Ahhh, the infamous Dutch directness: is it a stereotype, or is it accurate? Should it even be called “directness” or simply “honesty”?
Straightforwardness is valued so much in Dutch society that there’s even a Dutch word for it: bespreekbaarheid. This translates to “speakability” and means that no topic should be taboo. 🗣️
A rude awakening to Dutch directness
Having lived in New Zealand throughout my teenage and early adult years, I got used to politeness interfering with honesty. Kiwis pride themselves on being kind and pleasant.
One of the first comments I heard when I moved to the Netherlands was from someone I had just met an hour earlier.
As I sat in a bar, sipping a Heineken Pilsner, a person announced, “Your hair looks terrible, and your hands are big for a girl”. I laughed and felt lucky I was confident enough to brush this off. 🤷♀️
Personally, I find Dutch directness extremely refreshing as it creates authenticity and builds good rapport. However, not everyone values it, as it sometimes can just be downright rude. 🙄
“Your teeth are much yellower than mine, HAHA!” Image: Freepik
We asked our loyal readers, “What is the bluntest thing a Dutchie has ever said to you?” Here are some of your stand-out responses.👇
Appearances
1. I was at a festival when one Dutchie came up to me and exclaimed: “Your outfit is nice, but your bag is hideous…can I throw it away?” — Holly, Amsterdam.
2. I ran into a Dutchie I used to date, and one of the first things I said to him was: “Well, you’ve lost some muscle, haven’t you?” — Layla, Leiden.
3. Someone once yelled at me: “Watch where you are going, b*tch!” When I turned around, they quickly followed with, “Oh, sorry, dude. I thought you were a woman.” — Levi, Leiden. 👀
Sore points
4. My neighbour in Haarlem told me off for having a barbecue and exclaimed it was the worst smell she had ever encountered and that my daughters’ voices gave her a headache. — Shireen, Haarlem.
5. When I had friends visiting my place, my neighbour said, “Oh, I hear the girl who laughs like a seal is back.” — Kavana, Rotterdam. 🦭
6. It was at a bar in Amsterdam, and we had been waiting to be served for over 30 minutes despite the bar being almost empty. We eventually approached the waiter, who was chatting with someone, and asked if he was going to take our orders or if we should just go up to the bar. He replied very rudely and bluntly that if we were there to enjoy friends’ company, then we should just shut up and enjoy the conversation and that he would eventually come by. He added that if we were in a ‘hurry’, we could always go get fast food — Ana, Amsterdam.
There are contested opinions from Dutchies themselves about their directness…
“I will just say that my Dutch directness has not served me well at all in my many years outside of the Netherlands, and I recommend tempering one’s honesty a bit. After all, the fine art of diplomacy is to state one’s opinion in such a way that no one takes offence and even agrees with it.” — Norma, The United States.
“I am Dutch, and from my point of view, the directness does not come from being honest but from being efficient and pragmatic … we don’t like to lose time and effort in making the situation prettier than it is.” — Marie, The Hague.
A question for those struggling with Dutch directness
Yes, Dutch directness can be harsh — but here’s something to consider: When you’re looking for true friendship, what do you prefer?
A. Honesty and directness. B. Sugar-coated sentiments.
If you choose A, then go find some more Dutch friends. 🤗
What has been your experience with Dutch directness? Share it in the comments!
The sun might be shy here, but nothing beats a summer day at one of the best beaches in the Netherlands with sea, sand, and a cold drink in hand. 🍹
Are you ready to head to one of the Netherlands’ beautiful beaches, but not sure which one to visit? Well, that’s why we’re here. 😉
Whether you live in the north or the south of the lowlands, a gorgeous beach is never too far away. Our list of the best beaches in the Netherlands will get you all set for a hot summer!
Ready to dive in? Jump to a part of the Netherlands below!
The province of Noord-Holland has a beach for every occasion — whether you’re looking for a nature getaway, a romantic escape, or just a nice place to spend the afternoon with your family.
1. Zandvoort aan Zee: Amsterdammers’ escape
If you consider yourself a true Amsterdammer, then Zandvoort aan Zee will not be new to you.
This popular sunbathing spot is located 30 kilometres outside of Amsterdam, making it the closest beach to the Dutch capital.
Enjoy beautiful sunsets at the Zandvoort aan Zee beach — right outside Amsterdam. Image: Unsplash
Its convenient location makes it the perfect place to venture to if you need a break from the busy city life.
This long and lovely sandy beach in the Netherlands is part of the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, known for its magical combination of impressive dunes and peaceful forests.
What more do you need for a perfect day to unwind?
2. Paal 29: the hidden beach
In any good beach guide, you want to find some spots that only a few people know about. Paal 29 — a true hidden gem — is one of them (and so are the next three beaches on this list). 🤫
You can reach this secret beach through the Schoorlse Duinen at the end of a 1.5-hour hike. It’s also technically reachable by bike from Amsterdam; however, the cycle is long and fairly uphill, so don’t expect a leisurely ride. 🚲
Fortunately, there is a beach club at Paal 29, which means you don’t have to drag a picnic with you over the dunes (unless you want to go full-Dutch mode, of course).
