The sun is finally shining, spring has officially sprung, and temperatures have risen above 15 degrees, which means it’s officially time to barbecue in the Netherlands! But how do the Dutch actually barbecue?
Coming from the Caribbean, I consider myself quite the expert at barbecuing. So, when my significant other and I invited our friends over for a BBQ a few years ago, I immediately got busy.
I thought of making my mom’s good old-fashioned potato salad, putting together a nice tossed salad, and quickly went on to make my shopping list for the first BBQ of the season.
Caribbean cuisine can be quite different from the Dutch! Image: Depositphotos
The list included chicken legs and ribs — the obvious BBQ staples — as well as some ground beef for my homemade hamburgers, buns, and a few steaks to round up the menu. I was ready to shop.
But alas, as we pulled into the grocery store, my partner started talking about speklap and worstjes, and I gave him a sideward glance as I made a beeline for the meat department, eager to get my BBQ on.
What to buy for a Dutch barbecue?
I began to stock the cart with my meats of choice and was disappointed to see that the selection of ribs was minimal at best. I also noticed several foreign-looking meat products slowly filling the cart.
The likes of which I would have NEVER put on my grill back in the Caribbean.
I mean, pork chops? Really? Well, apparently, karbonade (pork chops) is a common grilling delicacy here in tulip land. Pre-made kebabs also made their way into the BBQ cart, and although shashlik tends to be a common BBQ item, meatballs on a stick are not.
The Dutch have some interesting barbecue delicacies. Image: Unsplash
Finally done raiding the meat department, I noticed an alarming amount of meat products and very little of anything else in our cart. Besides my salads and rice, I began to wonder what the Dutch actually eat besides meat.
Luckily enough, I didn’t have to wonder for long, as my significant other then deposited a massive tub of satésaus into the cart and happily proclaimed he was “done” shopping.
Wearily, I left the Jumbo and pondered how I would balance out the meat assortment we were about to grill up, as a salad would only go so far.
And what was I going to do with that much peanut sauce? I mean, we were having an Indonesian night! Of course, I asked all these questions out loud, and my Dutch partner reassured me that we had everything we needed.
Needless to say, it all turned out well… ok. We enjoyed a nice BBQ, and I spent the next week following a vegetarian diet to balance out all the meat we consumed. I also had leftover potato salad and plenty of rice and beans to last for days. It seems they really do just consume meat at BBQs.
What are the rules of barbecuing in the Netherlands?
I think it goes without saying that you’re not allowed to light up a grill inside your apartment. So if you don’t have a balcony or a garden, head to your nearest park. But before you get all excited, you need to know a couple of things.
Firstly, there are designated places for you to barbecue. Some other rules you need to follow include:
Your grill must be at least two metres away from trees and bushes.
You need to remove the hot coals in the provided metal containers and not on the grass.
The grill must be placed on a stable surface.
The barbecue must in no way come in direct contact with the grass.
You’re not allowed to have an open fire.
You have to take all your waste and rubbish with you.
Where to barbecue in the Netherlands?
Make sure to check the specific BBQ regulations for your area. Image: Depositphotos
In principle, you can barbecue pretty much anywhere in the Netherlands as long as you’re not a nuisance. But, of course, there are rules for you to follow and keep in mind. Make sure you always check whether it’s allowed to barbecue at your chosen spot.
Where can you barbecue in Amsterdam?
In Amsterdam, you’re not allowed to barbecue anywhere in the city centre. However, in the other neighbourhoods, there are specially designated areas for you to get your grill on!
Some places in Amsterdam where you can smoke it up include the Westerpark, the Erasmuspark and the Noorderpark.
Where can you barbecue in The Hague?
The Hague has a couple of nice BBQ spots, specifically in Westbroekpark in the Scheveningen district, and Zuiderpark and the Uithof in the Escamp district.
Beware that there is a ban on barbecuing in certain areas of the city: the Japanese Garden, the Rosarium, Park De Verademing, and Westduinpark. Wherever you go, make sure you keep the rules in mind!
Where can you barbecue in Rotterdam?
You can barbecue in most open-air spaces in Rotterdam. Particularly nice areas to enjoy a BBQ are the Kralingse Bos, Het Park, Vroesenpark, and Zuiderpark — the main parks in the city.
But the above rules apply here as well! So be sure to follow them so that everyone can enjoy their day out.
Tips to make your Dutch BBQ a hit
Since my first Dutch BBQ, I have learned several things. With these tips, you too can enjoy a barbecue in the Netherlands without having to wonder what you’ve gotten yourself into.
Firstly, check out your local butcher. They tend to have a bigger and better selection of ribs than your local supermarket. Local markets can also conjure up fresh corn on the cob if you ask in advance and it’s the right time of year.
It’s easy impressing Dutchies at a BBQ, just give them anything more interesting than a hotdog! Image: Depositphotos
Secondly, the Dutch don’t simply grill and eat. They grill one type of meat, serve that up, and then grill the next and so on (I believe this method of grilling stems from the fact that most Dutch buy teeny tiny charcoal grills that allow for minimal grilling space).
Since the entire BBQ is centred around the meat, this leads to a very long and relaxed grilling experience — be prepared to spend the afternoon/evening slowly enjoying a wide variety of meat products.
Finally, peanut sauce (satésaus) is considered a condiment! So make sure you always have some on hand, in addition to your mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard.
And the last one: the Dutch don’t eat their burgers with buns! Knife, fork, and beef patty are the way it’s done here, so save yourself the hassle and skip the buns, you will be the only one eating them!
What are your best tips for the perfect barbecue in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!
iDEAL, Maestro, and V-pay debit cards will be a thing of payments past as all bank cards are set to be replaced by the Visa Debit and Debit Mastercard.
You will start to notice the Maestro and V-Pay logos disappearing as most banks across the Netherlands roll out the new cards over the coming years, the AD reports.
