I’m proud to be Dutch, I really am. After all, the Netherlands is a country of amazing and wonderful occurrences and phenomena.
Citizens of this nation definitely have good reason to be proud of the country’s accomplishments. However, for all its genius, the Netherlands has many strange quirks.
Here are just seven of the odder cultural Dutch quirks.
1. They are always on time
When you schedule a meeting here at 11 AM, youโll find that the meeting will begin at precisely 11:00 AM. Not a minute sooner or later.
Youโre probably sitting there thinking, โWell, of course, the meeting was scheduled for 11:00 AM, so it starts at 11:00 AM.โ
But the truth is, unless you’re Dutch (or from the handful of other โon-timeโ places), then youโre probably late for every meeting you attend โ even if you don’t realise it.
If youโre an international living in the Netherlands, then it might not be a bad idea to invest in a watch.
2. They congratulate absolutely everyone on birthdays
I donโt mean to imply that the Dutch donโt celebrate birthdays. They do. In fact, when someone is jarig (meaning that it’s their birthday), youโre expected to congratulate them. That doesnโt seem so weird, does it?
But youโre also expected to congratulate everyone else remotely related to them if you happen to come into contact with them.
Say youโre invited to your friendโs birthday party. You show up (obviously on time), and youโre met by a living room filled with relatives and friends, all seated in a single circle surrounding the coffee table.
All the heads turn to you, and youโre expected to make your way around the circle to each person and congratulate them for the birthday of whoever is celebrating that day.
Only after this ritual of round introductions may you then take your own seat and witness the quiet, awkward politeness that is the celebration of birth.
3. Their toilets are just… weird
On this subject, I will first quickly get the whole ‘shelf toilet out’ of the way.
Depending on your expectations, it may or may not disappoint. I literally cannot count on my two hands how often I have had a conversation about the design of this particular restroom.
Despite their strange looks, they actually make a lot of sense for several reasons. Firstly, the toilet-goer is provided with a glance at their deposit after the deed (especially useful for those who want to know more about their current health afflictions).
It also severely reduces backsplash (a source of potential hygiene issues and frequently unwanted wetness).
Setting toilet design aside, the Dutch bathroom is a strange phenomenon in and of itself. The way they are shoved into the smallest spaces imaginable is astounding.
Sitting down in a bathroom like this is a skill in and of itself. Especially for those with average or longer-sized legs, be ready to become a contortionist. Iโm personally no longer surprised when I find my feet on either side of my head during bathroom visits.
4. They say helaas pindakaas and other weird things
Take helaas pindakaas, for instance, which literally translates to โtoo bad, peanut butter.โ In fact, the following few examples really speak for themselves:
Van een vlieg een olifant maken / To make an elephant out of a fly
Wie boter op zijn hoofd heeft, moet uit de zon blijven / He who has butter on his head must stay out of the sun.
Met de deur in huis vallen / To fall with the door into the house.
Nu komt de aap uit de mouw / Now the monkey comes out of the sleeve.
5. They are super stingy with their money
It is no secret that the Dutch are considered stingy and careful with their money. So much so that the phrase “going Dutch” refers to the practice of splitting a bill so that each exactly pays precisely his or her portion of the whole, not a penny more or less.
Of course, this penny-pinching practice is often less than practical, and as such, the Dutch have also developed an incredible array of tools to ease the process.
From the removal of one and two-cent coins in the economy to the development of highly efficient Internet banking and apps like Tikkie, the Dutch are obsessed with making their frugality practical.
6. They have very specific insults
Like many other cultures, the Dutch are not ones to back down from a good argument, and unsurprisingly we can get very creative.
Among the more everyday categories of insults are illness and disease (because thatโs normal, apparently). Take some common examples, such as wishing someone the kanker (cancer), tyfus (typhoid), or tering (tuberculosis).
But it gets stranger. Among other insults that have met my ears are anusridder (anus knight), klootzak (ball sack), and huppelkut (skipping vagina).
And if you really want to get weird (if not necessarily dirty), then consider the fact that Iโve been called a sprinkhaan (grasshopper).
Other insults include krentenbol (a Dutch bread with raisins), mongol (Mongol, duh), and NSBโer (referring to members of the Dutch Nazi Party).
7. They consume an insane amount of coffee
With the Dutch people’s over-reliance on caffeine, the Netherlands has the fifth-highest per-capita consumption of coffee in the world. That would be fine, but you’d think with their addiction to coffee, they could at least make it…good?
Despite all these Dutch quirks, I still love this country. Ultimately, itโs these strange little things that make the Netherlands what it is and make it wonderful (most of the time).
Which of these Dutch quirks surprised you? Which have you witnessed yourself? Let us know in the comments below!
Can’t get enough of gooey, caramel-y Dutch stroopwafels? Good news: You can now have them for lunch too… inMcDonald’s brand new “Chicken & Waffle” burger.
The limited-edition burger is exclusively available in the Netherlands through the McDonald’s app, where it will be sold for โฌ2.50 until at least December 17, writes Food Inspiration.
A sweet and sour sensation
The sandwich features a regular burger bun, chicken burger patty, crispy bacon, stroopwafel pieces (yep, this is where it gets weird), and caramel sauce.
You would think this delicacy was created at 3 AM by a famished improvised chef combining their burger leftovers with the stroopwafel crumbs at the bottom of their bag.
But actually, it was a well-thought-through decision: it’s a spin-off of the beloved McFlurry Stroopwafel, a Dutch experiment turned worldwide bestseller.
And it’s working: TikTok is overflowing with reaction videos to the new recipe. ๐
Will this be enough to turn this limited edition experiment into a fast food staple? In the land of bami kroketten and frikandel pannenkoeken, anything is possible.
