Beloved Dutch home goods chain Blokker has just made a comeback, and we’re already dusting off our shelves in celebration.
The chain had been struggling under a pile of debt (thanks, COVID 🙄), and with competition heating up, things got a bit sticky.
But the new Blokker is wiping the slate clean, quite literally, with microfibre cloths and all.
New owner, new beginnings
With a new owner at the helm, several shiny new stores have just opened in 12 locations across the country.
As Blokker’s boss, Roland Palmer, tells the NOS, “We can’t turn back the clock, but we now have a chance to put the stores back on the map with a clean slate.”
Right now, the comeback tour is limited to areas where Blokker previously did well. That’s why we’ve got just 12 shiny new stores for now.
De Aarhof 42, 2406 BT Alphen aan den Rijn
Haarlemmerdijk 72, 1013 JE Amsterdam
Rozengracht 12, 1016 NB Amsterdam
De Middend 20, 1611 KW Bovenkarspel
Spuiplein 57, 4511 AP Breskens
Burgemeester Loeffplein 57, 5211 RX Den Bosch
Kleine Molenstraat 1, 6661 EC Elst
Noorderstraat 29, 7811 AK Emmen
Gorecht-Oost 153 H, 9603 AE Hoogezand
Koningin Julianaplein 27, 2274 JE Voorburg
Langstraat 20 C, 6001 CV Weert
Slotlaan 219, 3701 GE Zeist
Now, if only they could get Sarah Jessica Parker to return for another A-list Blokker ad. 👀
A fresh, modern Blokker experience
And it’s not just your grandma’s Blokker anymore. Alongside the classics — cloths, pans, and kettles — you’ll now find hip home essentials like scent sticks and steam gadgets for the no-iron generation. (Let’s be honest, we were never going to iron anyway.)
In addition to these 12 new stores, there are still over 40 franchise stores operating under the Blokker name.
Sure, it’s a far cry from the 400 stores Blokker had in its heyday, but quality over quantity, right? Plus, fewer stores mean more time to perfect the pan display pyramid.
Already sprinting to Blokker for a steam mop? Let us know in the comments!
Yesterday (June 18), the NS made a final offer to various trade unions, prompting them to suspend all strike activities planned for the coming weeks.
What does this mean for my commute?
The past two weeks may have had multiple nationwide strikes bring the Dutch rail service to its knees, but a much-needed respite is chugging down the tracks.
While the various trade unions involved discuss the NS’ latest offer, all train services are expected to continue as normal. In simple terms, that means no disruptions to your regular route. Hoera!
So now’s the perfect time to take that day trip to Groningen or Maastricht without worrying about your train leaving you stranded. 😉
Good to know: If your daily commute was affected by the strikes, there’s still time to file a delay refund request.
Or, should we say, we’re back to regular commuter chaos. Image: Depositphotos
Does this mean there’ll be no more strikes?
Unfortunately, that’s hard to determine at this point.
In the words of NS CEO, Wouter Koolmees, the current offer has “sought a balance between what is necessary for [the NS’] colleagues, what is possible for the company, and what I can justify to our travellers.”
The trade unions involved will evaluate this offer with their members, and their voting process will determine whether this marks the end of the strikes (or not).
However, trade union CNV sounds hopeful, noting that the current offer contains “a number of improvements compared to previously made proposals.”
This Saturday (June 21), Amsterdam’s celebrating its 750th birthday in style, with a massive city-wide party that transforms the A10 highway into a 15-kilometre-long festival. 🎉
Dubbed “Op de Ring” (“On the Ring”), the festival will be divided into three zones, each offering a unique slice of the action.
Want to know what’s on the agenda? Read on! 👇
Music, food, drinks, and more!
From beer-tasting (hoi, Heineken!), a packed playlist full of house music, and a highway rave, there are loads of events to get you moving and grooving.
For those who prefer something a bit more laid-back, Op de Ring’s even got a snazzy fashion show and a green oasis for you to take a relaxing forest stroll.
Feeling extra sentimental? Great news: you can even get married on the A10 ring! 👰🏻
From beats to bites, it’s got all the ingredients for what might just be the best party Amsterdam has seen all year.
