the world’s second-largest collection of Van Goghโs works. ๐จ
But itโs not just about observing stunning Dutch classics in this creative gallery; there are many interactive features, like the Sculpture Garden, to immerse yourself in completely.
๐ฐ Price: โฌ13.50 for adults aged 19 and up, โฌ6.75 for children aged 13-18, free for children under 13 and Museumkaart holders โฐ Opening hours: 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday ๐ Location: Krรถller-Mรผller Museum, Houtkampweg 6, 6731 AW Otterlo
7. Holiday with the rabbits at Landal
The Veluwe has plenty of friendly campsites for fun holidays in the great outdoors, and nowhere does small, intimate farm stays quite like this area.
For the happiest โ or should we say, hoppiest โ of holidays, check out Landal Rabbit Hill, where youโll be surrounded by bouncing bunnies and squirrels jumping between the trees.
If youโre looking for things to do with the family in the Veluwe, then head to this spacious holiday park (complete with indoor AND outdoor pools).
Located in the centre of the Veluwe, itโs perfect for cycling to nearby Apeldoorn!
๐ฐ Price: Depends on number of people and time of year, approx. โฌ450 for five days โฐ Opening hours: Varies ๐ Location: Grevenhout 21, 3888 NR Uddel
8. Relax by the water at Zandenplas
Towering trees and crystal-clear water? Sounds tropical, but let us introduce you to the hidden gem of the Veluwe. ๐
The Zandenplas Recreation area in Nunspeet is the perfect place for a relaxing day with the family at the waterโs edge, with one eye on your kids playing in the lakeside playpark.
Beautiful all-year round, even covered in ice! Image: Dreamstime
For most of these things to do in the Veluwe, you donโt have to think about bringing lunch โ and the pavilion at Zandenplas is no different. Though we have to say itโs an ideal spot for a picnic if you fancy it!
Lots of parking is available at the lake, so it is not only a gezellig day out but also a convenient one!
Tip:ย If youโre a sports enthusiast or just like exercising in stunning locations, Zandenplas offers lots of fun runs and water sports you can take part in.
๐ฐ Price: Free except for parking โฐ Opening hours: All day, every day ๐ Location: Zandenplas, 8072 Nunspeet
9. Cycle in the #1 cycling province
When you think of things to do in the Veluwe, you might think of bikes. Perusing by pedal power is best in the five-star biking province of Gelderland, which has 5,000 kilometres of cycle paths.
Check out some of the great routes on offer, from the adventurous to the more relaxed. We recommend winding through the mills, estates, and farmland of the pretty Achterhoek and Berkelland.
Grab an iconic White Bike and explore the Veluwe! Image: Depositphotos
Of course, De Hoge Veluwe also has brilliant biking options (if you havenโt got the idea by now, this national park has everything).
Whether you bring your own or grab one of the iconic White Bikes that are free for visitors, cycling around the Veluwe is an easy way to see more of the parkโs stunning sights.
Did you know? The White Bikes were first dreamt up in Amsterdam in the โ60s, with the idea of leaving 2000 bikes around the city for anyone to use. De Hoge Veluwe and the ANWB later adopted the initiative for the park, which now has 1800 White Bikes to offer. ๐ก
๐ฐ Price: White bikes are free; just pay for the park entrance โฐ Opening hours: Depends on your route ๐ Location:Houtkampweg 9C, 6731 AV Otterlo
10. Make a splash while kitesurfingโฆ
Thanks to its shallow water and sheltered location, Strand Horst in Ermelo is one of the best places in the Netherlands for water sports like kitesurfing.
The windy Dutch weather makes for a perfect surf! Image: Dreamstime
The ideal location makes surfing easy and breezy (emphasis on the breezy ๐ฌ), and itโs also super convenient to reach by car.
Whether youโre a beginner or a natural-born fish in the water, there are lessons for everyone available from expert windsurf, kitesurf, SUP and surf instructors.
๐ฐ Price: Depends on age and activity, but between โฌ50 to โฌ100 โฐ Opening hours: Varies with the season, but 10 AM to 6 PM most days ๐ Location: Varies, one example is Telstar Surfschool, Palmbosweg 32-36, 3853 LB Ermelo
11. โฆAnd get splashed at the Dolfinarium ๐ฌ
Whatโs big, blue, and full of marine mammals? Well, the ocean, but also the Dolfinarium park in Harderwijk!
Dolfinarium is the largest marine mammal park in Europe, where you can have fin-tastic encounters with dolphins, sharks, sea lions, walruses and rays. ๐ฆ
Your visit includes a special splash of education, with shows and attractions that dive deep into the sea creatures’ lives so you can learn more about the threats they face in the wild.
We told you finding things to do in the Netherlands is easy for keen wildlife-watchers โ now you can add dolphins to the list!
Tip: the Dolfinarium offers discounts of as much as โฌ7.50 if you buy your ticket online and select a specific date, so make sure you prepare in advance!
๐ฐ Price: โฌ21.50 per person (online with a selected date) โฐ Opening hours: 10 AM to 5 PM daily, April to October (then times vary) ๐ Location:Strandboulevard 22, 3841 WB Harderwijk
12. Feeling civilised? Enjoy wine among the vines
Almost everything mentioned so far keeps the whole family in mind when considering things to do in the Veluwe. But sometimes itโs nice to plan activities that DONโT involve children (we get it).