3. Camperduin: a historical site
Camperduin is truly special. As the name already suggests, this beach is surrounded by dunes.
While this is not that unusual for a Dutch beach, what makes the Camperduin dunes special is that they shelter an artificially created lagoon — how perfect is that for an afternoon swim? 🏊
The place also has real historical value. The Battle of Camperdown, where the Dutch lost a naval battle to the British, took place here in 1797. Best not to rub it in the local Dutchies’ faces, though. 😉
4. Bloemendaal aan Zee: dunes for days
Bloemendaal aan Zee is one of the most popular beaches in the Netherlands, and for good reason.
Like the other beaches on the list, it’s surrounded by nature. The Kennemerduinen are especially beautiful to walk through.
What a sight for sore eyes! Image: Fabimaru/Wikimedia/CC4.0
And just like all the other good Dutch beaches, Bloemendaal aan Zee is lined with cafés serving delicious snacks and drinks (bitterballenandbiertjes, anyone?), so you won’t be starving as you chill in the sand.
5. Petten aan Zee: a romantic escape
If you’re planning a romantic evening at the beach, we can recommend Petten aan Zee. ❤️
An hour away from Amsterdam, its panoramic dunes are the perfect spot to watch the sun go down — it even has benches ideally placed for sunset viewing.
Petten is also great for swimming and easily accessible by public transport or car (with free parking!)
6. Sint Maartenszee: a quiet place
Petten and Sint Maartenszee are the perfect pair if you fancy a double-beach day. Located just five kilometres down from Petten, Sint Maartenszee is easily reached by bike. 🚲
It’s a beautiful rustic spot, ideal for children with a playground to enjoy. You can also rent a sunbed or a windscreen from one of the beach clubs dotted along this beautiful coastline.
7. Egmond aan Zee: an underrated spot
Situated in the northwest of Noord-Holland, Egmond aan Zee has one of the most beautiful beaches in the Netherlands.
The old fishing village and the local lighthouse are popular spots to visit, and the local beach is wonderfully quiet.
Does it get any more peaceful? I don’t think so. Image: Depositphotos
If you’re looking for a place to walk along gorgeous dunes, go for a peaceful swim, watch the sunset, or even spot some wild horses, then this is it. 🐎
8. Texel: the Netherlands’ own island beach
If you’re in the mood for a mini holiday, this one is for you. The island of Texel is located just off the coast of Noord-Holland (near Den Helder) and is pretty cheap to get to by ferry.
While the island itself is not that big, I can testify that there is a lot to explore — whether it’s the quintessentially Dutch beaches, picturesque dunes, hills where Scottish highland cows graze, or the popular lighthouse that you occasionally see on Instagram.
Texel’s iconic lighthouse just makes for the most photogenic monument! Image: Unsplash
If you get tired, there are plenty of restaurants where you can relax and replenish your energy. However, Texel is quite windy, so don’t forget to bring your kite for extra adventure (and a windbreaker)!
Best beaches in Zuid-Holland: the popular sights
Whether you’re looking for a place bustling with nightlife or a more laid-back beach, the options in the province of Zuid-Holland are endless. What are some of the top Dutch beach spots out here?
9. Scheveningen: the classic spot
Scheveningen is by far the most popular beach in the Netherlands. No wonder — the beach is HUGE.
It has gorgeously fine sand, countless beach bars (who can say no to an ice-cold cocktail on a hot summer’s day?), shops, restaurants, a gaming arcade, a pier, you name it!
A tried and tested fan favourite! Image: Depositphotos
Scheveningen is a place to visit year-round, with plenty to do in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Far less crowded, Zuiderstrand is framed by the Westduinpark — a nature reserve full of dunes, beautiful plants, and tiny hills to walk over (we are in the Netherlands, after all).
The dunes of Zuiderstrand. Image: Charlotte Baart/Supplied
There are a few beach clubs, though not nearly as many as at Scheveningen. Zuiderstrand is the perfect place for a relaxing day: bring your book, some sunglasses, and your wallet for the bitterballen cravings when they inevitably come. 😋
11. Hoek van Holland: Rotterdammers’ favourite
Hoek van Holland is a beach that every Rottedammer knows. It’s located a quick 30-minute journey outside the city, and you can easily get here by car or metro (or by bike if you’re feeling brave on a sunny day).
At Hoek van Holland, you can even rent one of these charming “strandhuisjes” (little beach houses). Perfect for a weekend away! 😍 Image: Jana Vondráčková/Supplied
The “Hook of Holland” is home to numerous beach bars, restaurants, and hotels and a place that no water sports enthusiast should miss. It’s the perfect spot if you want to go somewhere resembling Scheveningen without the hoards of tourists.
On top of that, this lovely beach in the Netherlands offers countless opportunities for exciting hikes and walks in its surroundings.
12. Wassenaar: between Leiden and The Hague
The Wassenaar beach is a lovely, soft-sanded, eight-kilometre stretch of land between The Hague and Leiden. Surrounded by dunes and lovely nature paths, it has a similar vibe to the laid-back Zuiderstrand.
This is a great Dutch beach for anyone living in Leiden. It can be reached by car in less than 20 minutes (or 40 minutes by bike, if you’re up for it).