Will I need a ticket?
With the A10 divided into three separate zones, whether you need a ticket will depend on which zone you wish to visit.
Zone West is ticketed,
Zone South is also ticketed,
but entrance to Zone East is the best price there is: gratis (free)!
Good to know: While tickets are currently sold out for zones west and south, keep checking the official website, as more tickets may become available closer to the event.
And if you think you’re feeling left out, don’t worry. Op de Ring has it covered, in true Dutch style!
There’ll be an official afterparty, with music, drinks, and dancing at 24 bars and clubs across the city. 🪩
Heads up, party people, the best way to get to the ring is on two wheels or your own two feet!
Public transport is going to be packed, so skip the stress and pedal your way in. There’ll be plenty of extra bike parking at the entrances, but don’t be surprised if there’s a bit of a wait; queues could last up to an hour, so bring your patience (and maybe a snack).
And don’t forget the summer survival kit: loads of water, a generous splash of sunscreen, and comfy clothes. That blacktop gets hot, and we want you dancing, not melting.
Will you be there to run, stroll, or just snack your way through? Let us know in the comments!
What if your medication was made just for you? No more one-size-fits-all pills, but a personalised dose printed on demand. That’s not some abstract idea from the future; it’s what Leiden-based start-up Doser makes possible with its 3D printing technology.
Sounds amazing? That’s what we thought as well — so we sat down with co-founder Arjan van Unen to learn more.
What does Doser do?
Dubbed the “Nespresso machine for pills” by Dutch media, Doser makes 3D printers that allow pharmacists to print tailor-made pills, ensuring patients get exactly what they need.
“The pharmacy tells the printer what they want to print, press start, and then it will print it. After that, they can package the medicine, label it, and issue it to the patient,” Arjan explains.
“We do this because many patients do not receive the right medicine,” he says — and this is true for many areas of medicine. Doser’s approach is particularly game-changing for fields like addiction treatment and paediatrics.
“A six-month-old needs a very different dose than a six-year-old,” and Doser’s technology can precisely adjust dosages to match age, weight, and condition, solving a major issue in medication safety.
Similarly, for those recovering from addiction, gradual dosage reduction is key. “Tapering off medication slowly can prevent severe withdrawal symptoms,” Arjan notes — and with Doser’s precision printing, patients can follow a smoother, safer transition to recovery.
Last but certainly not least, Doser’s technology also addresses the issue of orphan drugs — medications for rare diseases.
In these cases, patients often require small, precise batches of medicine. According to Arjan, Doser’s printer can meet these demands while adhering to strict quality standards, creating opportunities for people with rare conditions who previously lacked access to appropriate treatments.
Doser makes pharmacist’s lives much easier. Image: Freepik
How did Doser get started?
Doser was born from the expertise of Arjan and his co-founder Niels, a biochemistry specialist with a background in big pharma.
They realised that 3D printing could revolutionise drug development and patient care. “I thought: This is it, the best application of a 3D printer I’ve seen,” Arjan recalls.
Support from Leiden’s start-up hub, PLNT, and its start-up incubator, unlock_, helped Doser grow. “Being part of unlock_ meant immediate access to experienced biotech entrepreneurs,” Arjan shares.
The Leiden ecosystem, known for its biotech and medtech innovation, also proved to be the perfect environment for Doser.
What are some major milestones in Doser’s journey?
Since it was founded, Doser has achieved multiple impressive milestones that have shaped its growth.
One major highlight was the first clinical study by Kirsten Schimmel and Iris Lefeber at Leiden University, showcasing the potential of Doser’s 3D-printed medication. “That was really in the beginning — about a year after we started,” Arjan says.
Leiden University played a big role in Doser’s journey. Image: Depositphotos
As for any start-up, another key moment for Doser was when they secured their first investment, from none other than Rabobank. This financial backing allowed Doser to scale up its operations and continue developing its technology.
“Without that, we would never have been here,” Arjan smiles.
What impact does Doser want to make in the future?
Doser’s goal for the future is for personalised medicine to be the norm, rather than an exception.
Arjan explains that currently, fewer than 3% of patients receive customised treatments, but within the next ten years, they would like to see that number rise to at least 10%.