Domein Hof te Dieren is one vineyard that offers a perfect opportunity for adults to enjoy a peaceful, sophisticated afternoon tasting wine and eating delicious food. Sounds heavenly!
You can book a tour around the impressive grounds with the vineyardโs owners, who will tell you all about the grapes youโre tasting and how to sip them *properly*. ๐ท
The guided tour lasts around two hours and includes tasty treats to soak up the wine along the way, so itโs more than a vine โ sorry, fine โ deal!
Tip: Domein Hof te Dieren sells specialty Dierens Drupje or Dutch Grappa, distilled from organic white or blue grapes. Careful, it tickles the tonsils with no less than 40% alcohol!
๐ฐ Price: โฌ16.55 per person for the guided tour โฐ Opening hours: Saturday 12 to 5 PM, Sunday 1 to 5 PM, April to November ๐ Location:Arnhemsestraatweg 16, 6953 AX Dieren
13. Take a trip down memory train ๐
Itโs not just those quaint Hanseatic towns holding onto the Veluwe areaโs traditional roots; thereโs even transport that has been running for over a century!
Hopping on the Veluwsche Stoomtrein is like entering a different era; itโs a special chance to travel between Apeldoorn and Dieren and discover more about the historic Koningslign in the station museum.
Glide past the forests and meadows of the Veluwe with the traditional steam whistle ringing in your ears, and even enjoy pancakes at the same time (other food options are available, of course). ๐คฉ
๐ฐ Price: โฌ17.50 return for adults, โฌ8.50 return for children aged 4 to 11 (online prices) โฐ Opening hours: Timetable varies ๐ Location:Dorpstraat 140, 7361 AZ Beekbergen
14. Enjoy family fun at Julianatoren
Nestled near Apeldoorn, the theme park Julianatoren offers fairytale fun, combining fantasy with modern attractions.
From exciting rides to live shows with the friendly characters of Jul and Julia Mouse themselves, Julianatoren captures the spirit of childhood to create charming memories.
Julianatoren doesnโt just cater to the childlike wonder of your youngest but also guarantees daredevil thrills like the new spin-tastic Texas Twister ride.
TIP: During the summer, the park sometimes stays open slightly later until 8 PM, so why not plan a trip on one of these dates to extend the fun?
๐ฐ Price: โฌ29.50 per person (โฌ19.50 if you book in advance!) โฐ Opening hours: Varies each month, 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM ๐ Location:Amersfoortseweg 35, 7313 AC Apeldoorn
15. Monkey around at Apenheul
If youโve ticked off Landal Rabbit Hill and couldnโt get enough of the fluffy bunnies surrounding you, head to Apenheul in Apeldoorn โ itโs monkey utopia.
Itโs not just something to do in the Veluwe; itโs special in general. Apenheul is the only zoo in the world where you can see all kinds of monkeys hanging freely all around the park and among the visitors (maybe on their shoulders). ๐
A friendly face at Apenheul, and one of many hangin’ around ๐ต Image: Dreamstime
These climbing creatures are all friendly and harmless company, while the bigger orangutans and gorillas have their own space on natural islands.
Apenheul is extra unique as it doubles as a research centre specialising in primates, so you can learn all about the wonderful animals as you walk alongside them.
16. Learn about the old and new at the Open Air Museum
Sometimes, youโre wandering around an old, dusty museum, and it starts to feel a littleโฆ claustrophobic.
The Netherlands Open Air Museum in Arnhem is the perfect remedy because, well, the clueโs in the name! Most of the exhibition is outdoors, showcasing historical Dutch architecture and craftsmanship.
Stunning, pristine, quirky, fun, quaint, and oh-so-Dutch. Image: Depositphotos
With over 40 hectares of park to explore, this is a great way to become truly immersed in all aspects of the Dutch lifestyle in the Veluwe.
Feeling hands-on? You can help the Open Air Museum’s hay-making process by collecting and building hay riders. Thereโs even a job in it for the deftest farm hands!
๐ฐ Price: People aged over 13 โฌ20 on weekdays and โฌ24 on weekends, holidays and vacation days, children aged 4-12 โฌ15 on weekdays and โฌ17.50 on weekends, holidays and vacation days, free for Museumkaart holders (reservation mandatory) โฐ Opening hours: 10 AM to 5 PM daily ๐ Location:Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem
17. Take on the treetops, then take in the view
Inspired by the monkeys at Apenheul? Head to Klimbos Apeldoorn in Ermelo and swing from the treetops yourself.
Klimbos has climbing routes for all ages, sizes, and abilities, as well as an obstacle course in the midst of the Veluwe forest.
This way, you have an even better perspective than those tall Dutchies have every day! Image: Depositphotos
You can choose your own climbing route and decide how high you dare to go.