Would you try this new Dutch delicacy? Squeeze your juiciest opinions in the comments below.
New Year’s Eve in the Netherlands is celebrated extensively, with enough fireworks to entertain spectators for hours. But watch out, it can get pretty intense. No Dutch NYE is complete without three things: fireworks, bonfires, and, well, riots.
Hereโs all you need to know about New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands, from the good olโ traditions (fireworks) to the not-so-common traditions (shooting). Letโs get into it!
Fun fact! New Yearโs Eve is actually called Oudejaarsavond in Dutch, meaning โold yearโs eve.โ
Fireworks in the Netherlands: ending the year with a bang
The Dutch take New Yearโs Eve very seriously, and a key component to sparking those NYE vibes is, of course, fireworks.
In the Netherlands, fireworks can be heard almost all year-round. However, the frequency of those loud bangs in the night tends to increase throughout December as we get closer to the end of the year.
General fireworks rules and regulations in the Netherlands
In general, no untrained individuals are allowed to light fireworks in the Netherlands (weโre looking at you, prepubescent boys). That is, unless itโs New Yearโs Eve.
Yep, in the Netherlands, between 6 PM on December 31, and 2 AM on January 1, youโre free to do basically whatever you want, even if youโre not a professional fireworks igniter.
Think of it as The Purge, but fireworks are your only weapon โ and mass destruction is not intended.
Officially, regular folks are also only allowed to buy fireworks at specially certified stores between December 29 and 31.
This rule comes in an attempt to regulate the sales of somewhat dangerous party equipment. In reality, however, the Dutch donโt worry about the rules too much.
There are also certain types of fireworks that are banned completely, including single shots, category F3, firecrackers, and rockets. Does that mean you wonโt see them when the clock strikes 12? We doubt it.
So, what NYE fireworks shows can I see this year in the Netherlands?
Youโre guaranteed a banging New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands, no matter where you go. Some cities have public shows, some let you light up your own by yourself, and some have banned private fireworks altogether.
Wherever you end up celebrating, hereโs what each major Dutch city is doing on New Yearโs Eve.
Fireworks in Amsterdam
Despite a full-on ban on private fireworks in the centre of the Dutch capital, Amsterdam promises a great show this year. There will be several public fireworks shows around the city to welcome the new year in proper fashion.
Itโs free to attend, you donโt have to bother with the hassle of lighting up your own, and itโs way less dangerous than New Yearโs Eve in most other Dutch cities. Win-win-win, if you ask us!
Fireworks in Rotterdam
Sure, the second largest city in the Netherlands has also banned private fireworks a few years ago, but donโt let that bring you down!ย
Rotterdam will put on the largest fireworks show in the country, from the beautiful Erasmus Bridge. This is a Dutch New Yearโs Eve celebration youโre not going to want to miss.
Fireworks in The Hague
In The Hague, the municipality has established several fireworks-free zones around the city to protect humans and animals.ย
Additionally, the main fireworks show at the Hofvijver in The Hague will be replaced by a laser show this year. The largeย bonfire events at Scheveningen and Duindorpย are set to go ahead as usual, however.ย
You can also bet your frozen hat on the fact that the traditional New Yearโs Day Dive will take place at Scheveningen Beach.
Fireworks in Utrecht
Starting this year, Utrecht has introduced a full ban on fireworks. That doesn’t mean the celebration won’t be big, though.
The Dutch love fireworks, thatโs for sure. But it seems the promise loud bangs is not enough to create the ultimate New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands.ย
Dutch people have decided to also include massive bonfires as part of their celebrations, making a sport out of creating the tallest fire possible (weโre talking fires creeping up towards the 50-metre mark).
The most well-known New Yearโs Eve bonfire takes place on Scheveningen Beach in The Hague. In 2019, the massive fire got out of hand, leading to fire storms and countless injuries.
This, as well as the past few years, has raised some question whether the big bonfires in the Netherlands will take place on New Yearโs this year.ย
There are a lot of permits to be approved before youโre allowed to ignite a pile of wood the size of the Royal Palace (fair).
That being said, if the public bonfires donโt work out, you can rest assured the Dutch will find some way or another to light stuff on fire. True to tradition, Dutchies love to set their Christmas trees ablaze when itโs time to get rid of them.
Shooting: because fireworks arenโt noisy enough for NYE
As if it wasnโt enough to light up fireworks for two months straight before the end of the year; New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands is not complete without some shooting. Yep, shooting.
The concept of carbide shooting has been a Dutch New Year tradition for ages โ itโs seen as a fun way to start the New Year with a bang.
How does it work? The Dutch put some carbide in an old milk churn, cover the top with a ball, light a small fire, and cover their ears for the imminent explosion.
The ball will fly several yards, making carbide shooting an easily competitive activity.
Since the 1970s, the explosive game has been quite the social activity, and today you can even find several organised competitions and gatherings based around carbide shooting across the Netherlands.
Time to make a mess! New Yearโs riots in the Netherlands
The Dutch take New Yearโs Eve very seriously, which, unfortunately, can bring out some not-so-nice sides to the festive celebrations.
With all that noise, heat and visual stimulation, New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands can be quite an intense affair.
Deliberate and accidental fires, vandalism, and general disturbances โ walking the streets of Dutch cities on NYE is not for the faint-hearted.
Itโs common to see riots in cities across the Netherlands on New Yearโs Eve, with firefighters and emergency services on high alert.
New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands is full of traditions. Riots and milk churn shooting set aside; some of them are quite weird โ and lovely.
