During my first Dutch winter, I spent a lot of time missing my seasonal favourites from homeinstead of appreciating the Dutch delicacies in front of me. This year, I was determined to broaden my horizons and try some festive Dutch food.
To start off, I asked my Dutch friends a simple question: what was their idea of festive Dutch food?
The answers were surprisingly diverse, ranging from turkey to kerstkransjes to oliebollen and, nestled somewhere in between, the star of this post: the mysterious koekenzopie.
“Numerous skaters near a koek-en-zopie stand on a frozen waterway by a mansion.” Image: CharlesLeicket/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
What is koek &zopie?
Koek & zopie simply refers to the combination of any warm beverage, be it Chocomel or glühwein, and a cookie — sold on the sides of frozen canals to deserving skaters.
However, if Wikipedia serves me well, the original zopie is an entirely different sort of drink that dates back to the seventeenth century and is decidedly less tasty — but I’m getting ahead of myself.
Koek& zopie: a Dutch mystery
There were two major driving forces in my decision to try my hands at the ‘original’ zopie recipe:
First, when my boyfriend initially answered my question about festive Dutch food via WhatsApp, koek & zopie was autocorrected to koek & Sophie.
Second, after some preliminary research, I discovered that there was next to no information available online about this mysterious concoction.
So really, not much was known about this Dutch concept. All I found was a single recipe, varying very subtly between two or three websites, each variation more vague than the one before.
There were no pictures. No descriptions of the taste or the texture or the smell. Nothing!
(In keeping with the Dutch tradition, koek & zopie really ought to be enjoyed after a rigorous ice skating session. If you don’t happen to live near a skating rink, or if you’re just not big on the sport, you can always opt to simulate this part of the tradition. I did this by throwing open the bathroom window and sitting on the icy cold tiled floor. 😉)
Koek & zopie is usually enjoyed after a skate on a cold day. Image: Depositphotos
How to make authentic Dutch zopie
It was with a sense of mounting excitement that I grabbed a pen and noted down the ingredients needed to make my kook & zopie: beer, cinnamon, sugar, a lemon, cloves, and an egg.
I pushed aside any creeping doubts, so curious was I about this seventeenth-century tradition. Into a saucepan went three cans of beer, followed by the lemon, cinnamon and clove. Everything disappeared into a furiously bubbling foam. It wasn’t a very promising start.
Some ten minutes later, the apartment had acquired the distinct odour of a bar full of sweaty, enthusiastic dancers at 4 o’clock in the morning. On the other hand, the simmering concoction actually looked surprisingly nice — a bit like glühwein, in fact, only with a less appetizing smell.
All in all, it was rather encouraging. Until I thought it’d be a good idea to stir it, at which point the foam, which I’d foolishly thought had already dissipated, came back with a vengeance.
Mmm … lekker. Image: Sophie Boisvert/DutchReview
But no matter! I’d reached the most intriguing step in the entire process … the binding. Every variation of the recipe instructed me to use a mixture of egg and sugar, beaten to an undefined extent, to “bind” the beer.
What I was supposed to bind the beer into (or why I wanted to bind the beer in the first place) was not a problem that arose on any of the pages, so I simply did as I was told and, with a final nervous gulp, I poured the beaten egg and sugar mixture into the bubbling liquid.
At this point, it occurred to me that this whole thing might be an elaborate Internet prank.
There is, in fact, nothing illuminating in the binding step. You grab a wooden spoon and stir like your life depends on it, holding your breath and silently praying you don’t end up with scrambled eggs, and for what?
An ever-so-slightly paler liquid than you started out with, and no further understanding of the process.
Zopie unveiled! Image: Sophie Boisvert/DutchReview
I don’t know what I was expecting … that the beer would mix with the raw egg to form a divine eggnog-like finish? Maybe. That I would uncover a delicious albeit forgotten treasure in the realm of festive Dutch food? Admittedly … yes.
Koek & zopie: my verdict
To be fair, it wasn’t terrible (though that may be the rum talking).
I served it in big glass mugs and we drank it with bemused expressions, alternately sipping, masking the taste with a family pack of speculaas, and stirring to prevent the fine floating egg particles from settling down at the bottom, all the while reassuring ourselves that it was “actually not that bad.”
No one touched the leftovers. In the fridge, the egg separated from the beer at an alarming rate until, two days later, I had to admit defeat and flush it down the toilet. At least now I understood why the recipe was no longer in use.
Would I make it again? No. Should you try it? Yes, if only for the laughs.
