Amsterdam Zuid station will have no train services at all this Saturday and Sunday, February 28 and March 1, as ProRailcarries out signal works at one of Amsterdam’s busiest rail hubs.
It’s the latest in a string of planned closures across Amsterdam’s network. With ProRail running over 400 rail projects in 2026, this kind of disruption is very much part of the new normal.
Plan in extra time — but don’t panic, the metro’s got you covered.
What you actually need to know
No trains will stop at or depart from Amsterdam Zuid on Saturday, February 28, or Sunday, March 1. The closure covers the full weekend — not just peak hours.
But fret not! The metro is still running, so your access to the station isn’t completely cut off.
ProRail recommends planning your journey in advance via the NS travel planner and factoring in extra travel time wherever Amsterdam Zuid would normally feature in your route.
Why is this happening?
The works are part of the long-running Zuidasdok project, a major redevelopment of Amsterdam Zuid led jointly by ProRail, the gemeente (municipality) Amsterdam, and Rijkswaterstaat.
The station is being completely reimagined for a future surge in passenger numbers.
The station currently handles around 80,000 travellers per day. By 2030, that figure is projected to triple to 250,000, driven by growth along the Schiphol–Amsterdam–Almere–Lelystad corridor and the continued impact of the Noord/Zuidlijn metro that opened in 2018.
Plus, as ProRail states, managing international travel in Amsterdam will help trains “offer a clean alternative to air travel within Europe.”
The bottom line? More and more train travellers, both international and domestic, are moving through the city, and Amsterdam needs to adjust.
The biggest changes
This weekend, engineers are adjusting the signals so that from Monday, trains can stop and depart roughly 100 metres further west than they currently do — closer to the Parnassusweg.
In addition, to accommodate the growth in travellers, the station is gaining a second entrance.
The existing Minervapassage is being widened from around 12 to 40 metres, and a brand new passage — the Brittenpassage — is expected to open by 2027, sitting around 200 metres west of the current entrance.
A third train platform is also in the works, intended to shift international rail services away from Amsterdam Centraal and into Amsterdam Zuid.
The idea is to position the station as a genuine hub for European train travel — a greener alternative to short-haul flights across the continent.
ProRail is also using the closure to advance work on a future pedestrian and cycling tunnel called the Vivaldipassage, which will eventually link the Antonio Vivaldistraat to the Beatrixpark.
Whew, that’s a lot of changes. Let’s hope they’re all for the better!
Travelling through Amsterdam Zuid this weekend? Drop your alternative route in the comments — you might just save a fellow commuter some headaches.
If you need to take the Dutch inburgering (integration) exams, congrats! You’re about to go on a whirlwind adventure.
But fear not, young Dutchie-to-be: the inburgering process is challenging but far from impossible.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about the integration exams — from me, Sam, a real person who passed!
Like the integration exams, writing this article required careful preparation, so we were stoked to team up with InburgeringOnline. The courses on InburgeringOnline.nl teach you everything you need to know for the integration exams — affordably and in the comfort of your own home. See the courses.
The Dutch inburgeringsexamen (integration exams) are a series of tests and tasks required to receive an inburgeringsdiploma (integration certificate).
An integration certificate is often required for people applying for Dutch citizenship or permanent residency.
The entire process is called inburgering (integrating), and at the end, you’ll officially be able to say you are geïntegreerd (integrated) — congratulations! 🎉
The exams, while sometimes frustrating, make a lot of sense. They mean that new permanent residents or citizens in the Netherlands will always have a basic level of Dutch and a good understanding of Dutch society.
You’ll also receive a fancy inburgeringsdiploma to hang on your wall or show random people in the street. Super!
🧍🏻♀️ Who has to take the Dutch inburgering exams?
Some people must take the Dutch inburgering exams. Other people choose to do the exams voluntarily.
You will likely have to take the inburgering exams if you:
Are in the Netherlands on a relationship visa (compulsory)
Are in the Netherlands on a refugee visa (compulsory)
Are in the Netherlands on another visa type but want to become a Permanent Resident (voluntary)
If it is compulsory for you to integrate (for example, because you are on a relationship or refugee visa), you will receive a formal letter advising you of this with a deadline.
The deadline to have your inburgering certificate is typically three years from the letter, or three years from signing your integration plan (more on this later). This gives you time to take lessons and prepare.
I received a letter shortly after receiving my relationship visa stating that I must take the inburgering exams. Image: Samantha Dixon
Who is making me take the exams?
The obligation to integrate in the Netherlands is part of Dutch law — specifically the Wet Inburgering (Integration Law).
Which inburgering law?
It’s important to note that there are two Wet Inburgering: 2013 and 2021. Which law you fall under is determined by when you became obliged to integrate.
If you became obliged to integrate before January 1, 2021 you come under the 2013 law.
If you became obliged to integrate on January 1, 2021 or later or are integrating voluntarily, you fall under the 2021 law.
The integration process is covered by DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs) or the Dutch Ministry of Education. Through DUO, you can book exams, take practice tests, and (if eligible) take out study loans.
Finally, your local municipality also plays a role. They help create a personal plan for your integration process and are often the first step in your journey towards integrating.