Oliebollen โ because the New Yearโs resolutions start tomorrow
The most easy-to-like Dutch New Yearโs tradition is, arguably, an abundance of oliebollen โ the deep-fried buns covered in powdered sugar that make us all go โlekker!โ
The greasy delicacy has been eaten in the Netherlands for centuries and can be bought from street stands from autumn onwards.
But make no mistake; this distant cousin of the doughnut is traditionally a New Yearโs treat, and certain Dutch people will absolutely frown if you buy it too early in the year.
Another Dutch New Yearโs tradition is the Oudejaarsconference (Old Yearโs Conference) โ a comedy cabaret aired every New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands.
Itโs a humorous reflection on the past year, hosted by one or more comedians, and itโs been a staple in Dutch New Yearโs entertainment for ages. Trying to finesse your Nederlands? Join in on this one!
The practicalities of New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands
Everyoneโs going somewhere, and everyoneโs determined to have a GREAT time. Itโs a recipe for disaster from a logistical point of view, so here are three things to keep in mind when planning your New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands.
Public transport during New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands
Itโs no surprise that the public transport system in the Netherlands can be a bit of a struggle on New Yearโs Eve.
Everything is even fuller than usual (since most people want to drink alcohol and therefore canโt drive), and transport schedules are significantly different from normal.
Between 8 PM on December 31, and 1 AM on January 1, the vast majority of public transport in the Netherlands (meaning buses, trains, and trams) will not run.
In other words: plan your movements in advance, and make sure youโre happy with your location before itโs too late.
Book in advance
If youโre in the mood for going out on New Yearโs Eve, be it to a restaurant, bar, or maybe a club, you should make sure you reserve your table and book your tickets well before the night itself.
Venues and restaurants tend to fill up with reservations ridiculously early, so one quick phone call in advance can really save the evening.
Stay clear of 13-year-old boys with makeshift fireworks
If you want to stay away from the annual mayhem that tends to happen every New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands, youโre best off staying indoors.
If you do wish to risk it, however, a piece of good advice is to avoid teenage boys wielding fireworks altogether.
The Dutch are an innovative bunch, and some youngsters decide to experiment with fireworks (and their rules). However, with trial comes error, and letโs just say you donโt want to be around for that.ย
What are your plans for New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands this year? Tell us in the comments below!
FAQ: New Yearโs Eve in the Netherlands
Is it legal to set off fireworks in the Netherlands?ย
In the Netherlands, private individuals are allowed to set off fireworks between 6 PM on December 31, and 2 AM on January 1. This rule does not apply if you are in a fireworks-free zone, or if you live in a fireworks-free city.
What should you do if a fire gets out of hand?ย
If your fireworks or bonfire gets out of hand on New Yearโs Eve, as soon as possible, tell someone to call the Dutch emergency number: 112.
Meanwhile, try your best to extinguish the fire. Before you start breaking out the matches, always remember to keep a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby.
Does Amsterdam have a fireworks show?ย
Yes, Amsterdam will have a few public fireworks shows on New Yearโs Eve. Amsterdam has banned the private ignition of fireworks in 2023. However, public shows are still allowed.
Is New Yearโs Eve a free day in the Netherlands?
New Yearโs Eve is not a public holiday in the Netherlands โ officially, itโs a working day. Still, public transport runs on heavily reduced schedules, and most people take the day off if they are able to.
Dutch weather can get us down sometimes. As soon as it gets gloomy (like, 99% of the time in the Netherlands), our mood can dip.
The most important advice is to stay busy โ especially in the winter when the weather is constantly bad. But what should you be doing?
Here are 27 ideas for activities to keep you busy and entertained โ even in the worst Dutch weather.
1. Find local concerts in your city (big or small)
It doesnโt have to be a big, expensive Taylor Swift concert (although we also highly recommend that). Instead, head to see local bands playing in music bars in your city or a smaller artist performing in an intimate venue.
Itโs a great way to find new local musicians, get out of the house, have a new experience every night, and hang out with your friends (or make new ones).
These sports will keep you active and get some adrenaline going โ all while you’re out of the rain and surrounded by heaters.
Gather your friends, get creative, and find a way to get moving while staying warm.
3. Host weekly hangouts with your friends
This can be whatever you choose, but there is only one rule: See. Your. Friends. What better way to beat the rainy-day blues than having a good old-fashioned hangout?
Whether it’s a weekly movie night, a rotating dinner with a theme, or a game night, having a regular plan is a sure way to get some good vibes.
4. Go to a pool bar
“I can’t play pool, I can’t aim, my hand-eye coordination is awful.” We get it. We were the same.
But this rainy day activity is so fun regardless of all that. You can go with one person or a whole group, and your friends can teach you (bonus: it’s a charming date idea ๐).
5. Go axe-throwing
Maybe this is a bit niche, but trust us, it’s so fun. Get in touch with that primal, primitive, caveperson side of you and give your brain the satisfaction of going, “Aim, throw, win.”
Truly an underrated activity, and you’ll walk away feeling like the coolest, toughest person in the world after hurling axes at a wall.
6. Make your house extra cosy
Homebodies, don’t worry, we’re thinking of you too. The truth is, there’s no point in wishing it was summer in the middle of winter.
So lean into it with some candles, some fairy lights, and bring your duvet to the sofa.
Make some warm tea and hot chocolate, wear fluffy socks, and enjoy it. You could even build a blanket fort. โบ๏ธ
7. Visit an arcade
If you want to go outside but don’t want to be super active, head to an arcade! This wasn’t just cool 40 years ago; it’s still fun!
Whether you want to tear up the dance floor with Dance Dance Revolution or shoot some zombies, there’s something for everyone.