Does that look lekker to you? Then it’s time you try for yourself. Here’s the recipe I used for my zopie:
3 bottles of dark beer
1 cinnamon stick
2 whole cloves
2 slices lemon
125g brown sugar
2 whole eggs
liberal amounts of rum
Bring the beer to a simmer with the cinnamon, lemon and cloves. In the meantime, beat the sugar and egg together. (I won’t tell you how much because that would take away all the fun. And honestly, because I still don’t know.)
Finally, add the egg/sugar mixture to the hot beer, stirring frantically all the while. Serve immediately and top off each portion with a big splash of rum. The more rum, the better. Trust me on this one.
Last but not least: get a cookie or a piece of cake for your koek — and there you go!
Have you tried this (kind of) tasty Dutch beverage? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
Some weather experts have caused quite a storm on X after sharing graphics that predict not just snow, but a huge wave of it coming for the Netherlands. However, other experts don’t seem to agree.
So which is it? Will we have snow in the coming days? Or not?
The predictions according to X
The debate started on X when people, including a Dutch weatherman by the name of Michael van der Pol, started sharing graphs released by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF).
According to the weather graphs, the Netherlands is not just going to get snow, but A LOT of it next Wednesday.
Als deze berekening uitkomt ligt Nederland volgende week volledig plat! De operationele run van ECMWF berekent rond 17 januari een ❄️sneeuwstoring❄️die precies over ons land trekt. Kijken of het signaal overeind blijft de komende runs. #WINTERpic.twitter.com/SYrAXgClBu
Translation: If this calculation is correct, the Netherlands will be completely shut down next week! ECMWF’s operational run calculates a snow disturbance around January 17 that will pass exactly over our country...
If the ECMWF doesn’t sound official enough to you, let us point out that this is not just some guy in a basement who creates graphs and owns an X account — it’s a legitimate weather forecast organisation.
Another user on X describes the incoming wave as the “snow bomb of death.”
Sneeuwbom des doods…. mag er eigenlijk niet naar kijken echter volgende week woensdag 20cm in het noorden aan #sneeuwpic.twitter.com/VcA1MGWrt7
As soon as temperatures in the Netherlands drop below 0 degrees Celsius and the puddles from all the rain freeze over, Dutchies sharpen their ice skates. And so, the anticipation begins.
The Dutch love to skate on natural ice, and I highlyrecommend you try it out while you’re in the Netherlands — but how do you know when a body of water is safe to skate on? And, more importantly, where in the Netherlands can you go ice skating right now?
When is it safe to skate on natural ice?
Naturally, you don’t want your Dutch ice skating adventure to end in a cold plunge and hypothermia. That’s why it’s important to make sure the ice you step on is thick enough to hold you. Whether it is thick enough depends on the body of water. ❄️
When is it safe to skate on shallow waters in the Netherlands?
According to the experts from Weeronline, it takes around five whole days of subzero temperatures to form safe ice to walk and skate on — and that only applies to ponds or shallow lakes with no currents.
Ideally, temperatures should drop to -5 degrees or lower at night and stay around 0 (or lower) during the day. Brrrr. 🥶
Since the Dutch are slightly impatient and highly innovative, you might also see “fake” outdoor ice skating rinks pop up around the country as soon as temperatures drop below freezing. These are created by spraying thin layers of water on open fields.
When is it safe to skate on the canals in the Netherlands?
Ice skating on canals in the Netherlands is a true fairytale experience — but you’ll need to be patient before you can hop on. ✨
For canals to freeze over, it generally takes about a week or two of below-freezing temperatures.
Let’s face it. Dutch people are weird. It’s not the first time I’ve said it, it’s not even the second time, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be the last time either. The Dutch just have some very odd Dutch quirks.
It’s also what makes them so lovable (most of the time), and, frankly, it’s what makes the Dutch…well, Dutch! So here are a few more lovely Dutch quirks.
Language
On average, a Dutch person speaks more languages than most. In fact, the Dutch are the best non-native English speakers in the WHOLE world!
Of course, if you’re an international in the Netherlands trying to learn Dutch, it’s a curse as much as it’s a blessing. Want to try practising your Dutch by speaking the language with a Dutch person? Think again!
Travelling with a Dutchie? Prepare to be amazed by their language skills. Image: Depositphotos
They’ll just switch to English because why bother listening to you struggle through your non-fluent Dutch?
It’s true; the Dutch seem to have an unspoken rule that they will refuse to speak Dutch with anyone who isn’t at least at conversational level.