✨ Benefits of taking the Dutch integration exams
Alright, it all sounds like a lot of boring information and exams. But, believe it or not, there are big benefits to the inburgeringprocess, including:
🇳🇱 Speaking, reading, writing, and understanding Dutch 🛂 Being able to apply for a Dutch passport or permanent residency 🚲 Understanding Dutch culture and processes 🎓 The self-satisfaction of knowing you have integrated into a foreign country
💰 How much do the Dutch inburgering exams cost?
Unfortunately, the Dutch integration process is not free. In 2026, you’ll have to cough up the following costs:
Exam
Cost
Writing exam
€50
Reading exam
€50
Listening exam
€50
Reading exam
€50
Knowledge of Dutch Society
€50
Participation Statement
€0 – €150*
You may also need to pay for study materials, lessons, or to retake the exams if you don’t pass.
*The participation statement is free for people who fall under the 2021 inburgering law. If you were obliged to integrate before January 2021, you might need to pay €150 for the workshop. Some municipalities choose to cover this fee.
Financial assistance for integration in the Netherlands
A bit stunned by the costs (or looking at the price of Dutch lessons?). No problem. It is possible to take a Dutch student loan for the inburgering process.
Most people are eligible for a loan, but you can use the loan money only to:
Pay forthe exams, or
Take a Dutch course at an approved school.
If you borrow money, you have a six-month grace period after integrating before you need to start making repayments. You then have 10 years to pay back the loan.
Not keen on also shelling out hundreds of euros and going into debt for a Dutch school? At InburgeringOnline, you can learn Dutch up to a B1 level for less than €9 a month. Plus, the lessons are entirely online and self-paced. Want to study every day? Once a week? The choice is yours! See the options.
📊 What language level is the Dutch integration exam?
Your inburgering exams can be one of two possible language levels: A2 or B1. This is because the integration law changed in 2021.
Pay careful attention here because your personal circumstances impact the level at which you must speak Dutch to integrate.
Image: DutchReview
First, which group do you belong to?
I am in the Netherlands on an asylum or family reunification (relationship) visa and am required to integrate.
I am in the Netherlands on a work or other visa and am choosing to integrate to obtain permanent residency.
If you’re in Group 1, skip the next paragraph and read on below.
If you’re in Group 2, congrats! Your language level for the Dutch integration exams is A2 — for now. This could change in the near future, so our advice? Complete your integration process as soon as possible.
Now, for those in Group 1, the biggest question is: When did you receive your letter advising that you must integrate?
If the letter you received advising you to integrate is:
dated before January 1, 2022, you fall under the old law: your language level will likely be A2. You can book your exams on the inburgeren website.
dated after January 1, 2022, you fall under the new law: your language level will likely be B1. You’ll need to create an integration plan with your municipality before you can book exams. More on this below.
Under the new integration law, those who are required to integrate after January 1, 2022, must create an integration plan with their municipality.
Here’s what you can expect:
You’ll receive a letter from DUO stating that you must integrate
You’ll receive an invitation from your municipality for an intake interview and a short assessment (that you don’t need to study for).
The municipality will prepare your Personal Integration and Participation plan (PIP), including what language level you need
You’ll receive another letter from DUO advising you that you have officially started your integration process.
✅ Requirements to get the Dutch inburgeringdiploma (integration certificate)
To receive an inburgeringdiploma, most people must pass a collection of:
Dutch language tasks (reading, writing, listening, speaking)
Culture tasks (a Dutch society exam, a participation workshop, and proof of understanding working in the Netherlands).
It takes a bit of studying to pass the inburgering exams, but it’s achievable! Image: Freepik
What do they involve? Let’s take a look!
Language exams
The Dutch language exams test whether you have achieved a basic level of Dutch. You will have to pass the exam on either an A2 or a B1 level, depending on your personal circumstances (see above if you’re confused about this).
Writing exam (schrijfexamen)
In the writing exam, you will be asked to write short paragraphs based on the scenarios given. For example, you might be asked to write a note to your neighbour to ask them to borrow an item.
Speaking exam (spreekexamen)
The speaking exam lets you show off how well you can praten (talk). The focus here is on grammar, word choice, and pronunciation.
You’ll have to listen to video scenarios and then respond.
Listening exam (luisterexamen)
During the listening exam, you’ll be presented with video clips of different scenarios. You’ll then answer multiple-choice questions about what happened and choose appropriate responses.
Reading exam (leesexamen)
The reading exam tests how well you can understand texts in Dutch.
The majority of the exam consists of being given a short text to read. You must then answer multiple-choice questions about the information given.
Other exams and requirements
Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM) exam
This exam measures what you know about how things work in the Netherlands. You can expect multiple-choice questions on a variety of topics, including geography, education, going to the doctor, holidays, government and politics, history, and more.
Participatieverklaring Workshop
The Participatieverklaring Workshop is only for those who are on an asylum residence permit or a family reunification permit.
The workshop discusses the values of Dutch society. Things like equality, tolerance, and rights are all discussed. At the end, you sign a document agreeing to uphold those values while living in the Netherlands.
Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market
This exam tests your knowledge of working in the Netherlands. For this, you must prepare a portfolio of work and complete either a final interview or a 64-hour course.
However, only people who became obliged to integrate before 2021 must take this. More importantly, there are exemptions available for people who fall under the 2021 law, like if you have worked in the Netherlands.
🙇♀️ How to prepare for the Dutch inburgering exams
Preparing for the inburgering exams is no easy feat. For the language exams, an A2 level means knowing approximately 2000 Dutch words, while for B1, you need to know over 4000.