Thereโs even a zip line for a faster route through the leaves and a bungee if you fancy the plunge. After all that activity, thereโs a nice lakeside cafe to refresh yourself. ๐
From mangrove forest exploration to spotting a variety of species in their respective natural habitats, youโre transported somewhere thatโs definitely not Dutch. ๐
You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d travelled outside of the Netherlands with landscapes like this! Image: Dreamstime
Burgersโ Zoo is a special place to go in the Veluwe because it prioritises keeping the animals out of cages and free to explore more natural environments in an ethical way.
Worried that all that walking around breathtaking sights might make you (or the kids) hungry? Burgersโ Zoo has five different restaurants around the site.
๐ฐ Price: Adults โฌ27, kids aged 4 to 9 โฌ24.50 (online) โฐ Opening hours: 9 AM to 6 PM Summer season, 9 AM to 5 PM Winter season ๐ Location:Antoon van Hooffplein 1, 6816 SH Arnhem
19. Swim and spa at Bosbad Putten
Looking for an aquatic adventure that doesnโt depend on the weather? Bosbad Putten’s swimming oasis offers indoor and outdoor water fun.
Thereโs a subtropical swimming pool, including an extra-long, extra-wild water course which comes complete with a light show, would you believe it. ๐
If youโre looking for things to do in the Veluwe that entertain the whole family, Bosbad Putten is the place. There are even recreational or lane swimming options, where adults can avoid the kids making a splash (AKA having the time of their lives).
Sounds perfect for summer? Correct, but thatโs no reason to avoid Bosbad in the winter โ you might even get a chance to skate on the 900-metre surrounding moat.
๐ฐ Price: Varies, adult day pass โฌ12.05, child aged 2 to 17 day pass โฌ9.95 โฐ Opening hours: 9 AM to 5 PM daily and 6 to 10 PM Mon-Fri ๐ Location:Zuiderveldweg 6, 3881 LJ Putten
Guaranteed a breath of fresh air and a burst of culture all in one, you better start ticking off some of these amazing things to do in the Veluwe.
We recommend you go back for more (then more again) to soak it all up.
Which of the attractions in the Veluwe have you visited? Which would you like to try? Let us know in the comments below.
“What’s the weather like over there?” โ you probably get asked this question about the Netherlands often. Instead of saying, “Remember when mom went through menopause? It’s that incarnate.” Just show them these videos.
It’s almost impossible to give one specific, non-changing characteristic of Dutch weather. It does what it wants โ we’re just here for the crazy ride.
It messes with your head
If there’s one thing Dutch weather is guaranteed to do, it’s f*ck with your mood.
You may have that one smug Dutch neighbour who tells you to dress appropriately, and you’ll be fine, but we guarantee they also find themselves getting bamboozled by Dutch weather sometimes โ much like these poor Nederlanders.
If the above videos didn’t already reveal this, Dutch weather loves to go to the extreme โ whether that means really hot, really cold, or enough rain to drench you to the bone.
Trump has been promising to impose tariffs on the European Union for a few months now, and yesterday, those promises became a reality.
How will that affect the Dutch economy? We’re breaking it down for you.
โLiberation dayโ
Yesterday (April 2), Trump imposed what he calls โreciprocal tariffsโ on the EU, which means there will now be a 20% import duty on all European products, reports NU.nl.
The term reciprocal comes from the fact that Trump claims the tariffs are only half of what European countries charge American products.
In his usual dramatic fashion, he called April 2 โLiberation Dayโ and the start of a new American โGolden Ageโ since his tariff policy will supposedly encourage American consumers to buy domestically and attract businesses to the US.
Will the Netherlands take a hit?
While the tariffs aren’t exactly exciting news for any European country, there’s no need to worry about the Dutch economy too much. That being said, there are some negatives.
Firstly, about 5% of the โฌ40 billion worth of Dutch exports goes to the US, so Americans buying fewer Dutch products could slow down economic growth.
Moreover, if the tariffs harm the world economy as a whole, the Netherlands and all its trade suffer with it.
De hogere VS-tarieven zijn slecht nieuws voor Nederland รฉn de VS. Ik betreur ze ten zeerste. Nederland wil altijd samenwerken met de VS, maar als gelijkwaardige partners. De EU komt met een gepaste reactie als het niet lukt om via de dialoog de VS-tarieven van tafel te krijgen.
Translation: The higher US tariffs are bad news for the Netherlands and the US. I deeply regret them. The Netherlands will always want to work with the US, but as equal partners. If the tariffs aren’t taken off the table through dialogue, the EU will employ appropriate measures.
But lucky for us, the Netherlands has been practicing Trump’s dream of domestic consumption for a while.
As a result, it depends on this domestic consumption, along with trade between neighbouring countries, more than it depends on US trade.
And while 5% isn’t negligible, the Dutch still do most of their trading with these neighbouring countries, such as Belgium and Germany.
A Rabobank prediction from March claims that tariffs could limit Dutch economic growth to 1.5% at most โ as opposed to the 1.7% it would have been otherwise.
Nothing golden about this age
Despite the grandiose language Trump likes to use to describe his economic policy, it’s the US that will likely take a larger blow.
Practically, the tariffs will manifest as a tax that American consumers and companies will have to pay.
This is especially true for products that don’t have a lot of domestic alternatives, which could fuel inflation in the country โ and we know the US doesn’t need more of that at the moment.