Now, it’s official: the new Debit Mastercard and Visa Debit cards supposedly make online payment easier, so iDEAL will no longer be necessary when paying online.
Say “doei” to long payment processes! Image: DutchReview
Instead the new debit cards work similarly to credit cards, requiring you to enter the card number, expiry date, and security code to pay before confirming with your bank’s app.
What are the benefits?
It’s not just online payments — you can now pay physically with your new card, phone, or smartwatch in more places.
According to Jos van de Kerkhof, country manager of Visa Netherlands, the new cards can be used in “almost all stores” — and your money is safer while you do.
Customers can change their own PIN code, and special measures are taken to ensure that they’re actually making the online payment, which deters fraud.
That’s not the only way paying just got more secure — the new cards mean your card number is no longer stored in Google or Apple Pay, but a harmless token is generated instead.
Van de Kerkhof insists, “Our figures show that the fraud rate within European online payments has fallen by 50% since the introduction of the tokens.”
When will the new cards arrive?
There is not a specific date for everyone to start using these new debit cards, the banks themselves choose when to issue them.
Perhaps you imagined your dream college experience to take place in a cosy Dutch town that looks straight out of a fairytale. If so, ever thought about studying in Breukelen?
Sitting on the outskirts of Utrecht, Breukelen is a peaceful little village brimming with natural and historical beauty. As a student living here, you’ll enjoy being surrounded by lakes and rivers as well as lavish castles and mansions. 🏰
In fact, Breukelen’s only university, Nyenrode Business University, is located in one of the town’s castles. Talk about a Harry Potter experience!
What can I study in Breukelen?
If the idea of studying in Breukelen’s small-town setting piqued your interest, it’s time to move on to the next phase: choosing a study program!
The Vecht river flows through Breukelen, giving the town peaceful vibes. Image: Jan dijkstra/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0
Finding the right study program can be quite a challenge. However, it doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and the very fact that Breukelen is home to only one university makes that decision much easier.
Whether you’re looking to establish a career in international business by getting a bachelor’s degree or further your education with a master’s, Nyenrode Business University offers a fair range of English-taught business courses for internationals.
Did you know? Nyenrode Business University ensures that students receive the highest quality education possible. Establishing a career in international business through one of their world-renowned degree programs can open doors to unique opportunities worldwide.
The university degrees
Nyenrode has one exclusive bachelor’s degree on their Breukelen campus, namely a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Business Administration.
It’s a three-year program which focuses on practical relevance, academic knowledge, and personal development.
You’ll gain tons of experience and get a taste of the real world of business, and you’ll get to expand your network by meeting some pretty snazzy companies and CEOs too.
However, if you’re on the hunt for a post-graduate study, you’ll be glad to know that Nyenrode has several master’s degrees and MBAs in Breukelen. Here’s a short run-down of each and what they entail:
Master of Science degree in Management (full-time)
The Master of Science in Management is a 16-month journey (including the pre-master) that prepares you for entering the labour market as a skilled starter.
You can deepen your knowledge with one of three specialities: financial management, digital business and innovation, and global business.
Naturally, good education comes with a price. Image: Depositphotos
Pre-Master of Science degree in Accountancy (part-time)
Nyenrode’s pre-master in accountancy offers a hands-on approach to working at one of the larger accountancy firms in the Netherlands. By the end of this study, you’ll be a full-blown professional in accounting!
Executive MBA
The Executive MBA is a two-year program consisting of 12 intensive modules, where you work with a group of like-minded professionals to broaden your views on business management and leadership.
Modular Executive MBA in Business & IT (part-time)
Nyenrode’s Modular Executive MBA is for the folks who wish to complete a business master’s degree but can’t find the time to do so due to, for example, a tight work schedule.
The program is three to seven years long, and it focuses on expanding your professional knowledge by learning how to set up your organisation for continuous technological growth.
What does it cost to study in Breukelen?
It’s no secret that studying in the Netherlands gives most international students true value for their money.
The average tuition fee for a non-EU student clocks in at €6,000 per year, which is not too shabby when you compare college costs in the US or the UK.
However, this all depends on the university — and since Nyenrode is a privately owned institution in the Netherlands, costs are higher.
To study BSc in Business Administration at Breukelen, you’re looking at an annual tuition fee of around €22,500 per year, excluding textbooks and additional material.
For a general master’s degree or MBA at Nyenrode, tuition fees vary depending on your chosen program. However, you can expect figures to reach anywhere from €30,000 to €50,000 annually.
Financial support to the rescue
Since the financial costs of taking a program at Nyenrode in Breukelen can burden those on a tight budget, many are often in need of financial aid.
Luckily, scholarships are available to support students financially. The university currently offers two types that each grant a maximum of €10,000 per academic year.
Not looking to get a scholarship? Depending on your nationality, you might also be eligible for student financing through the Dutch government (a.k.a our one-true-love, DUO).
How can you find student housing in Breukelen?
If you’re completing a degree at Nyenrode University, you’ll have the privilege of being able to rent a room on the school’s campus in Breukelen.
Located in a centuries-old castle, the campus consists of five buildings that feature 291 rooms, all fully equipped with furniture, toilets, showers, sinks, and kitchens.
Your everyday view might look like this when studying in Breukelen. Image: Ben Bender/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
However, if you’re looking to secure a spot outside of Nyenrode’s Breukelen campus, you’ll have to stick to the conventional ways of finding an apartment, and it all starts with these few tips 👇:
Search for student housing in surrounding cities: Utrecht has a number of Facebook groups focusing on student housing, and the city also boasts some student hotels or hostels, like Student Experience, Hotel Jansen, and The Social Hub.
Let Op! The Netherlands is currently undergoing a major housing crisis, and students are among the worst affected. It’s important to start looking for a place to rent months before you actually embark on your move to Breukelen.
If all else fails when trying to find a place to rent in Breukelen, the town boasts some hotels and guest houses that you can also book temporarily.
