You’ll see them whooshing by with one hand on the handlebars and the other clinging to an umbrella, which they use as a shield to face the wind and rain head-on.
The real pros even have a special cycling umbrella in an elongated shape to unlock those extra aerodynamic powers.
Another answer is to, well, protect themselves from the rain. 💁♂️
Why is it quirky?
Considering that the Netherlands has a (relatively) well-functioning public transport system and good rain gear would keep them just as dry, biking with an umbrella honestly just seems like a lot of unnecessary effort.
But we must commend the Dutch for trying. It’s a brave move.
Whether you’re struggling with rent, health insurance, or raising kids, Dutch government allowances (toeslagen) can help out.
If you’re eligible for a toeslag, the Dutch government will give you a monthly financial contribution for the costs of health insurance, children, rent or childcare.
Whether you qualify for government allowances in the Netherlands depends on the specific allowance and several personal circumstances, but the general requirements are that you must:
Be over 18 years of age,
Live in the Netherlands (i.e. with a valid residence permit or as an EU/EEA national),
Fall under the income threshold for the respective allowance.
Just arrived in the Netherlands and sorting out your finances? ING, the Netherlands’ biggest bank, is your key to getting your Dutch life off its feet. Whether you’re looking for everyday banking solutions, insurance, or just tips on how to navigate Dutch bureaucracy as an international, ING is for you.
🏡 Huurtoeslag: What you need to know about rental allowance
So, you’ve arrived in the Netherlands — and if you’ve managed to score an apartment (congrats 👏), you’ve probably noticed that rent isn’t exactly… goedkoop (cheap).
The good news? You might be eligible for some financial help from the Dutch government through the huurtoeslag (rental allowance).
Moving into a new flat? You might qualify for huurtoeslag. Image: Magnific
The huurtoeslag is a housing allowance designed to help residents on a lower income pay their rent. Besides the general eligibility requirements that apply to all allowances, whether or not you are eligible for huurtoeslag depends on:
Your age,
Your living situation (including who you live with),
Your rental price,
Your income, and
Your assets and savings.
Let’s break these down.
Your age affects how much huurtoeslag you can get
The first thing to consider when determining whether you’re eligible for huurtoeslag is your age. To apply for rental allowance in the Netherlands in 2026, you must be at least 18 years old.
On top of that, the rent limits differ based on age:
Age
Maximum basic rent to be eligible for huurtoeslag in 2026
18-21 years old
€498.20
21 and older
€932.93
Exactly how much money you will receive in huurtoeslag depends on your situation, but it can be up to a few hundred euros. It’s also important to know that you will always pay part of your rent yourself.
Want to know how much exactly you could get? You can do a trial calculation on the Belastingdienst’s website.
Income thresholds for huurtoeslag in 2026
While there is no fixed income limit for huurtoeslag (rent allowance) in the Netherlands, the Dutch Tax Office does look at your toetsingsinkomen, a.k.a. your assessable income.
This assessable income includes:
Your salary,
Income from your own business,
Benefits, for example, unemployment benefit or sickness benefit,
Your pension,
Severance pay,
Side income if you’re a freelancer, childminder or newspaper deliverer, for example,
Partner alimony, and
Income from renting out a home.
If you live with a tax partner, their income usually counts toward the total household income as well. Based on this income, it is determined whether or not you will get huurtoeslag.
If you’re moving in with a tax partner, your joint income will be taken into consideration. Image: Magnific
Generally speaking, the higher your income, the lower the allowance you’ll receive, and if your income is too high, you may not receive any huurtoeslag at all.
Your rental must be “self-contained”
You must also be able to say that your living space is “independent”. There are three main conditions that your rental must fulfil for this:
It has its own front door that can be locked from the inside and outside.
It has its own living/ bedroom area, as well as its own kitchen with a cooker and access to water.
It has its own private bathroom.
Even if you share an address with others (for example, you and your partner live in the attic, another person lives on the first floor, etc.), your space can be considered independent as long as it meets the conditions above.
💡 Good to know: The Dutch tax office (Belastingdienst) understands that everyone’s housing situation is unique, so they have a helpful guide for those who are unsure of whether or not the huurtoeslag applies to them.
🏥 Zorgtoeslag: What you need to know about healthcare allowance
Let’s say you’re sitting all cosy in your subsidised living space, the plants have been potted, the furniture is a colourful ensemble of IKEA and second-hand, when all of a sudden, you trip over an extension cord and break your arm.
That’s fine, you have health insurance (because, well, you legally have to) — but did you know that you can also receive an allowance to pay your health insurance premium?
Ended up in the hospital? As long as you have health insurance, you don’t have to worry. Image: Magnific
This allowance is called the zorgtoeslag, and it’s a monthly contribution from the government to help you cover the cost of your Dutch basic health insurance.
To be eligible for zorgtoeslag as an international, you must meet the general conditions that apply to all government allowances and have Dutch health insurance.
Don’t have Dutch health insurance yet? How about car insurance or liability insurance? ING’s insurance can cover all of the above. By keeping all your essential finances in one place, ING makes life in the Netherlands simpler — so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying what really matters (poffertjes and biertjes).
How much can I get in zorgtoeslag in 2026?
As with the huurtoeslag, the allowance given is based on your personal situation. In 2026, the maximum monthly zorgtoeslag is:
Up to €129 per month for single individuals
Up to €246 per month for fiscal partners
The actual amount you receive depends on how much you earn. The lower your income, the higher your allowance.
🚨 Let op! Zorgtoeslag is only available if you have at least a basic Dutch health insurance policy (basisverzekering), so if you’re still using a foreign or travel insurance provider, you won’t qualify. Also, health insurance is mandatory for all Dutch residents.
Income and savings limits for zorgtoeslag in 2026
To receive zorgtoeslag, your income must fall below the following thresholds:
Under €40,857 as a single person, or
Under €51,142 with a tax partner.
Your assets/savings must not exceed:
€146,011 as a single person, or
€184,633 with a tax partner
What if you’re just a bit over the threshold, you ask? Sadly, even €1 too much in income or savings means you won’t receive zorgtoeslag, as the Belastingdienst is strict when it comes to healthcare allowance.
