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Dutch Quirk #87: Invest way too much in window decorations to announce a new baby

Gaelle Salem
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Dutch Quirk #87: Invest way too much in window decorations to announce a new baby

Ah, the sweet joy of a new life entering this great big world. But how do the Dutch celebrate this? They invest in HEAPS of baby decor for their windows and lawns, and you really can’t miss it.

Picture this: you’re an unknowing international strolling the Dutch streets, and the next thing you see is the bum of a big stuffed stork toy pinned to the window of a Dutch home (we’re not kidding). 😬

It’s certainly a sweet tradition for proud parents — why wouldn’t you want to broadcast to your entire neighbourhood that your family has welcomed a baby into the world?

But what do these birth announcements entail? 🤔

What is it?

When a baby is born in the Netherlands, Dutch families take to the shops to buy plenty of baby-themed decorations for their front windows and yards. These will laud the arrival of their little one.

The decorations often stay up for many months on end and usually include a huge yard sign showcasing the baby’s name, other knick-knacks like streamers and pennants — and the quirkiest of them all — a stork. 

Translation: Subtle way to prepare people who come to a baby visit for an ugly baby. “Yes, the stork flew into the window with it.”

Why a stork, you might ask? Well, the legend of the long-necked and big-billed bird isn’t just a story parents tell their youngsters anymore. It has now become a very important part of this sweet Dutch tradition!

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #122: Serve gendered sprinkles when a baby is born

On the day a child is born, the Dutch like to say that a stork, a famous symbol of childbirth in the Netherlands, visited their home.

To represent this, it’s only natural that they place a stuffed version of the bird in their front window to show that it just flew in to deliver a baby.

Why do they do it?

Of course, it’s a normal thing to want to share the big baby news with your loved ones.

We all know the Dutch aren’t the type to hide their pride in what they do best.

So, if announcing babies with all kinds of signs and props in their front windows and lawns is just another thing that they are ridiculously good at, then by all means! Why not go for it?

Why is it quirky? 

The Dutch aren’t the only ones who welcome a new arrival with some sort of tradition.

For example, the Germans like to plant trees in their gardens to announce the birth of a new life, and Italians have taken up the custom of dressing in red when a baby is born. Super schattig! (Super cute!)

READ MORE | 8 things to know about having a child in the Netherlands

However, Dutch parents have become more and more creative with baby announcements over the years.

And internationals are left a little confused by these elaborate decorations.

Should you join in? 

There are tons of ways to announce the arrival of your little bundle of joy. But if you’re looking for an extra special one, why not spice up your next baby announcement and take a page from the Dutch?

READ MORE | The best Dutch webshops for clothing, tech, supplies, and more

Head to Action, Xenos or even the Dirk. Stock up on the snazziest decorations those acties (discounts) can allow, and who knows!

Your neighbours might just thank you for livening up the street with a bunch of colourful baby decor and… storks?

What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!

New evidence emerges in Dutch siblings’ death, as the public raises €116,000 for their funeral

Emanuela Occhipinti
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New evidence emerges in Dutch siblings’ death, as the public raises €116,000 for their funeral

A heartbreaking discovery has shed more light on the case of Jeffrey and Emma from Beerta, Groningen. 👇

Just fifteen minutes after their father drove away with them last Saturday, their car was seen entering the water in Winschoten around 3:45 pm, according to newly reviewed security footage.

The bodies of the two children and their father were then retrieved on Tuesday, with the police believing that they most likely drowned. 

As the main suspect (Klaas Bijl, the children’s father) has also died, authorities confirmed that there will be no legal proceedings. However, a full investigation is ongoing and could take several more weeks.

Amid this sorrow, the community rises

A wave of compassion has emerged, with the NOS reporting that a fundraiser launched to support the farewell of Jeffrey and Emma has now raised over €116,000, with nearly 7,000 donations flooding in. 

The children’s family warmly supported the fundraiser, wishing to give Jeffrey and Emma a beautiful and loving farewell.

🇬🇧 Translation: Sea of ​​flowers and hugs from people remembering Jeffrey and Emma after a sad event 🐻🕯️🥀

“Unbelievable that people gave so much so quickly, and that it kept going on. I also looked at the counter a few times last night,” the fundraiser’s organiser told the ANP news agency. Any leftover funds will be thoughtfully discussed with the children’s mother.

Past domestic violence reports were brushed aside

Meanwhile, questions are being raised about prior incidents within the family. The NOS  revealed that several reports of domestic violence had been filed through Veilig Thuis, the Dutch domestic violence hotline. 

Adding to the concerns, police had visited Bijl’s home the night before the tragic event.