Add to that grammar and knowledge of the Dutch society, and you can easily spend anywhere from one to 12 months studying to integrate.
Most people choose to prepare for the integration exams by using a variety of resources: a Dutch school, online preparation programs, textbooks, YouTube, and more.
We recommend starting by building up the fundamentals of the Dutch language. Work towards A1 and A2 Dutch by working through in-person or online courses.
When you’re ready, begin to take the practice exams available on the Inburgering website. These will give you a good indication of what areas you need to work on!
Want to pass the inburgering exams without even needing to set foot in a classroom? Dat kan! At InburgeringOnline, you can learn Dutch all the way from A1 to B2 entirely online, in your own time. Find out more.
Resources to prepare for the Dutch inburgering exams
Ready to get studying? Here are some of the best places to get started:
Websites
InburgeringOnline: online Dutch courses on your own schedule from beginner level (A0) to B1.
Inburgeren.nl: the official Dutch government website offers useful official practice exams, but doesn’t offer preparation for the exams.
Textbooks
There are a variety of textbooks available to learn Dutch. You can find some at your local Dutch library (bibliotheek) or in Dutch bookstores. However, most of them are less focused on self-study and are more designed to be used in Dutch schools with a teacher’s guidance.
However, for the KNM exam, the textbook Welkom in Nederland is considered a great way to study.
YouTube
Learn Dutch With Kim: a series of grammar and vocabulary videos that explain Dutch in an easy manner.
Dutch With Niels:more grammar and vocabulary videos, this time with Dutch teacher Niels.
You can also find various old integration exam videos on YouTube that can help you prepare further.
🤔 What to expect when attending an exam
All of the language exams and the KNM exam are taken in person at an IND test facility. You’ll make a booking for each exam ahead of time via the Inburgering website.
When you arrive, you’ll have your ID checked, be given a locker for your belongings, and be advised which room you need to attend. Other people will be taking the same exam at the same time. You’ll wait outside until you’re permitted to enter.
For each exam, you’ll walk in, have your ID confirmed again, and then you will need to wait until the test begins. You’ll receive a short orientation on the computer, will wear headphones, and will work in complete silence — except for the speaking exam, naturally.
For most exams, you’ll answer questions on the computer. For the writing exam, you’ll answer using pen and paper.
Importantly, the content of the exams is always randomised (so no two tests are the same) and secret. That means that when you leave the exam room, you can’t talk about any questions you encountered. Kinda like Fight Club — without the fighting, of course.
⭐️ Tips to pass your inburgering exams
Nervous about passing? These tips and tricks should help.
Start preparing early and consistently. Learning a language is tricky, so don’t leave things to the last minute.
Keep your sentences short, simple, and accurate. I always wanted to impress my examiners with complex sentences. However, I learned that longer, more complex sentences just give more options to make mistakes. A simple, perfectly accurate sentence like “I like cats” will score you higher than a complicated sentence with errors.
Don’t book too many exams in one day. It might be tempting to try to book all of your exams at once, but give yourself a break. Take them over at least a week, if not longer. They can be exhausting!
Don’t stress about de and het words. Yes, you do need to learn these. But in your exam, try to use the indefinite articles (een huis vs het huis) or plurals, which always use de (de huizen).
Don’t know a word? Don’t panic. In my writing exam, I found I really needed to use a word similar to “sleeve”. One problem: I had no idea what the word was! Instead, I worked around the issue by creating a funny scenario that avoided mentioning sleeves at all. Your Dutch has to be accurate, but the situation doesn’t have to be believable.
💯 Receiving the results of your inburgering exams
Alright, you’ve done your best, turned in some stellar Dutch, and left the exams. Now what?
Fulfil that crushing emptiness by keeping yourself busy for a few weeks. Then:
If you took an A2 exam, your results will be posted to you and placed online within eight weeks of the exam date.
If you took a B1 exam, your results will be available online exactly five weeks after your exam date, after 3 PM. They’ll also be posted to you after six weeks.
For each exam, you’ll receive a score from 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest possible mark. You require at least a 6 to pass.
Passed? Gefeliciteerd! Unlucky this time? No problem, it happens — pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and try again!
🕣 How long do I have to get my integration certificate in the Netherlands?
If you’re required to integrate in the Netherlands, you’ll have three years from receiving your letter to integrate.
If you’re voluntarily integrating in the Netherlands, you can integrate whenever you like — as long as your visa is valid, of course.
However, you should note that in order to apply for permanent residency and a Dutch passport, you must have had a valid residence permit in the Netherlands for at least five consecutive years (unless you meet these exceptions).
🚲 What to do after receiving your inburgeringdiploma
You did it! You passed each and every exam, received your results, and did a little dance. Well done!
You’ll soon receive a fancy letter in the mail containing a snazzy diploma. You can hang it on your wall and reminisce about those long nights studying.
However, even better, you can also apply for permanent residency or citizenship if you fulfil the other necessary conditions.
The inburgering exam is a bizarre rite of passage for many foreigners in the Netherlands, but once you have that shiny inburgeringdiploma it will all be worth it — promise!
Do you need to take the Dutch integration exams? Tell us in the comments below!
🙋♀️ The Dutch inburgering exam: frequently asked questions
What is the inburgering exam?
