Remember those fast, eco-friendly, smooth train journeys connecting the Netherlands to London, Brussels, and Paris? From 2025, you may have to bid adieu to them: Eurostar is threatening to leave the Netherlands.
The warning comes directly from the top: in a letter on the Het Financieele Dagblad, Eurostar’s CEO Gwendoline Cazenave explained why the company’s Dutch operations may be approaching their final stop.
Too many disruptions
The main reason for the impending divorce is simple: Eurostar is fed up with the constant disruptions of the Dutch rail network — relatable, right?
Despite the many ambitious renovation projects currently underway, the Netherlands’ rail infrastructure is “in decline,” writes Cazenave.
The result? On some Eurostar routes, trains are forced to reduce their speed from 160 to 80 kilometres per hour, meaning passengers face delays in their journey.
As you can imagine, travellers are not happy, and neither is Eurostar management.
Never-ending construction work
Endless construction work is also a problem. Specifically, renovations at Amsterdam Centraal are the biggest worry in Eurostar’s metallic heart.
The renovations, which previously caused the suspension of the Amsterdam-London service, are meant to be completed by early 2025. Eurostar, however, is sceptical on whether that will be the case.
Moreover, even if everything goes according to plan, the service will soon be disrupted again: more renovations are planned for the spring, which may limit the availability of longer tracks, possibly disrupting the service to Paris as well this time.
At this rate, Dutch Eurostar services may never see another spring. 👀
What’s the next stop?
With many regular passengers relying on Eurostar trains for their commute or important business trips, the company cannot afford to watch the quality of its Dutch services deteriorate any further.
Currently, therefore, the only thing moving at high speed is the company itself, and it’s heading right out of the Netherlands.
However, Cazenave’s letter leaves some space for hope: the historical and logistical centrality of the Netherlands to the company is undeniable, meaning that Eurostar will strive to avoid its Nexit as much as possible.
Would you be affected by Eurostar discontinuing its Dutch operations? Tell us about it in the comments below.
In the Zaanse Schans, you can experience what life was like back in the 18th and 19th centuries — full of life, windmills, and shops. We all know you’ve come for the windmills, though.😉
When you go to the Zaanse Schans, you’ll be greeted by 11 different windmills and people’s beautiful little Dutch houses (yup, people still live there).
Check out these traditional Dutch windmills! Image: Depositphotos
Not only that, but also lots of little shops, a bakery, cafés, a cheese factory, souvenir shops, and a clog warehouse. As a result, tourists flock to the area (so be aware — it gets busy). It’s like a mini traditional Dutch village, a just short train ride from Amsterdam.
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What to do in the Zaanse Schans
There’s enough to do in the Zaanse Schans that you can easily spend a whole day there. You can also combine this top spot with a trip to another iconic Dutch destination, like exploring the canal town of Giethoorn.
However, while you’re there, here are the things you won’t want to miss:
The windmills at the Zaanse Schans
There are 11 different windmills that you can explore in the Zaanse Schans. Here’s a brief outline of what they all are:
De Huisman: A spice warehouse where you can taste different spices
De Gekroonde Poelenburg: A centuries-old wood sawmill
De Kat: A paint mill where you can watch demonstrations
De Zoeker: An oil, paint, and cocoa mill
Het Jonge Schaap: A unique wood sawmill replica
De Bonte Hen: An oil mill which has been running since 1693!
De Os: A windmill that was later transformed into a diesel-powered mill
Het Klaverblad: A small wood workshop mill
De Bleeke Dood: The oldest smock mill in the Netherlands, used to mill flour
De Ooievaar: An old oil mill that was moved to the Zaan area
Mini-mills on the Schans: Miniature windmills that were used to pump water from the polder
Your Instagram feed is going to love you! 📸
The museums at Zaanse Schans
An iconic historical destination like Zaanse Schans is naturally jam-packed with incredible, one-of-a-kind museums.
TIP: Want to get the most out of your trip? The Zaanse Schans Card gives you access to nine different attractions in Zaanse Schans, making it the best way to see it all. Find out more.
The Zaans Museum and the Verkade Experience
When you first arrive in Zaanse Schans, you’ll notice a large museum. This is the Zaans Museum, which teaches the history of the area, the windmills, and trade.
One of the trades of the area that you can learn all about (and taste) is biscuits and chocolate (yum!) since it’s the spot where famous Verkade girls made their treats.