And if you’re a Nyenrode student, their Breukelen campus has two hotels that have almost 100 rooms for students to stay in: the Plesman Hotel and the Campus Hotel.
Is Breukelen an expensive town to live in?
Your decision to study in Breukelen can’t be made without considering one super boring yet ultra-important question: how much does it cost to live there?
Grab a nice cup of coffee and study in Breukelen’s many cafés! Image: Depositphotos
We’re not going to sugar-coat it, living in the land of tulips can be expensive — just ask the ever-increasing energy and gas prices.
Costs to rent an apartment in Breukelen
If you’re planning to settle down on Nyenrode’s campus in Breukelen, the costs to rent a room in one of the buildings can range anywhere from between €320 to €500 per month, depending on the type of room you pick.
However, if you’re on the hunt for a room outside of Nyenrode’s campus, but want to remain in Breukelen, here’s how much you can expect to pay for housing in the village:
Apartment: anywhere from €100 per month
Studio: from €900 per month
Single room in a shared apartment: from €450
To stay in a hotel or guest house in Breukelen for a few nights, rooms can range anywhere from €150 to €250 per night.
Cost to rent an apartment in Utrecht
If the costs to rent a room or stay in Breukelen exceed your student budget limits, you might also find solace in knowing that there are accommodation options in other cities.
Depending on where you decide to live and how generous your landlord or landlady is willing to be, here’s how much you can expect to pay for housing in the city of Utrecht, based on HousingAnywhere’s Index:
Furnished apartment: average €1300 per month (including electricity, gas, water)
Studio: average €950 per month (utilities included)
Single room in a shared apartment: anywhere from €400 to €1200 per month
Costs to…well…live (according to Dutch standards)
Breukelen has no shortage of accessible bike paths with stunning views. Image: Jan dijkstra/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0
As a student living in Breukelen, you’ll probably want to indulge in a nice cup of coffee on your way to school some mornings — or reward your good grades with a night on the town.
Or perhaps you’d prefer to save up and spend some cash on a second-hand bicycle and make use of the lowlands’ superb bike paths.
Whatever it may be, to keep your finances in check, we’ve sketched out a brief overview of how much it would cost to live in Breukelen as a student — and yes, cheese is on the list. 🧀
Expense
Price
Dutch SIM card with 10 GB of data
€15-40
Secondhand bike (basic)
€70-120
30-minute+ intercity train ride
€6-10
Week of groceries
€50-80
Cappuccino (regular)
€3.85-4.50
Cheap restaurant meal
€16-25
Crate of beer
€13-18.00
Loaf of bread (half to whole)
€0.70-3.00
Pasta (500 gr)
€0.90-1.50
Chicken fillets (300 grams, not organic)
€5.00-7.00
Cheese (10 to 14 slices)
€2.50-4.50
How can you get a student job in Breukelen?
Looking for a job in a big city? Utrecht’s bustling city centre is not too far away. Image: Depositphotos
Breukelen’s small-town charm comes loaded with international eateries, boat tours, and gorgeous monuments to visit — but what good does any of that do if students can’t afford it, amirite?
Here’s a quick list of popular student job choices in or around Breukelen:
HORECA (Hotels, restaurants, and cafés) in Breukelen
If you take a stroll through the village, you’ll find cute cafés and restaurants on basically every street corner.
Head inside and ask if they’re looking for employees or reach out to them via social media. Who knows? You might just find yourself a job as a barista or a server!
And if you’re worried about not speaking Dutch, the Netherlands, as a whole, is a very international country, which means that basically everyone speaks English.
Plus, studying in a predominantly Dutch-populated town like Breukelen means that you’ll pick up the language in no time. Just mingle with the locals as much as possible!
Bike couriers
From Uber Eats to Thuisbezorgd and Flink, there’s a tremendous demand for bike couriers in the Netherlands.
If you apply for the job, you’ll deliver groceries, meals, or packages to people’s homes — and who wouldn’t love cycling through gorgeous and nature-filled scenery like Breukelen?
There’s one small snag with this job, though. To be a bike courier, you need to know how to manage the daunting (!) cycle lanes and get to know the Dutch traffic system pretty well.
Retail
If you’re a people person and prefer to work with clients on an hourly basis, then perhaps a job in sales will do you good!
Breukelen has many charming boutiques and department stores that are likely looking to hook you up with a contract.
However, if you want a taste of the bustling city life, you can also find work with popular fashion stores, like ZARA, in the nearby city centre of Utrecht.
What’s student life like in Breukelen?
So, what can you expect as a student in Breukelen? Image: Freepik
During your college hunt, you might be persuaded by the “go big or go home” mindset and feel compelled to study in a larger, more popular city.
But anyone who has spent time abroad will tell you that it isn’t until you get outside the concrete jungles that you get a real slice of Dutch culture.
Looking for the best? Nyenrode Business University has an extensive campus in Breukelen, offering a wide range of facilities and living quarters for students, from a spacious library to hotels and student bars. On top of that, you can make lifelong friendships and establish a network for life!
With its quaint local shops, medieval architecture, and a strong sense of community — Breukelen is a great place to be for any student, and there are a number of reasons why:
Study spots are easily accessible
Breukelen’s serene atmosphere and secluded vibes make the village a utopia for any student looking to get into a good study session — giving you all the quiet time you need to concentrate. 🤓
However, if you want something with a little more background noise, students can also open up their textbooks in various cafés or beautiful parks around town.
If you’re a Nyenrode student and you’re looking for a study spot on the Breukelen campus, the university has a library building that’s chock-full of study areas and cubicles.
Student associations can be found nearby
Student associations are a great way to make lifelong friends in Breukelen. Image: Depositphotos
One way to make the most out of your college experience is by joining a student association in the Netherlands!
Student unions are a perfect way to connect with new people, learn more about yourself, bulk up your resumé, and overall make life more exciting as a student.