You can enjoy a walk, run, or bike ride through the dunes and dip in the sea to cool down afterwards. Sheer bliss!
13. Noordwijk: dunes and tulip fields
Noordwijk Beach is located close to the popular tulip fields of Keukenhof, which I love to visit in spring.
It has many beach clubs, several of which are open all year round. Noordwijk is the perfect place to have a drink and a snack while looking out to sea, whether it’s summer or winter.
There are plenty of beach activities as well, such as rafting, canoeing, and kite-flying. And the best part? Dogs are welcome here, too! However, do check where and in what season your four-legged friends have to be on a leash.
Young or old, human or dog — everyone loves Noordwijk! Image: Depositphotos
14. Katwijk: the cleanest beach in the country
Katwijk Beach is another beautifully sandy beach in the Netherlands. Its two-kilometre boulevard is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants.
The 19th-century lighthouse and the charm of the former fishing village will really take you back in time. Katwijk offers a wide range of water sports, and there is ample space to enjoy a sunbath or a nice walk along the beach.
You might even see the occasional horse here! Image: Depositphotos
The beach is very popular with tourists, and it’s certainly somewhere you should go if you happen to be in the area. It was once even voted the cleanest beach in Zuid-Holland. Plus it’s dog-friendly! 🐶
Best beaches in Zeeland: for tropical feels
The province of Zeeland is a summer paradise and hosts some of the best beaches in the Netherlands. Located in the southwest of the country, the province is home to several charming beach villages that always leave me wanting more.
15. Domburg beach: a vintage beach spot
If you’re off to Zeeland for your holidays, then this Dutch beach is something you shouldn’t miss. As one of the oldest beach resorts in Zeeland, it’s a beautiful place for a long beach walk.
The perfect place to catch a stunning sunset (and get that Instagram photo! 📸). Image: Depositphotos
There are many different options for water sports enthusiasts here and, of course, multiple bars and restaurants. If you’ve had enough sand for the day, head over to the cute village and explore its unique charm.
16. Oostkapelle beach: a peaceful getaway
It’s nice, it’s big, and there is plenty of room for everyone: Oostkapelle Beach. 🌊
Perfect for those seeking some peace, this oasis is not accessible by car, so you must walk or cycle through a forest to get there.
On this cloudy day we all can use some summer vibes, how about you?Sit back, relax and think of summer with this capture of the wavebreakers at the beach between #domburg and #oostkapelle in #zeeland.
Sounds like the perfect nature adventure, right? Well, it gets even better: the northern part of this beach is a nudist beach. Can’t be bothered with sandy swimming trunks? Geen probleem, just take ’em off! 😉
17. Berkenbosch beach: a true nature escape
If you want a slightly more natural beach (as in, not surrounded by buildings and restaurants), Berkenbosch may be the best beach in the Netherlands for you.
This lovely sandy beach is quieter yet still very popular. It is the perfect place for a nice walk or a sunbathing session away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
18. Cadzand: The Netherlands southernmost beach
There’s something very human about wanting to visit places that are “the most” anything, and honestly, that’s one of the reasons why we’d recommend visiting Cadzand.
It’s the southernmost beach in the Netherlands, and apart from that, it’s just a lovely place to visit.
Stroll around the city centre of Middelburg itself, head out to Cadzand to enjoy some fresh seafood for lunch, and chill on the beach until the sun sets — a day well spent if you ask us. 🌅
Best beaches on the Wadden Islands: in pristine conditions
Friesland is a province we don’t talk about a lot. However, it’s a place in the Netherlands you shouldn’t overlook. The Wadden Islands offer some of the most beautiful nature spots in the country.
19. Ameland: sandy dunes and windy skies
The beautiful beach of Ameland is very similar to the one in Texel — long and lined with beach houses and dunes.
Similar to Texel, it’s also very windy, which makes it the perfect place to bring your kite. Additionally, if you’re into sports, a rugby festival is held here every June!
The windy beach of Ameland — stunning! Image: Unsplash
20. Schiermonnikoog: one of the widest beaches in Europe
The beach of Schiermonnikoog doesn’t just have a funny-sounding name, nor is it just one of the best beaches in the Netherlands; it’s also one of the widest beaches in all of Europe!
How is that for a bucket list experience? The vast beach is ideal for windsurfing, and as a bonus, it’s also one of the cleanest beaches in the Netherlands!
It’s also perfectly suited for children who aren’t super confident sea swimmers yet — the waters here are perfectly shallow and clear.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your flip-flops, sunscreen, and a lekker snack and off you go! Your nearest Dutch dream beach might be just a quick bike ride away.
What are your favourite beaches in the Netherlands? Do you have more suggestions for beaches that we should add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
Best beaches in the Netherlands: frequently asked questions
Now that you know where to find the best beaches in the Netherlands, here is a quick overview of some of the most pressing questions and answers.
🐕 Can I take my dog to a Dutch beach?
It depends on the beach you’re visiting. Always look up information about the specific beach on its website or the website of the local gemeente (municipality). Many beaches have a set of rules where you can’t walk your dog at certain times of the year or day. Winter is when you’re usually allowed to walk your dog on the beach.