Good news: You can apply for zorgtoeslag retroactively for up to one year, as long as you were eligible at the time.
👨👨👧 What you need to know about child-related allowances in the Netherlands
Now, let’s say that upon your arrival at the hospital with your broken arm, you meet a charming Dutchie and the two of you hit it off.
Raising a child in the Netherlands? There are multiple benefits you can claim. Image: Magnific
This is a smart move; the Netherlands is one of the best countries in the world to do so. This is for many reasons, but did you know that you can also get financial help when it comes to having children?
There are three different allowances that you can get from the Dutch government when you have a child in the Netherlands:
Kinderbijslag (Child benefit)
Kindgebonden budget (Child-related budget)
Kinderopvangtoeslag (Childcare allowance)
Between taxes and benefits, Dutch finances can get complicated sometimes. If you feel like you need help (or just want to save some valuable time), ING’s collaboration with TaxSavers offers expert guidance tailored to your expat situation.
Kinderbijslag: all you need to know about child benefit
Meaning “child benefit” in English, the kinderbijslag is a national allowance meant to subsidise the general costs of having a child (think: clothes, food, school stuff).
Parents will receive a payment, per child, each quarter from the SVB (Sociale Verzekeringsbank).
The amount given depends on the age of the child:
Age
Amount per quarter
0-5
€295.07
6-11
€358.30
12-17
€421.53
Parents can also apply for a double child benefit if the child has extra educational needs or a health condition.
Am I eligible for the kinderbijslag?
Anyone who lives and works legally in the Netherlands will receive the kinderbijslag once they have a child.
However, if you work for an employer or client that is based outside of the Netherlands in a non-EU/EEA country, things are different.
The amount you receive will depend on the age of your child. Image: Magnific
If the employer/client does not have a social security agreement with the Netherlands, then you may not be entitled to this specific allowance.
Kindgebonden budget: all you need to know about the child budget
The next allowance to consider is the kindgebonden budget, which translates to the “child-related budget”.
This is an extra monthly payment from the Belastingdienst meant to help families with lower or middle incomes.
Those who qualify for the kindgebonden budget receive an allowance each month, which adds up to approximately the following per year:
Number of children
Single parent with an income of up to €29,736
Parent with tax partner and an income of up to €39,141
Once your children reach a certain age, you will also get more money, with an extra €724 per year for children above 12 and an extra €964 per year for children above 16.
Am I eligible for the kindgebonden budget?
As long as you are living in the Netherlands legally, you will be able to apply for the kindgebonden budget. In fact, if you’re eligible, the Belastingdienst will usually automatically notify you.
Whether or not you are eligible to receive the kindgebonden budget depends once again on some conditions:
Your child must be under the age of 18,
You and your partner must earn below a certain level (you can calculate it here),
Your and your partner’s joint assets must not be too high,
You must already be receiving the kinderbijslag.
Kinderopvangtoeslag: all you need to know about childcare allowance
The final allowance that may be available to you as a parent in the Netherlands is the kinderopvangtoeslag.
This allowance is meant to help you pay for any childcare that your child may need, such as daycare, after-school care, or childminders.
The amount you receive depends on the number of hours you work and the type of childcare your child goes to. There is a maximum hourly rate that the government reimburses in 2025:
Daycare
After school care
Childminder
€11.23 per hour
€9.98 per hour
€8.49 per hour
Am I eligible for the kinderopvangtoeslag?
You are eligible to receive the kinderopvangtoeslag as long as both you and your partner are legal residents in the Netherlands and meet the following conditions:
You and your partner are both working (or studying) and therefore cannot take care of the child.
Your child is going to a registered daycare.
You and your child are both registered at the same address.
Again, the amount you’ll receive depends on your own individual situation, such as how many hours you work and the cost of your chosen childcare.
Regardless of how much time you have with your child, it doesn’t hurt to consider whether or not you can be compensated for the cost of childcare.
How to sign up for toeslagen in the Netherlands in 2026
Now that you know about all the allowances that exist, their requirements and limitations, it’s time to learn how you can apply for them.
There are three easy steps involved in this:
1. Log in to Mijn Toeslagenusing your DigiD: This is your personal portal for applying for allowances, checking your status, reporting changes (like income, address, or roommates), and stopping toeslagen if you’re no longer eligible.
2. Fill in your details, namely:
Your income estimate for the year
Details about your rent (for huurtoeslag)
Your health insurance information (for zorgtoeslag)
3. Submit and wait: You’ll usually receive a provisional calculation (voorschotbeschikking) of your allowance(s) within a few weeks. If approved, you’ll start receiving monthly payments.
Got a new job? Moving to a new place? Partner moved in? Exciting! Report these changes to the Belastingdienst ASAP via Mijn Toeslagen.
Otherwise, you risk overpayment and nasty surprises later (yep, they’ll make you pay it back).
Are you eligible for government allowances in the Netherlands? Or do you have any tips to make the application process easier? Let us know in the comments below!
The commission is calling for an overhaul of the government’s current approach.
This is not the first such warning. Following a series of reports and recommendations over the past four years on both offline and online discrimination, the commission reiterated that this harm is systemic and structural, NOS reports.
It argues that discrimination is embedded within the legal system, government institutions, the labour market, healthcare, housing, and education.
The problem
Commission Chair Joyce Sylvester says that “legislation and policy are still too often developed from a limited perspective, in which people directly affected by discrimination are insufficiently involved, even though they are precisely the ones who can help combat discrimination.”
The commission calls for a government that not only eliminates discrimination within its own institutions but actively works to prevent it — a duty it argues is already enshrined in the Dutch Constitution.
10 steps forward
How can the government achieve this? The commission proposes an action agenda with ten concrete steps, including better monitoring of discrimination, limiting data-driven profiling, and strengthening oversight.
A centrepiece is the proposed introduction of a statutory Public Sector Equality Obligation, modelled on similar laws in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
This would require government agencies to factor equal treatment into policy from the outset.
No comment
When asked to comment on the Commission’s new findings by NOS, the Ministry of Interior declined.
A spokesperson told NOS that the Ministry would first “carefully study the final report” before responding, adding that it is an issue “we take seriously.”
Have you experienced discrimination in the Netherlands? Share your story in the comments.