Since Breukelen is just a stone’s throw from the centre of Utrecht, those studying in the small village can benefit most from the many student associations existing in and near Utrecht.
If you’re a student at Nyenrode, you can join the school’s social club, the NCV. With over 41 committees to take part in, the association gives students an opportunity to broaden their personal and professional network.
Diverse megacities are just a short distance away
While studying in Breukelen, you’re not far away from some of the Netherlands’ best cities! Image: Depositphotos
While there are many perks that come with choosing to study in Breukelen, one thing that students might miss out on is the vibrant vibes and entertainment opportunities offered by large, metropolitan areas.
Small towns also tend not to be as international as larger cities, so you won’t get to experience the melting pot of different cultures that big cities typically bring.
The upside? Major, more diverse cities, like Amsterdam, are not too far away, as it’s only a short, 30-minute train ride from Breukelen to the capital city.
The Dutch’s omnipresent transportation system makes travelling extremely convenient — so there’s no doubt that you can get the best of both worlds, no matter where you study in the Netherlands.
Studying in Breukelen means you’ll be living in the beating heart of Holland, surrounded by charming shops, sprawling gardens, and elegant castles.
Are you planning to study in Breukelen? Tell us in the comments below!
Studying in Breukelen: Frequently Asked Questions
What university is in Breukelen?
Breukelen is home to Nyenrode Business University. Here, you can study a BA and multiple MBAs and MScs dedicated to business.
Where is Breukelen?
Breukelen is located north-west of the popular Dutch city of Utrecht. You can travel between Utrecht and Breukelen in just 13 minutes by train. Breukelen is also approximately 30 minutes away from Amsterdam.
What is the population of Breukelen?
As of the beginning of 2024, Breukelen has a population of 10,780 people.
Finally, a coalition agreement between the PVV, VVD, NSC and BBB has been reached, forming the most right-wing Dutch government coalition the Netherlands has seen in decades.
Yesterday, the new coalition released an outline agreement of their proposed policies. So naturally, we spent our morning translating it, dissecting it, and wiping the odd tear away.
The outline begins by reminding us that The Netherlands is “a beautiful country” and one “to be proud of”. The new government then emphasises that they will be “taking a new path” in their leadership.
They insist their policies are for “people who deserve legal certainty and good governance” and people who want “safety for their family in their own neighbourhood.”
So, let’s take a look at some of the most important points. 👇
Housing and public transport
Expect more construction sites cropping up — if the new coalition has their way, 100,000 new homes will be added per year.
According to their agreement outline, “an extra street, inner-city and outer-city” should be built. Though it’s unclear how literally we should take this. 🤔
What they do make clear is that at least 30% of these new homes must be for social rental housing.
Any increases in rent for social housing will be limited if you already own a house, plus the increase in property taxes will be capped.
As for homeowners in the Netherlands, another key point they make is that: “the mortgage interest deduction will not be compromised”.
The coalition also made sure to address the roads n’ rails, announcing that cars will be able to drive on Dutch roads at 130km/h “where possible” and the construction of the Lelylijn, connecting Lelystad and Groningen by train, continues.
Healthcare and education
The coalition hopes to strengthen the Netherlands’ primary care offering for patients and workers alike through “good employment conditions and limitations of regulatory and administrative burdens.”
This includes plans to cut the healthcare deductible in half by 2027, from €385 per year currently to €165.
When it comes to ethical topics, such as abortion and euthanasia, the “legal frameworks remain unchanged”.
In education, however, the four parties are clamping down on “anglicisation” and “politicisation.”
This means they are looking at ways to reduce the English-language influence and that teaching methods must not only be “proven effective” but also “politically neutral”…
Control over asylum and migration
If you are reading this article, you’re probably an international in the Netherlands, so let’s talk about what all this could mean for you.
Unsurprisingly, the forming parties want to see big changes when it comes to asylum and migration.
They describe their plans for asylum seekers as “The strictest admission regime for asylum and the most comprehensive package for the control of migration ever.”
This means the asylum and migration system as we know it will be “reformed,” and a temporary Asylum Crisis Act could be introduced if necessary.
This act may be implemented for a maximum of two years and would include significant policy changes, for example:
Those with an asylum status will no longer be given priority when social housing is allocated.
Asylum seekers who have been rejected are “deported as much as possible, including forcibly”.
This will also impact international students and workers, as tighter qualification requirements for highly skilled migrants mean fewer people will qualify for a visa.
As for their international policies, they state that “The Netherlands continues to support Ukraine politically, militarily, financially and morally against Russian aggression”.
And, in spite of the ongoing conflict Israel-Palestine conflict, the forming parties want to look into moving the Dutch embassy to Jerusalem.
While other countries have their embassies in Tel Aviv, the coalition stands by their potential Jerusalem move: “The Netherlands supports the right to exist and the security of the state of Israel.”
Lifestyle
The agreement does promote social security, improved debt assistance and (almost) free childcare.
However, if you’re looking to celebrate these changes with a night away in a Dutch hotel, the savings stop looking so good.
That’s because the VAT rate on hotel stays will return to 21% and will increase for other goods and services.
However, the coalition has agreed on one tangible target: they want to double the expected number of large nuclear power stations, increasing the number from two to four.
So, nuclear energy is covered, but what about more sustainable options?
Well, heat pumps will not become mandatory as previously suggested, and subsidies for electric cars will be abolished next year — so we don’t have much good news for you.
Spending and governance
The agreement should also mean cuts totalling 14.7 billion euros per year, with expenditure (tax reductions and investments) reduced by 4.7 billion euros per year.
Has all this talk about targets already got you thinking about the next election?
Well, one final major point from the agreement includes preparing a new electoral system for the House of Representatives.
So, by the time we know how successful these policies are, the way we vote next could change.
While these are the policies outlined by the new coalition government, it’s important to note that these may change as they try to put them into practice.