👨👩👦 Are beaches in the Netherlands overcrowded?
Popular Dutch beaches, such as Scheveningen, can get pretty busy. This is especially the case if you go on a hot day during the weekend.
But there are still tons of less busy alternatives in all parts of the Netherlands, many of which can be found on this list!
🌱 Are there nudist beaches in the Netherlands?
Yes, many! The rule of thumb is that if you find a regular beach, there’s a naaktstrand somewhere nearby. You can find a list of them per province on naaktstrandje.nl.
👙 Are you allowed to sunbathe topless in the Netherlands?
Short answer: yes! However, many people don’t do it these days — simply because it’s so easy to capture on a phone. On Dutch nudist beaches, phones are not permitted.
Google has a handy feature that lets you tell its algorithm exactly which news outlets you want to see, and adding DutchReview takes about 30 seconds.
If you’ve ever searched for news about the Netherlands and been served a wall of Dutch-language results you can’t read, there’s a fix for that.
Google’s Preferred Sources tool lets you choose which publications appear more often in the “Top Stories” section of your search results.
Once you add an outlet, Google will surface it more frequently whenever you search for a relevant topic. Here’s how to get it set up:
Use a direct link
The fastest option, using a direct link, takes you straight to the right page.
You’ll need to be signed into your Google account, and from there, it’s a single tick of a checkbox. That’s it.
Do it via Google Search
Prefer to go the manual route? You can also set preferred sources directly from a search results page.
Search for any news topic or for, for example, “news from the Netherlands”.
When the “Top Stories” section appears, click the small icon next to the heading. A box will pop up where you can search by outlet name.
Search for Dutch news and select DutchReview as your preferred source. Image: DutchReview
Type in “DutchReview,” select it, and the page will update with your new preferences. Your preferences save to your Google account, so they’ll apply across all your devices.
Will I still be able to see other sources?
Absolutely! You’ll still see relevant articles from other outlets. All this function does is tip the scales in favour of your chosen sources whenever Google is deciding what to show you.
For internationals looking for Dutch news in English, that small tweak can make a real difference to the usefulness of your daily searches.
You can update or remove your choices at any time via the same settings page.
Want DutchReview in your inbox too? Sign up for our newsletter for a regular roundup of what’s happening in the Netherlands — no algorithm required.
The Netherlands is about to more than double the number of speed camera locations, with the new rollout built around one core principle: keep drivers guessing.
According to NU.nl, the Public Prosecution Service (OM) has confirmed a sweeping expansion of automated traffic monitoring.
Right now, checks cover roughly 650 sites. That figure is set to more than double to at least 1,450 in the coming years, spanning portable units, trajectory checks, focus cameras, and fixed installations.
Catching drivers off guard
The centrepiece of the plan is the flexflitser: a portable camera repositioned regularly. Motorists have no reliable way of knowing where it might show up next, and that uncertainty is entirely the point.
According to the OM, unpredictable deployment produces stronger long-term compliance than fixed infrastructure alone.
If there’s no safe stretch to speed on, the thinking goes, most drivers will simply stop trying.
30 km/h zones get enforcement muscle
Dutch cities have been steadily lowering urban speed limits to 30 km/h, but until now, policing in those zones has been lacking.
The OM plans to close that gap by putting flexflitsers on 30 km/h roads.
A separate pilot, launching later this year, will test trajectory checks inside urban areas, technology previously reserved for motorways.
Freeing up the police
The expansion isn’t only about catching more speeders. Automated systems already handle around 75 per cent of speeding and red-light violations in the Netherlands.
The OM wants to push that share higher still to help free up officers for cases where a human on the ground makes a real difference.
Marc Pluimers, Head of Policy and Strategy at the OM, says it’s more important to focus officers’ attention on “situations where human intervention truly adds value,” reports NU.nl.
Do you think the expansion will improve road safety? Drop your take in the comments.
There’s a rare atmospheric treat gracing Dutch skies this weekend: lichtende nachtwolken, also known as noctilucent clouds.
These thin, silver-blue formations that shimmer in the night sky long after sunset are the highest clouds on Earth, typically drifting around 76 to 85 kilometres above the Earth.
What exactly are they?
While they may glow brightly in the sky, Space.com explains that these clouds don’t actually produce light; the glow comes from sunlight bouncing off ice crystals at that extreme altitude.
Given that there are very specific requirements for noctilucent clouds to form, their viewing window is rather short — roughly between May 20 and July 20, with the KNMI noting that the best chances fall in the weeks around the summer solstice.
In addition to clear skies, you’ll also want a view of the northern horizon and minimal light pollution. If possible, try cloud-spotting away from big cities.
Look for a faint blue-white haze low in the sky, in a northwesterly, northerly, or northeasterly direction.
As the clouds reflect very little light, they’re typically only visible after the sun has already set for an hour and fifteen minutes (or roughly an hour and fifteen minutes before sunrise).
Can’t spot them this weekend? Buienradar meteorologist Jordi Huirne tells RTL Nieuws that the chance of seeing noctilucent clouds “is usually greatest in the month of June”, so you’ve still got oodles of time.