8. Go to an escape room
Calling all mystery book lovers, riddle solvers, and adventure seekers! This one’s for you.
There’s nothing better than an escape room to escape your rainy-day thoughts. Bring your friends and figure out who’s the best at solving puzzles. ๐ต๏ธโโ๏ธ
9. Have a spa day
Why not treat yourself? Get a massage, wear a fluffy robe, and sit in a sauna to escape the cold.ย
Okay, maybe a fancy spa day isn’t in your budget. Geen probleem, do an at-home spa!! Enjoy a hot shower with a body scrub and a nice-smelling shampoo, lather on a face mask, paint your nails, and light some scented candles. ๐ฏ
(Bonus points if you live with someone who you can convince to give you a massage).
10. Go ice-skating
Of course, you have to go ice skating! It’s the quintessential winter activity. Find an ice-skating rink in or near your city and live that winter wonderland dream!
If you’re lucky, you might even find some frozen canals around you!
11. Visit a museum or art gallery
Modern art, Renaissance, or a local designer โ viewing any of these can be a fun way to spend your day away from the bad weather.
Also, staring at old paintings and reading the little cards next to them will make you feel cultured and smart โ and we could all use a bit of that.
12. Have “remote work dates” with a friend
Maybe you can’t quite escape the workday and do all these fun activities, but you still want to socialise. Kill two birds with one stone and plan a home office day with a friend!
Meet up at one of your houses or a cute cafรฉ. This is especially nice if you work remotely and miss some social interaction.
13. Join a class to learn something new
Maybe your brain has started rotting from doing little more than the bare minimum. Time for you to expand your brain! ๐ง
Pottery, painting, drawing, cooking, whatever you like, find a class in your town and go all in. It’ll hold you accountable for leaving the house and introduce you to some new people.
14. Plan a weekend away with friends or family
Okay, maybe sometimes there’s just nothing to do about it, and the weather sucks. That’s when you get out if you can.
Hop in a car, bus, or train, and spend three days somewhere in the south of Europe with better weather. No shame in getting some escape from the gloom and hitting the “reset” button in your brain!
15. Get a big, cosy, waterproof, warm coat
If you have to leave the house and weather the storm (pun intended), make sure to have the right armour (made up of goose feathers and impermeable material!)
Trust us: when it’s lashing cold hail onto you while you bike, you’ll be happy to have something to protect you.
16. Call all of your friends until one of them picks up
Sometimes, it’s just too miserable to go outside. We get it. But if you’re feeling a bit lonely or just want some chat โ that’s when you call someone!
There are even handy websites that let you stream movies at the same time as someone in another country. Virtual movie night, anyone? ๐ฟ
17. Start a workout challenge or class
Want to take a class, but not much of an artsy person? Geen probleem!
Take up boxing, karate, dancing, or yoga. You’ll get moving and maybe meet some new people!
And if you’re not feeling up for a whole class, go for an at-home challenge. Check out something on YouTube or Google, or challenge yourself to work out every day for a week or a month.
18. Start pet-sitting
It’s truly underrated what a little furry friend can do.
Whether it’s a hyperactive puppy or a wise old cat, their fluffy little ears will definitely bring some light back into your life.
And what’s better than getting paid to hang out with these little (or big) guys? Surely, someone near you needs someone to watch their cat, dog, hamster, bunny, turtle, gerbil, or fish for a weekend while they’re away.
19. Actually go to your work’s borrel
Look, we know. Not everyone has a super lovely, friendly, welcoming work environment. But hopefully, you have at least one coworker you can latch onto while you sip some beers.
Best case scenario, everyone you work with is nice, and you find out their real-world, outside-of-work personalities.
Plus, there’s a good chance of a free biertje. ๐ป
20. Get really into drinking tea or hot chocolate
This one just makes sense, doesn’t it? It’s chilly out; you’ve got your fluffy socks on, a blanket, and a movie. What’s missing? A nice, warm beverage in a cute little cup.
Maybe this can be the year that you perfect tea or hot chocolate.
You find the best cocoa in town, with the perfect type of milk, add in some whipped cream and maybe even some marshmallows if you’re feeling crazy. No judgment here!
21. Sleep and eat more
Maybe this is controversial. But trust us, it’s especially important in the colder months.
Your body needs more fuel at this time because it uses so much energy to keep you warm. So, if you find yourself hungrier and sleepier, eat and nap away! ๐
Although, if you like having a monthly paycheck, maybe wait until you’re clocked out.
22. Take an online course
An online course could be about anything. In this day and age, you can learn an astounding amount of skills on the internet, often for free.
Surely, there’s something you’ve been meaning to learn about and have been putting off. Maybe it’s cooking, or perhaps it’s a language, personal finance, history, shoemaking โ anything!
23. Rearrange your furniture
Maybe your home got a bit boring after sitting in it all day. Why not shake things up a bit? Switch your sofa and dining table or your bed and your closet.
Maybe you’ll hate it and change it back, or maybe not. Either way, you beat the boredom โ and maybe you’ll make your house a little cosier in the process!
24. Knit yourself a sweater
Much like a perfect cup of tea, this one just fits in with the whole vibe. Turn on a series or YouTube video and knit away.
It’s a wholesome, mind-occupying hobby, and there’s nothing cooler than wearing a sweater made by yourself!
25. Get your driver’s license
Let’s face it: gloomy days can get boring. But if you’re bored anyway and looking for something to do, why not get your Dutch driver’s license?
It’s admittedly not the cheapest thing you’ll ever do, but maybe you can use the autumn and winter months to crack down, take some lessons, and gain a new skill. ๐
26. Buy a onesie, fluffy socks, and a hot water bottle
Rather than wishing for a warmer, sunnier day, you might as well lean into it. Cosy up with the right clothes โ and a hot water bottle will change your life.