Even with my experience, I still haven’t figured out why. Perhaps it’s a need to show off our foreign language capabilities. Or even just a desperate desire to make all those years of studying other languages in school worth it.
It could even just be an act of pity, trying to put the would-be Dutch language student out of their misery. Who knows?
Contradictorily hospitable
The Dutch are not inhospitable, not by a long shot; however, to the untrained eye, they can often appear so.
The Dutch are happy to sit down for a coffee or tea with almost anybody, but it almost always has to be on their own terms.
They’ll happily invite you into their homes — but only on their terms. You will receive all the pleasures of a king as an invited guest.
If you’re not invited….well, you’re subtly and “politely” removed from the household.
There is perhaps no better example than the dreaded 6 PM dinner. It’s a staple even at every traditional Dutch household. 6 PM is dinner time and I mean EXACTLY 6 PM.
It’s a good time — but it has to come to an end. Image: Freepik
If you happen to be visiting a friend during the afternoon for tea and that clock is ticking steadily towards the universal Dutch dinnertime, then expect your host to be expectantly glancing at the clock and psychologically shoving you out of the front door.
After all, they didn’t plan to be cooking for you, and frankly, there’s not enough food for that one extra person. Of course, they’ll never say it outright, but if you hear a Dutch person start blabbering on about how they better get to cooking, you also better get going.
Waiting rooms
The Dutch are simply very good at waiting. I love it, or at least, I love it as much as anyone can like waiting.
Unlike the average American doctor’s office, where you can expect (if you’re lucky) a selection of magazines that somehow never cater enough to your interest.
Coffee, tea, and cookies all seem staple necessities for any Dutch waiting area. Whether you’re waiting at an office or just visiting the barbershop, you’ll find no shortage of beverages to choose from.
“Yes, I’d be happy to wait. Would I like coffee? Yes, please. Is it already my turn? But… I haven’t finished my coffee yet…” Image: Unsplash
When it comes to waiting, the Dutch are ideal. I mean that they won’t bother you, they will simply mind their own business and you won’t have to deal with any disruptive, annoying behaviour during your serene and peaceful wait.
The only downside is that you rarely ever spend much time in those brilliantly designed moments of Zen.
The Dutch love their efficiency too much, so chances are you’ve scheduled your appointment beforehand, and you’ll be on the way to your appointment after only having waited a measly five minutes.
Water management
Ok, so water management doesn’t exactly sound like a Dutch quirk, does it? But I would argue that it is because, quite frankly, the mentality that goes along with Dutch water management has exceptionally far-reaching effects on Dutch behaviour.
It’s no secret that the Dutch are masters of water. We pulled up half of our country out of the sea, after all. Sometimes it helps to visualize things, and luckily the Archivists in Amsterdam have done exactly that.
Just imagine some of the conversations the Dutch have had in the past:
“I’d like to build a palace here.”
“But sir, there’s a river.”
“So what? Let’s move it. Oh, and while we’re at it, let’s just make a river that connects the port directly to the ocean. That seems useful.”
It’s really quite brilliant and probably the reason that we’ve managed to achieve so much. It’s the opposite of saying, ‘If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.’ It’s saying, ‘We can improve it, so let’s improve it.’
After all, we didn’t NEED to move that canal a meter to the left to make the sidewalk slightly bigger, but we CAN, so let’s do it.
What other Dutch quirks have you come across? Tell us in the comments below!
Somewhere in the Dutch city of Aalsmeer, you’ll find a warehouse that holds the title of one of the biggest commercial buildings in the WORLD.
What takes place in this humongous 800 metre by 500 metre building, you ask?The Dutch flower trade.
Home to Royal FloraHolland, a cooperation born out of a merger between multiple flower auctions, this building is responsible for about 40% of the world’s exports of flowers and plants. 😱
A blast from the past: the flower auction room
Now, this place used to be famous not just for its unparalleled efficiency but also for the unique way flowers were sold there — in auctions.
Historically, the Royal FloraHolland grounds had big auditorium-like rooms in which hundreds of flower buyers would sit down to look at flowers — and attempt to buy them at the lowest possible price.
How did it work? Racks of flowers were paraded in front of the buyers, as Tom Scott explains in his YouTube video, while a big auction clock at the front of the room would count from a high price down to a low price.
The first person to stop the clock by pressing a button in their seat got to buy the flowers — for a high price if they pressed too early, or not at all if someone else beat them to it. 🤷
This innovative Dutch flower auction room was not just a spectacular sight, but also famous around the world.