However, I was left dumbfounded after asking a friend if she slept well in my bed (I had played the gracious host who slept on the sofa), and she responded with a casual “Not at all.”
Sounds easy, but as a fresh expat, I could not question my boss’s ideas. Meanwhile, my Dutch colleagues had zero qualms about critiquing our manager’s proposals as if it were a sport.
Foreigners might perceive it as rudeness, but the Dutch? They call it “open and honest” feedback.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a boss to interrogate about that article revision.
3. The magic of receiving holiday pay
Holland has a perpetual rainy season with 79cm of precipitation yearly. The Dutch know how to make the most of the sun by holding epic festivals and events.
But extra fun requires extra cash, and the Dutch have it figured out: vakantiegeld. Every employer in the Netherlands must pay their staff an additional sum on top of their gross salary.
Come to the Netherlands, the streets are clean, the trains are shiny, there are always seats and they run on time. They pay you an extra month salary so you can go on holiday, they all speak English, they have special lanes just for cyclists and the natural cuisine is mayonnaise.
Holiday pay is sometimes called the 13th month because it’s almost equivalent to an extra month’s salary. Talk about making it rain in more ways than one! 💰
4. The chaos of King’s Day
Imagine an entire nation putting on a massive orange-themed extravaganza to celebrate its monarch’s special day — welcome to King’s Day in the Netherlands!
April 27 is King Willem-Alexander’s birthday, a national holiday in the Netherlands.
King’s Day in the Netherlands has to be seen to be believed. Image: Depositphotos
On King’s Day, the Netherlands transforms into a playground of epic proportions, from flea markets to open-air festivals.
What is the best way to enjoy Koningsdag? Paint Dutch flags on your face and indulge in oranje tompouce, the ultimate treat fit for a king (or queen)! 🇳🇱
Hold your wooden shoes because the Dutch have taken crime-fighting to a new level! With declining crime rates, they have closed 23 prisons since 2014.
While the Netherlands may seem like a safe haven, they have their own brand of mischief. The most common crimes involve sneaky thieves, expert pickpockets, and the occasional drug-related shenanigans.
So calming & safe feeling in the Netherlands, a country of 18 million in a space 1/4 the size of Florida. When a person is shot there, it is so rare that it makes the national news. In Florida, if we had a statewide mention of people shot, it would not even fit into news program.
As a female, I have thoroughly enjoyed my freedom — the streets are well-lit, locals are friendly, and walking (or biking) home after late-night parties is practically a piece of stroopwafel.
6. The freedom from cash
In the land of tulips and windmills, physical currency is so last century! I have yet to carry cash in my four years of living here.
Like the Dutch, I have mastered the art of wallet minimalism; credit cards, debit cards, Tikkie, iDEAL, Apple Pay — you name it, Dutchies have it.
Tikkies are a wonderful thing. Image: DutchReview
One must remember the Dutch language crash course that came with this money revolution: forget “Hello” or “How are you?” Instead, the first words you learn in the Netherlands are the golden phrases “Geen contant” (no cash) and “Alleen pinnen” (only card).
Want to pay your rent? Use your card. Want to buy groceries? Use your card. Want to use the public washroom for €0.50? Use your card!
Join the Dutchies in their quest for a cashless utopia. Happy swiping!
7. A sense of work-life balance
In the beginning, the Dutch work culture had me scratching my head, wondering what to do with all the extra time I had after finishing my work.
My job ended at 5 PM, and I was sleeping around midnight. That left me with a whopping seven-hour stretch of leisure!
In my desperate quest to fill the hours, I considered taking another job. But then it hit me — no wonder the Netherlands ranks fifth worldwide for work-life balance, according to the OECD index.
So, follow my lead if you’re wondering what to do with your ample Dutch downtime: find a cosy spot by the canals, grab some poffertjes, and let the hours slip away like a lazy canal boat.
8. How tall people are
At 1.74 metres, I tower over most Indians. With the average Indian female height of 1.55m, I felt like an NBA player compared to my fellow countrymen.
Then destiny brought me to the Netherlands, and suddenly I felt like I had found my tribe!
But why are the Dutch so dang tall? Several theories have sprouted, ranging from their meat-rich diets to the gallons of milk they gulp down like there’s no tomorrow to surviving sea floodings like true aquatic superheroes.
Therefore, if you have ever felt like a giant, fear not; Holland awaits! Embrace your towering status and let the Dutch spirit lift you to new heights … quite literally!
9. The extensive public transport
For most people coming to the Netherlands, Dutch transportation means one thing: the bicycle.
While the Dutch have created an excellent biking infrastructure worldwide, their public transport network is worth mentioning too. The Dutch public transportation system is efficient, clean, and reasonably priced.
The Dutch train network spans almost the whole country. Image: NS
Wherever I want to go, I can get there quickly and comfortably by train, bus, metro, tram, ferry, water boat, water taxi, and more.
The Dutch have taken convenience to a new level with the OV-chipkaart, their national smart-card payment system for public transportation.
No more fumbling for loose change or dealing with confusing ticket systems. Just tap that OV-chipkaart and voila!
10. The hilarious Dutch idioms
Like any other language, Dutch has its fair share of peculiar sayings and idioms that sound bizarre to non-native speakers.
While I struggled to remember simple Dutch words like “vliegtuig” (that’s “aeroplane,” in case you’re wondering), I effortlessly memorised their mind-boggling idioms.
DUTCH PHRASE OF THE WEEK: 🇳🇱 = Daar kan ik geen chocola van maken Literally = I can't make any chocolate from that 🇬🇧 = That doesn't make sense#LearnDutch#ExpatsInTheNetherlands
Where else but in the Netherlands can you have a monkey up your sleeve or witness rain falling like steel pipes? Oh, the joy of saying “Helaas pindakaas” (Too bad, peanut butter) and casually walking away as if nothing unexpected happened.
Ever wondered why the Dutch wear orange to pretty much any national occasion, even though the colour isn’t even in their flag?
Perhaps you’ve been stampeded by hoards of orange football fans or drowned in a sea of orange that floods every Dutch city on King’s Day.
As it happens, orange has been the national colour of the Netherlands for hundreds of years. Here’s why.
Why does everyone wear orange on King’s Day?