That being said, you may want to strap yourselves in, it looks like it’s going to be a bumpy ride for internationals in the Netherlands.
What do you think of the new coalition and their agreement? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Following the general elections in November 2023, Dutch political parties have finally formed a coalition agreement. But what does it have in store for internationals and expats?
Outlined in a 26-page document, the coalition has laid out its plans for the next four years.
Here’s what they have to say about international students, expats, and immigration.
Restricting highly skilled and study migrants
Unsurprisingly, the new Dutch coalition has called for a reduction of highly skilled migrants and study migrants (aka international students).
How exactly? They want the reduction to be proportionate to what municipalities, education institutions, healthcare, and housing can support — whatever that means.
Who counts as a highly skilled migrant? A highly skilled migrant (knowledge migrant or kennismigrant in Dutch) is a migrant from outside the EU who comes to work in the Netherlands because of their specific knowledge or skillset.
Only companies recognised as sponsors by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service can apply for a highly skilled migrant visa on behalf of the migrant.
While expats can be from inside or outside the EU, highly skilled migrants are specifically from outside the EU.
However, if the new government has its way, the qualification requirements for highly skilled migrants will be tightened so that fewer people will qualify for such a visa.
There will also be a restriction on the number of international students accepted to bachelor programmes in the Netherlands. They will do this by:
Having more courses in Dutch,
Implementing a numerus fixus (fixed number of places) on foreign students,
Restricting who receives a basic student grant from the Dutch government,
Increasing tuition fees for non-EU students.
There is one silver lining, though: they won’t restrict international students if there is a labour market shortage in the particular field that they want to study.
If you were hoping to complete your integration soon, first off, congratulations!
However, the coalition plans to add a few more requirements to make integration more difficult:
The standard period to naturalise will be extended to 10 years regardless of permanent or indefinite residence,
Internationals who want to adopt the Dutch nationality must renounce their other nationality(-ies) when possible.
Now, here’s where you’ll want to pay attention.
In theory, the language requirement for the inburgeren (integration) exam, and therefore, naturalisation, will be increased from A2 to B1 for everyone.
This implies that this is regardless of when internationals began the integration process — however, we will have to wait and see how this looks in practice.
The new coalition will also crack down on “undesirable foreign influences” like weekend schools and regulate the volume of calls to prayer. Hmm, sound familiar?
This is the beginning of the PVV, VVD, NSC and BBB coalition agreement:
— Nassreddin | نصر الدين (@Nassreddin2002) May 16, 2024
Reforming the system
The document also lays out their plans for asylum seekers, describing their approach as “the strictest admission regime for asylum seeks and the most comprehensive package for the control of migration ever.”
The coalition aims to reform the entire asylum and migration system, with policy plans to require work permits for non-EU labour migrants, impose employer responsibilities for the housing of migrant workers, and potentially restrict the free movement of people within the EU in the case of EU expansion.
If needed, they may also implement an Asylum Crisis Act for a maximum of two years, which means:
People with asylum status will not get priority for social housing allocation
Rejected asylum seekers are “deported as much as possible, forcibly if necessary”
The coalition also mentions the abolition of the indefinite asylum permit, however, whether this step would fall under the Asylum Crisis Act, or their general approach, is unclear.
Of course, these are only tentative plans and agreements made within the coalition.
What will become of them, we have yet to see.
Will you be affected by the new Dutch coalition’s plans? Tell us what you think in the comments!
The number of expats in the Hague is rising. Now, the municipality wants employers to ensure expat workers have accommodation before moving there.
By deterring expats with such a requirement, the city hopes to prevent the housing market from becoming completely inaccessible for locals, the NRC reports.
According to Martijn Balster, the PvdA’s councillor for housing, “expats drive up prices and make housing unaffordable for middle and low income earners”.
Whether The Hague will actually succeed in implementing this new rule is yet to be seen. However, according to local politicians, it’s needed.
Catching up with Amsterdam
While it might be nice to be sandwiched between the seaside and lots of green space, it doesn’t leave much space for new homes in The Hague.
That’s partly why it’s the most densely populated city in the Netherlands. And out of 500,000 residents, around 70,000 are expats or migrant workers.
For all yall who live in the hague and complain about the hague 24/7 can yall move to another city then? Cause some of us need housing
That’s why the municipality wants to take action to stem the flow of expats moving there.
Awaiting trial results
The Hague is not alone in wanting such a rule to be brought in.
In fact, the obligation was trialled in Rotterdam last year, and the results will soon be presented to outgoing Social Affairs Minister Karien van Gennip.
In the meantime, the municipality wants to focus on making the most of the city’s limited space by combatting vacancy and gaining control over the private ownership market.
Let’s wait and see what happens. 👀
What do you think of the Hague’s potential new requirement for expats? Let us know in the comments below.
Have you ever thrown the empty container of your FEBO chips onto the ground? Or maybe a cigarette butt? First, you should reconsider your morals. Second, this could soon result in your bankruptcy. 👀
Yup, you read that right. The Dutch city of Enschede is currently working on a ‘mega fine’ of €1,000 for anyone who dumps any waste onto the city streets.
Can’t afford that? Community service it is.
This elevated fine is meant to replace the current fine for littering, which is set at €160 nationwide (but rarely given out).
The majority of the city council has voted in favour. Now, in order to see this implemented, they need the approval of national politicians.
It all started with a vacation… 🚮
With this new law, Enschede wants to “become the cleanest city in Europe”.
Local city councillor Malkis Jajan came up with the idea after visiting Singapore, where very strict laws against littering are already in place.
Here, first-time offenders face a fine of up to S$1,000 (around €600), while repeat offenders will be fined up to S$ 2,000 (around €1,200) and community service.
“I noticed how incredibly clean it was there,” Jajan tells RTL Nieuws — “and when I came back to Enschede, I thought, ‘Isn’t it crazy that we’re so used to it not being clean here?'”
But… isn’t the Netherlands already super clean?