Arjan is particularly passionate about addiction treatment. “Hundreds of thousands of people die every year from addiction, and that’s an area we would like to make an impact in as well.”
By providing a gradual tapering solution through personalised medication, Doser can play a key role in addressing the opioid crisis and other addiction-related issues, saving lives in the process.
The printer in action! Image: DutchReview
At the same time, Arjan stresses that we don’t have to only look at the future, as the technology already exists: “Personalised medicine is not a dream anymore — it’s here,” Arjan emphasises. “You can buy these machines, including from us. Pharmacists can buy them. Hospitals can buy them. Researchers can buy them. And personalised medicine can simply be given to the patient.”
With this innovative approach, Doser is already making a tangible impact on healthcare, and the future looks promising — not just for the company but for the patients who will benefit from its technology.
What do you think of Doser’s story? Share your thoughts in the comments!
While there are many aspects of Dutch culture that may inflict a bit of culture shock on the unknowing international, nothing gives us whiplash quite like that good ol’ Dutch directness.
Picture this: you’ve brought your Dutch boyfriend home to introduce him to your family. You introduce him to the most important member — the dog.
It’s a whole moment, the family is gathered around to witness the reception. Will he get a sniff of approval? Silence falls. He looks at said (slightly ancient) dog and says: “What will you do when he dies?”
To be fair to him, the dog isn’t shaken by this question, but the family certainly is.
What is it?
Dutch directness is a phenomenon that you will experience when talking with the majority of Dutch people.
You might ask how a person’s day is going, and instead of receiving the standard “good, yeah, how are you?” you’ll get an actual honest answer: “Ugh, the kids are annoying me and I slept really badly.”
The Dutch don’t tend to beat around the bush and offer you empty pleasantries. Instead, what you get is simple: their thoughts. Laid out on a plate and presented to you.
Why do they do it?
There are likely a number of reasons behind why your housemate answered a simple “yes” to your question “is my music too loud?”
The first reason may lie in the Netherlands’ ties to Calvinism. As part of this religion, it was important to act as if you had nothing “sinful” to hide.
One cultural hangover that remains because of this attitude is the Dutch tendency to leave their curtains open. This may also be where their “tell it how it is” communication style originates from.
Tell your housemate that their music is actually too loud, tell your boss that you also slept like 💩, and perhaps tell your boyfriend that if he disrespects the dog one more time, he’s out.
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!
The Dutch certainly know how to ride their bikes, and with great bike riding comes some pretty nifty skills. An extra special one? Biking while using their phones.
And we do NOT recommend it. 😬
What is it?
Although it is likely to result in a fine if caught, almost everyone in the Netherlands is guilty of using their phone while riding a bike.
Some take a stealthy sneak peek, while others may as well be scrolling through Instagram.
You’re probably imagining this as a bit of an awkward manoeuvre, but let’s remind ourselves that these are the Dutch we’re talking about.
It looks about as natural as tucking your hair behind your ear — just don’t be fooled into thinking it’s easy.
Why do they do it?
If the Dutch need to get to school, work, dinner parties, oma’s house, or even nightclubs, biking is often the way to go.
And because they cycle as often as they do, Dutch people have adopted a more laid-back cycling culture compared to the average bicycle rider in other countries.
Want to stay on top of the latest news on Instagram or search through some highly amusing TikToks while cycling? That’s dangerous.
Why is it quirky?
As an international, chances are that you’ve likely seen some pretty wacky stuff that the Dutch can do while riding their bikes.
And by wacky stuff, I’m talking about riding with a child in the back seat while pulling a suitcase behind them, doing wheelies in the middle of the road, or even biking without any hands.
You are, however, permitted to use an electronic device if it’s secured in a holder. So go and get yourself a phone mount for bikes and quit two-wheeled texting! 😉
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!
So, it’s the weekend, and you’re hanging out with your Dutch friends, wondering what to do when they suggest you go to a rollerskating rink. How fun!
You arrive at the scene feeling confident, put on your rollerblades and head over to the rink. How hard can it be?
