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10 series and films on Netflix to help you learn Dutch

Nicole Ogden 🇹🇭 🇺🇸
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10 series and films on Netflix to help you learn Dutch

Browsing for a Netflix show or film to watch on a gloomy day in the Netherlands? Maybe you’re about to visit your Dutch partner’s parents or simply want to brush up on your Dutch skills. Well, we’ve got a treat for you!

Watching films and series in Nederlands is a great way to develop comprehension skills. This is the strategy the Dutch use to speak near-perfect English (by not dubbing English movies or series) — so they must be onto something! 🎬✨

Grab some popcorn, and let’s take a look at some Dutch films and series available on Netflix now! 🍿👀

1. Anne+: De Film

Anne+ is a two-season series about the life of a 24-year-old lesbian living in Amsterdam. After breaking up with her girlfriend, she reflects on her love life over the years and how it shaped who she is.

Sadly, this series is currently not available on Netflix — but geen paniek! We have a close enough alternative for you.

Due to its success, Anne+ was also made into a movie. The main character, much like in the series, grapples with the challenges of finding love while still growing and changing.

READ MORE | The best tips to learn Dutch: my experience of grasping the language

The movie is a lovely but realistic exploration of sexuality, relationships, and love! 🏳️‍🌈❤️ It’s also great if you’re looking to add a dash of Dutch to your day. 

📺 Type: Film
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Beginner
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: If you want something easy for beginners, then this is the movie for you! The storyline is easy to follow and to the point. Sometimes, the dialogue does go fast, but the conversations are normally very short and rich in everyday vocabulary.

2. Bankier van het Verzet (The Resistance Banker)

The Resistance Banker takes place during World War II in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam.

The film tells the story of a Dutch banker who risked it all to build a secret underground bank to fund the Dutch resistance against the Nazis. How heroic!

READ MORE  | 8 unmissable movies about the Netherlands in WWII

Bankier van het Verzet is suspenseful, thrilling, and absolutely heart-wrenching. It hits even harder when you find out it’s based on true events. 😔

📺 Type: Film
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: The actors speak quickly but clearly in this film. The phrases aren’t too difficult, but the plot is fast-paced. Some parts are also in German with Dutch subtitles. It’s definitely a film for someone who’s been studying Dutch for a while. 

3. Keizersvrouwen (Women of the Night)

In the mood for a thrilling Dutch crime series with a female protagonist? Look no further! Keizersvrouwen is available to stream on Netflix. 

The show follows Xandra, a woman with a stable, happy life with her husband and daughter. However, she longs for something more.

When she gets an opportunity to organise an event for her friend’s escort agency, she is drawn back into the dark underbelly of a world she thought she had escaped forever. 

📺 Type: Series
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: This series has a medium pace, with sentences that aren’t too long or complicated. The storyline can sometimes be difficult to keep up with, but the actors generally speak clearly.

4. Liefde zonder grenzen (Love without borders)

As you might have gathered, this is a movie about love — but it is no usual rom-com!

Rather, “Love without borders” explores love beyond its romantic form.

It tells the story of a recently widowed Dutchman and his children as they each navigate their love lives differently while also learning to love each other — without renouncing a touch of humour!

📺 Type: Film
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: As an outsider, the language native speakers use in more intimate settings, such as their family and dating life, can be quite hard to access. This film is a great opportunity to get a glimpse of that while also serving as advice for your own love life. 😉

5. Undercover

Okay, so maybe you’ve already binged tons of drug-related crime series like Breaking Bad or Narcos. Good news! There’s a Flemish/Dutch drama that is worth just as much hype — AND it’s based on a true story. 🤯

Undercover follows secret agents Bob Lemmens (Belgian) and Kim de Rooij (Dutch), who are investigating a drug kingpin, Ferry Bouman.

They track him down to Limburg, the ecstasy capital of the world, and pose as friendly neighbours at a campground where Ferry spends his weekends. 👮

The series was very well received, with IMDb giving the show a 7.8/10! Who says there aren’t any good Dutch shows out there?!

📺 Type: Series
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: If you’re looking for a slow burn to expand your Dutch accent skills and learn a little Flemish, we recommend taking on this challenge once you are at a more intermediate level. The actors speak clearly and at a moderate pace, but the plot can be complicated, so be prepared to pay attention!

6. Ares

In the mood for something scary? This Dutch horror series will definitely give you goosebumps! 👻

Ares follows the story of a first-year medical student in Amsterdam, Rosa Steenwijk. She joins a secretive Dutch student society and uncovers dark secrets and nightmarish experiences that will leave you gasping — and perhaps a little wary of your local student groups. 👀

The series also has subtitles in TONS of languages, including English, Arabic, and Korean. 