If you’re not familiar, King’s Day isa national holiday in the Netherlands, where the entire nation dresses in orange, drinks beer, and celebrates the king’s birthday.
And boy, do they celebrate! 💃
King’s Day in the Netherlands is never taken lightly. Image: Depositphotos
The canals overflow with boats of what look like oompa loompas drinking themselves to death, occasionally singing: Oranje boven, oranje boven, leve de koning! (Orange above all, orange above all, long live the king!).
The Dutch love for orange is tied to the royal family: the House of Oranje-Nassau.
The lineage began with the famous William of Orange, who was crowned Prince of Orange in 1544. With his leadership, the colour orange became a symbol of the Dutch royal family.
William of Orange, who?
William of Orange, also known as William the Silent, was named heir to the county of Orange by his cousin, René of Chalon, who himself died with no children.
Later, William led the Dutch revolt against the Spanish occupation of the Netherlands during the Eighty Years’ War, from 1568 to 1648.
His leadership was extremely influential in the rebellion, contributing to the official independence of the United Provinces of the Netherlands in 1648.
The beloved William of Orange. Image: Adriaen Thomasz. Key/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain
He is known as the father of the Netherlands, and he’s the first ancestor of the current royal family, making him the founder of the current Dutch monarchy.
So his name, and the bright colour that goes with it, symbolise the Dutch state. Even though the county of Orange technically isn’t in the Netherlands. Huh?
The town of Orange, France
Historically known as Oranghien by the Dutch, Orange is a town in modern-day southern France.
For many years, it was a county state under the Holy Roman Empire before it became a part of France in 1713. This is where, in 1544, William of Nassau became Prince William of Orange.
Why do Dutch football fans wear orange?
The dress code doesn’t only apply to the fans. The Oranje(nickname of the Dutch national football team) also dress completely in orange when they hit the field during national games.
The army of sports fans that follow the Dutch team is known as the Oranje Legioen (Orange Legion) and has an almost magical ability to turn every bar, stadium, and street into an orange haze.
This phenomenon is known as Oranjekoorts(Orange Fever), and it is just as crazy as it sounds.
The choice of orange, however, has the same explanation as King’s Day. Where orange once symbolised the Dutch royal family, it soon became a symbol of Dutch national pride.
Why is the Dutch flag not orange?
Originally, the Dutch flag was orange, white, and blue. It was designed by William of Orange himself. During the War of Independence, Dutch soldiers even wore this flag to battle.
However, by the end of the war, the orange band was changed to red. Historians have a few theories why.
The Dutch flag doesn’t have any orange in it, yet the colour is synonymous with Dutch nationality. Image: Depositphotos
The first theory is that the dye used to stain the flag orange was prone to changing to a red colour over time. So to avoid confusion, the flag was officially changed to red.
Other historians believe the change was a result of the political climate following the Anglo-Dutch agreement of 1654, which excluded members of the House of Orange from becoming head of the Dutch state.
Because the colour orange was closely associated with the House of Orange, the adoption of a red stripe may have reflected a desire to distance the Dutch Republic from Orangist influence.
Theory three goes back to 1354, when the county of Holland was ruled by the Bavarian House of Wittelsbach. The new Dutch flag could thus have been based on the Bavarian coat of arms.
Regardless of the reason, orange stuck around in the hearts of Dutch people.
When not to wear orange in the Netherlands
Wearing orange in the Netherlands will certainly win you brownie points on almost any day of the year, especially during the football World Cup. Except perhaps on April 30.
In honour of Queen Beatrix, King’s Day was actually Queen’s Day and celebrated on April 30. However, when King Willem-Alexander took the throne in 2013, King’s Day was switched to April 27.
Since the change, many tourists have still arrived in the Netherlands fully dressed in orange on April 30. These oblivious enthusiasts became known as vergistoeristen — mistake tourists. Oh, dear.
The Dutch are not particularly patriotic. So don’t expect to see any orange on Prinsjedag (Budget Day) or Remembrance Day.
You might see a little orange on Liberation Day, but certainly not to the degree of real Orange Fever. The colour is mainly reserved for sporting events and King’s Day.
Countries that use orange because of the Netherlands
As the Dutch sailed across the globe to colonise and conquer, their influence left an indelible mark on the places they went.
This includes the colour orange, which leaked into many flags, names, and symbols we still see today.
South African Boers
Between 1652 and 1795, the Dutch East India Company controlled the Eastern Cape of Southern Africa.
Many employees of the company retired there and bought farmlands, as well as African and Asian slaves, to run the farms.
However, the Eastern Cape fell under British rule in 1806, which abolished slavery in the region in 1834. The Dutch Boers (farmers) eventually grew tired of paying taxes to the British and didn’t want to give up their slaves.
Thus, they departed on the Great Trek across southern Africa to establish their own settlements where they could rule themselves freely.
The Afrikaaner Boers thus established the Orange Republic in the middle of modern-day South Africa.
It became an independent republic in 1854, and of course, its flag had orange and white stripes, with the Dutch flag in the top left corner, for which the Dutch king gave his blessing.
The Orange Free State flag of the Dutch in South Africa. Image: David Benbennick/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain
Fast forward past the Boer Wars, and the Orange Republic became the Orange Free State under the Union of South Africa in 1910.
Between 1928 and 1994, the Union of South Africa, which later became the Republic of South Africa, had the flag depicted below. You’ll notice the orange, white, and blue stripes of the old Dutch flag, as well as the Orange Free State’s flag in the middle.
The flag of South Africa between 1928 and 1994, showing the Dutch influence. Image: Parliament of South Africa/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain
After Apartheid, this flag changed to the stunning multi-coloured flag that South Africa has today (with zero orange), and the Orange Free State simply became the Free State.
But the Orange River, which happens to be the longest one in the country, kept its name.
Irish Protestants
Coming back to Europe, the orange stripe in the Irish flag also has its links to William of Orange.
This colour represents the minority Irish Protestants who supported William of Orange.
During the Battle of the Boyne, Protestant King William of Orange faced up against the Catholic King James II of England, Scotland, and Ireland.
Irish Protestants, who conflicted with their Catholic countrymen, opted to support William of Orange instead. As a result, they adopted the colour orange as a symbol of their Protestant Irish identity.