The children’s mother had expressed fear that he might harm them, but officers who responded reportedly found no cause for action at the time, according to Dagblad van het Noorden.

As investigators continue to piece together the timeline, the community’s support for Jeffrey and Emma stands as a poignant reminder of the kindness people can show in the darkest of times.

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Watch out! Dutch travellers to France could face up to €540 in driving fines

Federica Marconi
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Watch out! Dutch travellers to France could face up to €540 in driving fines

Dutch holidaymakers beware: if you’re heading to France, keep both eyes on the road and your wallets, because these new speed cameras are no joke.

France is rolling out AI-powered cameras, and your summer trip could become a very expensive affair. Let’s see why. 👀

Say bonjour to the camera 

The days of simply slowing down for a speed camera are over.

The French automobile union, 40 Millions d’automobilistes, revealed that these smart cameras use artificial intelligence to detect driving errors and can fine you for up to four offences in one snap.

They’ll be checking your speed, phone use, seat belt, and whether you’re tailgating — all at once.

A-person-driving-while-looking-at-the-phone-on-the-motorway
No more low-key texting behind the wheel. Image: Dreamstime

And yes, that could mean a whopping  €540 in one go… talk about a souvenir no one asked for. 💸

The French government is pumping €46.3 million into expanding and upgrading the system, with at least 500 multitasking machines set to go live soon, mostly in cities.

READ MORE: Dutch Quirk #66: Go camping in France for the holidays

So, if you’re cruising through Lyon or Marseille, don’t even think about checking Google Maps without a hands-free setup. 📵

Road safety or just a cash machine?

Not everyone’s clinking champagne glasses over this update.

As 40 Millions d’automobilistes says, these radars are more about euros than ethics.

Their concern? The wrong driver might get fined. Think about someone who’s cut off and can’t maintain a safe distance, yet still ends up with a fine. Fair? Nee. Profitable? Absoluut. 💰

The association argues that what’s needed is more real police on the road, not AI playing judge, jury, and executioner. 

But hey, it’s 2025 — the robots have taken over our emails, art, and now, apparently, our parking tickets. 🫣

What do you think — smart safety upgrade or sneaky tourist tax? Will these AI cams keep roads safer, or just wallets lighter?

You’ll soon have to pay to enter this iconic Dutch tourist destination

Emanuela Occhipinti
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You’ll soon have to pay to enter this iconic Dutch tourist destination

Starting next year, tourists will have to fork out €17.50 for the privilege of visiting the Zaanse Schans – one of Holland’s prettiest postcards comes to life.

This open-air museum may look like a peaceful 19th-century dream, but behind the clogs and windmills lies a modern dilemma: almost 2.6 million visitors a year and not enough money to keep the mills turning. 

According to the NOS, the Zaanstad city council has decided it’s time to start charging at the door.

A price tag for open air?

The crowds are thick, and yet the local municipality is struggling to scrape together enough funds to maintain its beautiful old mills. An entry fee of €17.50 could solve this dilemma. But how would this even look in practice? 

At a debate on Tuesday night, one proposal was to adopt no physical fences. Instead, visitors would buy a ticket from a machine and show it when asked. 

This would let locals enter freely while keeping the site ticket-controlled for others.

But now, controversy swirls faster than a windmill blade. 

The proposed entry fee has sparked a heated debate between the municipality, residents, and neighbours — none of whom seem to agree on whether charging visitors is a brilliant idea or utter blasphemy.

Parked campers and frayed tempers

Tourism professor Jan van der Borg is firmly in the “it’s too crowded” camp. “Then it’s just too busy,” he tells NPO Radio 1.

“Local residents experience a lot of parking nuisance. It is completely closed and in surrounding neighborhoods people park their campers on your driveway.” (No word yet on whether they at least bring stroopwafels.)

Meanwhile, windmill operators point out that many parts of the Schans – like some of the mills – already charge entry. Why slap a price tag on the whole thing?

READ MORE | The ultimate guide to the Zaanse Schans: visiting the windmills of Holland

Photographer Daan Engels passionately defends free access: “The Zaanse Schans is a living heritage,” he says. “Not a closed-off amusement park like the Efteling!”

Opponents of the fee have rallied under the catchy slogan “Hou de Zaanse Schans open” – “Keep the Zaanse Schans open” and asked for a referendum.

While the council has made their decision, this could (hopefully) change things.  

Have you ever visited Zaanse Schans? If not, are you planning to go, especially now that they might start charging for entry? Let us know in the comments below!