Eventually, the analogue clocks were replaced by digital ones. A few years later, the auction rooms closed down for good — but why? You guessed it: technology.
Modern-day solutions: flower auctions are now remote
At the end of the 2010s, flower buyers left the famous flower auction rooms in Aalsmeer for the last time. Flower auctions as we knew them were over, but they’re not completely gone.
As with many things, digitisation made flower auctions much easier (but also a little sadder): Instead of having to come together in a big auction room, buyers can now buy their flowers in online auctions. 💐👩💻
Via the wonders of the internet, the in-house auctioneers run 35 clocks at the same time, where some 2,500 buyers from around the world can snag deals on some original Nederlandse bloemen (Dutch flowers).
But it’s not just casino-like fun; nowadays, the Dutch flower auction turns over billions of euros each year — and is a massive player in the Dutch economy.
Did you know about the Dutch flower auctions? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Yep, you read that right. Temperatures across the Netherlands have dropped so low over the past two days that the wind chill is set to reach -14.5 degrees Celsius in parts of the country today.
Yesterday, it dropped down to a terrifying -15 degrees; and that’s only continuing today, according to Buienradar.
So no, you’re not being dramatic if you step outside and feel like your face is freezing off. In fact, the Royal Weather Institute (KNMI) wants you to be a drama queen about this.
Wrap up WARM this morning
Speaking with the AD, Annemarie Hoogendoorn of the KNMI advises that if you must step out this morning, you should wrap up as best you can.
She warns that with temperatures as low as this, people can experience injuries — and not just those caused by icy conditions.
For example, don’t leave the house without a hat and scarf! In temperatures this low, your forehead and cheeks can go numb to the point that they receive a “cold burn.”
It doesn’t matter how silly you look in your mother’s knitted hat — wear it today. Wear all the layers.
Wait, -15? This is the Netherlands!
It’s important to note the difference between the windchill temperature and the actual temperature.
Meteorologists use the term wind chill to refer to the perceived temperature when you stand in the wind.
This means that while the wind chill may feel like -15 degrees in the Netherlands, the actual temperature stands at around -7 degrees.
The wind chill is forecast to be lowest in the south of the country. However, areas such as North and South Holland can still expect a bitter windchill of -12 degrees this morning.
Thankfully, temperatures will “warm up” later today, with sunshine expected to heat things up to a balmy -1 to 1 degrees. 🌴
The Netherlands is a great place to live. So, now that you’re considering a move to Holland — or have already decided to start a new life in the land of cheese, windmills, and bikes — the next question is: “Where in the Netherlands should you live?”
Whilst in other countries, where you choose to live is often dictated by where you work, the Netherlands’ small size and great public transport connections make it possible, and very common, to live in one city or village and work in another.
The Netherlands also has options for everyone, from families to job-seekers, to those in search of an adventure. So, where is the right place for you to live in the Netherlands? Here’s a full breakdown of the Dutch cities that attract the most internationals.
The most popular Dutch cities to live in for internationals
Let’s start with a quick lowdown of essential (but easy!) Dutch geography: the Netherlands is basically divided into two main areas: the Randstad, and the rest.
The Randstad is a metropolitan area in the centre of the Netherlands, encompassing the country’s four largest cities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht, and their surrounding areas.
The Randstad is also the most popular part of the Netherlands for internationals to live in because of its:
great connections to the rest of Europe,
position as an economic and cultural hub,
job possibilities (because many national and international companies have offices in these cities).
However, there are some other great places to live beyond the Randstad, like Groningen in the north of the country, and Maastricht in the south. These cities are increasingly attracting international companies and families — and with large student populations, they are lively places to be.
That being said, not all of the Netherlands is as progressive as the rest — and there are some places you might want to avoid. For example, the Dutch have their very own Bible Belt, where people tend to be more conservative and less open to welcoming expats.
Amsterdam: living in the Dutch capital
Ah, beautiful Amsterdam! Image: Freepik
When you’re considering where to live in the Netherlands, Amsterdam could either be at the top, or at the bottom of your list. If you’ve ever wanted to walk out your front door and be greeted by picturesque canals and a historic centre, this could be the city for you.
People from over 180 nationalities call the Dutch capital their home, unable to resist the city’s international job opportunities, bike-ability, education, nearby airport, and plethora of green spaces.
While the city is jam-packed with world-class museums, entertainment, nightlife, and well serviced by public transport, the Dutch capital isn’t perfect.