Finally, much like here, an uncertain world economy isn’t good news for the US either. Companies are more careful with their investments, and consumer confidence is declining.
As Trump announced in yesterday’s speech, April 2 might in fact be one of the most important days in American history โ but for all the wrong reasons.
Oh my god. At the exact moment Trump announced his tariffs the market crashed in real time.
It may come as no surprise that the most popular sitcom of the 1990s, Friends, was also a hit in the Netherlands. But did you catch these Dutch references sprinkled throughout the show?
It makes sense that Dutch references make an appearance in some of the episodes. After all, New York was originally New Amsterdam, with Dutch settlements in the Americas starting as early as 1613.
But, enough ancient history โ let’s head back to the nineties and see four times the Friends made a mess of our favourite guttural language.
The one with the bestiality
Now, that’s far too racy to be the real title of the episode, but there was one incredible episode where they snuck in a bestiality joke โ because it was in Dutch.
In the episode, Ross is trying to learn Dutch to snag a sweet apartment from a dying Dutch woman (we always knew he was a bad egg). Armed with a Dutch phrasebook, he sits in Central Perk and tries it out on barista Gunther โ who unexpectedly speaks Dutch right back.
Yep, did ya hear that? “Jij hebt seks met ezels” or, as we English speakers like to say, “You have sex with donkeys.” Mic DROP. We thought Friends was supposed to be rated PG?!
Interestingly, it was a Dutch guy working at the Dutch Consulate in Los Angeles who got called in to make the joke and help the actors with their pronunciation. Erik Grouwstra told De Volkskrant that the joke worked because people would only understand the word ‘sex’.
“It was racy enough, but people probably wouldn’t get angry easily because they didn’t know exactly what was being said,” he explained.
It did lead to quite a few threads on Yahoo Answers asking what on earth ‘azul’ or ‘asil’ meant.
The one with the ‘Dutch’ girl (who clearly wasn’t Dutch)
In this episode, they didn’t actually try to speak Dutch โ but they did try to pronounce the infamous Dutch G.
The plot line is simple: the gang is playing football on Thanksgiving when an attractive woman walks up and introduces herself as Marga. Her accent could have been confused for Russian, German โ or any language other than Dutch.
In fact, as one YouTube commenter said, Joey actually pronounces her name better than she can herself.
The one where the identity thief steals the Dutch language
In this episode, Monica has her identity stolen. When she goes to catch the culprit, she tells the identity thief her name is “Monana” โ and that it’s Dutch (um, okay Monica). ๐
Like being caught lying about skills on your resume (is my boss anywhere nearby?), the identity thief just so happens to speak Dutch too. “May I have this dance?” she asks. Grab some popcorn, skip to minute 2:55 and let the awkwardness ensue:
The one where they prey on a dying Dutch woman
Ah, New York housing! Even in the ’90s, it was hard to find a good apartment (actually, that sounds a lot like the Netherlands), so if you hear of a fragile old Dutch lady dying, you better send your best wishes snatch up that housing right up before she’s cold.
But, spoiler alert, she ain’t dead yet. Cue Ross awkwardly pretending he and the dying Dutch woman are best friends. One problem? The Old Dutch lady doesn’t speak English.
“Nice to meet a friend of my mother’s,” her daughter says in Dutch. Only she’s also not the best Dutch speaker. Watch and learn how to be as excruciatingly awkward as Ross.
But perhaps we could take a leaf out of their book to try to get a good apartment in the Dutch housing crisis.
What do you think of these Dutch moments in one of the most successful American sitcoms of all time? Tell us in the comments below!
Letโs be real: sustainability might not be the first thing that comes to mind when youโre trying to figure out your mortgage in the Netherlands.
However, itโs a super important factor to consider before agreeing to the terms of your mortgage โ and even after!
Why? In the Netherlands, there are a number of ways you can use your mortgage to help fund sustainable remodelling and renovations on your home โ and, in turn, save yourself some money in the long run.
In fact, as of 2024, there are several ways you can benefit from making sustainable changes during or after buying a house in the Netherlands. ๐ณ
Expat Mortgages offers free consultations to expats who want to know more about their mortgage options. Want to find out more about making your house more sustainable?Get in touch!
Sustainable remodelling: a growing trend in the Netherlands
With the issue of climate change at the forefront of many people’s minds and inflation sending energy prices through the roof over the past few years, many homeowners in the Netherlands are not only looking into remodelling their homes but also making them more sustainable.
Did you know you can use your Dutch mortgage to help cover the costs of sustainably renovating your home? Image: Depositphotos
This is a trend that the Dutch government wants to continue to encourage. In fact, since January 1, 2024, a number of measures have been introduced to make sustainable renovations an attractive option for both future and current homeowners.
What measures you’ll benefit from depends on where you are in the homeowning process. For example, are you looking to buy a new home? Or do you want to make sustainable renovations to your current home?
Let’s walk through these scenarios below. ๐
Buying a home? Hereโs how you can set up your mortgage to make sustainable renovations
Ok, youโre about to get a Dutch mortgage โ congrats! Letโs run through all the steps you can take in order to fund any sustainable renovations that you plan on doing in the future.
First things first, talk to your mortgage advisor
The first thing you should do is sit down with your mortgage advisor and discuss exactly what it is you want to do to make your home more sustainable.