The Dutch inburgering exams are a series of tests on the Dutch language and society. There are five exams (reading, writing, listening, speaking, and knowledge of Dutch society). There are also some other individual requirements to integrate.
What level is the Dutch inburgering exam in 2026?
The Dutch integration exam language level in 2024 depends on your personal situation. If you became obliged to integrate after January 1, 2022, your language level is B1. For everyone else (including those voluntarily integrating), the level is currently A2.
How much do the inburgering exams cost?
The inburgering exam is a series of exams, each costing around €50. You can expect to pay anywhere between €250 and €400 for the integration process, depending on where you live, not including preparation costs.
What is a passing grade for the Dutch integration exam?
A pass for the Dutch integration exam is 6/10. That means you need at least 60% on each exam to qualify for a pass.
How hard is the inburgering exam?
The Dutch integration exams are not difficult, but they do require a lot of preparation. You must speak and understand Dutch to an A2 or B1 level (depending on your situation). If you have achieved this level and you prepare carefully for the exams, they are not difficult to pass.
Moving to a new country is challenging enough, so we don’t need to add getting scammed to our worries. We’ve compiled a list of key points to keep in mind for staying smart and avoiding scams in the Netherlands.
If you’re an expat or an international student, learning how not to get scammed is vital. Even though the Netherlands is considered a safe place, foreigners make easy prey for scammers.
If you’re a student studying in the Netherlands, the chances of falling victim to burglary are quite high.
Unfortunately, student accommodations are very “social” places, where random people enter and exit throughout the day. Sometimes these random people are burglars.
Easy locks, lots of residents… Student housing is an easy target for a burglar. Image: Nyenrode Business University/Supplied
One way to ensure you stay safe is by having a key and a working lock for your room. Whenever you go out, hide your most valuable possessions in a secret spot.
If you see an unfamiliar face walking around the hallway, have a small chit-chat to see if there’s anything suspicious about them (if they’re actually burglars, best-case scenario, you’ll spook them out).
And if you want to be extra safe, you can always ask your landlord to install an anti-burglary strip.
However, there are always steps you can take to reduce the risk of this happening. 👇
Make sure you invest in both a high-quality D-lock and a sturdy chain lock.
Make sure to attach both your frame and your wheel to a bicycle rack.
Park your fiets at designated bike parking whenever you can — most have cameras.
Check if your bike has an identification code, usually known as the “frame number” and take a photo of it. That way, if it gets stolen, you can provide that number to the police so that they know it’s yours if they find it.
With a lock like this, you might as well say goodbye to your bike. And if you don’t park in a designated bike spot, it may not get stolen — but the municipality will remove it for improper parking. Image: Depositphotos
Let op!The police only deal with bicycle thefts if the bike costs more than €200. Sad, but true.
Shady bicycles
Picture this.
You’re still recovering from the heartbreak of having your last bike stolen. Suddenly, a homeless man offers you this amazing bicycle for a super low price. It’s as if the universe has seen your sorrow and offered a solution to your problem.
But not too fast! If the bike is great but too cheap, chances are it was stolen.
Do not buy it! If you do, you might be charged with peddling stolen goods. You will not only get a fine, but you will also end up with a criminal record.
Who wants to be in trouble for a bike you didn’t even steal yourself?
But if you still want to consider the sketchy dude’s offer, first check if the product is registered as stolen on Stopheling.nl.
How to avoid a housing fraud scam in the Netherlands
This has resulted in loads of students desperately searching for a place to live, ready to chase any lead they can find — and that’s exactly when scammers swoop in.
Found a canal-facing house for less than 1000 euros, including utilities? IT’S A SCAM. Image: Depositphotos
If you see a post about an amazing room in a perfect location but also at a very low price, chances are it’s a scam.
Most of the time, students are asked to pay the deposit ahead of time and never get the key to that amazing room.
This scenario happens way too often, but rest assured! There are clear red flags you can look out for, and always expect the worst when it comes to the Dutch housing market. 👀
How to avoid an identity fraud scam in the Netherlands
Always be mindful of sharing your personal information with people. It’s a crazy world out there.
Often, scammers in the Netherlands will ask you for a copy of your ID, passport, or driving license so that they can commit identity fraud. This allows them to open accounts or buy things in your name.
Don’t start typing up your passport details too quickly! mage: Depositphotos
In the chance that you do need to send your personal information to someone, never send them your BSN (burgerservicenummer, meaning your citizen service number).
If you’re unsure what kind of documentation actually matters in the Netherlands, there is a checklist of important documents you must have with you as a resident.
How to avoid an internet, gas and electricity scam
Once you’ve moved to the Netherlands, your landlord often already has internet, gas, and electricity sorted out for you.
However, in some cases, you have to choose your provider for either one or the other.
This is when some sketchy companies may start approaching you, offering you better prices than the more “popular” providers.
Be careful when setting up your utility contracts! Image: Depositphotos
Unfortunately, many expats fall prey to these scams, ending up with utility bills worth thousands of euros. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you do your research before signing up with any company.
Just remember the age-old saying: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Have you ever fallen prey to any of these scams? Tell us in the comments below!
Amsterdam has more coffeeshops than it has sunny days. Which is impressive. And slightly overwhelming.
With around 165 licensed shops (down from 350 in 1999), narrowing it down can feel like choosing a stroopwafel brand in Albert Heijn: technically low-stakes, emotionally significant.