Rotterdam: modern architecture and Europe’s largest port
Rotterdam’s modern skyline. Image: Unsplash
If modern high-rise buildings are your thing, then moving to Rotterdam might just be for you! The city is affectionately known as “Manhattan on the Meuse”, in strong contrast to the quaint Golden Age architecture found in the majority of other Dutch cities.
Rotterdam is the second biggest city in the Netherlands and is home to Europe’s largest seaport. The port attracts workers from all over the world, making Rotterdam one of the most diverse cities in the Netherlands with a strong international community.
Like any Dutch city, rental prices in the centre are on the steep side, and accommodation is scarce. Nevertheless, the cost of living in Rotterdam is rather low, compared to other big cities, such as Amsterdam, and there are more places to rent and buy in and around Rotterdam.
The Hague: international organisations and a seaside town
Old buildings meet new. Image: Unsplash
When deciding where to live in the Netherlands, the Hague is really the best of both worlds. Seamlessly blending a skyline of glistening high-rise buildings with abundant nature (like the seaside, or the Haagse Bos, a mature woodland that sits in the centre of The Hague), this influential city is truly mesmerising.
Thanks to its numerous embassies, and the fact that many important international organisations are based here, The Hague hosts a vibrant international community.
It’s also the political capital of the Netherlands, and the seat of the Dutch government. So, if you were hoping to bump into the Dutch Prime Minister, then The Hague is the place to be — you might ride past him on his cycle to work!
Scheveningen’s long sandy beach is another huge calling card for The Hague — from the city, you’re just a bike ride away from its iconic pier and vibey beach clubs. However, like most cities in the Randstad region, The Hague is experiencing a housing shortage, and rental prices are high. Nevertheless, it’s cheaper to live here than in Amsterdam or Utrecht.
Utrecht: small city with a big city vibe
Utrecht is pretty much a less touristy version of Amsterdam! Image: Depositphotos
Once the religious capital of the Netherlands, this quaint, medieval city is centred around the Dom Tower — the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. With beautiful old houses, bridges, and canals all over the city, Utrecht is often regarded as a “little Amsterdam” — just with fewer tourists.
When I first came to Utrecht, I was blown away by its unique charm. Home to a world-renowned university, the city is vibrant and fun, yet compact and never overwhelming. Overall, Utrecht is a great place to live — so, when you’re deciding where to live in the Netherlands, be sure to consider this charming corner.
There’s no shortage of interestingthings to do and see in this historic city either. With a dynamic restaurant scene and loads of gezellige terraces along the Oudegracht and in the Neude square, Utrecht is a perfect city for evenings out. It also boasts the most cultural events in the Netherlands, after Amsterdam.
If you weren’t convinced yet, in 2012, Lonely Planet listed Utrecht in the top 10 of the world’s unsung places. 😉
While housing is both pricey and scarce in Utrecht, its central location makes it a good option for people who want to live somewhere central, that’s easily accessible from different cities.
Leiden: the city of knowledge
Life in Leiden revolves around the water Image: Depositphotos
Located in the heart of the Randstad, Leiden is an ideal location for expats. The city is one of the oldest and most picturesque in the Netherlands — with romantic canals flanked by boats, and a windmill standing proudly along one of the main roads.
The city is quite compact, with just 127,000 inhabitants, but thanks to the presence of the prestigious Leiden University (the oldest in the Netherlands), it is a bustling student centre.
The city also lies in the “Bulb Region”, the best-known flower-growing area in the Netherlands. This makes it a perfect base for exploring the quintessentially Dutch tulip fields in spring.
Delft: a cocktail of innovation and history
The main square in Delft is the place to be! Image: Depositphotos
Delft is one of these cities where historic charm and modern-day technology blend together perfectly. Home to one of the most famous Dutch painters, Vermeer, it’s no surprise that this is one of the most picturesque cities in the whole Randstad. 🎨
With countless museums, churches, restaurants, and beautiful canals, Delft is a vibrant city that has plenty to offer. Well-connected to cities like The Hague, Leiden, and Rotterdam, it’s also a perfect base for commuters who want to live in a city with a village-like charm.
That being said, Delft also has its own international job market. Home to the Delft University of Technology, the city is not just a pretty sight but also an important innovation hub of the Randstad. International students and expat workers make for a young, diverse population.
When it comes to housing, prices in Delft are lower than in some other cities in the Randstad — but renting and buying will still cost you a pretty penny.
Eindhoven: centre of technology and innovation
Eindhoven has a different look. Image: Depositphotos
If you’re craving something more modern when deciding where to live in the Netherlands, then Eindhoven is just the place for you! Eindhoven may not be the most traditionally pretty city in the Netherlands, but it’s bursting with tech, energy, and innovation.