Based on the valuation of your home and the terms of the mortgage, your advisor will point you towards one of two options:
Option one: Set up a bouwdepot
One thing you can do is talk to your mortgage consultant and ask them to set up a bouwdepot for you.
A bouw-de-what? I hear you ask. Abouwdepot, meaning “construction deposit”, is a loan that can be taken from your mortgage and then used to finance future renovations on your home.
A mortgage advisor can walk you through the process of setting up a bouwdepot in order to carry out sustainable renovations using your Dutch mortgage. Image: Freepik
A bouwdepot is usually organised during the process of establishing the terms of your mortgage.
In order to set it up, an appraiser will consider the renovations you would like and estimate the amount needed.
Then, itโs up to you to turn to the banks (with proof of appraisal) and ask them to finance the loan.
Secured that bag of money? Great! Once the mortgage advisor has arranged the bouwdepot, clients can declare their invoices directly with the bank. This will already be activated following final approval at a notary appointment.
Option two: Apply for an Energiebespaarbudget (energy saving budget)
Not exactly sure of what renovations you would like to make but know that you want to make your home more energy efficient in the future? Then an energiebespaarbudget, meaning “energy saving budget”, is the best option for you.
Similar to a bouwdepot, the energiebespaarbudget is a construction deposit that can be organised alongside your mortgage and set aside to fund future renovations.
However, itโs different from a bouwdepot in two main ways:
You donโt have to figure out what renovations you want to make until later on.ย ย
How can you use your existing mortgage to make your home more sustainable?
Already have your mortgage but looking between your drafty windows and those new energy bills? Geen probleem!
There are still ways that you can use your mortgage to finance some sustainable and energy-saving renovations in your home.
Option one: refinance your mortgage
Okay, yes, it sounds scary โ but for many people in the Netherlands, refinancing your mortgage is a feasible option that may even save you money in the long run.
How? You may be wondering. The key answer here is interest rates.
So, how can you use your Dutch mortgage to finance sustainable renovations? Image: Depositphotos
While interest rates in the Netherlands have been rising over the past few years, it’s important to note that in the grand scheme of things, they are still relatively low.
However, you should talk to your mortgage advisor and explore your options.
For example, you can reduce the interest rate on your whole mortgage or obtain an extra amount โ which one you opt for depends on your mortgage conditions and your income.
Note: The process of refinancing your mortgage is much like the initial process of getting a mortgage. However, there may be some additional stumbling blocks. For example, you could face a penalty fee, so itโs best to have experts by your side!
Option two: obtain an additional loan or open a Bouwdepot
While most mortgage advisors arrange the bouwdepot whilst also setting up a mortgage, that doesnโt mean itโs impossible after you have bought a house. Speak to your mortgage advisor to find out how.
An option for everyone: make use of new government measures
As we mentioned above, as of January 2024, the Dutch government has implemented a number of measures to help encourage home buyers as well as current homeowners to opt for sustainable buildings and renovations.
For one, depending on the energy label of the house, you can borrow extra money to implement sustainable measures.
Does the house have a high energy label? Then you can also borrow extra money towards the purchase of the home or towards refinancing your current mortgage if you are already a homeowner.
Energy label
Extra money to implement energy-saving measures
Extra money to purchase the home
E, F and G energy label
โฌ20,000
โฌ0
C or D energy label
โฌ15,000
โฌ5,000
A or B energy label
โฌ10,000
โฌ10,000
A+ or A++
โฌ10,000
โฌ20,000
A+++
โฌ10,000
โฌ30,000
A++++
โฌ0
โฌ40,000
A++++ with at least a 10-year energy performance guarantee
โฌ0
โฌ50,000
Ways sustainable remodelling can save you money in the Netherlands
While the cost of refinancing your mortgage may make your eyes water, itโs important to note that part of this cost can actually be reduced.
Want to make sustainable changes to your home? In the Netherlands, you can use your Dutch mortgage to help finance this! Image: Freepik
Reduced interest rates
The Netherlands smiles down on those who choose to be sustainable โ and as a result, many Dutch mortgage providers will actually reduce their monthly interest rates based on the energy label of your home.
So, did you take your homeโs energy label from an E to an A? Great! Youโll be paying lower interest each month โ meaning you start making back some of the money you spent on those renovations.
There are also further ways that the Dutch government will reward you for sustainably remodelling your home.
For example, through the National Insulation Programme (Nationaal Isolatieprogramma), you will receive a subsidy to cover up to 30% of the costs of re-insulating your home and/or installing a hybrid heat pump.
Note: While this is a national programme, you should double-check how the process of implementing these subsidies works in your local municipality.
Mortgage costs and tax
Itโs also worth keeping in mind that many of the costs involved in getting a mortgage in the Netherlands are tax-deductible.
This means that whether youโve just set up your mortgage, or you decided to refinance in order to make some sustainable renovations, you will get some of that money back.
Needless to say, there are many ways for you to make sustainable changes to your future or current Dutch home.