Some coffeeshops survive on location alone. Others survive because they’ve quietly built reputations over decades, appearing in trusted roundups and picking up actual awards that aren’t handed out as easily as one would think.
So, which are worth visiting? Here are five Amsterdam coffeeshops to check out in 2026.
1. Coffeeshop Boerejongens
If you’ve done even five minutes of research, Boerejongens has already appeared twice. And that’s because it ranks as Amsterdam’s number one coffeeshop.
Walk into any of their four locations, and you’ll see what we mean: bright interiors, staff in crisp white lab coats who actually know their stuff, and a menu that feels curated rather than chaotic.
Boerejongens is a big winner on the Amsterdam coffeeshop scene. Image: DutchReview
The vibe is polished without being pretentious, which is a very Amsterdam line to walk. It’s also refreshingly consistent. Whether you’re in Boerejongens West, Centrum, Sloterdijk, or just a bit further away in Almere, you’re getting the same calm, high-quality experience.
Fun fact, there is also a Boerejongens in Almere, which is also a top spot according to the 2025 Jack Herer Cup. In fact, Boerejongens can boast multiple trophies and awards.
🍃 Featured product: White Choco edibles White Choco is the kind of edible that doesn’t make you regret your life choices two hours later. Balanced dosing, smooth flavour, and none of that “why did I eat that whole brownie” panic.
📍 Addresses: Boerejongens West: Baarsjesweg 239, 1058 AA Amsterdam Boerejongens Centrum: Utrechtsestraat 21, 1017 VH Amsterdam Boerejongens Sloterdijk: Humberweg 6, 1043 AC Amsterdam Boerejongens Almere: Grote Markt 23, 1315 JA Almere
2. Coffeeshop Amsterdam
Yes. It’s actually called Coffeeshop Amsterdam. No, they didn’t overthink the name.
But this place keeps showing up in serious roundups, including our own best smoking spots in Amsterdam guide, because it does something rare in this city: it lets you settle in.
Spread across multiple floors and relatively near Centraal Station, Coffeeshop Amsterdam Cafe feels more like a proper lounge than a quick pit stop. There’s space to breathe. Space to sit. Space to actually enjoy what you came here for without feeling like you’re being rushed out the door.
Because what good is top-shelf cannabis if you’re sitting on a wobbly stool under fluorescent lighting?
The vibe here is comfortable, steady, and refreshingly unpretentious. It’s the kind of place where you can people-watch through the windows, nurse a coffee, and lose track of time in the best possible way.
Easy Times is the friend who never overcomplicates things.
It’s mentioned in our best coffeeshops in Amsterdam guide because it just works. Relaxed seating. Friendly staff who don’t hover but are there when you need them. No conveyor-belt tourist energy. Just an authentic neighbourhood spot that happens to have excellent cannabis.
And when we say excellent, we mean it. Easy Times took first place for Best Indica Flower at the Jack Herer Cup with their Purple Kosher Kush. That’s not just a participation trophy; it’s a proper win at a respected competition.
Coffeeshop Easy Times is another big winner. Image: DutchReview
The shop itself strikes that perfect balance between chill and professional. You can sit for hours without anyone side-eyeing you, but you also won’t find yourself stuck next to someone having an existential crisis over the menu.
🍃 Featured product: Kosher Kush A proper indica classic. Think canals at sunset, not spontaneous club night decisions. Pungent, earthy, and exactly what you want after a long day of museum-hopping.
📍 Address: Prinsengracht 476, 1017 KG Amsterdam
4. Coffeeshop Tweede Kamer
Operating since 1985, Tweede Kamer is part of Amsterdam’s coffeeshop old guard. And in an industry where establishments open and close faster than you can say gedoogbeleid (tolerance policy), that longevity tells you something.
Tweede Kamer earned its reputation early. The shop was active during the golden era of the High Times Cannabis Cup in Amsterdam, one of the most historically recognised cannabis competitions in the world. They even won the Cannabis Cup in 1998 for their NYC Diesel.
It’s a slightly different Tweede Kamer. Image: DutchReview
These days, Tweede Kamer is especially respected for hash. If you’re into traditional and imported styles, this is where you want to be. The menu prioritises selection over volume, and the staff actually know what they’re talking about.
The interior is compact, classic, and refreshingly free of gimmicks, the location super central and tucked away in a cute Amsterdam side street.
🍃 Featured product: Imported hash selection Traditional, carefully sourced, and widely respected among seasoned smokers. This is the kind of place where you’ll overhear locals debating the merits of Lebanese vs Moroccan.
📍 Address: Heisteeg 6, 1012 WC Amsterdam
5. Coffeeshop Siberië
The word Siberië doesn’t spark joy normally, but in this context, it does.
Operating since 1984, Coffeeshop Siberië keeps appearing in curated lists because it delivers a calm, balanced experience.
The shop sits along the picturesque Brouwersgracht canal, which already gives it an edge. Picture wide double doors that swing open in summer. Wooden floors. Rotating local art on the walls, and a real barista making proper coffee.
It’s the kind of place where you can sit by the window, watch boats drift past, and watch yourself drift past spiritually.
🍃 Featured product: Curated flower selection Thoughtfully chosen rather than overwhelming. Perfect if you prefer quality over an eight-page menu that all sounds the same anyway.