The Irish flag, with a touch of Dutch orange. Image: Éire/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain
This is in contrast to the green of the Irish flag, which symbolises Catholic Irish republicanism. The white in the middle symbolises peace between these two groups.
Carrots?
Did you know that the orange colour of your favourite root vegetable is a Dutch doing?
Carrots were originally purple, red, or white, but Dutch farmers bred them to become the distinct orange colour they are known for today. And, of course, this colour change was a tribute to good old William of Orange.
To this day, you can hear the history of William of Orange in the Dutch national anthem. Apparently, what appears to be a random craze around all things orange is mostly out of admiration for the Father of the Netherlands.
What do you think of the Dutch obsession with orange? Tell us in the comments below.
The good thing is that the Dutch are quite direct, which makes it easy to know when you’ve misstepped, so there’s no need to think of ulterior motives or extrapolate detailed scenarios in your head. If they say it, they mean it, and if they mean it, they say it. 😉
But certain things tick these tall people off and should be avoided at all costs… unless you want a piece of Dutch boosheid (anger).
1. Forget flaunting (forever)
The Dutch are simple and modest people. Exorbitant displays of anything from wealth and status to business and education are frowned upon.
This links to their emphasis on conformity rather than standing out (and slightly explains why most houses look the same).
You might get déjà vu walking around the Dutch streets with their rows of identical houses. Image: Depositphotos
Don’t get me wrong, they are happy that you accomplished whatever you did or made loads of money, but they just don’t understand the need to brag about it. ‘Work hard but stay humble’ seems to be the Dutch mantra.
2. Do not confuse the Dutch with the Danes (or the Germans)
The Dutch and Germans (Deutsche) are confused with each other a lot. What is not so popular (but happens fairly often nonetheless) is the mix-up between Dutch and Danes.
The Dutch come from the Kingdom of the Netherlands and speak a language called Dutch. The Danes come from the Kingdom of Denmark and speak a language called Danish.
On some levels, the confusion is understandable. After all, both the Dutch and the Danes come from tiny countries with tall, blonde people and long seafaring histories.
The Dutch are known for their windmills and the Danes for their wind turbines. Both countries are also known for their love of cycling, eating potato-based dishes, and cheering for their monarchs on TV.
However, this does not give you a reason to muddle up nationalities, especially if you want to be friends with the Dutch.
3. You are not special (no matter what your mom says)
Don’t expect any superior treatment just because of who you are. The Netherlands is an egalitarian society where respect and status are earned and not demanded.
Every person is equal and should be treated accordingly. Ultimately, they don’t care if you are the Prime Minister of X; if you’re a jerk, then you’ll be treated like one. 🤷♂️
The reverse is also true. If you’re a good person, they’ll surely let you know!
4. Thou shalt not steal bikes (…amen)
Everyone knows the Dutch and their love for cycling. Every love story has a villain, and so does this one — bike thieves.
This bitter truth has its roots in the final stages of WWII, when the Germans stole Dutch bikes.
It was the end of the war, and the Germans were retreating at full speed, using everything to get out of the Netherlands. They took the motorised vehicles first; trucks, cars, motorcycles, and tractors.
Padlock your pedals! Secure your cycle! Image: Depositphotos
When there were no more, they stole every bicycle in the Netherlands and rode them back to Germany. The Dutch haven’t forgotten.
Whenever Dutch football teams play German teams, Dutch fans mock Germans with big, bold signs that say ‘Bring Back Our Bikes’. So, unless you want to be cursed 75 years on, you probably don’t want to steal a bike. (Also, it’s illegal.)
5. Sidewalks are for walking, and bike lanes are for bikes
Sounds simple enough, right? But it’s not. These red coloured lanes are red for a reason, to separate them from the grey lanes (aka roads) and the brown/green lanes (aka pavements).
It seems that this distinction is not too apparent to internationals. More often than not, someone unknowingly wanders into the bicycle lane and is met with an irritated Dutch cyclist (we’re guilty as well).
Don’t expect the cyclist to move; remember you’re in their way, not the other way around.
Oh, and to make it more confusing, people don’t believe in traffic lights. Image: Pexels
6. Avoid discussions on Zwarte Piet (unless you want a long and emotional debate)
Traditionally, every year on the evening of December 5, Sinterklaas and his helper Zwarte Piet (Black Piet) visit Dutch children’s homes to bring them presents.
To celebrate this festival, hundreds of adults and children impersonate Zwarte Piet by blackening their faces, putting on black curly wigs, painting large red lips, and finishing up with large golden earrings.
Some sections of Dutch society believe this to be highly racist, given the country’s colonial past, while others consider it a harmless but important tradition.
This is a complex and emotionally charged debate that should definitely be discussed — but if you’re short on time, we’d steer clear.
7. Don’t mess with their agendas
Agenda starts with an ‘a’ for a reason. Being the organised bunch that they are, the Dutch have ‘appointments’ for everything, ranging from office meetings to movie nights with friends.
Highly efficient Dutchies strictly and religiously stick to their agendas. They are synced and cross-referenced between partners and families so that every person is aware of others’ schedules.
My mom taught me that being late is stealing other's people time.
The most disrespectful thing you can do to somebody.
At least communicate in advance that you'll be late and apologize.
I once made the mistake of asking a colleague if he wanted to go for drinks. The error wasn’t in the invite; it was in the suddenness of the request. He agreed to let me know once a slot opened up in his calendar. I’m still waiting…
8. Expect antibiotics when you’re sick
Headache? Sleepless nights? Broken limb? Don’t expect anything more than a few paracetamol from your local huisarts.
The Dutch have an infamous reluctance to prescribe antibiotics, out of reasonable fears about mass resistance.
So, don’t head to your local doctor with hopes for a week-long course of pills. You won’t have much luck!
Whenever a conversation about “essential items for moving to the Netherlands” comes up, you might hear antibiotics mentioned on the list. But avoid this too (it’s illegal).
9. Never arrive unannounced (no surprises)
Spontaneity and the Dutch don’t go hand-in-hand. They plan days, weeks, or even months ahead. Accordingly, there is little space for impulsiveness.