€6 for a cheese sandwich: Your KLM flight might be about to get more expensive onboard

Federica Marconi
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1
€6 for a cheese sandwich: Your KLM flight might be about to get more expensive onboard

The Dutch airline aims to pull in €120 million this year through changes such as paid catering. That broodje kaas? It’s going to cost you a pretty penny.  

According to De Telegraaf, although nothing is confirmed, a recent trial gave passengers a preview, and it didn’t exactly scream luxury. 🙃

Gourmet vibes? More like economy snacks

Once upon a flight, you could count on a free cheese sandwich or pastry and even a glass of wine to make that short European hop feel a little more first class. 

Under KLM’s latest trial? That cheese sandwich is €6, the meatball bun is €5, and a half-litre of water, yes, just water, costs €3.50. 👀

@fotobellissimo You're so wrong for this one @KLM Royal Dutch Airlines #EUtok #worldtok #travel #fyp ♬ What Was I Made For – Andrea Vanzo

Passengers on the trial flight weren’t thrilled. For an airline known for its smooth transfers and full-service image, paying mid-flight felt off-brand.

Frequent flyer Luuk van de Paal tells De Telegraaf: “If you also have to pay for a trolley, KLM will no longer have much added value. Ryanair will win that battle because of cheaper tickets.” Ouch.

KLM says no final decision has been made, but with €120 million needed for 2025, the seatbelt sign is on. ✈️

Not a budget airline (but acting like it)

“KLM is certainly not a budget airline,” insists Chris Van Elswijk, the cabin crew union leader, speaking to De Telegraaf.

But it’s hard to keep that crown on straight when cutting perks, charging for basics, and serving €6 sandwiches. 👑

READ MORE | Got travel plans? Well…KLM is canceling flights DAILY over the coming weeks

Adding to the turbulence, more than ten long-haul flights were recently cancelled due to maintenance issues, while ticket prices keep climbing.

What do you think, dear flyers? Would you pay €6 for a “Royal” airline sandwich, or do you team “give me Ryanair and my dignity”? Let us know in the comments. 👇

This immersive art experience lets you discover the greatest Dutch artists in a whole new light

Beatrice Scali 🇮🇹
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This immersive art experience lets you discover the greatest Dutch artists in a whole new light

Who said that paintings need to be stuck on walls, confined within the restrictive boundaries of a frame? Certainly not Fabrique des Lumières!

Our visit to this innovative Amsterdam art centre showed us a one-of-a-kind museum: one where art is immersive, engaging, and accessible — instead of just admired from a distance. 

Curious to know more? Let us introduce you to the magical world of Fabrique des Lumières.

What is Fabrique des Lumières? 

Fabrique des Lumières means “factory of lights” in French, and it’s a digital art centre that hosts immersive art exhibitions featuring moving images and music. 

Using light, sound, and art, the exhibitions transport you into different worlds — be it by breathing life into the brushstrokes of artists like Van Gogh and Monet or by letting you get up close to the vastness of outer space.

Since 2022, the mesmerising art centre has been welcoming visitors from all over the world to a former gas factory in Amsterdam West, the historical Westergasfabriek.

While its wide walls are easily turned into a canvas where artwork can be projected, sound travels freely and evenly, allowing you to enjoy the carefully curated soundtrack accompanying each show.

What’s on right now?

A visit to Fabrique des Lumières usually features three exhibitions: a big one, lasting over half an hour, and two shorter ones, making the entire experience last about an hour.

As the shows may vary across days and timeslots, we recommend you check the centre’s program beforehand. (Or, you can just show up and let the exhibitions surprise you. 😉)

Too curious to wait? Here’s a sneak peek of what’s on right now.👇

Meet the Dutch Masters, from Vermeer to Van Gogh

photo-of-van-gogh-exhibition-at-fabrique-des-lumieres
It’s hard not to be moved when these amazing colours are paired with music. ❤️ Image: Fabrique des Lumières

The first of the big exhibitions currently on display is all about the Dutch classics.

Think big names like Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh, but also many others — for a total of over 325 artworks by about 50 different painters.

READ NEXT | Forgotten women painters of the Dutch Renaissance and Golden Age

The show is a true voyage through time, taking you on an exciting journey through Dutch history. In less than an hour, you will be transported to a charming Dutch village, to the middle of the sea in the eye of a raging storm, and to a bright, melancholy sunflower field. 🌻

While the main event unfolds in the big Hall, a small side room offers a slideshow featuring details about the paintings projected outside, giving you the chance for an informative break from the main show if any of the artworks spark your curiosity.