We get it — when you think of Dutch cuisine, you’re probably thinking ‘fried’, ‘potato’ or ‘beige’.
But trust us, the Dutch know their way to your heart, and it’s plastered with cookies, cakes, and other mouth-watering toetjes (sweets).
So here are 11 Dutch treats you have to try. (And we’re talking ASAP — there are too many treats and not enough time!). 🏃♂️
1. Appeltaart: a classic Dutch treat with a twist
This Dutch version of the American apple pie, the German Apfelkuchen, or the French Tarte aux pommes, leaves absolutely nothing to be desired.
The appeltaart is so popular in the Netherlands that you will hardly find a café without it on the menu.
A perfect addition to any coffee date: Dutch appeltaart with a side of slagroom. Image: Depositphotos
What differentiates the Dutch appeltaart from its counterparts in other countries is the thick apple chunk filling. Occasionally, some sneaky raisins make their way in there, too. And, of course, always cinnamon!
Always order your appeltaart with a helping of slagroom (whipped cream)! Or a steaming cup of koffie verkeerd (coffee with milk/latte). (Or both, you won’t regret it!). 😋
2. Bossche bol: the whipped cream dream
This Dutch treat is not talked about enough. Bossche bollen are balls of whipped cream enclosed in a layer of dough wrapped in dark chocolate fondant. Lekker!
These bad boys are roughly the size of an apple, which you can eat with your hands. Pro tip: don’t wear a white t-shirt when eating one of these delicious Dutch treats — they can get messy. 😉
3. Tompouce: the pink pastry dividing the Dutch
Ohh…the tompouce. This Dutch favourite is a square cake with a state-of-the-art pink glaze on top. The centre consists of a thick, creamy vanilla custard filling balanced on a thin piece of puff pastry.
The tompouce deserves special attention for a multitude of reasons.
First of all, it’s heel popular in the Netherlands. The store chain HEMA says that the tompouce is their most sold baked good. Fourteen million pieces are bought each year — 14 million!
This dainty cake is also notorious for dividing the Dutch over how best to eat it.
Some Dutchies like to separate the top layer of pink-glazed puff pastry to eat last. Some pick the tompouce up with both hands and eat it like a sandwich. Others tip the tompouce on its side and (try to) elegantly cut through lengthwise to have two halves.
There are 12 different ways of eating a tompouce. That’s a lot of controversy for such an innocent-looking (and lekker)cake. 😋
Fun fact! Since 2023, this treat also exists in an alternative version – the crompouce! As the name suggests, it is a hybrid between a croissant and a tompouce. Which one is better, you ask? There’s only one way to find out. 😋
4. Stroopwafel: the Dutch syrup sandwich
The stroopwafel(syrup waffle) is hands down the Netherlands’ most popular food export! Well deserved because these thinly layered waffles with a smooth caramel filling are seriously delicious.
Look at the gooey syrup dripping down this stack of stroopwafels. Yum! Image: Depositphotos
Ideally, you’ll get yourself one fresh from the market (hot, gooey, and sweet 😍), or you could buy the supermarket version and pop it in the microwave for eight to 10 seconds. It gives off the same effect but is admittedly less elegant.
If you’re feeling adventurous, stroopwafels come in an assortment of different flavours ranging from honey to chocolate to lavender — there is a whole world of stroopwafels for you to explore.
TIP: Sit your stroopwafel on top of your coffee cup and let the steam melt the inside caramel. It’s delicious, and you’ll look like a real Dutchie! 🇳🇱
5. Vla: The Dutch pudding
Vla is pudding or custard, just a little more watery — and the Dutch love it.
Enter any supermarket in the Netherlands, and you will see an array of vla lined up in the cooling aisle. They are packaged in milk cartons, and no flavour is left out: vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, caramel. And there are often seasonal selections, too — like apple pie!
What a lovely assortment of chocolate and vanilla vla. Image: Depositphotos
The best thing about vla is that you can get creative when eating it! Top it with oats and bananas for breakfast, or to make it a real sweet treat, sprinkle some hagelslag (chocolate sprinkles) or spritz whipped cream on top.
Or just chug it right out of the box if you’re feeling ravished. The options are endless!
6. Spekkoek: the (literally and figuratively) multi-layered Indonesian-Dutch treat
The literal translation of this Dutch toetje is ‘fat cake’ or ‘bacon cake’ — doesn’t that sound inviting? 👀
If you can get over the name, however, you definitely won’t be disappointed. Like many Dutch sweets, spekkoek is packed full of spices. From cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger — this multi-layered cake has it all.
This is actually an image of the Indonesian version of the spekkoek, but we wanted to pay due tribute! Image: Freepik
Not only is it rich in flavour, but this cake also has a rich history. The treat is thought to be a product of Dutch colonialism in Indonesia, where a similar version of the “thousand-layer cake” is served during the holidays.
7. Boterkoek: the Dutch buttery sugar bomb you have to love
The Dutch ‘butter cake’ is exactly what the name describes it as. The boterkoek mainly consists of butter, sugar, and flour — and is therefore suitable for even the pickiest eaters.