It’s a very interactive and modern museum, helping you to truly enjoy learning about the area — and then you can go out and see it for yourself.
You can even operate the chocolate machine in the museum. (Now we’re talking!)
The Zaanse Time Museum
The museum houses many different Dutch timepieces that tell the story of the Zaanse Schans through beautiful old clocks that’ll chime on the hour, every hour.
Here you’ll learn about Dutch clockwork history from the 16th century. There are plenty of different things to see, as well as learn about their scientific and design history.
The Albert Heijn Museum Shop
It’s hard to believe (we know), but Dutch grocery behemoth Albert Heijn started out as a single, small shop.
Tell a Dutchie that you know all about the first Albert Heijn ever; they’re sure to be left impressed! Image: Depositphotos
Albert Heijn took over the shop from his parents in 1887, when he was just 21 years old. It was nothing like it is today.
In this museum, you can see a reconstruction of the original shop, stocked with the items that were sold at the time. Discover the roots of the Dutchies’ favourite store, unknown by many today.
The Jisper House
The Jisper house is an old fisherman’s cottage, as it would have stood in the village of Jisp back in the 1850s.
Here, you can explore the cute little cottage and even dress up in traditional local costumes and have your photo taken — selfies at the ready!
The Bakery Museum de Gecroonde Duyvekater
As you walk through the Zaans Schans, the smell of Dutch treats will tempt you right into the bakery museum. The house that this bakery is located in has been around since 1658 (yep, wow!).
You’ll learn all about traditional Dutch culture on a day trip to the Zaanse Schans near Amsterdam. Image: Depositphotos
This bakery is not just a museum; it is actually in use! This means that… you can try out and buy some delicious traditional Dutch baked goods. 🤤
You can taste Duivekater, a famous sweet bread from Zaanse and other originals, as well as more modern baked goods.
If you want an excuse to chow down on some even more delicious Dutch snacks, then here’s your chance. 😉
The Windmill Museum
If you just can’t get enough of those adorable Dutch windmills, head to the Windmill Museum!
At the windmill museum, you’ll be able to interact with the exhibitions and learn all about what life working in a windmill was actually like.
From rotating exhibitions, films, and an interactive model with 1,100 windmills — you’ll be sucked into the charming world of the Zaanse Schans for hours.
The Honig Breethuis
At the Honig Breethuis, you can jump into the lives of a Dutch merchant family in the 1830s.
The Honig Breethuis is located on the other side of the water, across from the windmills. Image: Depositphotos
Beautifully painted wallpapers and old-fashioned furniture will tell you all about the lives of the former inhabitants of the impressive traditional Dutch home.
Besides the wood detailing of the furniture and the gold accents on the walls, keep an eye out for special gems — like the old ornate fireplace.
How to see the Zaanse Schans
There are many ways to get around the Zaanse Schans — whether you prefer walking, cycling, or hopping on a boat. 👇
Cycling around the Zaanse Schans
Cycling at the Zaanse Schans is possible (we’re in the Netherlands, after all), so it’s good news if you want to take your fiets for a spin.
No bike? No worries! You can rent bicycles at the Zaanse Schans if you’re bike-less.
You won’t be the only one on a bike! Image: Dreamstime
There are bike tours and different cycling routes you can take throughout the area, so it’s the perfect place to go on a sunny day.
In the height of summer, it gets really busy along these routes, though, so beware of grandmas zooming down the paths on their e-bikes.
Going for a walk at Zaanse Schans
Just looking for somewhere nice to go for a walk in Holland? Well, the Zaansche Schans is the perfect place! Strolling around and exploring most of the windmill area is completely free.
Walk between the small Dutch houses and on the cute bridges in the traditional village. Image: Depositphotos
There are also theatrical walks if you’re looking for something a bit different. A guide in Zaan costume will show you around the area, where you will learn all about the history, food, and culture.
They may even let you in on some of the 1850s gossip. And thankfully, these tours are also available in English if your Dutch isn’t up to scratch.
Hop on a boat through the Zaanse Schans
Really want to get the most out of your visit to the Zaanse Schans? Hop in on one of the many boats that sail on the River Zaan, or take a boat tour!
Feel the wind in your hair and smell the freshness of the water, all while learning from a guide about the beautiful sights around you.
The Zaanse Schans oozes quintessential Dutchness, and it’s a perfect destination for a day trip from Amsterdam or any other Dutch city. You won’t regret it!