Want to go meet your Dutch friend? Make sure to give a heads-up by calling and asking if you can visit (thereby giving the other person the chance to politely inform you that it will not be convenient).
You won’t be greeted with such a happy face if you turn up uninvited. Image: Magnific
Dutchies will always count on you to make an appointment, no matter how insignificant or small the visit is. Their idea of a nice surprise is one that doesn’t hinder their daily, weekly, or monthly agendas.
10. Don’t be late (time, tide and a Dutchie wait for none)
If there is one thing that annoys the Dutch, it’s waiting. This is intricately linked to their efficiency (did we mention they love an agenda?); the fact that they treat their schedules as holy naturally implies that they value time highly.
If you’ve agreed to a meeting or gathering at 9 AM, then that means 9 AM. Nothing more, nothing less (although, if you’re early, you get brownie points).
If you’re going to be late, let the person know by sending them a text or calling! Image: Magnific
However, this also means you can’t use rain as an excuse or deterrent for anything. Have an appointment with a Dutchie, and it’s pouring cats and dogs? Sorry, the weather doesn’t count.
Come rain, come shine, Dutchies fall in line. Image: Depositphotos
My Dutch colleagues once asked me to come out for a walk with them. “It’s raining”, I pointed out. I was awarded a genuinely innocent and puzzled, “So what?”
There you have it! While you’re in the Netherlands, it’s best to think twice before doing these 11 things unless you’re ready for some good ol’ Dutch beef. 😤
Do you know any other ‘don’ts’ in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!
Normally we would try and teach you some decent Dutch words. However, some Dutch words are just not meant to be translated, making it harder for non-Dutch speakers to get a sense of all this Dutch mambo jambo.
So, let’s take a look at 11 untranslatable Dutch words. We’ll hit you with a literal translation and try to find the best way to describe what it means in English.
Oh, and we’ll probably throw in a pun or two along the way. (Luckily, that’s not hard as they are littered with puns anyway). 🤷♀️
1. Afbellen
The word afbellen roughly translates to “calling it off.” It usually refers to when you cancel on a friend last minute, often because you would rather be in bed watching Netflix alone. 🛋
But it can also refer to the act of calling people to cancel.
Like when you have to call your grandma and six cousins to cancel that kaasstroopwafel (get-together) you had planned with your family. So you can say “Ik ben de hele familie aan het afbellen.” (I’m cancelling the whole family gathering).
2. Afblazen
Afblazen literally means to “blow off.” It is used when you cancel or call off something, typically an event or plan.
It literally translates to “blow off,” but in context, it’s used to indicate that something has been put off or is no longer going ahead.
Me afblazen after cancelling all my plans. Image: Depositphotos
It is very similar to afbellen might even be a better fit for blowing off your friends for that solo Netflix and chill.
3. Plaatsvervangende schaamte
Plaatsvervangende schaamte is that feeling of shame you experience caused by someone else’s (stupid) actions. Ah, yes, second-hand embarrassment. That’s got to be one of the top 5 worst feelings ever. 🤦♂️
It’s that feeling you get when you see your President making a fool of himself during a press conference (a completely hypothetical situation of course).
When digging through the possible meaning of these words, we found the term “vicarious shame” which is another interesting way of putting it.
4. Leedvermaak
“Leedvermaak” is the complete opposite! It describes the feeling of enjoying someone else’s misfortune. 😈
You have probably heard of the infamous German version of the phrase: “Schadenfreude”. This idea may apply to your feelings about a few political figures (not naming any, so don’t “@” us)!
5. Uitzieken
This word is literally translated as “out-sicking”, meaning when you are sick, you let the illness take its course as you get some rest until it is over.🌡
Make sure not to mix it up with “zieken“, which means teasing somebody. That can lead to an awkward conversation if you are calling in sick at work.
If you want to hear it from a real Dutchie, Elisette puts it way better than we could. 😉
6. Bouwvak
This word is derived from “bouw-vakantie”, which means build holiday. In the Netherlands, this refers to the traditional summer holiday period for the construction industry.
It typically lasts for about three weeks, usually in late July to mid-August. During this time, construction workers and many construction companies take a break, leading to a temporary halt in building activities across the country.
The first Saturday of the “bouwvak” is referred to as “Zwarte Zaterdag” (black Saturday). when the roads to France are all choked up with holiday-going Dutchies in their caravans.
You could take a joint to the beach when you’re going for “uitwaaien“, but it simply means going for a walk and getting some air (preferably at a windy beach).
8. Uitbuiken
There have got to be more words for “uitbuiken” in other languages. Help us out, folks! It literally translates to “belly-ing out” and means letting the food settle after a nice meal. It’s shorthand for nurturing a food baby. 🤰 🥪
The word uitbuiken is not to be confused with natafelen, which is more focused on the gezelligheid (cosiness) of sitting with friends or family at a table after a meal, drinking a bit, and having some fun conversations. 🍻
It literally combines the words na (after) and tafel (table) in verb-from, and means to linger at the table and chat after a meal.
10. Voorpret
Voorpret = pre-fun.
Voorpret is about enjoying an event or something before it happens. You typically experience it before weddings, parties, and holidays. What’s the proper English term? Pre-party fun, perhaps? “Looking forward to it”? 🥳
Voorpret is one of the best kinds of joys! Image: Magnific
Both don’t quite cover it, think about it as the fun and excitement you’re feeling when planning everything you will bring on a holiday with you.
11. Gezellig
Together with lekker, the two words are the most used examples of untranslatable words in Dutch. If you’ve ever had the misfortune to be trapped in a Dutch circle party, you will have heard this phrase used many times.
As you would know, after spending more than seven minutes at any Dutch gathering, the word gezellig can be used in so many ways.
“Echtgezellig”; lying about how “gezellig it was with my mother-in-law”; or a sarcastic “GEZELLIG HOOR” when your cousin is fighting with your racist aunt in a discussion about Zwarte Piet.
What does it mean? Well, it refers to a sort of warm, cosy atmosphere of togetherness and enjoyment.
Now that you’ve gotten the hang of those untranslatables, you can go ahead and add them to your growing list of Dutch vocab and use them almost exclusively for the next few days. 😉
Can you think of any more untranslatable words in Dutch (or in your native language)? Drop them in the comments!