You can recognize the boterkoek through its distinct pattern and almond topping. Image: Depositphotos
You can easily recognise the boterkoek by the typical criss-cross pattern on the top, sometimes buried under a layer of roasted almonds for an extra kick.
This cake is genius in its simplicity, so we don’t have much to say. Except to try it, of course!
8. Oliebollen: the ultimate Dutch New Year’s treat
If you’re not familiar with Dutch holiday traditions, you might be wondering what the frick are oliebollen? Well, don’t worry, that’s what we’re here to tell you.
An oliebol, literally translating to ‘oil ball’ (mmm, appetising), is a deep-fried dough ball dusted with powdered sugar.
It sounds simple, but it’s also absolutely delicious. You can get different variations, for example, with raisins or apple pieces.
Oliebollen with raisins and powdered sugar… if that doesn’t scream holiday season. Image: Freepik
One thing is certain, they’re best enjoyed after a wintery cold afternoon walk, hot and steaming, direct from an oliebollenkramen.
As soon as Christmas and New Year start approaching, you’ll see oliebollenkramen (oliebollen stands) pop up all over the country. In supermarkets, frozen oliebollen are moved right to the front of the shelves. Lekker!
8. Gevulde speculaas: like speculaas cookies, but the cake version
Another Dutch holiday treat: anything speculaas. Especially, gevulde speculaas.
You might have come across the Dutch speculoos cookie, a flat, sweet, crispy thing pressed in the form of Dutch houses or windmills.
What a perfect view of the creamy-marzipan filling of a gevulde speculaas. Image: Depositphotos
Well, gevulde speculaas (filled speculoos) takes it up a notch. What gives the two treats the same name is the spice mixture, which gives this distinct speculoos-y flavour.
The ultimate difference is that gevulde speculaas is more of a small cake than a cookie. And it’s filled with a deliciously sweet marzipan filling. Yum!
10. Kruidnoten: the teeny-tiny treats that taste like Christmas
As soon as Sinterklaas approaches, you’ll find these little button-sized biscuits stocking the shelves of every supermarket in the Netherlands.
Tiny little pops of flavour! Image: Freepik
You might, by the way, know these Dutch treats under the name ‘pepernoten’. Don’t worry, that’s an honest mistake, and even Dutch people typically don’t know the difference.
To clarify once and for all: kruidnoten are small, dome-shaped spiced biscuits made from wheat flour. Pepernoten, on the other hand, are based on rye flour and flavoured with honey and anise.
While kruidnoten have a uniform size, pepernoten come in different shapes and sizes. You’ll most likely be popping kruidnoten into your mouth while having a Christmas movie night. ✨
11. Limburgse vlaai: the tri-national fruit tarte
Last but not least, the cherry on top of the cake (almost, quite literally). Popular in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, the Limburgse vlaai is a real crowd-pleaser.
To be honest, who would turn down a piece of taart filled with sweet and juicy fruits? Traditionally, the Limburgse vlaai is filled with plums, but there are also variations with sour cherries or apples.
Dutch Limburgse vlaai with a delicious cherry filling. Image: Depositphotos
The most important thing for the cake to be a true Limburgse vlaai is the unmistakable criss-cross pattern on top.
The cake originates from the Dutch province of Limburg (duh) in the south of the country, which is nestled between its Belgian and German neighbours. Consequently, some version of the cake exists in all three countries.
Did we miss one of your favourite Dutch toetjes? Tell us in the comments below! 👇
The Netherlands is in for a classic Dutch bait-and-switch this week: a few more days of moody, unsettled skies before the weather flips completely and delivers scorching summer warmth just in time for the Whitsun (Pinksteren) long weekend. We’re talking 25 degrees, long evenings, and maybe even a brush with 30.
The week starts with rain, showers, and a chance of thunderstorms, but from Thursday, everything changes. Consider it the universe charging an entry fee for the good stuff.
Rain now, rewards later
Monday and Tuesday bring wet weather, with heavy showers and some thunderstorms expected, particularly in the east. Wednesday stays unsettled too, with scattered showers across the country. Yes, really. We’re nearly at June and it’s still doing this.
According to Weeronline, the first half of the week sits well below what’s typical for late May. While mid-May averages around 19°C, Monday and Tuesday will barely scratch 15°C in most places, with Wednesday topping out at a thrilling 17°C.
Cosy, if you’re a tulip. Less so if you had terrace plans.
The turnaround: Thursday onwards
Here it is. The moment the Netherlands has been collectively gasping for since approximately last September.
From Thursday, the mercury climbs sharply and it doesn’t stop. Thursday brings 16 to 21°C, and by Friday it’s genuinely pleasant across nearly the whole country, hitting 21 to 25°C. Over the long Pinksteren weekend, the heat builds further, and according to Weerplaza, some weather model calculations for southeast Netherlands even point towards a tropical 30 degrees next week. Yes, 30. In the Netherlands. In May.
Dust off the BBQ, excavate the suncream from wherever it’s been buried since last summer, and prepare to complain about the heat instead.
Long evenings included, finally
The sunny spell comes with a bonus that makes it feel properly, undeniably summery. The sun won’t set until around 21:30, and night-time lows will barely dip below 10°C, meaning even late evenings outside will be a delight.