Dive into the colourful world of Mondriaan

original-photo-of-mondriaan-exhibition-at-fabrique-des-lumiere
Mondriaan switches up the mood. 🔴🔵🟡 Image: Fabrique des Lumières

There is something for modern art lovers included in your ticket as well. The exhibition dedicated to Mondriaan is one of the shorter ones, but in just a few minutes, it immerses visitors in a completely different atmosphere.

Forget the nostalgia of the Dutch masters, and make way for the hustle and bustle of modern life: think New York, skyscrapers, and Mondriaan’s colourful shapes and lines, all paired with some warm, lively jazz. 🎨

👀 Pro tip: For an enhanced experience, we recommend enjoying this exhibition while sitting or lying down in one of the Hall’s two small rooms covered in mirrors — thank us later. 

Ready to dive into art?

Have we captured your curiosity? The Dutch Masters, from Vermeer to Van Gogh + Mondriaan can be enjoyed together at Fabrique des Lumières.

Tickets start at just €14 and can be bought at the entrance or online, where you can also find more detailed information about how to get there, working hours, and accessibility. 

📍 Location: Pazzanistraat 37, 1014 DB Amsterdam
🎟️ Ticket price: Between €14 and €18 (free for children under 5) 
⏰ Opening times: Every day from 9:45 AM to 10:40 AM

Have you been to Fabrique des Lumières before? Tell us all about your art travels in the comments below. 

Finally! EU majority supports Dutch push for Israel investigation

Emanuela Occhipinti
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Finally! EU majority supports Dutch push for Israel investigation

After several long months, the EU is finally taking a stand against Israel and the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Here’s what we know! 👇

Earlier this month, the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs suggested an investigation into Israel’s activities in the region. Initially, support didn’t come easily. (Ja, we’re looking at you, Germany. 👀)

Now, backed by the support of 16 EU member states, the Dutch proposal has finally been accepted and greenlit by the Foreign Policy Chief, Kaja Kallas. A minor diplomatic win, but an important one, nonetheless!

Dutch initiative gains EU support

While the investigation might seem like a small step, Kysia Hekster, the NOS’ EU correspondent, notes that it has special significance. 👇

Why? Well, “because it comes from the Netherlands, which is seen as one of Israel’s most loyal allies,” she explains.

READ MORE | Largest protest in 20 years: Thousands gather in The Hague to march against government’s stance on Israel

Hekster also added that it “shows how terrible the situation in Gaza is, that more and more countries are permeated by it and that they are now really saying: the European Union must also take action.”

Minister Veldkamp is of a similar mind, telling the NOS that Israel’s blockade of aid supplies to Gaza “is against international humanitarian law”.

He added that until the proposed investigation is carried out, the Netherlands will use its veto power to block negotiations in the EU–Israel cooperation agreement.

Humanitarian law under the spotlight

Human rights organisations around the world have long argued that Israel is guilty of violations of international humanitarian law, or even of committing genocide.

READ MORE | The Netherlands threatens sanctions against Israel over potential Rafah land attack

Eve Geddie, Director of Amnesty International’s European Institutions Office, stated: “While this is a welcome first step, it also comes devastatingly late. The extent of human suffering in Gaza for the past 19 months has been unimaginable. Israel is committing genocide in Gaza with chilling impunity.”

Do you believe this could lead to real change? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below! 👇

Goodbye, Brexit chaos: Here’s how you’ll benefit from the new UK-EU agreement

Federica Marconi
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Goodbye, Brexit chaos: Here’s how you’ll benefit from the new UK-EU agreement

The UK and EU have finally struck a deal to clean up some of Brexit’s lingering mess, and the Netherlands is about to feel the difference.

After years of customs queues, confusing rules, and general frustration, change is finally in the air.

The Trade and Cooperation Agreement, as reported by the European Commission, is set to make things easier and faster.

But what does that mean for you? Let’s have a look. 👇

Bye-bye border chaos

Post-Brexit trade was a headache, but things are finally looking up. The UK is aligning its import rules with the EU’s, cutting red tape for goods and making the British market worth considering again.

Some of the biggest winners? Travellers! EU citizens can use e-passport gates at UK airports, and Heathrow queues may finally return to a human length.

photo-of-travellers-during-brexit-passport-control-London
With any luck, airport lines will start looking less like a glitch in the matrix. Image: Depositphotos

Fun fact: Even your dog can now cross the channel without needing a whole heap of paperwork.

Since the UK is once again recognising EU animal health rules, there’s no need for a vet-issued passport or vaccination certificate. 🐾

Powering down your energy bill

You don’t need to trade with the UK to feel this change. New energy agreements mean Dutch households may soon see lower electricity prices. 💪

READ MORE | 14 dang smart ways to save on energy costs in the Netherlands

As part of the deal, the UK will import nuclear energy from France, while EU countries gain access to British reserves.