The next minute, you’re struggling to glide along and keep your balance while your Dutch friends are skating around you in circles and dancing to the music so effortlessly. You grunt in frustration buuut end up falling on your knees. Sound familiar? 😅
Rollerblading, ice skating, and speed skating are all popular sports in the Netherlands.
You’ll find Dutchies rollerblading just about anywhere. You’ll see them showing off their skills at rinks, public ramps, in the park, and on the streets. 🛼
The flat terrain of the Netherlands makes it an easy location to practice rollerblading. Not to mention, the cycle paths make it accessible for skaters to skate without being run over by a car. Bonus points for safety!
We’re not surprised Dutchies are pros at skating. After all, to be good at rollerblading, you need three important factors: balance, core strength, and leg strength.
These are factors Dutchies have inherited; have you seen how fast they can go when they bike and the fact they can bike with another person sitting at the back? 😲 Quite impressive!
Why is it quirky?
While rollerblading might not be common in other countries, it’s still very much in style in the Netherlands.
If biking everywhere wasn’t quirky enough, seeing a Dutchie with their rollerblades definitely makes us turn a few heads. 👀
Should you join in?
Why not? Don’t let the Dutchies and their talent scare you off. Next time you want to go somewhere, take your skates with you and give it a go! 🛼
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!
Last Thursday (June 12), Amsterdam’s city council took a major step towards helping expats feel more at home in the city. Here’s what that means for you! 👇
At the heart of the initiative is a new citizenship course, aimed at helping internationals integrate into the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam life.
According to AD, the course will be created by Amsterdam’s municipality, but the companies bringing international talent to the Netherlands will be expected to contribute to it.
So, what’s in the course?
The new course is designed to help expats feel part of their city, reduce loneliness, and encourage more day-to-day interaction between locals and newcomers.
It’ll come in the form of practical tips and community connection, including:
Dutch language lessons
Insights into local culture and everyday essentials (like traffic rules or registering with a GP)
Opportunities to link up with neighbourhood initiatives and volunteer projects
A focus on learning by doing, whether that’s chatting at the market or joining in at the local pub
The idea comes from PvdA group chairman Lian Heinhuis, who introduced the ‘Make Amsterdam your home’ initiative in response to frustrations around the lack of integration among expats.
Speaking to AD, she said, “The course will take a while and will partly take place in society: practising language at the market or in the brown pub, and learning by singing sentimental Dutch songs”.
While the influx of international students and expats brings benefits, it’s also a source of many challenges.
For example, housing prices are climbing, income gaps are widening, and much of the new real estate is tailored to high-earning knowledge migrants. (And not the average Amsterdammer! 👀)
Heinhuis points to the so-called ‘expat bubble’ – where many internationals live separately from locals and benefit from tax breaks without much expectation to connect with Dutch society.
According to the chairman, it’s only fair that companies chip in for these integration courses, as they’re the ones flying in global talent and cashing in on the benefits.
Are you looking forward to an intensive Dutch course, or are you dreading it? Let us know in the comments!
If you’re reading this, staring at the grey skies and wondering if summer got lost somewhere over the North Sea, you’re not alone. With terraces soaked by surprise downpours, we’re all hunting for the next great escape indoors.
Enter: SkyShowtime, the new streaming service in the Netherlands that’s turning heads with a fresh line-up of exclusive series and exciting films — some of which won’t be found elsewhere.
Yellowstone: The must-watch series everyone’s talking about
Let’s start at the top. Yellowstone, the critically acclaimed modern Western drama starring Kevin Costner, has finally landed on Dutch screens via SkyShowtime.
Expect ruthless land battles, intense family drama, and sweeping scenery that will have you forgetting the rain outside.
You don’t have to be into Westerns to get sucked into this family drama! Image: SkyShowtime
It’s the kind of show that pulls you in fast, with power struggles, slow-burn tension and cliffhangers that make it impossible to ignore the “play next episode” button. ⏭️
Even more Yellowstone
Already hooked? Good news: SkyShowtime is the only place in the Netherlands where you can stream the full Yellowstone universe, including the acclaimed spin-offs 1883 and 1923.
1883 and 1923
1883 brings you the Dutton family’s brutal journey west searching for a better life, while 1923 drops into a world rocked by war, pandemic, and the Great Depression.