Terrace weather well into the night. No jacket required. Go on, leave it at home.
Rough news for hay fever sufferers
Not everyone will be popping the prosecco. Rising temperatures mean grasses currently in bloom will ramp up pollen production fast, and if you’re sensitive to grass pollen, brace yourself for a tough stretch ahead.
Suncream for one half of the population, antihistamines for the other. Summer in the lowlands, baby.
The longer outlook
The signals for the rest of May point firmly in one direction: a hotter-than-usual stretch looks likely across much of the Netherlands and wider Europe. Typical late-May highs sit between 16 and 21°C, so a sustained run well above that, with evenings stretching light past 9:30pm, is about as good as it gets before June officially rolls in.
It’s coming. Finally, genuinely, actually coming.
Are you already planning your first proper terrace session of the year, or are you the type to stubbornly insist it’ll cloud over again? Let us know in the comments and tell us how you’re planning to make the most of it.
Hundreds of passengers missed their flights at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport on Monday after security queues snaked past the check-in desks.
The mess is attributed to a recent major overhaul of the airport’s screening operations, reports NOS.
The disruption unfolded on the same day Schiphol cut its roster of security firms from five to three, a change that gave nearly 5,000 workers a new employer overnight.
The new companies are joint ventures in which Schiphol holds a stake, giving the airport more direct control over its security. Apparently, the first day did not go to plan.
It was a perfect storm of problems
By the time the airport opened for business, the problems were already stacking up. Dozens of security workers found themselves locked out because their new access passes hadn’t been issued yet.
On top of that, NOS reported that an unusually high number of employees called in sick, citing anxiety about how the new setup would affect their working lives.
Serda Karabulut, an official at FNV, said the new scheduling system is what’s really unsettling workers. Many are afraid that taking time off or calling in sick will now come with consequences.
“It won’t be resolved in one go,” Karabulut told NOS.
Schiphol described the day in a press release as “a difficult start” caused by “a confluence of circumstances, mainly due to unexpected understaffing and IT problems in the morning.”
The airport added that it is in ongoing talks with both the security firms and the unions.
How long were the queues?
Travellers who spoke to De Telegraaf earlier in the day reported waits of over an hour.
Social media showed images of queues stretching deep into departure halls, with some travellers claiming they waited for hours, reports NOS.
@carinxda what the actual fuck @Amsterdam Airport Schiphol? we arrived over 2 hours early and still barely made it because security queues took almost 3 hours. no emails, no notifications, no warnings from the airport about delays or huge crowds, absolutely nothing. we were overheating in those packed queues because there was literally no air. i genuinely have no idea how this was handled THIS badly #schiphol#schipholairport#amsterdam#airport#airportsecurity♬ original sound – Lorelei
By around 7 PM, wait times had dropped to 30–35 minutes. While this is certainly an improvement, it’s still well above the usual 10-minute benchmark. Congestion continued to ease into the evening.
Will it happen again?
Schiphol says it expects adequate staffing at security on Tuesday, but has not ruled out further disruption, citing possible “unforeseen staff circumstances.”
If you’re flying from Schiphol in the coming days, build in extra time. It’s worth booking a free security time slot online before you travel.
Passengers who missed their flights can rebook through their airline, according to a Schiphol spokesperson.
Have you been caught in the queues, or are you bracing for what’s coming? Let us know in the comments below.
Keeping your foreign bank account in the Netherlands is perfectly legal, but it may not always be practical if you’re living and working here long-term.
Moving to the Netherlands comes with its share of administrative tasks, like getting a visa, registering at your municipality, and setting up your utilities.
Sorting out your finances is equally important, but the practicalities of whether to opt for a Dutch bank account can be a confusing grey area. Let’s shine some light on this. 👇
Yes, you can keep your foreign bank account in the Netherlands
In short, there’s no law requiring you to open a Dutch bank account when you move to the Netherlands. You’re perfectly free to keep using your foreign bank account while working or studying here.
Plus, if your main bank is within the SEPA zone (or the ‘Single Euro Payments Area’), you can often send and receive transfers without breaking a sweat.
While you may incur extra fees and longer processing time, you can still use your foreign bank account. Image: Freepik
However, using a foreign bank account for day-to-day transactions in the Netherlands isn’t all smooth sailing. You may run into several bumps along the road, especially if your bank doesn’t operate within the EU.
Looking for the convenience of a Dutch bank account, without giving up the international-friendly features you know and love? With affordable, feature-rich banking, English-language support, and easy international transfers, ING is our top pick.
But non-Dutch bank accounts can be costly and inconvenient
Most banks in the Netherlands charge fees for sending and receiving foreign currency. This makes transfers to and from foreign banks extra costly, especially if you’re paying a lump sum like tuition fees and your bank isn’t in the SEPA zone.
In addition to this, foreign bank transfers typically take longer to process than direct transfers between Dutch banks. Understandably, this isn’t ideal if you’re waiting for your salary or need to pay rent.
Large transfers aside, not all Dutch shops, restaurants, and public transport services will recognise your non-local bank account. This means your card might be declined — even for small, everyday purchases.