Just fill it up with water from your tea kettle and hold it to your torso. Soon enough, you’ll be addicted to the warmth and never want to go back.
27. Learn how to play an instrument
Start with something small if you have to, like a harmonica, the tambourine, or a ukulele. Or, if you want to go for the classic, why not try your hand at the guitar?
It’s just as fun as singing (if you like that) but with the extra bonus twist of making your own instrumentals.
When it comes to these gloomy days, we can start feeling quite, well, gloomy. The trick to beat that is to stay busy, socialise, and get out of the house if you can.
Make plans throughout the week, try new things, and get a change of environment to trick your brain away from thinking about how gloomy and dark it is. Can’t get out? Lean into the cosy vibes at home instead.
What are your favourite ways to survive the gloomy Dutch weather? Tell us in the comments below!
Prepaid SIMs offer affordability and a no-strings-attached approach to their data bundles โ making them an excellent choice for internationals in the Netherlands.
With year-long contractual commitments and the steep prices of some SIM-only packages, getting a mobile data connection can be an utter headache for tourists and new residents to the Netherlands.
However, thereโs a ray of light in the darkness: prepaid SIM cards. โจ
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First things first: What are prepaid SIMs?
Prepaid SIMs are physical or digital SIM cards that enable you to pay upfront for all the data, call minutes, and texts you use.
These SIMs are pay-as-you-go, making them perfect for tourists, temporary residents, and commitment-phobes, as no pesky, year-long contracts are required.
Best prepaid SIMs in the Netherlands
Ready to sample your own prepaid plan? Weโve tested the best, and found the most wallet-friendly and feature-packed prepaid SIMs on the Dutch market! ๐
Offering the most affordable prepaid SIMs on our list at just โฌ5, Simyo punches well above its weight in terms of features.
Youโll benefit from unlimited calling, texting AND data options at your fingertips โ all with access to KPNโs blazing-fast network (for a fraction of the price!).
With super-low calling/texting costs for 44 countries in their handy โAll in Internationalโ bundle, itโs no coincidence that Lebara is one of the most popular prepaid SIMs on offer at Dutch airports.
Even better? With plans like their 3+1 bundle, you can even get one month of data completely free!
Boasting one of the Netherlandsโ fastest and most extensive mobile networks, KPN is a true heavyweight in terms of feature-packed prepaid bundles.
Whilst this is one of the more costly providers on our list, their wide range of monthly or daily data packages and ultra-reliable network more than justify the price.
Whether youโre keen on an unlimited data bundle or want the best of both worlds with calling minutes and messages too, the skyโs the limit with Odidoโs range of flexible packages.
In addition to being valid throughout the EU, they offer combi bundles at various price points โ ensuring you never overpay for the data you want.
If youโre looking to surf the web, play your favourite Spotify tunes, and maybe stream a show or two, Vodafoneโs handy unlimited data bundles are right up your alley.
Despite their validity ranging from a single day to one week, theyโre a stellar prepaid option for data-hungry travellers who donโt want unnecessary contracts or commitments.
Prepaid refers to prepaid mobile credit that a customer can buy. It typically comes in the form of call minutes, a set number of messages, and/or mobile data.
SIM-only, on the other hand, involves signing up for a mobile subscription. In most cases, this will lock you into a contract for a year or two โ though certain providers still offer a monthly terminable option (for an added fee!).
For users whoโll be spending a limited time in the Netherlands (or who simply donโt want to sign off on a year-long subscription without testing the product first), prepaid SIMs offer more flexibility.
With affordable prices and the ability to cancel your subscription monthly, prepaid SIMs are one of the best choices for internationals in the Netherlands.
Have you ever used a prepaid SIM plan in the Netherlands or abroad? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments below!
Prepaid SIM cards in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions
With a lot of information and options to wade through, itโs only natural that youโd have a few questions. ๐ต๐ปโโ๏ธ
How can I get a prepaid SIM in the Netherlands?
Dutch prepaid SIM cards can be bought at all mobile stores in the Netherlands. More conveniently, you can order SIM cards online and have them delivered to your new home or hotel.
In addition to this, prepaid SIM cards are often available at airports, by the checkout at many supermarkets, and several convenience stores/corner shops.
Can I get a Dutch SIM without a mobile plan?
Itโs perfectly possible to buy a prepaid Dutch SIM card without needing to splurge on a full mobile data plan.
With a prepaid plan, however, youโll be paying for 30 daysโ worth of mobile data and call credit โ instead of paying for a year’s subscription that renews monthly.
Whatโs the cheapest Dutch prepaid SIM card?
The cheapest prepaid SIM card on the Dutch market at the moment is offered by Simyo for โฌ7.50.
With 500 MBs of mobile data and 75 minutes of call time, itโs a great starter package for internationals who want to get connected in a pinch.
Do Dutch mobile data providers offer prepaid SIM cards?
Several mobile data providers in the Netherlands offer prepaid SIM cards. These providers include KPN, Simyo, and Lebara.
Can I buy a SIM card in the supermarket in the Netherlands?
Yes, you can buy prepaid SIM cards from the most popular mobile data providers at various large supermarket chains in the Netherlands.
Typically, they can be found close to the checkout.
The Dutch changed the course of South African history, culture, and identity the moment they first stepped foot in what is now Cape Town.
The history of the Dutch in South Africa is a two-sided coin. Many regard the Dutch settlers as pioneers in establishing trade routes and as the forefathers of Afrikaner culture.
Yet, their involvement in the slave trade and the invasion of African land cannot be overlooked.