Well… yes and no.
On the one hand, the Netherlands is often praised for its clean streets, smart waste management system, and impressive efforts to clear streets after big events like King’s Day or Pride.
But what if we take a closer look at our streets, trains, and public spaces like train stations or parks? 👀
It’s not uncommon to see garbage bags, empty cans, and bottles along the gum-covered streets, often torn apart by seagulls, spreading trash everywhere.
Due to worker shortages, trains are also often plagued with overflowing garbage cans, while the platforms are no stranger to the odd McFlurry cup and cigarette butt.
And it looks like this frustration is where Enschede’s idea is coming from. After all, it’s not exactly hard to hold on to our rubbish until we come across a garbage can.
And don’t we want to enjoy the beautiful Netherlands in all its clean, green, charming glory? 🌟
What do you think about Enschede’s new proposed law? Is it necessary or not? Share your thoughts in the comments!
While interest rates in the Netherlands are finally rising after years of sitting at an all-time low, when we look abroad, Dutch bank accounts still don’t have much to offer to savers!
For those of us who have hoarded our cash, there are few options to earn much money on our savings in the Netherlands — which is dang ridiculous.
But hol’ up, cash collectors! There’s a solution that has come to town. Raisin gets you access to the best interest rates across the EU — no joke. You can store your money where it can really grow!
What is Raisin?
First things first, allow us to introduce you. Raisin is a savings marketplace — and it’s perfect for internationals on the lookout for the EU’s best savings products.
Looking for a safe, online space to manage your savings? Raisin may be the answer for you. Image: Depositphotos
We hear you: what the hell is a savings marketplace?
Basically, Raisin is a savings broker that lets you put your savings into accounts of banks across the EU — without you having to leave your home, deal with language barriers, or remember login information for 10 different banks.
Let’s put it this way: you have money in the Netherlands, but most Dutch interest rates are not worth your money (yeah, that’s right, you do deserve better!)
So, you join Raisin and find a bank somewhere else in Europe. Suddenly, you could be getting up to 35 times the Dutch interest rate!
Raisin has proven itself popular because it gives you access to these banks and their interest rates (without needing to worry about living in that country).
Savings accounts can be opened and managed fully online, and they’ve even arranged deals with banks to offer their clients a collection of the best interest rates in the EU — baller.
Even better, Raisin is currently offering new customers an exclusive bonus of up to €100! To take advantage of this, simply use this link and enter the bonus code BEGIN100 when registering. Interested? Make sure to sign up before June 15, 2024.
Why should you use Raisin as an international in the Netherlands?
If you’re reading this article, you’re likely an international in the Netherlands, just like us! So here’s what attracted us to Raisin — and why it may just be the right option for you.
Raisin is a great option for internationals who are looking to save in the Netherlands. Image: Freepik
Get exclusive access to the best interest rates
With Raisin, you have a wide range of savings accounts to choose from, and you can rest easy knowing that the deposited amount(s) will only ever grow — not decline. Raisin is tirelessly looking to find you the best interest rates that EU international banks have to offer.
Choose from a broad portfolio of savings accounts
Whether you’re looking for the security of high, fixed rates on term deposits, or good interest rates with maximum flexibility on overnight savings, Raisin can offer all of the above. Not sure what the heck any of that means? Let’s break it down for you.
Raisin offers three types of savings products for international savers:
Overnight money accounts
No, this isn’t somewhere for you to put your cash while you sleep. An overnight money account is essentially an account that you can open, add to, or withdraw from at any time, anywhere — and you can start using it immediately. It’s the most flexible option and is accessible to all as you only need €1 to open the account! (Checks back pocket, yep, we’re good to go!)
Currently, Distingo offers a freely withdrawable savings account with an interest rate of 3.31% per annum exclusively through Raisin!
Term deposits
A term deposit account is slightly more structured and less flexible than an overnight money account. You deposit a fixed amount of money for a fixed amount of time. Usually, this means you cannot add or withdraw money from the account during the term, but it also means that the bank is willing to offer you a higher fixed interest rate!
Savings accounts with conditions
Landing somewhere between the above two options in terms of flexibility is the option to open a savings account with conditions. With this option, you can deposit a fixed amount that can only be withdrawn in its entirety.
There is no fixed term for the account, but there is a short notice period if you do decide to withdraw the deposit.
What all three of the above options have in common is simple — some of the highest interest rates that EU banks have to offer!
Set up multiple savings accounts with banks across the EU
What’s more, through one single Raisin account, you can set up as many savings accounts with as many banks across the EU as you want — completely for free.
Who says you have to set up just one account? mage: Freepik
Yep, that’s right. There are no costs involved in setting up your Raisin account. In fact, they will even cover the costs of any international Euro transfers that you may have to make upon choosing a term deposit account!
All across the EU, your money is guaranteed up to €100,000
While your savings may be off backpacking in a (for example) French or Estonian bank account, you can take a relaxing breath and know that, while your savings are off getting cultured, they won’t disappear on you.
Anything up to €100,000 per account holder per bank (or the equivalent amount in local currency) will be protected by national, statutory deposit guarantee schemes in accordance with EU guidelines — no matter what happens to the bank where your money is lodged.
Allow your savings to grow — without the risk of investing
If we’ve learned anything in the past year, it’s that the world can be a pretty unpredictable place. It makes the prospect of investing in property or the stock market all the more unappealing.
However, it’s good to know that, thanks to high-interest rates, your money can continue to grow steadily in value once you place it in a savings account with Raisin. You can leave your money be, and watch your balance rise — and no rebellion on Reddit or a tweet by Elon Musk will change that.
TIP: If you’re looking to find some of the best fixed interest rates, Raisin also has some pretty sweet deals with Privatbanka!
Handle your savings completely online
If you’ve been an international with a bank account in a different country, then you know the struggle of trying to update your personal information or making international transactions — things just aren’t as simple as using online banking.