Have you ever been to Zaanse Schans? Tell us in the comments below!
At around 8 PM last night, a fatal stabbing took place in Rotterdam near the Erasmus Bridge.
The incident, which happened around Willemsplein, left one dead. The perpetrator and another person were left seriously wounded.
A trauma helicopter and several ambulances were called to the location, and both were transported to the hospital. The suspect has been arrested.
Here’s what we know
According to the AD, eyewitnesses saw the suspect swinging around himself with a knife, attacking people who were walking near him.
He was clearly out to make many victims, witnesses say, and he shouted “Allahu Akbar” (God is greatest) as the incident was going on.
While police are taking this information into account, they cannot yet say whether they suspect this to be an act of terrorism.
The perpetrator stabbed his first victim in the parking garage under the bridge, and the second one after walking upstairs onto the bridge. The latter didn’t survive.
Overpowered by personal trainer
The situation was de-escalated by a man named Reniël Renato David Litecia, a personal kickboxing trainer who was training a client nearby.
Their session was suddenly interrupted when a man fell over the railing of the Erasmus Bridge while screams sounded in the background and people started running in panic.
With a stick he uses for training, Reniël went after the suspect and hit him in the face. He and other bystanders held the suspect down until police arrived at the scene.
The investigation is ongoing
The police have begun their investigation into the stabbing, but they have not yet made statements regarding the identity of the victims or the suspect.
The police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the events of last night to contact them.
The suspect will be further interviewed today, to get a more complete picture of events.
What do monkeys, loose teeth and drastic haircuts have in common? Well, they all feature in the most bizarre and humorous Dutch idioms, of course!
Trying to find literal meaning in these words will have you “running around like a headless chicken”, so below is a breakdown of what the Dutch mean when they hit you with one of the following expressions.
“Wie boter op zijn hoofd heeft, moet uit de zon blijven”
“Anyone who has butter on their head must stay out of the sun.”
If the Dutch walk around with butter on their heads, they obviously do it in the privacy of their own homes because I don’t know of anyone who has seen this phenomenon in real life.
Is this a Dutchie’s secret haircare product? 🤔 Image: Freepik
Although a bizarre mental image, this idiom does not have anything to do with strange Dutch hair traditions. It actually means that you should not judge someone if you have faults as well.
This idiom is similar to the English one “don’t throw stones if you live in a glass house”, but also acts as advice to anyone wanting to venture outside with butter on their heads.
“Met de mond vol tanden staan”
“To sit with your mouth full of teeth.”
While this saying brings to mind nightmares of teeth falling out uncontrollably, it actually has nothing to do with dental health issues.
This idiom is the twin of the English one “to be tongue-tied” or, in simple terms, to be left absolutely speechless.
There seems to be no other meaning underneath this odd saying unless taken literally: if you truly detest peanut butter, this is the idiom for you.
“Weten waar Abraham de mosterd haalt”
“To know where Abraham gets the mustard from.”
Who is Abraham, and why does he get all the mustard?
Unfortunately, this idiom has nothing to do with food, but instead means to know how something works, to be well-informed on something or keep up to date.
Apparently, the phrase originated from the Old Testament when Abraham gathers firewood in preparation for his son’s sacrifice.
Firewood, known then as “mustaards”, evolved into the word “mosterd” which we see in the above idiom.
“Alsof er een engeltje over je tong piest”
“As if an angel pisses on your tongue.”
Not the most appetising compliment, but a compliment no less! Image: Freepik
In line with the theme of religion, this rather crude expression is actually one of high praise.
If you find the food you’re eating to be absolutely divine, tell the cook that the meal is heavenly and tastes as great as angel pee — which must, apparently, taste pretty good too.
“Nu komt de aap uit de mouw!”
“Now the monkey comes out of the sleeve!”
With the Dutch being among the top 10 nations for animal welfare, it’s obvious that they do not, in fact, go around with monkeys hidden up their sleeves.
There was a time, however, when monkeys were hidden in the long sleeves of magicians and tricksters to appear at unexpected moments and scare the audience.
One interpretation of this idiom “keeping the monkey up the sleeve” means to hide one’s tricks and devious aims.
The Dutch don’t monkey around when it comes to thinking up idioms! Image: Freepik
Another interpretation is that the monkey represents one’s true character, and when it “comes out the sleeve”, one’s true character is revealed. This is similar to the English “letting the cat out of the bag” meaning exposing the surprise.