Dutch supermarkets warn groceries could be up to 10% more expensive next year, with the government’s own policies partly to blame.
The CBL, the umbrella organisation for Dutch supermarkets, has written to the cabinet with a stark warning: grocery prices could climb significantly by 2027.
What’s pushing prices up?
According to the CBL, it’s a mix of international and domestic pressures. The ongoing conflict in West Asia is driving up energy, logistics, packaging, and raw material costs across the entire supply chain.
But the CBL is also pointing the finger at Dutch government policy.
It argues that measures including the proposed sugar tax, the incoming truck toll (vrachtwagenheffing), energy levies, and increases to the minimum and youth minimum wage all raise costs without delivering any benefit to shoppers.
The trade body is “emphatically” calling on the cabinet to scrap the planned measures.
Food manufacturers are also worried
The Dutch Food Industry Federation (FNLI) backs up the warning. It expects prices to rise due to sharply higher transport and energy expenditure.
The FNLI warns that the sugar tax, a planned excise duty increase on alcohol, and a new packaging levy would all pile on top of existing costs, such as consumption taxes on non-alcoholic drinks.
Businesses facing that stack of charges will almost certainly pass them on at the checkout.
Located in Amsterdam Oost, MixTree Languages has been steadily growing its community for more than a decade.
It began in 2015, when one of MixTree founders Susanna, an expat herself, started running themed meetups for expats and realised how few affordable English courses were available for internationals.
She set out to build something practical: a school that prioritised speaking from day one.
Today, that aim remains unchanged. MixTree Languages focuses on providing a warm, social, and accessible learning environment where adults can build confidence in English and use it in real, everyday situations.
A friendly international community, from day one
When we walked into MixTree Languages, we quickly saw that this isn’t your average language school. It’s a multicultural space where students are genuinely excited to show up.
MixTree Languages is more than just a school. Image: MixTree Languages/Supplied
The school has built its reputation on creating a positive and safe learning environment where everyone can practise speaking in small groups without fear of embarrassment.
The proof? They’ve earned an impressive 4.9 stars on Google Reviews from over 260 students.
Beyond the classroom, there’s a dedicated canteen where students can study and socialise with fellow internationals (or just enjoy a cup of coffee that isn’t overpriced).
Stop cramming, start chatting
If you’ve spent your time memorising vocabulary but still panic when ordering coffee, MixTree Languages’ approach will feel refreshingly different.
Here, speaking isn’t just part of the lesson. It’s what the lessons are built around.
The unique “Activate Your English” approach puts conversation at the heart of everything. Boring grammar exercises? Forget it. Instead, you’ll be focusing on pair work, discussions, presentations, and role plays.
Students at MixTree Languages focus on speaking above all else. Image: MixTree Languages/Supplied
And honestly, what’s better than practising the things you’ll actually be using in your day to day life as an expat in the Netherlands?
There are CELTA and DELTA qualified teachers to personally guide you through the whole process in a way that helps you step out of your comfort zone and try new things.
Every teacher at MixTree Languages has at least five years of international experience under their belt, bringing a wide variety of perspectives and cultural understanding, and is a native or bilingual English speaker.
Get real-life practice beyond the classroom
When the class is over, MixTree Languages stays true to its mission of offering a social and engaging learning environment.
Every Wednesday, a conversation cafe is held between 1 PM and 3 PM in the school canteen, where students can invite family and friends.
On top of that, students can enjoy a language exchange which is organised two times per month on a Tuesday at Marina iDock or at Meet Berlage in collaboration with the Amsterdam International Community.
The canteen is a social space for students to meet up and work on their assignments. Image: DutchReview/Supplied
These informal gatherings are perfect for building confidence, testing out what you’ve learnt, and meeting new people, all while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of a proper social event rather than a formal lesson.
What courses can I take?
MixTree Languages offers a solid range of courses to fit different schedules and goals. Whether you’re a busy professional or looking for true language immersion, there’s something that’ll work for everyone.
From semi-intensive to intensive: in-person group classes
MixTree Languages’ in-person group classes come in different formats to match your preferred learning style and availability.
Morning semi-intensive courses are ideal for steady progress without overwhelming your schedule. They run twice a week over six weeks (30 hours total) at a more relaxed pace and cover levels from Elementary A2 through to Advanced C1.
Intensive courses run four days a week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday) over just four weeks, packing in 40 hours of classroom time. Available for levels Pre-Intermediate A2, B1, and B2, these are designed for students ready to dedicate serious time to rapid improvement.
Work with the latest materials. Image: DutchReview/Supplied
Complete beginners are not forgotten either. The English for beginners course runs twice a week over six weeks for a total of 24 hours.
All in-person classes are capped at small group sizes (between six to 12 students depending on the course), so you’ll get plenty of speaking time and personalised attention.
Ready to level up your English? The next series of courses at MixTree Languages start on February 9, 2026. Check out the schedule for more details.
Need flexibility? Check out the online options
Can’t make it to central Amsterdam? MixTree Languages’ online evening courses run via Zoom twice a week (24 hours over six weeks), covering levels A2, B1, B2, and C1.
The advanced (C1) course is specifically designed to help students express themselves with ease and eloquence, working on communication skills, pronunciation, as well as vocabulary.
The online classes maintain the same interactive, conversation-focused approach — just from wherever you happen to be.
Private or in-company company course? MixTree Languages has you covered
Looking for something more tailored? MixTree Languages offers private lessons and company courses designed around your specific needs.
Private courses, available both in person and online, give you one-on-one attention, custom content depending on what you want to improve, and total flexibility in scheduling.
Company courses are perfect for teams looking to improve their English together, whether for presentations, meetings, or general workplace communication.
If you’re ready to finally feel confident speaking English, you can take MixTree Languages’ free English level check and see what course suits you best.
Found the course for you? Great! We wish you luck on your English-learning journey.
What experience do you have learning English in the Netherlands? Let us know in the comments!
Most people visiting the Netherlands make a beeline for Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or the tulip fields, completely missing one of the country’s best-kept secrets.
The Achterhoek (literally “back corner”) sits in the eastern province of Gelderland, wedged between the German border to the east and the river IJssel to the west.