Let op, foreign bank cards may not be accepted at all Dutch bars or cafés. Image: Depositphotos
You may also run into some issues with automatic payments, such as direct debits for your utilities and mobile plan. Some of these services may require you to have a Dutch IBAN.
Getting a Dutch bank account is often the far simpler option
For many internationals, opening a Dutch bank account turns out to be the easiest and most cost-effective option.
With many Dutch banks now offering BSN-free banking, it’s even possible to open an account before you’ve landed in the Netherlands.
You’ll typically get a window of 30 to 90 days before you’re obligated to provide the bank with your BSN (citizen service number), which is more than enough time to fly over and get settled.
All in all, while you can get by with a foreign bank account in the Netherlands, opting for a Dutch bank account will save you time and money in the long run.
Could you survive in the Netherlands with your foreign bank account, or did you make the switch? Share your experiences in the comments below!
At this point, I’ve tested enough standing desks to know one thing for certain: stability matters a lot more than you think.
No matter how sleek a standing desk looks in product photos, if the whole thing starts wobbling every time you type an email or adjust your monitor, it quickly becomes annoying.
That’s exactly why the FlexiSpot E7 Plus immediately stood out to me. Unlike most standing desks that rely on two legs, this one uses a four-legged design — and honestly, the difference is noticeable from day one.
After extensively testing this desk for two weeks for work, video calls, and the usual chaotic work-from-home setup, here’s what impressed me most.
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First impressions: surprisingly easy setup
The desk arrived in multiple deliveries: the legs came in two separate boxes, while the tabletop arrived separately afterwards.
Thankfully, everything was extremely well packaged. The desk arrives with no scratches, no missing parts, and no confusing “good luck figuring this out” instruction manual.
The setup process itself was also refreshingly straightforward. The instructions were clear, every part was labelled properly, and the entire desk took me less than 30 minutes to assemble.
That said, the frame is heavy — which is honestly reassuring once you realise why.
The four-legged design makes this desk ridiculously stable
Most standing desks use a standard two-leg frame. They normally work fine — until you raise the desk higher.
Then comes the wobble.
The FlexiSpot E7 Plus takes a completely different approach with a four-legged frame, and it genuinely changes the experience.
The four-legged design gives stylish stability. Image: Samantha Dixon/Supplied
Even at standing height, the desk feels incredibly solid. Typing, leaning slightly on the desk, adjusting monitors; everything feels stable and secure.
And if you use multiple monitors, heavier equipment, or simply get irritated by shaky desks, this becomes a huge upgrade.
FlexiSpot clearly designed this desk for people who actually work at their desk all day, not just people who want a trendy standing-desk Instagram photo.
I chose the bamboo desktop (and I’m in love)
I paired the E7 Plus frame with FlexiSpot’s bamboo desktop, and aesthetically, it completely transformed my office setup.
The bamboo finish looks fresh, modern, and a little warmer than the usual plain white or black desk surfaces you see everywhere.
We love some natural textures inside. Image: Samantha Dixon/Supplied
It gives the desk a much more premium feel without becoming overly corporate.
Combined with the clean frame design, the whole setup feels minimalist but still inviting — exactly the kind of workspace upgrade that makes you actually want to sit down and work in the morning.
The motor is impressively quiet
Let’s be frank: a motor is a big step-up from having to manually crank your desk to standing position. But still, one of my biggest annoyances with some standing desks is noisy motors.
After all, the last thing you want on a Zoom call is a loud mechanical whirr that suddenly makes everyone stop talking.
The design is sleek and minimal. Image: Samantha Dixon/Supplied
Thankfully, that’s not the case here.
The E7 Plus motor is extremely quiet. I can easily adjust the desk height during video calls without anyone noticing.
The movement itself is also smooth and controlled, rather than jerky or abrupt.
That sounds like a small detail, but if you regularly switch between sitting and standing throughout the day, it genuinely matters.
The control panel is actually useful
Some standing desk control panels feel overly complicated for no reason.
This one keeps things simple.
The LED display clearly shows the desk’s current height, and the control panel lets you save four different presets.
The panel is easy to use and simple to save your preferred heights. Image: Samantha Dixon/Supplied
I ended up setting:
one for sitting,
one for standing,
and a third height that lets me easily slide my office chair underneath the desk when I’m done working.
It’s one of those surprisingly practical little details you don’t think about until you use it every day.
There’s also a built-in USB charging port, which turned out to be more convenient than expected for quickly charging my phone or headphones without crawling under the desk for a cable.
Is the FlexiSpot E7 Plus worth it?
If your biggest frustration with standing desks is instability, then yes — absolutely.
The four-legged design is what makes the E7 Plus stand out from countless other standing desks on the market. It feels sturdy, premium, and built for long-term daily use.
Add in the quiet motor, practical control panel, and the beautiful bamboo desktop option, and it ends up feeling like a genuinely thoughtful upgrade rather than just another adjustable desk.
Next task: cord control. Image: Samantha Dixon/Supplied
It’s not the cheapest standing desk out there, but after using it daily, it definitely feels like one of those products where you understand exactly where the money went.
And honestly? Once you get used to a standing desk this stable, going back to a wobblier setup is surprisingly difficult.
Are you a standing desk convert? Share in the comments below!