You can set up an account with Raisin for free — and manage your savings all from the comfort of your own home! Image: Depositphotos
With Raisin, you won’t be expected to fly across the world to handle simple matters — it’s all online, no trips to the bank needed.
Sign me up!
Finally found a place that your savings can call home? We’re glad. You can open up a free account with Raisin now and take advantage of their €100 bonus for new users in three easy steps.
Create an account* — You can register your account by filling your details into the provided form.
Login — Once you have selected your username and password, login and identify yourself.
Send on your proof of address — Upload or email something that verifies your address.
Their website also offers all its key documents in Dutch and English, and you don’t have to worry about getting lost in translation — their customer service will operate in English if that’s your preference!
Listen, we know managing your finances is hard, especially when you’re trying to do so in a foreign country — but that’s why services such as Raisin exist. You got this! 💪
Have you tried Raisin before? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
* Residents of the United States of America (USA), so-called Permanent Residents, as well as holders of a Green Card (anyone who is considered a “US person”) are not entitled to access the offers due to extensive regulations regarding the transfer of data under FATCA regulation.
With its rich history, lively culture, and captivating architecture, the Belgian town of Leuven offers a perfect weekend getaway from the Netherlands.
From the bustling Grote Markt to the awe-inspiring Sint-Pieterskerk, Leuven is a destination that promises a memorable experience for every visitor.
In this Dutch-but-actually-Flemish-Review, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Leuven, showing you all the most captivating sights to see. Ready? Let’s go! 👇
Grote Markt: the heart of Leuven
Your journey through Leuven should undoubtedly begin at the Grote Markt, the town’s buzzing central square. This historic market square is surrounded by charming cafés, restaurants, and centuries-old buildings with impressive facades.
The bustling student community — Leuven boasts the oldest university in the low countries — turns every square into a lively affair. If you’re looking for any kind of night-time fun, this is the place to be! 🍻
After a night of drinking, it’s time to sober up with a long stroll through the city. 😉 You’ll be happy to see that Leuven is home to many awe-inspiring churches — but none can match the grandeur of Sint-Pieterskerk.
Visiting is free of charge, and you can normally also view the famous The Last Supper by painter Dieric Bouts there.
Breathtaking! Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied
The magnificent town hall: an architectural masterpiece
The most gorgeous building in Leuven is the town hall. It’s really hard to miss as well! It comes as no surprise that this is one of the best-known Gothic town halls in the world.
While many other buildings in Leuven were rebuilt once or twice after the World Wars, this one has been intact since its completion in 1469. Until 14 January 2024, you can tour the interior and see Leuven as Dieric Bouts and his contemporaries saw it in the 15th century.
The University Library and the Tower of Leuven: true hidden gems
Visiting the University Library in Leuven pretty much felt like stepping into a fairytale. The exterior of the library is quite impressive, but the real beauty is hidden inside the building. Here, you’ll find a grand study hall that’ll have you wishing you were backing your student days. 📚
They don’t make ’em like this anymore. 😉 Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied
Wanna see some of the best views Leuven has to offer? You’ll find them here too! Just head on up the tower of the library and you’ll see the city in all its glory.
A very historical skyline! Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied
Museum M: a cultural haven
If you’re an art enthusiast, be sure to visit M Leuven, Leuven’s contemporary art museum. Housed in a modern building, it seamlessly blends the old with the new.
Art buffs, you’ll love this one! Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied
Inside it, you’ll find an impressive collection of both historic and contemporary art, including works by Flemish masters such as Jan van Eyck.
Pssst… a great hidden gem. 💎 Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied
Getting to Leuven from the Netherlands
Ready to see Leuven for yourself? The city’s convenient location just before Brussels makes it easily accessible from the Netherlands.
🚅 By train
To reach Leuven from Amsterdam, you can take a direct train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Leuven Station. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours. Once you arrive at Leuven Station, the town’s attractions are just a short walk away.
The city has a bustling nightlife! Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied
🚗 By car
Got a car? If you prefer driving to Leuven, then it’ll take you around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Since this doesn’t save you that much time, we recommend taking the train and skipping those pesky parking costs. 😉
Have you ever been to Leuven? Do you have any more tips or suggestions? Share them in the comments!
People often think of the Netherlands as a small, prosperous, forward-thinking country. But beyond the picturesque bikes, windmills, and tulips lays a dark underbelly — this tiny country is home to some serious and disturbed Dutch criminals.
Some of the most famous Dutch criminals include murderers, gangsters, and a criminal of war.
Polish your magnifying glass — it’s time to dive into some of the most notorious criminals in Dutch history! 🔍
1. Joran van der Sloot: the disappearance of Natalee Holloway, and the murder of Stephany Flores Ramírez
On the surface, Joran van der Sloot seemed like a normal guy. He grew up in Arnhem and moved with his family to Aruba in 1990, where he became an exceptional student and star athlete on his football team.
However, the facade was quickly broken. At just 18 years old, Van der Sloot was named a prime suspect in the disappearance of an American girl named Natalee Holloway in Aruba.
Van der Sloot was the last person who saw Natalee, but there was just one problem — Natalee’s body was never recovered, so Van der Sloot was never charged.
The prime suspect in the Holloway case was never charged with the crime. Image: Aruba Police Force/Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
Okay, so that’s just one case — perhaps Van der Sloot was just in the wrong place at the wrong time? Except, five years later — to the day that Natalee went missing — 21-year-old Stephany Flores Ramírez was found beaten to death in a hotel room in Lima, Peru.
Whose name was the room under? None other than Joran van der Sloot. 🤷
In due process, justice was served. Following Van der Sloot’s capture, a Peruvian judge gave the then 25-year-old a sentence of 28 years imprisonment. In 2023, Van der Sloot also confessed to the murder of Natalee Holloway, for which US authorities sentenced him to 20 years.
He’s still locked up in a Peruvian jail to this day.