📍 Address: Brouwersgracht 11, 1015 GA Amsterdam
Bonus mention: Best grower — Hollandse Hoogtes
Behind many respected coffeeshops are growers who rarely get centre stage. But every now and then, one breaks through.
Hollandse Hoogtes absolutely dominated the Cannabis Industrie Awards, sweeping multiple categories, including Grower of the Year.
They also took home top prizes for flower, hash, and pre-roll categories, which is basically the cannabis equivalent of winning Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay in the same year.
It’s always good to know where you can get the best hash. Image: DutchReview
The wins were covered by industry outlet Soft Secrets, and they underscore something important: great coffeeshop experiences don’t start at the counter. They start in cultivation.
Hollandse Hoogtes supplies several coffeeshops in the Netherlands as part of the regulated cannabis supply chain experiment, bringing professional-grade growing standards to what used to be a completely unregulated back door.
If you’ve noticed an uptick in quality at certain shops over the past year or two, there’s a good chance Hollandse Hoogtes is why.
FAQ — Award-winning coffeeshops in Amsterdam
What is the best award-winning coffeeshop in Amsterdam?
There’s no single official title, but Boerejongens is one of the most consistently recognised coffeeshops in the city.
It regularly appears in award listings and expert guides, and is often cited as a benchmark for quality and service.
Are coffeeshop awards officially regulated?
No. Coffeeshop awards are organised by cannabis platforms, industry organisations, or event organisers — not by the government. Some are jury-based, others rely on public votes, and many combine both.
What’s the difference between weed and hash awards?
Weed and hash are judged separately because they involve different production methods. Weed awards usually focus on flavour, aroma, and structure, while hash awards look at texture, purity, and craftsmanship.
Can tourists visit all these coffeeshops?
Yes. Tourists can visit all the coffeeshops listed here, provided they’re 18 or older and carry a valid ID. House rules still apply, including no alcohol and no tobacco smoking indoors.
Where can you get the best edibles in Amsterdam?
The best edibles in Amsterdam are usually found at coffeeshops known for quality control rather than novelty.
Shops like Boerejongens are frequently mentioned in guides and award lists for their consistent, well-prepared edibles.
Now the only question is: where are you lighting up first?
Dutch retailers Bol.com, Coolblue, MediaMarkt, and HEMA have pulled multiple headphone and earphone models from sale after a large EU-funded study found harmful chemical levels in all 81 products it tested.
Among those found to contain the harmful chemicals were HEMA’s iconic Nijntje (Miffy) headphones.
The research was carried out by the ToxFree LIFE for All project, an EU-funded partnership of civil society organisations that found hazardous substances in every single model examined.
The chemicals in question include bisphenol A (BPA), a substance linked to fertility problems and weakened immunity, as well as so-called phthalates, which are plasticisers commonly found in electronics and packaging.
As RTL Nieuws reports, HEMA placed a temporary halt on sales of its Nijntje adult headphone after it performed poorly in the study, specifically in the headband and ear cup materials.
Which headphones are affected?
The models that scored an overall fail in the study include:
Brands including Bose, Apple, JBL, Samsung, Panasonic, and Sennheiser were among those examined. No product received a completely clean bill of health.
No panic — but prolonged use raises concerns
Researchers stress there’s no immediate danger from wearing a pair of headphones.
RIVM toxicologist Hester Hendriks tells RTL Nieuws that the risk of health problems from wearing headphones is “fairly small,” though she added that more research is needed to draw firm conclusions.
That said, the study does flag concerns around prolonged skin contact, particularly for heavy users like gamers who may wear headsets for extended periods.
Since this year, the use of BPA in food packaging and baby bottles has already been banned in the EU, given its links to immune suppression and infertility, according to the RIVM.
So, what are the Dutch retailers doing?
Bol.com has taken the worst-performing models offline as a precaution and is offering free returns to customers who bought them in the past six months.
Meanwhile, Coolblue says it’s removing the most serious cases and is in direct contact with its suppliers.
MediaMarkt has pulled the OTL Paw Patrol Chase Blue children’s headphones, though it has questioned whether the study’s criteria fully align with official EU frameworks.
Action, however, has not yet removed its OTL Super Mario in-ear headphones, saying it will assess the findings with its supplier before taking any action.
If you’ve recently bought a headphone and want to check whether it’s on the list, the full results are available for download via the ToxFree LIFE for All research page.
Have you bought any of the headphones on the list? Will you be returning them, or are you not too worried? Let us know in the comments below.
The Dutch may not have a world-renowned cuisine, but they sure have a wide range of (oily) snacks to choose from. If you’re ever in doubt, head to a snackbar or peruse the vending shelves of the nearest Febo.
For a country that’s known for wholesome and healthy traits (did anyone say cycling?), it can seem almost surreal that their snack foods are so heavy and, well, unhealthy.
Not to mention that Dutch snack foods look so different from what other countries consider snacks — we internationals are sometimes completely at a loss for what it is we’re putting in our mouths. 😂
Absolutely! Borrelcultuur is an important aspect of life in the Netherlands and who doesn’t love some deep-fried finger food?
Okay, some Dutch snacks are a bit questionable (we’re looking at you, frikandelspeciaal), but at least they’re eaten in good company — usually over a couple of beers and accompanied by laughter.
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!
In a move that triggers Covid-era flashbacks, Almere has introduced a ban on groups of three or more people loitering in parts of the city centre. However, this ban has nothing to do with a virus.