The road you take to sustainably renovating your home will depend on your personal situation โ which is why your journey should always start with a consultation with a mortgage expert. ๐
Will you be opting for a more sustainable home this year? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
When applying for a mortgage in the Netherlands, one crucial factor that lenders take into consideration is your student debt โ and yes, this includes any foreign student debt.
Regardless of where in the world you built your student debt, it will be factored into your Dutch mortgage application. However, this doesn’t mean an end to your homeowning dreams.
Student debt and your Dutch mortgage application
Student debt โ whether accrued in the Netherlands or abroad โ will reduce the amount of money you are eligible to borrow.
This is because lenders assess your overall financial situation to ensure you can meet your mortgage repayments.
International student debt and your Dutch mortgage
Lenders will evaluate all your financial obligations, including debts from studying abroad, to determine your borrowing capacity.
Having student debt doesn’t mean you won’t be eligible for a mortgage in the Netherlands. Image: Freepik
As a result, international student debt will be considered like any other debt when calculating your borrowing power.
As a result, you should be eligible for a higher mortgage compared to previous years.
So, if you have taken out a Dutch student loan to fund your studies, the new calculation method will determine your borrowing power.
How is my student debt checked when applying for a Dutch mortgage?
When applying for a Dutch mortgage, you must disclose all financial obligations, including student debt.
Student debt is not registered in the Dutch credit registration system (the BKR), but mortgage providers are required to ask for details of debts during the application process.
There are a number of steps that will be taken when you apply for a Dutch mortgage, one is asking if you have student debt. Image: Freepik
According to Expat Mortgagesโ consultant, Chloรฉe Huvelin, “Lenders will review your credit history and financial obligations to get a full picture of your financial situation.โ
โItโs crucial to disclose all your financial details to your mortgage advisor to ensure you donโt take on an irresponsible loan and can comfortably manage your monthly mortgage payments.โโ
Want to know how your student loan affects your potential mortgage? You can schedule a free appointment with Expat Mortgages for personalised advice. Theyโll analyse your financial situation, discuss your options, and advise you on what to do next.ย
What happens if I lie about my student debt on my Dutch mortgage application?
Not all applicants are thoroughly checked by lenders to confirm whether they have fully disclosed their student debt.
You should always be honest with your Dutch mortgage provider about any student debt. Image: Freepik
However, while some discrepancies might initially go unnoticed, itโs crucial to be honest about your financial commitments. Failing to disclose student debt on a mortgage application can have severe consequences.
According to Chloรฉe, “If youโre found to have lied about your student debt, you risk having your mortgage application denied due to an insufficient borrowing capacity.โโ
Additionally, if you want to apply for a mortgage with the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG), which provides a safety net for homeowners in financial distress, itโs mandatory to inform them of your student debt.
In short, you should always provide accurate information to your mortgage advisor to avoid potential issues and secure the best possible mortgage terms.
How has your student debt affected your Dutch mortgage application? Let us know in the comments below!
From Sinterklaas to Koningsdag, the Netherlands can be quite a festive place (perhaps to distract from the dull weather, but who knows?) However, not all Dutch holidays are alien to internationals, and the Netherlands also celebrates Easter!
That being said, Easter can be celebrated quite differently (or not at all) depending on where youโre from โ so what does it look like in the land of cheese, clogs, and windmills? ๐ฃ
Easter in the Netherlands is celebrated similarly to many Western countries: chocolate eggs, big brunches, and even a day or two off work.
Like elsewhere, the holiday is stretched across Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag), Easter Sunday (Eerste Paasdag), and Easter Monday (Tweede Paasdag).But there are also aspects of this holiday that the Dutch do differently.
Yes, Easter symbols and decorations are a thing in many countries, but letโs just say the Dutch are a bit extra when it comes to letting everyone know itโs Easter time. ๐โโ๏ธ
Youโll find that shops, supermarkets, and tables are decked out with what can only be described as an Easter Christmas tree.
Willow branches are also decorated with delicately painted, precariously hung eggshells, as well as all manner of cute mini bunnies, butterflies, and baby animals!
How cute are these Easter decorations? Image: Freepik
Dutch Easter Food
Speaking of baby animals, youโll find them everywhere. No, not real ones, though. Picture miniature bunnies made from chocolate, lambs crafted out of butter, and chicks made from sugar. ๐ฅ
While weโre on the topic of miniatures and food in the Netherlands, School children (the miniature) will often have a day where they bring Easter breakfast boxes into school.
Pupils fill a shoe box with ingredients for a tasty breakfast and bring it to class. (Cuuuuuteee, that wonโt be messy at all.) ๐
And speaking of tasty surprises, the Dutch love to experiment with just how weird they can make an Easter egg taste. Think bubble tea or even pizza. Yes, pizza. For the Dutch, no flavour is off-limits anymore. ๐
Easter Sunday in the Netherlands
Easter Sunday in the Netherlands โ or as the Dutch call it, Eerste Paasdag, usually consists of a tasty breakfast (Paasontbijt) or brunch (Paasbrunch) featuring the precarious Easter Christmas tree, assorted mini animals and, of course, Paasbrood.
What a yummy treat to celebrate Easter with! Image: Depositphotos
This tasty Easter bread is strangely similar to Kerstbrood (Christmas bread). Both are filled with cinnamon, raisins, and almond paste, but the difference lies in the details!