2. Willem Holleeder: the kidnapping of Freddy Heineken
Willem Holleeder is one of the most notorious Dutch criminals and gangsters from Amsterdam. His nickname was De Neus (The Nose) because of his large — well, you get it. 👃
Holleeder is held responsible for a series of five murders, one of the victims being his own brother-in-law and accomplice, Cor van Hout. Echt?
However, his most notorious crime — and one of the most famous in Dutch history — was the kidnapping of Freddy Heineken, the CEO of Heineken, and his driver in 1983.
Willem Holleeder (right) murdered his accomplice/brother-in-law Cor van Hout (left). Image: Rob Bogaerts/Wikimedia Commons/CC0 1.0
Holleeder demanded a ransom for the release of the men — but in a sudden twist, he and his men grabbed the money and ran without releasing their prisoners. Luckily, the two captives were eventually set free by the police. 🍻
In 1983, Holleeder was sentenced to 11 years imprisonment for the kidnapping. In 2019, he was sentenced to life imprisonment for five murders and one count of manslaughter.
3. Thijs H: the dog-walker serial killer
Most people who knew Thijs H. never thought of him as anything but a nice guy. He was described as quiet but sweet.
However, in May 2019, the Netherlands was shocked when the then 27-year-old murdered three dog walkers in Den Haag and Limburg in a chaotic spree.
On May 5, 2019, the brutalised body of a 56-year-old woman who had been walking her dog was found in the Scheveningen Bosjes.
Just two days later, two more bodies were discovered — this time all the way in Limburg. And guess what? The two victims had also walked their dogs at the time of the attack. What a strange coincidence! The dogs were also believed to be harmed during the attack.
Detectives in Limburg connected the crimes to the one in Den Haag, and H. was thrown in the slammer. On July 31, 2020, a judge laid down the verdict: 18 years in prison with compulsory TBS treatment.
4. Frans van Anraat: the Dutch war criminal
This case makes us question if anyone can be truly trusted. Can you imagine finding out that your colleague at work is actually a war criminal?
Well, that’s exactly what happened with Frans van Anraat. He was a Dutch businessman before he was convicted of war crimes. In the 1980s, Van Anraat started his own company, which supplied large quantities of mustard and nerve gas to Saddam Hussein’s regime.
The gases were used against citizens in Iran and Iraq in 1987 and in the military attack against the Kurds in 1988, which killed 5,000 people.
The US requested his arrest in Italy in 1989, but he was released pending his trial and fled to Iraq. There, he became an Iraqi citizen and stayed for 14 years. 😲
However, on December 6, 2004, he was arrested by Dutch authorities on war crime and genocide charges and sentenced to 17 years imprisonment. The Court of Appeal in The Hague also ruled that he must pay a compensation of €25,000 each to 16 victims of gas attacks in Iraq and Iran.
5. Volkert van der Graaf: the murder of Dutch politician Pim Fortuyn
Okay, so we’ve heard about crimes that had to have taken some guts to commit. Another pretty ballsy crime on our list is a guy who murdered a politician in broad daylight.
Volkert van der Graaf is a guy with some pretty passionate views about the environment and animal rights. On top of that, he harboured intense animosity towards Dutch politician Pim Fortuyn, who held controversial opinions about Islam, immigration, and multiculturalism.
On May 6, 2002, Van der Graaf decided that he had enough of the polarising politician. He grabbed a gun and went to a radio station in Hilversum where Fortuyn was giving an interview.
When he came out of the station into the car park, Van der Graaf shot the politician point-blank in the head and ran away. He was immediately caught by Van der Graaf’s driver, who held him until the police arrived.
Van der Graaf went through a criminal trial, and the judge laid down a sentence of 18 years imprisonment. However, he was released in 2014 on parole after having served just 12 years in jail. 😶
6. Ridouan Taghi: the most wanted criminal in the Netherlands
Meet the Dutch-Moroccan version of Walter White, Ridouan Taghi. He is suspected of ordering at least 10 murders related to organised crime, and he is allegedly the head of one of the largest drug rings in the world.
Until his arrest in 2019, he was the most wanted criminal in the Netherlands.
Taghi is suspected of ordering at least 10 liquidations. Image: Politie
Taghi is suspected of organising the murder of lawyer Derk Wiersum, as well as the brother of a key witness in a trial against Taghi. He is also alleged to have ordered the recent murder of Dutch journalist Peter R. de Vries. Both Wiersum and De Vries were shot in the street in broad daylight.
In early 2024, after a trial of nearly six years, Taghi was sentenced to life in prison, and sentences were also imposed on 17 of his co-criminals.
7. Michael Panhuis: the murder of Anne Faber
This case may just frustrate you and make you question the criminal justice system.
Before 2017, Michael Panhuis already had a bad rap sheet. He was convicted in 2012 of raping two underage girls, a crime for which he was receiving treatment at an in-patient psychiatric clinic.
However, on September 29, 2017, he was granted permission to leave the grounds, and that’s when he committed his most terrible crime of all.
Verdachte Michael Panhuis reed al eerder opzettelijk fietsers aan. De fiets van #AnneFaber miste het achterlicht. Mogelijk schade aan auto? pic.twitter.com/FPrf3b8dWt
Anne Faber was taking a bike ride in Soest, near Utrecht, when Panhuis suddenly abducted the 25-year-old student. He then assaulted, raped, and murdered the girl before dumping her body in the woods, where she would be discovered two weeks later.
DNA evidence on Faber’s jacket revealed that Panhuis was responsible for the crime.
Panhuis was sentenced to 28 years imprisonment with compulsory TBS treatment for assault, rape, and kidnapping.
So that was our list of the seven most notorious Dutch criminals! Who knew that this little country had such crazy people running around? We’re just glad that most of these guys are paying, or have paid, the price for their crimes.
What did you think of these Dutch criminals? Which one shocked (or scared) you the most? Tell us in the comments! 👇