The influence of the Dutch, seen in the Afrikaans language, Cape-Dutch architecture, and the distribution of ethnic groups (among many other things) are still actively shaping South Africa as we know it today.
The Dutch arrival in the Cape
While the Portuguese were the first Europeans to set foot in southern Africa, naming the area of today’s Cape Town as The Cape of Good Hope, it was the Dutch who established the Cape Colony in 1652.
Initially, the colony was to serve as a trading post en route to Asia, supplying the Dutch East India Company (VOC) ships with fresh food and water, and a place to stop for rest.
Prior to the arrival of Europeans, the land was already occupied by the Khoekhoe (or Khoikhoi) people, whose way of life revolved around hunter-gathering and cattle herding.
The Dutch traded with the Khoekhoe for a while, exchanging tobacco and brandy for fresh meat.
But by the late 17th century, war had broken out between the United Provinces of the Netherlands and both Britain and France in mainland Europe.
British and French interests in the Indian Ocean pushed the Dutch to establish a permanent colony in the Cape to protect their trading routes. They began expanding settlements into the traditional grazing lands of the Khoekhoe.
Conflict erupted as attacks and counter-attacks ensued between the Dutch and Khoekoe in what snowballed into the Khoekhoe-Dutch wars (1659โ1660 and 1673โ1677).
European diseases also decimated Khoekhoe populations, and they were increasingly pushed out of their lands.
The conflict was eventually resolved with a peace treaty, in which the Khoekhoe had to offer 30 cattle to the VOC annually and vow never to attack Dutch settlements again.
By the end of the 18th century, without their grazing lands, the Khoekhoe social structure had collapsed and the ethnic group had virtually vanished.
Historians believe many of the Khoekhoe were forced to work for the Dutch, or acculturated with Bantu-speaking African ethnicities from the north.
The Dutch slave trade in South Africa
Many employees of the VOC retired to the Cape Colony, where they were given land to farm on the condition they sell their crops to the VOC at a fixed price.
The farms were very labour intensive, so the Vryberghers (free citizens) imported slaves from Angola, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, and Asia (Dutch East Indies and Dutch Ceylon) to work the land.
However, the VOC also owned slaves of their own, the first of which were brought from Angola in the Amersfoort and Hasselt vessels, establishing the Cape as a slave colony.
Over 150 years, around 40 slave voyages were sent from Cape Town, bringing back around 4,300 slaves who survived the journey.
As a halfway point between Asia and Europe, the Cape Colony also resupplied many VOC slave voyages passing through, including those which would go on to transport Africans to slave markets in the Americas.
How the Cape Colony impacted South African demographics today
Today, around 1.27 million people living in South Africa are Asian South Africans (2.5% of the population), mostly people of Indian descent whose ancestors were brought over as workers by the British and Dutch.
Cape Malay culture is also unique to South Africa, born in the Javanese and Malaysian slave communities of the Cape Colony.
But Asian slaves also later intermarried with those from Madagascar and other parts of Africa, contributing to what is known as the โcolouredโ community in South Africa (around 8.8% of the population today).
They are distinct from the black African communities which amount to 79.4% of todayโs 59.7 million people.
Around 9.2% of modern South Africans are white, with predominantly Dutch, German, French, and British ancestry.
However, centuries of life in South Africa has blurred the lines between racial and cultural groups, giving many South Africans a complex combination of ethnic backgrounds.
British rule and the Great Trek
Back to our history lesson: in 1795, the British invaded the Cape peninsula and took over the Cape Colony (including Cape Town) from the Dutch.
Due to the British Slave Trade Act of 1807, the first wave of British settlers in the Cape (1820) were not permitted to own slaves, and the importation of slaves was banned in all British colonies.
When slavery across the Cape was abolished in 1834, the British also passed the Amelioration Laws, which allowed slaves to marry, purchase their freedom and receive basic education. This freed over 38,427 slaves in the Cape of Good Hope.
The Dutch Voortrekkers
The Dutch Vryburghers, however, were not happy about this. Tensions between the Dutch and British settlers grew, as the Dutch Boers (farmers) fought to keep their slaves.
Eager to rule themselves, in 1836 about 1,200 Boers (one-fifth of the colonyโs Dutch population at the time) embarked on a journey across southern Africa known as the Groot Trek (Great Migration, directly translated), calling themselves the Voortrekkers (pioneers).
They are an important element of Afrikaner folk history.
The Voortrekkers split off in various directions, eventually founding independent Boer republics, namely the Transvaal (South African Republic), theOrange Free State, and the Natalia Republic.
They travelled in wagons, over a distance roughly equal to that between Portugal and Poland, and lived semi-nomadic pastoral lifestyles.
Crossing semi-deserts, the Orange River (which they named in honour of the Dutch royal family) and the Drakensberg mountain range (over 3400m high, which they named for its dragon-like shape) proved to be a challenging journey that would mould Afrikaner communities into a tough and strong people.
As they say in Afrikaans, โโn Boer maak โn planโ (a farmer makes a plan), and it is this mindset that got the Voortrekkers across South Africa.
Conflict with African kingdoms
But as the Voortrekkers crossed over the Drakensberg into the fertile lands of Natal, they walked right into what is known as Mfecane โ a period of war between the dominating Zulu Kingdom and smaller African kingdoms (1815โ1840).
This period caused tribes to temporarily move into new territories, resulting in thousands of refugees, and an estimated two million people who died during these wars.
But as the conflict died down and the tribes began to reoccupy their land, they found themselves face-to-face with the Boer intruders.
The Boers, of course, claimed that the land was unoccupied when they arrived, which would become the Empty Land Myth that says Europeans arrived in these lands at the same time as Africans.