After months of rising nuisance, including drug dealing, intimidation, and violent incidents involving minors, the city has decided to take action.
According to the NOS, the measure comes into effect today (February 24) and will remain in place for six months. After that, the municipality will assess its impact and decide whether to extend it.
Anyone found to be part of a group of three or more people loitering for an extended period in the designated areas can be fined or arrested.
A last resort (sort of)
Almere’s mayor had long resisted introducing this kind of measure. But with public disorder continuing to rise in recent months, the municipality had to do something.
The main concerns are drug dealing in the city centre, as well as groups behaving in ways that are intimidating or violent.
Just last month, six minors were arrested after an assault in a fast-food restaurant, and several more were detained following a fight at the Stadhuisplein.
How does the ban work?
The ban covers a string of specific locations in and around the Almere city centre.
These include the Stadswetering, Weerwater (excluding the area around the Flevoziekenhuis hospital), De Pier, Olstgracht, Giethoornbrug, Coevoordensingel, Delfzijlsingel, Hoogezandstraat, and the Landvoogdpad and J. Algerapad pathways.
However, you and your friends shouldn’t have to worry if you find yourselves in groups of more than three in the above areas.
According to the municipality, the ban only applies to groups who behave in an intimidating manner, deal drugs, or act violently. So perhaps just slap a smile on your face and avoid smacking your friends around too much.
The six-month window is essentially a trial run. If the ban demonstrably reduces nuisance in these areas, an extension seems likely. If not, it’s back to the drawing board for the municipality.
This isn’t about the “wild and free” international students in the Netherlands. It’s time for the “I used my life savings to move to the Netherlands” crowd to share their story.
When retirement is only a few years away, your first thought might not necessarily be, “Yeehaw, let’s move to the Netherlands and improve our quality of life!” 🤠
And yet, that’s exactly what my hubby and I are doing at the age of 54 (he’s 54 plus 10)!
For me, nothing beats the culture, feel and smell of Europe. But the big question is, why the Netherlands? Well, it ticks all the boxes: work/life balance, gorgeous real estate, law-abiding culture, and good healthcare.
No skyline compares to the quaint beauty of a Dutch canal-facing house. Image: Depositphotos
Starting the journey
As South African citizens, we consider ourselves eager, well-travelled adults. Nonetheless, making the move from Africa to Europe takes real drive. And a lot of money.
We are a few of the many millions who are sadly trying to leave a troubled and politically messy country. 😞
So, armed with our trusty EU passports (Greek and Irish), a reasonable understanding of Nederlands (due to its similarity to Afrikaans) and a youthful naivety, my husband and I have started our long journey to the promised land. ✈️
Mind you, we are trading glorious weather, a newly built home, and a trusty circle of friends for the supposed magic of the Netherlands.
Despite our commitment and enthusiasm, emigration remains a tumultuous journey.
In my mind, I’m thinking, “One, two, three…sorted!”
In South Africa, the powers that be are thinking, “One: we have limits for foreign exchange. Two: we will audit your overseas allowance before it can exit the country. Three: it will take a month (or three) for us to release it!”
So what do you do when waiting for a hair-pulling amount of time to pass?
Time for research
You spend every waking moment researching the quirks of Dutch life.
You learn that some employers give their employees a new bicycle (yes, NEW) every three years and even holiday pay to help with wellbeing and happiness!
You learn that Dutchies are incredibly smart. They prefer electric cars over petrol guzzlers (in South Africa, electricity is precarious, so petrol cars are king), and they only switch on their house heating in October!
You do online questionnaires like “How Dutch are you?”
You know random Dutch facts like how the most common Dutch surname is De Vries and that the king’s wife is from Argentina.
You Google every Dutch town and see how close the shops and public transport stations are
You research the pros and cons of living in the Randstad versus other parts of the Netherlands
So, with a touch of OCD, I’m keeping myself on my toes as my time to arrive in the Netherlands draws closer. This obsession with research has led me to discover some fascinating facts about the Netherlands that even its citizens may have forgotten. 😋
Pros versus cons
It’s a scary prospect to let go of everything familiar and ordered. The majority of people who are emigrating from South Africa are under the age of 45.
They have at least 20 years ahead to lay roots in a new country: working, raising children, and saving for retirement.
How hard could it be to retire in a city so happening? Image: Depositphotos
We, however, are not in the first flush of youth and have more years behind us than ahead. So we make careful sums, weigh the balances, and measure the risks.
But when we get to the pros labelled “peace of mind” and “quality of life,” can we even name a price?
That’s exactly why my husband and I are making this move… Because these qualities are priceless! ☺️
I reprimand every person who thinks they’re finished with travelling by telling them there’s no such thing as an expiry date on adventure!
The Netherlands offers everyone an unrivalled opportunity for a restart and promises some amazing golden years. After all, we are only as young as our Facebook photo makes us look. 👀
Have you made the move to the Netherlands? Did it ffulfillyour expectations? Let us know your story in the comments below!
When did the NS become so enthusiastic about the Chinese New Year? Probably when it decided to exchange the attention of millions of passengers for money from the China Media Group (CMG).
Perhaps you caught the harmless advertisement on screens inside the train compartments. It was a harmless clip of the Chinese Spring Festival, followed by the tagline “Join the celebration, share the jubilation” and the CMG logo.
Nothing to raise an eyebrow at, but RTL Z reports otherwise.