“Iemand met apenmunt betalen”
“Pay someone with monkey coin.”
Let’s leave discussing the Dutch tendency to use monkeys in their idioms for another time, and instead, determine what it means to pay someone with monkey coin.
This saying is similar to the English idiom of “paying someone with monopoly money”, which, regardless of how much you have at the end of a Monopoly, doesn’t hold much value in the real world.
Ultimately, it means to fool someone with nice words or placate them with compliments instead of paying them back what is owed.
“Ben je van de trap gevallen?”
“Did you fall down the stairs?”
If someone is feeling ill and might not be looking so good, this is the expression you use to politely tell them to go lie down and rest.
Or so you’d think. In fact, you only say this to someone if they have just gotten a drastic haircut that is (really) not the greatest.
You’re like this — but far less glamorous. Image: Pexels.
The extended-expression is “hij is van de trap gevallen en heeft zijn haar gebroken” which translates to “he fell down the stairs and broke his hair.”
Perhaps this is not the best answer to give your girlfriend when she asks you if you notice anything different about her.
“Ik zal dat varkentje wel even wassen”
“I’ll wash that little piglet.”
Again with the animals! That image of a sweet little piglet in a teacup comes to mind, but this saying has nothing to do with the hygiene of cute animals.
This idiom simply means that you will take care of something and do the job well. I don’t know how that connection was made, either.
“Het Spaans benauwd krijgen”
“Getting stuffy in Spanish.”
Are the Spanish a stuffy nation? This isn’t a rhetorical question. Are they actually stuffy?
Well, why else would the Dutch imply stuffiness with the flamboyant Spanish nation? This idiom actually refers to feeling anxious or fearful.
Well, TIL that the Dutch think the Spanish are an anxious lot. 👀 Image: Depositphotos
Apparently, to be “Spanish” is not only a geographical and cultural indicator, but “Spaans” also means to be hard and cruel. Go figure.
Looking to impress some Dutchies with your brand new Dutch skills and words in the near or distant future? Why don’t you ask them “ben je van de trap gevallen?” or perhaps it’s best to start with a simple “Helaas pindakaas.”
Do you know any other fun Dutch idioms? Tell us some of your favourites in the comments below!
Last Thursday, The Hague’s municipality passed a law to ban fossil fuel advertising in public spaces — becoming the first city in the world to do this.
The law was proposed by the Party for the Animals (PvdD), one of the six centre-left parties forming the coalition currently governing The Hague city council.
Despite receiving widespread criticism from the opposition parties, it eventually passed by a narrow vote of 24 in favour to 21 against, the NOS reports.
What this means
What will this law change in practice?
Well, from now on, when you’re out and about in “Agga”, you won’t see advertising for fossil fuel products and services with a high carbon footprint anymore.
That includes, for example, billboard ads for petrol and diesel, the cars that run on them, cruises, long flights, and polluting energy contracts.
The move is meant to help redirect consumer behaviour towards more climate-friendly practices by reducing the visibility and normalisation of highly polluting activities.
In simpler terms: monkey see, monkey do — so let’s make sure we’re not all looking at pollution porn.
Fierce discussion
Before eventually passing by a narrow majority, the law faced quite a lot of criticism, especially from opposition parties such as the VVD, Hart voor Den Haag and PVV.
Some of their concerns reflected a fundamental difference in approaches to tackling climate change, with the opposition implying that the law would be perceived as the municipality “finger-wagging” at residents.
Other concerns were more legal in nature, pointing to possible legal retaliation by the affected companies and whether this law impinges on freedom of speech.
According to PvdA politician Robert Barker, however, the law has been adjusted to avoid these legal pitfalls.
For instance, it only bans fossil fuel companies from advertising their high-carbon products and services publicly, but it doesn’t stop them from doing so on their premises or from spreading other kinds of messaging using their names and logos.
A pioneering decision
The Hague is not the first city to consider such a proposal: indeed, other cities, including the Dutch municipalities of Zwolle, Amsterdam, and Eindhoven, have also moved in this direction.
However, The Hague is a pioneer in implementing the law into local legislation.
Do you think more cities should follow in the The Hague’s footsteps? Let us know in the comments below.
With the announcement of next year’s budget comes many changes — among these, include changes to your annual income. So, how much do you stand to gain (or lose) next year?