Both sides are also investing in wind farms in the North Sea, a move expected to deliver more stable, greener, and affordable power. ⚡

Studying in the UK has become easier

Students, take note. The UK is rejoining Erasmus+, which will make access to British universities more affordable.

Until that’s in place, the Youth Experience Scheme will ease visa access for young Dutch citizens who want to work or study in the UK for a set period. 

@itvpolitics The UK and EU have agreed in principle to work on a youth mobility scheme #politics @itvnews ♬ original sound – ITV Politics

It’s designed to open doors for travel, education, and cultural exchange on both sides of the Channel.

Although the €20,000 tuition fee still applies for non-EU students, Erasmus+ is expected to change that and will eventually make a Dutch student card your all-access pass to British campuses. 🎓

Defence gets a boost

The deal also strengthens Europe’s defence strategy.

The UK will contribute to the European Fund for Rearmament and invest in new weapons systems, reducing the pressure on EU budgets.

Even more crucially, British intelligence will be shared with Brussels — a valuable tool for fighting cross-border crime.

For the Netherlands, that means extra muscle in tackling international drug trafficking.

So, are we finally moving on? Is this the Brexit clean-up we needed — or too little, too late? Drop your thoughts below. 💬

Bodies found in Groningen canal confirmed to be those of missing children

Liana Risseeuw 🇱🇰
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Bodies found in Groningen canal confirmed to be those of missing children

Following yesterday’s discovery, the search for missing Jeffrey (10) and Emma (8) has come to a devastating end.

Shortly after midnight on May 20, Winschoten police recovered a submerged car from a canal near the Renselweg in the province of Groningen.

Inside, they found bodies. Police now confirm that the bodies belong to the missing children, as well as their father, who was suspected of having kidnapped them.

Police have now made a positive ID

Jeffrey and Emma were last seen in their father’s grey Toyota Avensis on Saturday afternoon.

photo-of-Toyota-avensis-car-believed-to-have-been-used-to-take-missing-Groningen-children
The car in question: a silver-grey Toyota Avensis. Image: Politie.nl/Press Release

Following the discovery of a disturbing letter penned by their father, Klaas Bijl (67), police released an Amber Alert, believing the children to be in “mortal danger”.

This Amber Alert has now been lifted, as the three bodies in the car were confirmed to belong to Jeffrey, Emma, and their father.

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Max Verstappen is now the second highest-paid Formula 1 driver in the world

Emanuela Occhipinti
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0
Max Verstappen is now the second highest-paid Formula 1 driver in the world

According to Forbes’ 2025 list of the world’s highest-paid athletes, Max Vertsappen, our favourite flying Dutchman (well, Dutch-Belgian to be exact) is the second highest earning Formula 1 driver in the world, right below Lewis Hamilton.

The 27-year-old bagged a casual $78 million over the past 12 months — just $2 million shy of Hamilton.

Where’s all that money coming from? Unsurprisingly, the largest portion ($72 million) is thanks to his salary and bonuses from Red Bull, the Formula 1 team he’s been racing with since 2016. 

The remaining $6 million? That’s from endorsements and commercial deals. Not a bad side hustle!

Finishing among the top 50

Verstappen’s success on the track has landed him in 24th place among 50 of the world’s highest-earning athletes. 

This year, the bar to break into the top 50 has shot up — athletes needed to earn at least $53.6 million, a significant jump from last year’s $45.2 million (which, let’s be honest, still sounds like Monopoly money to most of us).

Add it all up, and the top 50 athletes pulled in a jaw-dropping $4.23 billion this year — up from $3.88 billion in 2024. Yes, billion with a B.

READ MORE | Orange fever: could Verstappen boost Dutch performance in F1?

So no, Max Verstappen isn’t number one — but 24th in the world and $78 million richer? That’s still a podium-worthy finish.

When did success hit?

Max Verstappen’s career didn’t just take off — it exploded onto the scene. He began his journey in Formula 1 in astonishing fashion, becoming the youngest person ever to compete in an F1 race at just 17 years old. 

@just.a.random.f1.fan

Du du du duh max verstappen du du duh #maxverstappen #formula1 #f1tiktok #f1 #edit #maxverstappen33

♬ 33 Max Verstappen – Carte Blanq & Maxx Power

And he didn’t stop there — he made history again by becoming the youngest-ever F1 race winner at 18 years and 228 days old, claiming victory at the Spanish Grand Prix in 2016. Talk about an early bloomer.

What do you think, is Max Verstappen worth $78 million? Let us know in the comments!

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