These aren’t your average side stories. They’re extensive cinematic sagas with Hollywood production quality and heart-wrenching storylines.
Some of the best gritty drama of today
SkyShowtime doesn’t stop at Yellowstone. There’s plenty more to discover if you’re into sharp scripts and morally grey characters.
Take Landman, starring Billy Bob Thornton as a Texas oilman juggling wealth, politics, and personal compromise.
Or Tulsa King, where Sylvester Stallone plays a mob boss forced to rebuild his empire in small-town Oklahoma.
Never miss an episode — or find yourself falling prey to spoilers online. 😉 Image: SkyShowtime
You’ll also find British brilliance in Gangs of London, a bloody, stylish thrill ride through the capital’s underworld.
And keep an eye on MobLand, an upcoming crime saga starring Tom Hardy and Pierce Brosnan that promises dark dealings and even darker characters.
Not just series, blockbuster films too
SkyShowtime brings the big screen to your smaller one, with major releases and family favourites ready to stream, keeping up with the latest favourites to stream on-demand.
The hot thing right now is Gladiator II, the long-awaited sequel to Ridley Scott’s epic. Prepare for dust, blood, legacy battles and some classic entertainment.
Who needs to head to the cinema when your home IS the cinema? Image: SkyShowtime
Or, if you’re after something more gripping, The Envoy delivers a tense psychological thriller about a diplomat caught in a global web of espionage and betrayal.
Craving something more wholesome? The Wild Robot is a beautifully animated film about a robot shipwrecked on a remote island. It’s the perfect watch for a rainy afternoon, the perfect rainy afternoon with the whole family.
Into reality TV? There’s plenty of that, too
If scripted drama isn’t your thing (or you just need a palate cleanser between crime sagas), SkyShowtime also brings a dose of reality TV to your screen. Perfect for when you want something fun, dramatic, or just plain addictive.
Need some reality TV to binge on a boring Wednesday night? SkyShowtime has you covered! 🙌 Image: SkyShowtime
From high-stakes competitions to behind-the-scenes looks at dramatic lives, there’s a library of reality series worth a scroll, such as The Real Housewives, Million Dollar Listing and Botched.
A DutchReview office top pick is Below Deck, with many lunches filled with gossip about the drama that goes down. 👀
Yes, there’s plenty for kids as well
Speaking of the little ones, if your household has been stuck on loop with the same three kids’ shows other streaming platforms have to offer, SkyShow brings some much-needed variety. 😬
From animated tales of adventure to educational shows, there’s enough to choose from to keep young viewers engaged while giving you a rare moment of peace.
Family film night coming up? Don’t worry, there’s plenty for the little ones. Image: SkyShowtime
Need the specifics? It offers Nickelodeon, a wide variety of kids’ movies and all the Paw Patrol there is in the world (spoilers: it’s a lot).
Why now?
There is no better time than now. SkyShowtime’s current offer — 40% off for 12 months if you sign up before June 30 — makes it a compelling time to give it a go.
If you’re not ready to make that long-term commitment yet, you have the option to choose from different offers until June 30:
Standard: €6.99/month (or €9.99/month for no advertising) with the possibility of watching on two screens in full HD
Premium: €13.99/month with the possibility of watching on five screens in stunning 4K UHD
Ad-free viewing, cancel anytime with no strings attached, just a quality streaming experience that finally feels curated and uncluttered.
If you’re already subscribed, what’s your favourite show to watch on SkyShowtime? Let us know in the comments below.
The Dutch job market is full of opportunities for internationals — but it’s also competitive. Want to know what makes you stand out? It’s all about the skills you bring.
As an expat, you’re bringing more than just your luggage. You’re bringing a stack of abilities Dutch companies can’t get enough of.
Here’s a look at the top skills you can highlight to help secure a job in the Netherlands.
1. Multilingual communication skills
The Netherlands is one of the most internationally-minded countries in Europe, and many companies here operate globally. That’s where multilingual skills come in handy.
With your language skills, you’ll be able to connect with colleagues from all over the world. Image: Freepik
If you speak another language — especially French, German, or any other European language — you’re already ahead of the game.