That depends — do you earn an average or minimum wage?
Enjoy an average income? Congrats, you earn more
According to HR service provider Visma, the new cabinet’s plans will see those who earn an average salary, which this year was calculated at €3,433.68 per month, enjoy a monthly increase of €42.91.
That’s enough to cover the cost of roughly two extra iced coffees. 😯
Meanwhile, those who earn twice the average income (a casual €6,867.28 per month) will have an extra €56.58 per month to blow their nose with.
Earning minimum wage? You may actually lose money…
As for those who could really do with an extra few euro a month? Well, only some may see their monthly income increase…
Should the current minimum hourly wage of €13.68 remain the same next year, some workers will gain money, while others will lose money. This depends on the hours worked:
If you work 36 hours per week, you will see your net salary decrease by €4.75 per month, earning a monthly salary of €2059.08.
If you work 38 hours per week, your salary will increase by €16.75 per month, bringing your monthly salary to €2150.05.
If you work 40 hours per week, your salary will increase by €24.58 per month, bringing your monthly salary to €2229.19.
Visma is quick to point out that while these changes will affect your monthly income, how your overall purchasing power in 2025 is affected depends on other measures taken by the Dutch cabinet.
As an international, once you get past the most obvious things that differ from what you‘re used to, you start to develop a sixth sense when it comes to detecting strange stuff that goes on around you —and let me tell you, it’s fun!
Here is a list of just five weird things I found after careful observation of the Dutchies and their beautiful country. 👇
1. Schoolbags on flagpoles
A couple of months ago, I kept running into schoolbags on flagpoles in random houses and I couldn’t help but wonder what it meant.
Was it a secret code for something? Did they run out of space inside? It wasn’t long before I found out it’s a Dutch tradition that takes place in early June when the school year is over.
Apparently, if a high school senior lives in a house that happens to have a flagpole, they shall hang out their schoolbag as a sign that they passed all their final exams, and thus, are graduating!
It represents throwing their bag out the window, quite literally, because it’s no longer needed. Very oddly cute!
2. Bikes being used to move a house
I have seen some pretty badass cycling during my time in the Netherlands, like the super mom or dad who carries four children in a bakfiets.
What I really did not see coming was all the other solo bike activities Dutchies do, like carrying stuff I would honestly never have imagined. Here is a short list:
a ladder
a chair
a surfboard
really heavy and big flowerpots
their pets (this is probably the “most normal”)
and how about another bike on the side just rolling as they go?
Biking (while carrying literally anything) is synonymous with Dutch culture! Image: Depositphotos
Even if these bike-riding Dutchies aren’t carrying anything, they like to put their hands behind their back — because who needs to have a good grip on the vehicle they’re operating?
3. Brood met kaas every damn day
The love for cheese in this country is not a secret to anyone unless you live under a rock. That being said, I didn’t expect Dutchies to eat the yellow stuff with bread every day for lunch.
A classic boterham with cheese, a Dutch lunch delicacy. Image: Takeaway/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0
I mean, I understand a sandwich is a good idea when you’re in a hurry or don’t have any time to cook — but that is so not the case here. The tall people from the land of endless canals simply don’t understand life without a good brood met kaas in the middle of the day.
Is eating that much dairy good for you? Plus, there’s nothing like a nice home-cooked warm meal, right?
4. A random girl on stickers plastered throughout the cities
This is one of the strangest ones. I live in The Hague and noticed that almost everywhere I went (downtown, the beach, and the suburbs), there was a sticker with what appears to be some type of yearbook-style picture of a young blonde girl.
I mean, who is this girl? Why is she all over the city and occasionally found in other Dutch (and even international) locations?
The answer has yet to be confirmed but I found one theory that says some guy thought it would be funny to print a hundred stickers of his sister just to mess with her, and so he did.
I later found out this girl is all grown up now and has an Instagram account (@hetzusje), where she visits the sticker theme and you can even DM her for stickers. I mean, c’mon, how weird is that? You can’t make this stuff up!
5. Curtains that are wide open (or no curtains at all)
I will admit this isn’t the first time I visit this topic but I keep coming back to it because it blows my mind time and time again.
The Netherlands, a curtainless country. Image: Unsplash
I think it’s a combination of “we have nothing to hide” and “everyone keeps their eyes on their own business”. Of course, that’s not entirely the case for impressionable internationals — it’s very hard not to look inside.