Where Kerstbrood is topped with icing sugar, Paasbrood is often topped with orange peel and almonds. Lekker!
Dutch Easter egg hunt
In the Netherlands, it’s the Easter hare, not the Easter bunny. Image: Unsplash
Of course, there is the all-important Easter egg hunt. However, beware, ladies and gentlemen (specifically expat parents) in the Netherlands, there is NO EASTER BUNNY.
In this country, itโs an Easter Hare or Paashaas. Donโt worry, though; he still does his job and sets up a nice hunt for the kiddos. ๐
Easter Monday, or second Easter, as the Dutch call it, is a bank holiday in the Netherlands.
As the kids munch on their chocolate eggs and start bouncing off the ceiling, parents can take a chill pill and know they can enjoy a day off after Easter Sunday.
Letโs wrap up with the important points: you will likely have a day off (yay!), thereโs lots of delicious food (fab!), and for the love of god, itโs the Paashaas, not the Easter bunny. Got it? Great.
How do you celebrate Easter, if at all? Tell us in the comments below! ๐
Hereโs the key to the puzzle: cannabis in the Netherlands is decriminalised, but itโs not actually legal.
Cannabis use in the Netherlands is tolerated, so itโs neither legal nor illegal to sell or buy weed in Amsterdam. Thatโs what they call a (smokey) grey area, folks!
This means that you can walk into any Amsterdam coffeeshop, buy yourself some weed and smoke it โ without being picked up by the Dutch politie. ๐ฎ
That being said, since December 2023, some coffeeshops in the Netherlands are taking part in an experiment where they can sell weed from legalised cannabis suppliers. Depending on how this experiment plays out, the Netherlands may decide to legalise the sale of cannabis across the country โ including Amsterdam!
Smoke in moderation, be respectful, and donโt be one of those drunk tourists โ and youโll be golden!
Good to know: While you can easily buy weed in any Amsterdam coffeeshop, there is one rule you should know. Youโre not allowed to buy more than five grams at a time! Somehow need more than that? Bring a friend. ๐
2. Where can I smoke weed in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has around 160 coffeeshops! This one is the popular Boerejongens West. Image: DutchReview
Youโre out and about in the Dutch capital and wanting to smoke a joint. A coffeeshop is a good option, but itโs sunny out, and you kind of just want to sit at a canal. โ๏ธ
But wait โ are you even allowed to smoke outside and in public spaces? Or are there any rules you should know about?
Short answer: Yes, there are! Hereโs what you can smoke where in Amsterdam.๐๐ป
Coffeeshops ๐
Wait, is it allowed to smoke in a coffeeshop?! Image: Depositphotos
The most obvious places that allow you to puff away all day areโฆ drum roll, pleaseโฆ Amsterdam coffeeshops! Who wouldโve thought? ๐
The Dutch capital is home to about 160 of these รฉtablissements, which can be a bit disorienting.
If youโre coffeeshop-curious but new to the game, an easy place to start are the Boerejongens Coffeeshops. There are multiple options around Amsterdam, the staff are well trained in answering all weed-related questions, and the interior is seriously classy โ instead of dark and dingy coffeeshops, youโre getting marble countertops and โbudtendersโ in uniform. ๐ฉ
Another gem is Het Ballonnetje, a real OG amongst Amsterdam coffeeshops located within the lively student quarters. Situated off the beaten tourist track, this spot is also popular with locals. They also pride themselves in their specialty weed selection.
Good to know: There is an official tobacco ban in catering establishments in the Netherlands โ Amsterdam coffeeshops included! ๐ญ This means, no mixed tobacco-weed joints inside โ only โgreenโ or herb-stretched joints.
Public spaces ๐ค
Generally, in Amsterdam, if you sit down on any public bench or in a park to enjoy your joint, no one will bother you.
Since 2023, however, the municipality of Amsterdam has issued a so-called blowverbod โ a smoking ban โ for certain areas of the city.
This affects de Wallen (the Red Light District), the Dam, the Damrak, and the Nieuwmarkt. ๐ญ
On top of that, it is also strictly forbidden to smoke anywhere near school squares and playgrounds!
Other public spaces are generally fine to smoke in. Obviously, if you get blind high and make it your mission to annoy everyone around you, youโll likely be asked to leave.
One of the Dutchest sights you’ll ever see: bikes, flowers and smoking joints in Amsterdam. Image: Freepik
Keep in mind that all throughout Amsterdam, there are regular residents going about their daily lives. Would you like to have people smoking underneath your window all day? Exactly. So, mind the neighbours!
Tip: Heading to another Dutch city? Keep in mind that not all municipalities are as accommodating as Amsterdam when it comes to smoking outside.ย
In fact, 67% of all Dutch municipalities have a total drug ban for public spaces! Luckily, Amsterdam โaint one of them (yet?). ย
3. How expensive is it to buy weed in Amsterdam?
Can you tell whether you’re looking at Indica or Sativa just from this picture? Image: Depositphotos
How much youโll spend on some quality Dutch weed depends on the strain, the weight, and the form you want to buy. ๐ฎโ๐จ
For example, a gram of weed can range anywhere from โฌ7 to โฌ20. Some artisanal, high-class strains can cost you up to โฌ50 or more.