This myth would later be used by Apartheid politicians to justify Afrikaner Nationalism.
As you can imagine, conflict erupted between the Dutch Boers and the various African tribes they encountered. Military skill thus became key for the Voortrekkers as they further invaded more lands.
Armed with rifles and long knives, the Boers drove tribes like the Ndebele further north and took their children as slaves. In some cases, peace treaties were formed.
After winning the Battle of Blood River against the Zulu, the Voortrekkers declared the Republic of Natalia in 1838.
The Transvaal became an independent Boer republic in 1852, and the Oranje Vrystaat (Afrikaans for Orange Free State) followed in 1854, both of which had political connections to The Hague.
The Boer Wars
As the British Empire expanded, Lord Carnarvon (British Secretary of State for the Colonies) wanted to unite the British colonies, independent Boer republics and independent African kingdoms in South Africa into a confederation under British control.
In 1876, he realised that this could not be achieved peacefully.
The Transvaal was in serious financial trouble after a war between the Boers and the Pedi โ the largest African kingdom in the north of South Africa. Lord Carnarvon seized the opportunity, and the British annexed the Transvaal in 1877, renaming it the Transvaal Colony.
A couple of years later, the British launched the Anglo-Zulu war, while non-violent Boer opposition grew in the Transvaal. Dutch settlers still in the Cape Colony began supporting their brothers in the north as they protested for independence.
The First Boer War
In 1880, a disagreement over taxes with the British became the final straw for the Dutch Boers.
Led by Paul Kruger and Piet Joubert, almost 10,000 Boers gathered and proclaimed the restoration of the Transvaal Republic โ and so, the first Anglo-Boer war began.
The red uniforms of the British made them easy targets for the skilled Afrikaner riflemen, who also knew the terrain better than the anglophones. The British suffered heavy losses at the battle of Laingsnek and Schuinshoogte, forcing them to retreat.
Reinforcements from Newcastle arrived and marched on a Boer outpost at Majuba, whom the Boers lured into the mountains and slaughtered. The embarrassing British defeat at Majuba in 1881 concluded the first war.
The Second Boer War
The discovery of gold in 1886 on the Witwatersrand, near Johannesburg, changed everything in the region and motivated the British to retake the land.
By 1890, South Africa was the largest producer of gold in the world, employing thousands of African and European people, and bringing prosperity to the Boer republics.
The Cape Colony, still under British rule, was no longer the strongest region in southern Africa.
Prospectors rushed to Johannesburg from all over the world, especially Europe. The Transvalers saw these Uitlanders (foreigners) as a threat to their independence and gave them restricted rights. This caused further strain between the British and Boer governments.
Meanwhile, the British were nervous that the Transvaal would expand into territories on the coast. The Boers had access to a harbour in modern-day Mozambique, but they were yet to own any ports for themselves.
Control of the seas was the only advantage that the British had in southern Africa at this point, having earlier annexed Natal.
In 1895, 100 British soldiers launched the Jameson Raid on Pretoria, without permission from the crown. They were overwhelmingly defeated by the Boers and reprimanded by British command.
It was only in 1899 that the second Anglo-Boer war officially began. Anticipating a British attack, the Boers struck first, taking out major British towns in Natal. Well-armed and financially strong initial attacks by the Boers were successful.
But when the British General changed, and new tactics were implemented, the tables turned. In 1900, the British took back their towns and marched 400,000 men north to the Boer republics.
Overwhelmed by the sheer number of men, the Dutch Boers lost control of both the Transvaal and Orange Free State. But they were not done fighting.
The Boers reverted to guerilla warfare, in a series of surprise attacks that dragged on for years. In response, the British initiated the scorched earth policy, whereby anything that could be used by the enemy was burnt to the ground.
Boer survivors were forced into concentration camps where many civilians died of hunger or disease.
The Boers were forced to surrender in 1902, bringing an end to the final Anglo-Boer war. The Transvaal, Orange Free State, Natal and the Cape Colony were unified into the Union of South Africa in 1910 under the British Empire.
Apartheid
The system of racial oppression in South Africa, known as Apartheid (1948-1994), cannot be directly linked to the Dutch, as by this time, the Afrikaner communities identified themselves as distinct people.
But the ideologies passed down to them from the first Dutch settlers, slave traders, and Voortrekkers are evident in the white-supremacist policies of the Apartheid regime.
In short, Apartheid was a system that separated race groups classified by the ruling National Party (NP) into various zones around South Africa. Afrikaner Nationalism was at the heart of its ideology, which classed white citizens as superior.
Inequality across the zones was substantial, and education and job opportunities for non-whites were limited, pushing them into cycles of poverty.
Non-white citizens were given fewer rights โ including the inability to vote. Intermarriage between the races was illegal, and friendships with different race groups were considered suspicious.
It is a painful and complicated chapter of South Africaโs history, which I will not expand on here. Even so, it is important to learn more about Apartheid in South Africa.
The Dutch had a majorly influential role to play in what would become the Republic of South Africa. What Iโve covered in this article is, of course, only the tip of the iceberg, but I hope you now know something about the Dutch and South Africa that you didnโt know before.
What do you make of the Dutch involvement in South Africa? Tell us in the comments below.
They do so with the ease of a cyclist chaining up their bike โ sure, if they miscalculate, they’ll find themselves stuck in a car submerged underwater โ but they’re Amsterdammers, so that won’t happen.
Meeting your partnerโs parents can be nerve-racking at the best of times. However, meeting them in a foreign country where you donโt know the language and local customs is a whole other ball game.
As an international, you might feel nervous about meeting your significant other’s Dutch parents. What will you say to them? Will you be able to communicate? Will they like you?