The city is all about progress, having been rebuilt after a considerable WWII bombing. It is now home to high-tech multinationals and startups — including the electronics giant, Philips. It’s no wonder Eindhoven is considered the Silicon Valley of the Netherlands!
Parks make up about one-third of all public space, making Eindhoven the greenest of the five major Dutch cities. It’s also home to the Stratumseind, the longest café- and bar street in the Netherlands — crowning Eindhoven as one of the best places to pub crawl.
Plus, if exploring Europe is on your to-do list, you’re in luck! Eindhoven Airport is the second busiest in the Netherlands, and is serviced by low-cost airlines, like Ryanair and Transavia.
Tilburg: edgy and fast-evolving
Tilburg has a stunning city centre. Image: Nora Maria/Supplied
Trying to decide where to live in the Netherlands, and fancy something a little quieter than the Randstad? Consider moving to Tilburg!
Historically the wool capital of the Netherlands, Tilburg is now a transport and logistics hub with a booming start-up scene. In recent years, the municipality has invested significantly in redeveloping disused train yards and warehouses around the central railway station, giving rise to an edgy urban landscape — while simultaneously preserving the cultural and industrial heritage that defines the city.
You’ll never be out of things to do in this city. There’s plenty of culture, art, museums and music, but Tilburg is also one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands, with lots of lovely parks and forests to walk and picnic in.
In addition, many of Tilburg’s street corners hold surprises: grey walls have been transformed into vivid street art, adding to the urban charm of the city.
Unlike in the Randstad, there’s still space to expand in Tilburg, and housing is still relatively affordable — meaning you’re less likely to have to spend your life savings on a shoebox-sized basement room without windows.
Haarlem is commonly considered one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the Netherlands, dating all the way back to 1245. It’s a compact city with a great old-world charm. Thanks to its idyllic location on the banks of the river Spaarne, its narrow cobbled streets, and weekly markets, Haarlem has a cosy, village-like vibe.
This tranquil city is becoming an increasingly popular destination for internationals. It’s also particularly family-friendly, bubbling over with events and activities for children. Haarlem is the second-largest city in the Amsterdam metropolitan area, and an easy commute to the capital.
Another great thing about Haarlem is that you’ll never get cabin fever. The seaside towns Bloemendaal aan Zee and Zandvoort will basically be in your backyard. Are woodlands more your thing? Haarlem has two gorgeous urban forests, and the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is a perfect spot for cycling, running, and enjoying the outdoors.
The city also lies in the gateway to the flower-growing region — just bike for 15 minutes, and you’ll be surrounded by millions of colourful tulips. 💐
Maastricht: a buzzing student city in the south
The river Maas is at the centre of charming Maastricht. Image: Depositphotos
Located on the southern tip of the Netherlands, Maastricht is distinguished by its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The city has 1,677 national heritage buildings, the second-highest number in the Netherlands, after Amsterdam. With its cobbled old town, walking through Maastricht is like stepping into a fairy tale. 🧚
From cute cafes to medieval history and converted Gothic buildings, living in Maastricht is a treat for the senses. And amazingly, the city even has hills! Needless to say, it’s a popular destination for people wanting to picnic, walk, and cycle.
Thanks to its central location in Europe, Maastricht has a very cosmopolitan feel, and is a great base for those who love to travel. Keep in mind, however, that the city will be more open to you if you speak Dutch, and job opportunities will be more readily available.
Groningen: the gem of the north
A colourful student city. Image: Unsplash
Whenever I mention Groningen, Dutchies always say, “that’s so far away!”. In reality, Groningen is just two and a half hours by train from Amsterdam — and it’s a beautiful train ride too!
It’s the largest city in the north of the country, and boasts a huge student population, making it young, diverse and fun. This vibrant city has been a major player since the late Middle Ages, with gorgeous buildings, such as the Martinitoren as proof.
Situated outside of the Randstad, Groningen is an ecosystem in and of itself. There are loads of cultural events, and with all those students, Groningen’s nightlife is unparalleled. It has the freshest air in the Netherlands, and the weekly farmers market at the Vismarkt is a beloved favourite among residents of Groningen.
While it can be a bit hard to find a job without speaking Dutch, and it’s also a bit of a trek to the other main cities and Schiphol Airport, housing prices are much cheaper here than in Randstad.