While many Dutch people speak English fluently, knowing an additional language can make a real difference, particularly in roles that require frequent communication with international clients or teams.
2. Cross-cultural adaptability
One of the greatest assets you bring to the Dutch workforce is your ability to navigate different cultural perspectives.
The Netherlands is home to a highly diverse population, with people from all over the world working together in various industries. Your ability to understand and adapt to different cultures is valuable (and necessary).
Dutch companies appreciate employees collaborating seamlessly with colleagues and clients from different cultural backgrounds. It’s a sign of open-mindedness, flexibility, and emotional intelligence.
As an international, you have the ability to navigate different cultural perspectives. Image: Freepik
3. International business experience
Expats bring fresh perspectives, new ideas, and a global outlook that can give businesses an edge in international competition.
Knowing international markets and business practices can be a game-changer, especially for companies looking to expand their global reach or connect with foreign clients.
When you’re applying for a job, highlight how your international experience has shaped your problem-solving abilities, how you’ve managed cross-border projects, or how you’ve helped businesses enter new markets.
4. Problem-solving and resilience
Moving to a new country is no small feat. But it’s not just about learning how to navigate a new city or figure out the Dutch work culture — it’s also about problem-solving and resilience. These qualities make you an even stronger candidate in the job market.
The ability to bounce back from setbacks, adjust to new environments, and handle challenges with a positive attitude are all characteristics that Dutch employers highly value. They want employees who can keep calm under pressure, think creatively, and come up with solutions when things don’t go according to plan.
Problem-solving skills are highly valued by Dutch employers. Image: Freepik
So, don’t forget to mention any personal or professional challenges you’ve overcome during your time abroad. They’re more relevant than you think.
5. Unique technical and soft skills
Let’s talk about skills that will really set you apart: technical and soft skills.
The Netherlands is known for its tech industry, with demand for IT professionals, engineers, and data scientists on the rise. If you have industry expertise, particularly in fields like software development, finance, or marketing, you’ll be highly sought after.
That being said, you don’t need to be a programming wizard to land a nice role. Knowledge of CRM systems, skills in data analysis and reporting, or a good understanding of a specific product can be a great asset no matter what position you go into.
On top of that, technical skills aren’t the only thing that matters. Soft skills like leadership, communication, and time management are equally important.
Dutch companies are known for their flat organisational structures and emphasis on teamwork. So, if you have experience leading teams or facilitating collaboration, don’t be shy about it — those skills will help you thrive in the Dutch work environment.
How to promote yourself effectively in a tough market
Alright, you’ve got the skills, but how do you stand out in the crowded Dutch job market?
Here are a few tips to help you market yourself effectively.
Optimising your CV and LinkedIn profile: Keep your CV clear, concise, and tailored to each job application. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and uses relevant keywords from the job description to get noticed. Remember, first impressions last!
Networking and personal branding: Networking is essential in the competitive Dutch job market. Attend meetups, stay active on LinkedIn, and build a personal brand that showcases your skills and personality. Not a fan of small talk or social media? Make friends with recruiters and get connected to interesting people in an instant.
Having a personal brand can help you showcase your skills in a clear and easy way. Image: Freepik
Leverage your transferable skills: Highlight your transferable skills from previous roles. Did you lead a team? Found a creative solution to a long-standing problem? Managed a project or organised your team’s documentation in a way that made everyone sigh with relief? Every skill counts. The Dutch market values flexibility, so be open to adjusting your career path.
Take advantage of social media: LinkedIn is crucial for job hunting, but other platforms like Instagram and TikTok can also help you connect with industry influencers. Just keep your profiles professional — unless you want a recruiter to see your wild weekend escapades. 😉
Learning Dutch: is it necessary? Learning Dutch is not always required but can boost your job prospects and show a willingness to learn. Start with the basics: most employers will appreciate your effort to integrate.
From multilingual communication to cross-cultural adaptability, your skills are highly valued in the Dutch workforce.
So, take a deep breath, update your CV, network like a pro, and show the Dutch just what you’ve got to offer!
Which skills do you think are most beneficial in the Dutch workplace? Tell us in the comments below!