If youโre feeling a little lost and unsure, weโve been there: so we gathered some tips to help you prepare!
The practicalities of meeting your Dutch partnerโs parents ๐
Introductions can be a bit overwhelming, especially when it concerns the (potential) love of your life. Here are the main things we think you should be prepared for:
How to nail the Dutch greeting ๐
First things first, the greeting. If your partnerโs parents lurch forward and try to plant a kiss on your cheek upon arrival, never fear โ this is a normal part of Dutch culture.
In the Netherlands, people typically greet each other with three kisses on the cheek (left-right-left). If you donโt get a kiss, you can expect a firm handshake.
Should you bring a gift? ๐
A gesture is appreciated but isnโt mandatory. If youโd like to bring something, flowers, chocolates, or biscuits are always a good bet.
If youโre holding the meet-up in your own home make sure to provide everything โ unlike in some cultures, itโs not a custom to bring a dish, dessert, or wine to lunch or dinner at someoneโs house.
Thatโs not to say it never happens, but play on the safe side and donโt assume.
What should you call your Dutch partnerโs parents? ๐
In most cases, Dutch people are quite casual. Therefore, you can expect to be addressing them by their first names pretty quickly.
Married or not, the Dutch regularly refer to their partnerโs parents as their โin-lawsโ โ weird right? So your mother-in-law is your schoonmoeder, and your father-in-law is schoonvader.
To make things weirder, the Dutch translations are literally “clean-mother” (schoonmoeder) and “clean-father” (schoonvader).
What will you talk about with your Dutch parents-in-law? ๐
You can be sure that your partnerโs parents will be curious about their childโs international partner.
Dutch people are known for being pretty open-minded and tolerant, so if you’re concerned about your cultural background, itโs probably not necessary.
When you sit down for your meal or refreshments, prepare to be bombarded with questions: Where are you from? How long have you been in the Netherlands? What brought you here? What do your parents do? Have you learnt any Dutch yet?
At first, the conversation might be a bit laboured. But as you each become more comfortable with each other, youโll find common ground and be chatting away in no time.
As an international, being able to communicate effectively with your partnerโs parents and family is a great incentive and reward for learning Dutch.
Speaking the language will also help you to feel more comfortable and integrated into the family, especially if youโre in it for the long term.
At the very least, youโll all have something to laugh about when the family inevitably asks you to demonstrate what youโve learnt so far at the dinner table.
Thereโs also a strong chance that your partnerโs mom will offer you her kidโs old storybooks to help you practice your Dutch โ Jip en Janneke here we come!
What to expect when meeting your new Dutch in-laws ๐ฎ
The Dutch are very family-oriented. If youโre in a relationship with a Dutchie, youโre likely to spend quite a lot of time with their parents, and will probably be obliged to attend many family events โ so you better get comfortable.
Truth be told, meeting your Dutchieโs parents may not all be smooth-sailing.
Weโve heard some horror stories of people struggling with cultural differences, awkward small talk, and being forced to eat food that theyโre not comfortable with โ likeboterhammenfor breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Nevertheless, we hear far more stories of great kindness and hospitality.
Besides, in all likelihood, youโll get to see cute and/or embarrassing child and baby photos of your partner โ and who doesnโt love that?
Overall, itโs good for both you and your partnerโs parents to get to know each other and learn about your different cultures.
The Dutch Tax Administration is preparing to kick off the new year with stricter checks against bogus self-employment, starting January 1.
Helaas, this is some bad news for the Ministry of Finance. ๐ฌ
Talk about irony
Turns out, the Ministry of Finance has been depending heavily on ZZPโers (zelfstandige zonder personeel or self-employed people) in its recovery operation for the infamous childcare benefits scandal. Around 580 of them, to be exact.ย
How ironic that the institution responsible for managing the nationโs money relies on (precarious) ZZPโers. ๐
In conversation with NU.nl, a spokesperson for the Ministry claims, โmany of them legitimately work as self-employed people.โ
โWe have already reduced the number of self-employed people considerably. But if all self-employed people were to be removed from the team in January, the recovery operation [for the benefits scandal] could be delayed.โ
No exceptions
Meanwhile, over at the Tax and Customs Administration, theyโre taking no exceptions for the new implementations.
If tax authorities suspect bogus self-employment, they can impose fines.
Following the devastating explosion at Tarwekamp in The Hague on Saturday morning, the police investigation is still in full swing โ with several pieces of new information just revealed. ๐
The police already arrested three suspects yesterday (December 10). Now, a possible target for the explosion and information about two runaway cars are known.
Bridal store at the centre of it
Based on evidence revealed in the ongoing police investigation, the explosion might have been aimed at a bridal store on the ground floor of the building, reports RTL Nieuws.ย
The store specialises in the sale and rental of party dresses, but the company also offers care to young people with developmental and behavioural problems.
While no one from the store was injured or harmed, the explosion left six dead and four injured.
The victims include three members of the same family (leaving an 8-year-old orphaned), and three adult men.
On the lookout for two cars
Police are also looking for any leads on two cars that may have been involved in the explosion โ a blue Toyota Yaris and a champagne-coloured Kia Ceed.
Dutch police have reason to believe that one of the cars fled the scene of the explosion at high speed, and footage also reveals a suspected car speeding towards Amsterdam on Saturday morning.ย
The police hope that witnesses who can share information about the store and cars will come forward.ย
Translation: Tonight, the focus of Investigation โWantedโ is on the explosion at the #Tarwekamp in #TheHague. We are also calling for witnesses following an explosion on #Loenensestraat in #TheHague and a serious assault in #Leiden. More information
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