What are some of the weirdest things you have discovered during your time in the Netherlands?Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
The idea of living in the Netherlands can be magical: spinning windmills, winding bike paths, healthy work-life balance, and progressive culture.
But sometimes, being an international in the Netherlands isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Living in a new country can be a great experience — but it can also take a significant toll on your mental health.
Everything will be new, shiny, and idyllic. You may experience the odd bit of homesickness, but there will likely be enough excitement to keep you going.
Back home, your life will likely appear glamorous and cosmopolitan: living in Europe, drinking coffee on terraces, meeting new friends from across the globe, and hanging with locals.
You’re living in a new, sustainable, innovative, and historical country and living a dream life — what could go wrong?
The darker side of being an expat in the Netherlands
Expats often pretend that their new lives are pure perfection — perhaps as a justification for uprooting their old ones. But research shows that the picture isn’t all rosy.
In fact, expats face twice the risk of mental health conditions compared to those who never move abroad. In the same vein, almost 90% of expats experience feelings of isolation after moving abroad.
To add salt to the wound, expats are often blindsided. A 2016 survey found that only 6% of expats were concerned about their mental health issues before relocating, while a 2018 study found that 50% of expats surveyed were at moderate or high risk of anxiety or depression after the move.
Living in a new country can be a shock to the system. Image: Freepik
Expectations can often be on a collision course with reality — and while it hits hard, it’s also to be expected, according to Drs. Jeanine Souren, former senior psychologist at Dutch mental health clinic, U-center.
“There are a lot of new changes. New location, new language, new home, new people,” Souren told DutchReview.
To make matters worse, the Dutch healthcare system can be particularly confusing for foreigners. Just speaking with a psychologist requires navigating a maze of appointments, referrals, and insurance inclusions first.
So we’re saving you the time and the headache. We sat down with Drs. Souren from U-center to discuss what issues expats can face, how to deal with them, and what to do when you need help.
What is U-center?
U-center is a specialised mental health clinic located in the idyllic countryside of South Limburg, near Maastricht. It’s a clinic with a difference: U-center’s focus is on treating the person, not just the condition.
Specialising in expats and Dutch clients, U-center is committed to providing individuals with the best treatment for long-lasting results.
Major mental health problems facing expats
When expats move to the Netherlands, they’re often caught unawares by depressive symptoms, says Souren. “There are a lot of new changes.”
She explains that the initial lack of a social support structure can make a move challenging to deal with, leading to anxiety. “It is more difficult to cope with the challenges because you’re on your own.”
It’s especially hard for expats because, without friends and family close by, you need to turn to professionals for help.
Talking on the phone just doesn’t feel the same. Image: Depositphotos
But the Dutch healthcare system works differently to most countries. Expats are often lost about how to get the help that they need — and if they can find it on their own, they’re often caught out by the infamous Dutch directness, which can feel unnecessarily harsh.
“When we have people contact U-center, it’s because it can remind them of healthcare at home,” says Souren.
“There are like-minded people who understand where you come from, and our treatment staff are very aware of the challenges that expats face. And while the Dutch are typically very direct, our treatment staff at U-center are very aware of empathy and compassion.”
The majority of U-center’s staff are also expats themselves, so they understand the struggles of living in a different country.
Being in soft, cosy surroundings can do wonders. Image: U-center/Supplied
A multitude of new or pre-existing problems often face expats. To name just a few, internationals might experience:
What can expats do to try to head off potential issues?
The best foundation for mental health is building a robust social support system. “Without a feeling of belonging, people can become unhappy,” explains Souren.
Of course, it can be notoriously difficult to break into established Dutch social circles. Luckily, the Dutch are not your only option.
“There are a lot of opportunities for expats living in the Netherlands. It’s quite an international place; there are definitely a lot of opportunities out there with different people,” Souren explains.
To broaden your social circle, consider reaching out on expat Facebook pages, connecting with people on social media, or looking at Meetup for events you may be interested in.
What can expats do if they are struggling?
New or pre-existing mental health issues can crop up at the worst of times — and often, people aren’t quite sure what to do when it happens.
If you’ve been experiencing depression or anxiety after moving to the Netherlands, Souren says it’s important to remain active and implement a healthy day and night structure.
“Go outside and walk, make your bed, shower, eat,” she explains. “Not hour after hour, but find milestones that you can work toward, even if it’s going for a coffee once a day.”