If youโre looking to buy a pre-rolled joint โ either pure, mixed, or hash โ you can pay as little as โฌ3.50 or as much as โฌ15. A lot of times you can buy bundles of joy-nts (hah!), where you pay โฌ15 to โฌ30+ for a pack of five.
From strawberry cheesecakes to fudgy brownies โ there is a treat for every sweet tooth out there looking to get baked (pun intended). ๐ฐ
4. Can anybody buy weed in Amsterdam?
The short answer: if youโre in Amsterdam and are 18 years or older, you can buy weed in any Amsterdam coffeeshop โ even if youโre a tourist. Just like with alcohol, you might be asked to show proof of identification, so make sure to always bring your ID!
The long answer: in some other Dutch cities, there is a tourist ban that does not allow non-Dutch nationals to buy weed.
Of course, if youโre a Dutch national or resident above the age of 18, you can buy weed in Amsterdam or any coffeeshop in the Netherlands without facing any issues at all.
5. How can I avoid a bad trip smoking in Amsterdam?
You might have heard of โitโ โ the dreaded bad trip. A bad trip is a negative mental or physical reaction to smoking weed.
Luckily, a bad trip is generally easy to avoid!
The first trick is to pay attention to what youโre smoking and how much youโre smoking. For example, it could be a good option to start with a weed strain that is lower in THC so that one puff wonโt send you flying sky-high by accident. ๐
Instead, opt for strains that are higher in CBD. Similar to THC, CBD is also a chemical component found in marijuana. But instead of making you high, CBD has relaxing and calming effects. No bad trips in sight!
Itโs also never a good idea to mix cannabis with alcohol or other drugs. Weed isnโt really a party drug in the first place. Itโs always nice to make chill plans after smoking up and enjoy your high in peace. ๐
That way, youโll mostly experience giggles, fascinating thoughts, euphoria, relaxation and maybe some munchies.
What does a bad trip feel like?
The good news first: a bad trip where you see scary figures or hear voices is mostly an invention of pop culture. In reality, a bad reaction to cannabis is more likely to lead to vomiting if your blood sugar levels drop too low or just a general feeling of being โtoo high.โย
Mentally, you might experience intense negative emotions such as panic or paranoia. But, again, this is not very common if you consume cannabis mindfully and it all passes eventually!
6. How do I know what cannabis strain to pick?
Just as there are different brands of beer or wine that vary in taste or composition, different cannabis strains and formats will have different effects on you.
Indica vs Sativa
On the most basic level, the marijuana plant is considered to come in two different strains: Indica and Sativa.
Did you know the difference between these two strains? Image: DutchReview
In general, Sativa is considered to have mood-heightening and stimulating effects. If youโre looking for a good time, loads of giggles, and high energy, then this should be your choice.
Indica, on the other hand, is more sedative and relaxing. Itโs a good pick when you want to wind down, relax or maybe even increase your appetite.
CBD vs THC
Another, maybe even more important aspect determining the effect of different weed strains is the composition of the cannabinoids CBD and THC.
Without getting to biochemicall-y, cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in weed that bind to your brain receptors and make you high.
THC is the stuff that makes you head-high (or stoned, to put it very simply). This cannabinoid is the reason weed is considered a psychedelic drug. ๐คฉ๐ซ
CBD, on the other hand, is known to have a variety of health-promoting effects on the body. It can be used to treat insomnia, anxiety, stress- or pain-related symptoms.
CBD can also easily be consumed as an oil. Image: Depositphotos
Overall, when thinking about which cannabis strain you want to pick, it is best to ask your trusty Amsterdam coffeeshop employee for advice. These guys are trained to know all the strains on offer and will tell you what and how much to smoke according to your needs and desires.
Good to know: You donโt have to smoke a CBD joint to enjoy the health-promoting effects of this cannabinoid. There is a whole world of CBD-infused products out there from oil to chocolate to coffee.ย
7. Can I take weed from Amsterdam back to my home country?
Don’t take any unwanted goods to the airport or you might spend a lot of time at Schiphol airport’s customs control. Image: Depositphotos
Hereโs a scenario for you โ your weekend trip to Amsterdam is over and youโre about to go through customs at your home airport.
Youโre reminiscing about what youโve seen โ narrow canal houses, beautiful Vondelpark and a coffeeshop or two โ when all of a sudden there is a dog pushing its snout into your coat pocket and an angry customs officer is asking why you still have a forgotten sachet of weed in there.
The charge? Youโve smuggled cannabis from the Netherlands where itโs decriminalised to a country where the possession of weed is a crime. It doesnโt matter whether or not youโve technically purchased it legally in an Amsterdam coffeeshop.
The moral of the story is: empty your pockets and smoke up before you leave lovely Amsterdam. Should you be heading right from a coffeeshop to Schiphol airport, you might want to have a peek at the video below. Just in case. ๐
Now that youโve got all the wheres, hows and whats of smoking weed in Amsterdam coffeeshops, itโs time for you to spread your wings and fly โ as high as you can. ๐
Got any questions about smoking weed in Amsterdam weโve missed? Drop โem in the comments and letโs help each other out!