Experts on China explain that the client behind the campaign was China Global Television Network (CGTV), a subsidiary of CMG, which is a company controlled by the propaganda arm of the Communist Party.
Pretty shots or propaganda?
This is not China Media Group’s first red flag (pun intended).
The channel explicitly works under the Central Propaganda Department of the Chinese Communist Party, and has clashed before with Western regulators.
Sense Hofstede, an expert on China, tells RTL Z, “CGTN is explicitly a propaganda channel aimed at foreign countries. Almost all of their content is aimed at foreign countries, including the Netherlands.”
In 2021, the UK stripped CMG of its broadcasting license after regulators found it was not editorially independent from the Chinese Communist Party.
It was a high-profile ban that made headlines across Europe. Did the NS miss the memo?
Why did the NS agree?
NS defended its decision, saying a Dutch intermediary, DSBP Consultants, handled the purchase and that both the advertiser and the advert’s content cleared its policy requirements.
When questioned, the firm refused to take responsibility for the content, saying they acted “solely as an executive consultancy.”
Meanwhile, CGTN said the campaign was part of its international Spring Festival promotion that is meant to “promote cultural exchange” and create a festive atmosphere for the Chinese community in the Netherlands.
Hofstede isn’t convinced. “I don’t think everyone at NS realises this is a state media channel,” he tells RTL Z. “NS should have been more assertive,” he added.
The expert pointed out that this ad is like a foot in the door. “You start with an innocent video, build a relationship, and create a steady income. Later, you can see how far you can go.”
NS admits it can’t keep up
The fact remains clear: the national railway of the Netherlands accepted money from a propaganda service of the Chinese government.
Can advertising ever be free of power and politics? NS acknowledged that its advertising policy may no longer be adequate.
“Geopolitical developments move quickly,” an NS spokesperson tells RTL Z. “It’s difficult to continuously develop and maintain up-to-date policy,” they added.
Rob Jetten has already won voters’ confidence. Now comes the harder part: convincing them his cabinet’s policies won’t hurt their wallets.
The Netherlands officially gets a new government today, as Rob Jetten is sworn in as prime minister alongside his D66, VVD, and CDA cabinet at Huis ten Bosch Palacein The Hague.
While the ceremony takes place, the Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis (CPB) has released its verdict on what the new coalition’s plans actually mean for your finances.
Without any new government measures, the spending power of the average household in the Netherlands would have grown by 0.6% during the cabinet’s term.
However, according to AD, the new plans of Jetten’s cabinet drag that figure down to just 0.2%.
Those with lower incomes will hurt the most
The impact of the new policies appears to be unevenly distributed.
The people with the least to spare are bearing the brunt. Households earning up to around €32,000 a year will see no improvement in their purchasing power whatsoever, according to the CPB.
The only stakeholders that gain anything are those at the top. The CPB finds that people earning upwards of €115,000 will see the biggest improvement in what their money can buy.
Even then, their purchasing power increase amounts to just 0.3%.
What causes this?
There are a number of reasons for this.
Firstly, the coalition plans to raise the eigen risico — the annual health insurance deductible, or the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurer covers the rest.
The lowest eigen risico will jump from €385 now to €460 in 2027, rising further to a whopping €520 by 2030. Earning minimum wage? You’re probably more reluctant to go check out that backache now.
The higher deductible does come with a slightly lower monthly insurance premium — but the zorgtoeslag (the healthcare allowance lower-income residents rely on to keep premiums affordable) is expected to shrink with it.
The government will also increase tax rates and introduce what it calls a “freedom contribution.”
This is an extra levy on top of regular taxes, essentially meaning households will contribute more to national security spending when they pay their income tax.
Starting in 2028, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation estimates that the security levy will get the government an extra €3.4 billion from residents and a cool €1.7 billion from businesses.
All to meet their budget for the defence sector without gathering too much national debt. Somebody has to pay for the two officers going to save Greenland, and all indications point to you.
Lots of bad news for workers
The CPB’s long-term projections get even grimmer.
Unemployment is expected to rise to over 453,000 people in the coming years, and the number of people living in poverty is set to increase during the cabinet’s term.
Those who end up on welfare will face the worst impact of all. The coalition plans to cut both the amount paid out and the duration of benefits to unemployed and disabled groups.
Meanwhile, on the pensions front, anyone with decades of working life ahead should be warned. From 2033, the government intends to accelerate the rise of the AOW (state pension) age to 70 and a half.
This means someone retiring in 2060 would need to work an extra 15 months compared to what current rules would require.
Civil servants aren’t off the hook either. The new policy plans to cut their salaries while piling on more responsibilities, which the CPB warns is a recipe for problems.
The opposition is not happy
GroenLinks-PvdA, the largest opposition party, has said it will withhold support unless the plans are substantially reworked.
'Wie Nederland vooruit wil helpen, maakt andere politieke keuzes dan dit kabinet.'
Translation: Anyone who wants to help the Netherlands move forward will make different political choices than this cabinet.
Party leader Jesse Klaver argued that ordinary households face hundreds of euros in extra costs while the country’s wealthiest residents are being asked for nothing extra.
The Christian Union, PVV, JA21, and SGP have raised objections too.
Jetten faces his first parliamentary debate next week, and it won’t be easy. With just 66 seats in a 150-seat parliament, the cabinet will have to fight tooth and nail for every single vote.