U-center’s terrace area is an ideal place to enjoy being outside. Image: U-center/Supplied
If you’re finding that’s not enough, that’s a sign you need to find help. Not internalising is vital, according to Souren. When you start looking for help, you may find yourself overwhelmed.
Navigating the GP referral process and finding psychological support that works for you with a therapist you can trust and who also accepts your insurance can be difficult.
U-center can help with that aspect. Multiple evidence-based interventions are combined to ensure you get the therapy that works for you under one roof and over seven weeks. “Undertaking a lot of different therapies can accelerate your recovery,” says Souren.
In fact, U-center specialises in people who have been struggling for a long time. “The people who come to U-center have often already gone through a therapy process and tried various options,” explains Souren.
So what makes U-center different? Let’s take a look.
U-center: unique treatment for lasting change and a U-turn in life
Your mental health can shape your whole life, so it’s crucial to take it seriously. U-center has designed a unique seven-week program to bring you lasting change, not just a quick fix.
And unlike some psychologists who treat a diagnosis, at U-center, they treat you as a person in a completely bespoke and tailor-made model.
The ultimate goal is to help you make a U-turn — a turning point in your life. How? Let’s break it down.
Tailor-made approach on different levels
There are so many different elements that contribute to mental health. U-center operates under the biopsychosocial model — the idea that problems and disorders are caused by not only psychological factors but also biological and social ones.
Things like your financial situation, family relationships, medication, and coping with stress can all join forces to create issues.
At U-center, they focus on how they can treat a combination of factors — not just one. Then, the team tailor-makes a treatment plan that is entirely specific to your situation and needs.
More than 80% of people experiencing clinical depression reported that treatment helped. Image: Freepik
“We look at the person as a whole,” explains Souren. To be admitted to U-center, you need a referral from a GP. From there, a team considers your circumstances to find the best treatment for you.
The experts in co-occurring disorders
Issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and many more often don’t arrive alone. You may have two, three, or even more — and that’s not abnormal.
Issues can often occur together, which is referred to as ‘comorbidity’ in clinical terms. U-center’s tailored approach means that all problems can be treated in parallel.
Multiple treatment formats designed to get results
A mix of individual and group treatment sessions drive to the root of issues using scientific and evidence-based formats. “There’s always two group therapies a day, and they are often transdiagnostic,” explains Souren.
“That means the group therapy content is applicable to everyone: depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, there are tools that everyone can use to help move forward.”
Individual sessions are tailored to the client’s problems using their personalised treatment plan, says Souren. Further sessions focus on lifestyle change and systems therapy, which looks at relationships with family, friends, and work.
A tranquil location
Nestled in nature, U-center has an idyllic location. Image: U-center/Supplied
A fresh start deserves a fresh place. Imagine receiving treatment in the gently rolling hills of Epen, just on the border of Belgium and Germany.
The converted hotel is comfortable and serene, with sprawling views over the valley below. And the on-site restaurant chef carefully curates balanced, fresh meals to fuel your body.
Various payment options
Reading through this and thinking, “That’s way out of my budget”? Well, perhaps not.
If you’re an expat in the Netherlands, your basic health insurance will likely cover the majority of the costs. Other international insurances often reimburse treatment.
There is a contribution to additional activities and services — but sometimes this cost can be passed on to your employer because the treatment can often prove a cheaper option for an employer than having an employee on sick leave for an extended period.
Clients that succeed
It’s important to know whether a particular treatment is often successful — and U-center’s clients have a lot to say. U-center measures client satisfaction both numerically and in open comments at various moments.
Clients give a rating to, among other things, the content of their treatment, their actual treatment, and the centre’s facilities. Clients gave U-center an average satisfaction score of 8.4 in 2022 and 8.3 in 2023.
Plus, a dedicated English-speaking team for international clients
Who understands the trials, tribulations, and challenges of living in the Netherlands as a foreigner better than internationals themselves?
U-center’s staff are specialists in treating expats in the Netherlands, providing a safe space for you to take your first steps towards recovery through a seven-week program in a safe and welcoming environment — entirely in English.
“We believe that, when following an intensive seven-week residential programme, attention should be paid to quality and hospitality,” said a U-center spokesperson. It’s a home away from home for expats, perfectly designed to make a U-turn.
We teamed up with U-center to bring you this article. Are you struggling with your mental health? Sometimes you need expert help to overcome issues. Contact U-center to find out if treatment is suitable for you.