Arnhem: nearby gorgeous nature
Arnhem from above. Image: Unsplash
Situated on the banks of the Lower Rhine, Arnhem is the provincial capital of Gelderland in the east of the Netherlands.
If proximity to nature is key when deciding where to live in the Netherlands, then Arnhem is for you. There are plenty of beautiful places to cycle and walk around the city. A highlight is the gorgeous Veluwezoom National Park which encompasses 11,362 acres of forest, full of cycle paths and woodland trails.
With a smaller international community than those in the Randstad, there are fewer social groups and activities targeted toward non-Dutch speakers — so it can be a bit lonely for freshly arrived internationals.
Fortunately, Arnhem is within easy reach of Utrecht, which has more to offer in terms of cultural and social activities. Arnhem, however, is a much cheaper city to live in than the rest of those in the area.
Nijmegen: the oldest city in the Netherlands
The oldest city in the Netherlands. Image: Unsplash
Nijmegen, also in the province of Gelderland, is the oldest city in the Netherlands — dating back to Roman times. In 2005, this ancient city celebrated 2,000 years of existence.
Cosy Nijmegen has lots of students and starters, making for a vibrant atmosphere. Although the city’s compact medieval centre has lots of bars and organised activities, you may find it a little harder to settle here if you don’t speak Dutch.
Nevertheless, the city offers much better value for money in terms of housing than those in the Randstad region, making it an attractive option.
Hilversum is an affluent town in the southeast of Amsterdam, part of both the Randstad and the Amsterdam metropolitan area. It’s surrounded by nature reserves, lakes, woods, and meadows — making it very popular, and a perfect spot for those who work in the city but want to live in a green, leafy environment.
The city lies within easy commuting distance of both Amsterdam and Utrecht, with great road and train connections. However, be warned: the roads between Hilversum and Amsterdam are some of the busiest in the Netherlands at rush hour.
Hilversum is a fairly sleepy city, with all the amenities you could want and need: shopping, swimming pools, cinemas, bars, and restaurants. Several big companies have their European headquarters in Hilversum (like Nike), and (in true Dutch style), it’s home to its own international school.
The city has all of the perks of the Randstad, with additional peace and tranquillity.
Amersfoort, in the province of Utrecht, is a major city in its own right, without being too big and overcrowded.
Large parts of the ancient city wall are still standing, including the Kopelpoort — the imposing city gate — while the medieval city centre radiates charm. The city has a relaxed atmosphere and lots of festivities. It’s also an ideal base for commuting, if you work elsewhere in the Randstad.
Because of its close proximity to major cities, however, renting and buying houses in Amersfoort isn’t the cheapest. Nevertheless, it’s a very child-friendly place, within easy reach of great international schools and mainstream Dutch schools.
Almere: Living on reclaimed land
A spacious suburb in Almere. Image: Unsplash
Almere is the newest city in the Netherlands, with the unique selling point that the land on which it sits was reclaimed from the Ijsselmeer lake between 1959 and 1968. Being so new, Almere is a purpose-built city with spacious and carefully planned residential areas, gardens, playgrounds, and off-street parking. You can even design and build your own home — a rare option in the Netherlands.
With loads of woodlands, parks and beaches, and a good selection of schools (including an international school), Almere is perfect for young families. The city boasts modern architecture and amenities.
With excellent public transport links, it’s an easy commute to Amsterdam, just 20 minutes away by train.
The downside is that some may find that Almere lacks that old-world Dutch charm and personality, being a very new place. In addition, the international community is still growing, so it might be a bit harder to meet people here. Nevertheless, the city is growing in popularity with both internationals and Dutchies alike.
Living in a Dutch village
Dutch villages are usually very quiet and green. Image: Depositphotos
City life isn’t for everyone, and with the cutthroat housing market in Dutch cities, it’s also worth considering living in a village in the surrounding area of some of the main Dutch cities. There are both pros and cons to this.
You generally get more bang for your buck when buying and renting outside the cities — think bigger, cheaper houses, and the luxury of not hearing what your neighbours are up to throughout the day.
It’s also possible that village life might be more community-oriented, and less anonymous than life in the cities. In lush surroundings, you’ll be able to enjoy a calmer pace of life and you can still stay connected with the rest of the world with an international eSIM.
We’ve got to warn you, though, that there’s a strong chance that less English will be spoken, making it a little harder to integrate. Villages also have fewer amenities, so if you’re after an active nightlife or early morning trips to boutique yoga studios, this option might not be for you.
Wherever you choose to settle in the Netherlands, you’ll be relatively close to amenities, green spaces, and cultural sites.