It’s a region of wooded estates, medieval castles, vineyard-dotted hillsides, and some adorable towns: from Doetinchem to Vorden, Zutphen to Ruurlo, and many more.
Not to mention, these hidden gems are just about an hour from Utrecht or Amsterdam by car. Once you’re there, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner.
Here are the top 9 things you can do in the Achterhoek.
1. Cycle the Eight Castles Route 🏰
The Castle Hackfort is one example of the beautiful estates you’ll cycle past! Image: Depositphotos
Officially the oldest signposted cycling route in the Netherlands, the Achtkasteelenroute (Eight Castles Route) has been drawing cyclists since 1913, when the mayor of Vorden led the first ride.
The circular, approximately 30-kilometre route winds through forests, meadows, and the kind of quiet countryside that makes you forget the A1 exists.
It passes eight castles and estates: Hackfort, Den Bramel, De Wildenborch, De Wiersse, Het Onstein, De Kieftkamp, Vorden, and Suideras.
Start from Vorden’s market square and follow the yellow hexagonal signs. It’s free to cycle, though some estates charge an entry fee. Check individual castle websites for opening hours and pricing before you go, as they vary seasonally.
It’s also possible to do the route with a guided tour. Outside the season, the tour is organised on request.
⏰ Opening hours: Estate opening hours vary, but cycling is possible year-round. Guided tours are held from May 1 to October 1.
2. Visit Museum MORE in Gorssel 🎨
The museum building is an art piece in itself. Image: Supplied/Museum MORE
One of two locations in the region, Museum MORE in Gorssel, holds the title for the largest museum for modern realism in Europe.
The collection spans more than a century of Dutch figurative art, from Carel Willink to Pyke Koch, Jan Mankes, and Charley Toorop.
The village of Gorssel is a darn pleasant place to spend a few hours, too. It’s small and unhurried, with good walking routes starting from the museum door.
It also holds the largest private collection of early Italian art in the country, including a panel from Duccio’s “Maestà”, which you wouldn’t expect to find in a small Gelderse town.
Guided tours run regularly and take you through rooms that feel lived-in rather than museum-sterile. For those who want to feel like royalty for longer, it’s also possible to stay overnight in the castle tower.
⏰ Opening hours: This museum is currently closed for renovations.
💰 Ticket prices: This museum is currently closed for renovations.
4. Discover Museum MORE at Kasteel Ruurlo 🖼️
AND there’s a museum inside! What?!? Image: Supplied/Museum MORE
Museum MORE has a second location — and it’s worth the trip on its own.
Kasteel Ruurlo is a moated 14th-century castle set in a landscaped park, and it houses a dedicated collection of works by the magisch realist (magic realist) Carel Willink. The museum’s temporary exhibitions are also carefully curated (yet daring).
The combination of historic architecture, surrounding greenery, and boundary-pushing art programme makes this feel like so much more than a standard museum visit.
Plus, after you’re done inside, the gorgeous castle garden is free to walk around.
Routes are graded for difficulty, and options include a zip line, bungee jump, and free fall. Book ahead in summer — it fills up quickly on sunny weekends.
Most people don’t associate the Netherlands with wine. Then again, most people haven’t been to the Achterhoek. The region actually has around 20 vineyards scattered across the countryside.
The Dutch wine industry has grown significantly over recent decades, from just seven sizable producers in 1997 to over 40 by 2005, and has continued to expand since.
The Achterhoek has led much of that growth thanks to its suitable soil and microclimate to produce both red and white wines of real quality.
A vineyard worth checking out is Wijngaard Montferland, which offers guided tours and tastings. It’s a winery that proves you don’t need to go all the way to Bordeaux for a nice glass of Cabernet. Call or email ahead, as tasting sessions typically run on set days.
⏰ Opening hours: Every Saturday at 3:00 PM, there is a guided tour with a tasting for individuals. For other activities, see the 2026 agenda here.
7. Wander the Hanseatic towns ⚓
Wander the medieval town of Zutphen. Image: Depositphotos
Zutphen and Doesburg are two of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Netherlands, and they don’t get nearly enough attention.
Both were members of the Hanseatic League, the powerful trading network that once stretched from England to Russia.
Zutphen’s Wijnhuistoren (wine house tower) is a standout, as are its Librije (chained library) and medieval city walls.
Doesburg is smaller and quieter — the kind of town where you can walk the whole centre in an hour and still feel you haven’t finished. A stop at a riverside terrace is non-negotiable.
The DRU Industriepark is the Achterhoek’s exemplary version of repurposed industrial heritage. The iron foundry (which dates back to 1754 and was once the largest employer in the region) closed its doors in 1999.
The seven factory buildings have since been transformed into a cultural hub with a theatre, a pop venue, galleries, a cinema, and Het Schaftlokaal, the on-site grand café.
💰 Price: Park entry is free. Guided tours cost €4 for adults and €2 for children aged 6 to 12.
⏰ Opening hours: Open 8:30 AM to 7 PM on Mondays, 8:30 AM to 11 PM Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30 AM to 12 AM on Friday, 10 AM to 12 AM on Saturday, and 10 AM to 9 PM on Sunday. For the 2026 agenda, see the website.
9. Explore the book town of Bredevoort 📚
This town is just adorable, and full of books, too! Image: Depositphotos
Bredevoort is a small fortified village near Winterswijk with one unusually literary claim to fame: it’s the Netherlands’ official boekenstad (book town), lined with second-hand bookshops and antique stores.
Around a dozen specialist shops are crammed into a village that takes about twenty minutes to walk from end to end.
If that sounds like your idea of a good afternoon, it almost certainly will be. If you’re travelling with someone who doesn’t share your enthusiasm for old books (how dare they), the village itself, with its moat, its towers, and its café terraces, is worth the detour anyway.
Exploring the Netherlands outside the Randstad feels like finding a second country inside the first. The Achterhoek moves at its own pace: it’s slower, greener, and full of things you won’t find anywhere near Amsterdam.
Whether you’re after scenic cycling routes, a castle or two, a glass of local wine, or just a weekend away from the crowds, this region delivers.
Have you been to the Achterhoek, or is it on your list? Drop your recommendations in the comments — we’d love to know what we missed.