The sleep deprivation alarm may be going off all around Europe, but people in the Netherlands keep hitting snooze: they have the best work-sleep balance in the continent.
With a ratio of eight hours and five minutes of sleep per day to 32.2 working hours per week, Dutch people win the medal for best-rested European workers, reports Euronews.
What’s the secret?
Why are people in the Netherlands sleeping longer than their European counterparts?
MattressNextDay, a British mattress company, investigated this by comparing the work and sleep schedules of 36 European countries.
As it turns out, the secret to the Dutchies’ healthy sleep schedule lies in their work culture.
Shorter working weeks
On average, Dutch people work fewer hours than most Europeans.
This is true for other countries scoring high in the work-sleep balance ranking as well, such as Austria and Norway, where people also work less than 34 hours per week.
By contrast, the country with the worst work-sleep balance is Turkey, where the average work week is 44.2 hours.
Moreover, the study found a correlation between 4-day work schedules and healthy sleep habits. Countries where the shorter work week is implemented more often, including the Netherlands, consistently fare better.
Less stress
Another factor that plays an important role is the stress level across different working cultures.
Countries that ranked higher, such as the Netherlands, have a more relaxed working culture. More flexible working hours grant people more free time, as well as the ability to spend more of it outdoors.
This, in turn, doesn’t just improve their sleep quality, but also their overall work and life satisfaction.
Additionally, the need to rest is not stigmatised in these countries — unlike in the lowest-ranking countries (such as Turkey, Montenegro and Serbia), where burn-out is often worn like a badge of honour.
Does your life in the Netherlands allow for a good work-sleep balance? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.
With Prinsjesdag (Budget Day) in the rearview mirror, the Dutch cabinet’s plans for you — and your money! — have finally been unveiled.
In a summary of the Budget Memorandum and tax plan for 2025, the Dutch government has outlined several important changes in taxation, rental allowance, and purchasing power (among others).
If you’re sick of feeling as poor as a church mouse, we’ve got some good news for you: Dutch purchasing power is set to increase in 2025. Here’s how:
Lower incomes pay less tax
With the addition of a new tax bracket, people with incomes of up to €38,000 will pay less tax.
Those earning minimum wage, meanwhile, are to get the maximum amount of tax credit.
Huurtoeslag will increase
In the realm of housing, renters may want to pop a bottle of bubbly as a sum of €500 million will be allocated towards increasing the rental allowance (huurtoeslag).
The government also hopes to increase individual allowances by €11.50 per month from 2026.
It’s not much, but higher rental allowance is a very welcome start! Image: Dreamstime
More help towards your energy bill
“And what about rising energy costs?” you might ask.
Well, with a budget of €60 million set aside for helping those who cannot pay their skyrocketing energy bills, it looks like many of us will be less afraid of turning on the heating this winter.
Sustainable subsidies
Even better? People who make their homes more sustainable (and thus, less of a drain on the energy grid) will enjoy a share of the €578 million the government has set aside in subsidies.
More affordable healthcare
In a bid to curb fears of rising healthcare costs, the Dutch government will be lowering healthcare deductibles to €165 from 2027 onwards.
(Helaas, that figure is set to remain at €385 through 2025 and 2026.)
Lower income individuals will also benefit from a higher healthcare allowance, with the figure increasing by €6.50 per month in 2025.
The Dutch government also intends to shorten the infamously long waiting lists for mental healthcare, with an additional €30 million set aside for this. (They plan to publish an extra agenda for mental healthcare in 2025, so keep your eyes peeled!)
More allowance for parents
With an increase in the child budget scheduled for 2025, child allowances are set to increase by a maximum of €75 per month.
Childcare is also likely to get cheaper
This change is part of the government’s plan to allocate an additional €425 million on childcare allowance in the hopes of establishing a system that drastically reduces the cost of childcare.
With reducing childcare costs, the Dutch government is looking to offer wearied parents some relief. Image: Depositphotos
Also on the cards is a €135 million budget for free school meals. Lekker!
It’s worth noting that none of these changes are cast in stone and still have to be officially approved by the Tweede Kamer (Dutch lower house of parliament) this autumn.
All in all, this plan is intended to increase the purchasing power of the average household by 0.7% — and by 1% for those already living on benefits.
Is this less than we expected? Yes. Will we take it? Yes.
What do you think of the proposed changes? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