While the housing crisis in all of the major cities can make finding your feet tricky, there are tips and tricks to make things a little easier. So, now that you know where to live in the Netherlands: pack your bags and get ready for your Dutch adventure! Success!
Which Dutch city will you be moving to? Tell us in the comments below!
If you’ve been tugging those blankets tighter around yourself these days, rest assured you’re not the only one feeling the chill. 🥶
As the Netherlands enters a period of proper winter weather, temperatures will actually drop to a frosty -9 degrees Celsius over the coming days, writes RTL Nieuws.
A cold, cloudy start to the week
Were you hoping for a bright, sunny Monday? Whilst there will certainly be a bit of sun, near-zero temperatures and winds of up to force five may have you reconsidering plans to go outside.
With freezing winds flowing our way from Scandinavia, meteorologists warn that it can also feel much colder than readings on a thermometer.
Nightly temperatures, for example, are expected to feel a lot closer to -12 degrees Celsius than the forecasted -5 degrees.
Expect sunshine on Tuesday and Wednesday
In contrast to the rest of the week, Tuesday and Wednesday are forecasted to be bright and sunny.
With weather like this, it may soon be time to pop on some skates! Image: Freepik
Wednesday, in particular, will also experience a lull in the freezing wind — making it one of the best days of the week if you’re planning on spending any time outdoors.
For those who hate the chill, Thursday is predicted to be 3 to 4 degrees warmer than the rest of the week. (Sunshine and warmer temperatures? Sounds almost too good to be true! 👀)
Are you (or are you not) looking forward to the sudden chill? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
As the days draw cold, everybody hopes for sub-zero temperatures. The whole country wishes the cold snap lasts long enough for the canals and lakes to freeze over.
Natural skating rinks
To have true outdoor skating success, the ice has to become thick enough to allow a skating race or two.
For many giddy people, the wait is too much, and they jump fearlessly onto the water and try their luck.
On more than one occasion, this impatience has led to hilarious and rather wet consequences. Our advice is to skate safely and in style like these guys: 👇
Elfstedentocht — the elusive Dutch tradition
When or if the big freeze happens, the next question on everybody’s minds is, “Will the ice be thick enough for the Elfstedentocht?!”
The Elfstedentocht, or “The Eleven City Tour”, is a 200-kilometre skating route that weaves its way through 11 Frisian cities, crossing lakes, rivers and canals.
The last Elfstedentocht took place in 1997, although preparations were made again in 2012.
However, the event literally melted away before skaters had a chance to take on the challenge. Whilst, some believe the Elfstedentocht will never happen again due to global warming, others remain hopeful.
Think you are up to the challenge? Well, besides wishing for some arctic conditions, you also have to be a member of De Vereniging De Friesche Elf Steden and have your name chosen out of the thousands of members in a lottery style. Otherwise, enjoy some koek en zopieand soak up the atmosphere!
The atmosphere of the event is something else! Image: Rob Bogaerts/Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
Don’t waste an opportunity
While the Elfstedentocht is an extremely rare occurrence, sometimes, it still gets cold enough for people to enjoy a frozen canal or two where you can safely (depending on your skill level!), so step on the ice and show off some tricks normally restricted to the indoor rink!
Canals will sometimes be safe to skate on. Image: Pixabay
Although safety is very important, it is very common in Dutch culture to risk the ice, even if they’re not sure it’s thick enough.
Got no skates? No problem! The kringloop — or any second-hand shop — is filled with cheap skates you can pick up for your frosty adventure!
You never know; you may be right next to one of the Netherlands’ naturally occurring ice rinks! Head out sooner rather than later, though. Your chance to try out this Dutch winter pastime might just melt away!
Will you be trying out the ice skates this year? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
It looks like we’re already starting the year off with changes, as there won’t be any direct NS intercity trains running between Rotterdam and The Hague.
The timetables will be adjusted from Monday, January 8, to Saturday, February 3, as the NS is training its operators with the new type of NS intercity trains on the main rail network, reports the AD.
Modified routes and connections
From Monday to Friday, the ICU direct trains, which run between Amsterdam and Rotterdam, will also ride towards Eindhoven, occupying the direct railway between Rotterdam and The Hague.
If you’re travelling from Eindhoven to The Hague, you can transfer from Rotterdam Central.
Intercity trains will then travel to either The Hague Holland Spoor or The Hague Laan van NOI train station, and from there, you can travel to The Hague Central Station.
There are also sprinter trains every 15 minutes going to The Hague Central Station.