Trigger warning: Sexual assault, suicide, hazing, gore. Definitely don’t watch this before bed, or if you don’t like blood or gore!

📺 Type: Series
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: If you’re an intermediate learner and you’re looking for a Dutch series that’s suspenseful, intense and gory, then look no further than Ares. Also, if you’re a student, this is also a good place to pick up Dutch student slang, as well as the Amsterdam dialect.

7. Pietje Bell (Peter Bell)

If your childhood was shaped by classics like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda, then this is the Dutch film for you! 

Based on a book series, the story follows Pietje Bell, a shoemaker’s son in Rotterdam. Pietje is known for getting into all kinds of antics and trouble at school and in the town, much to the dismay of the townsfolk.

However, his pranks and adventures become so famous that they make the newspaper. 

But when he tries to stop a criminal, nobody believes him! So it’s up to Pietjeto to save the day! ✊

📺 Type: Film
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Beginner-Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: This film is great for adults and kids starting out with the Dutch language. As a children’s film, the language isn’t overly difficult, and the actors speak clearly and in an exaggerated manner. A good pick for the family! 👩‍👩‍👧

8. Mijn beste vriendin Anne Frank (My best friend Anne Frank)

Another movie set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, My Best Friend Anne Frank is the first Dutch cinema film to tell the story of the most famous Holocaust victim in the Netherlands.

It’s told from the perspective of Anne’s best friend, Hanneli Goslar, and explores themes of friendship, persecution, and resistance.

If you’re a history buff who isn’t afraid of shedding a few tears, this film is the perfect choice for you!

📺 Type: Film
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Beginner-Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: Although the movie deals with a heavy subject matter, the actors speak clearly and slowly. But let op! Parts of the movie are in German, so turn on subtitles — or start another language-learning journey. 😉

9. Crypto boy

This Dutch drama deals with numerous issues that are unfortunately oh-so-relevant.

It follows the story of Amir, who can’t see eye to eye with his father about the future of their failing restaurant in a rapidly gentrifying neighbourhood.

At the brink of financial collapse, Amir sees hope for financial freedom in a cryptocurrency startup but discovers that the crypto world comes with more challenges than solutions.

The drama explores family relations and class issues while also teaching you some Dutch slang. 💪

📺 Type: Film
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: Although the plot is easy to follow, the language used in Crypto Boy is often colloquial, and some actors have accents. It’s recommended that you’re somewhat familiar with Dutch already, but if you’re looking to speak like an Amsterdam local, this is the movie for you.

10. Toon

Do you ever feel tired of social media? So does the protagonist of this Dutch sitcom, introverted jingle writer Toon, who accidentally becomes a social media sensation after performing a song at his sister’s party.

The show hilariously portrays the absurd world of social media fame while also exploring the personal issues Toon faces due to his unwanted fame.

It’s awkward, it’s silly, and it’s a great pick if you’re looking for a show to help you unwind.

📺 Type: Series
💪 Minimum Dutch level recommended: Intermediate
✅ Why it’s great to learn Dutch: If you already have a grip on the basics of Dutch, Toon is a great way to learn some new informal phrases and language usually spoken among friends. Some actors speak fast or mumble, but the plot is easy to follow — so this is a great listening comprehension test!

Ready to leer Nederlands while sitting on the couch? With this list, you’re well on your way — succes! ✨

Which Dutch series or films would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments below! 

Tired of low Dutch savings rates? Scalable Capital now pays 2.5%!

Liana Risseeuw 🇱🇰
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0
Tired of low Dutch savings rates? Scalable Capital now pays 2.5%!

With 2.5% interest on your cash, interest paid monthly, and no minimum deposit, Scalable’s new Overnight account is here to boost your savings.

If your savings are parked at a Dutch bank, there’s a very good chance they’re earning far less than they could be. The solution is simple: switching to a savings platform that offers you better rates.

This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.

Meet Scalable Capital’s 2.5% Overnight account

With no minimum deposit, no fixed term, and no nasty surprises buried in the fine print, Scalable’s new high-interest account is a very welcome breath of fresh air.

Thanks to a generous 2.5% (versus the 1–1.5% on offer at most Dutch banks), you’re looking at a much higher return on your savings. Let’s put that into concrete terms:

  • If you save €5,000 with Scalable, you’ll earn €125 at the end of the year. With a regular Dutch bank, you’ll earn between €50 to €75.
  • If you save €10,000 with Scalable, you’ll earn around €250. With a regular Dutch bank, that figure would be around €100 to €150.

That’s a meaningful gap, especially if you’re holding even larger balances.

expat-in-the-netherlands-does-banking-and-investing-on-his-mobile-phone
These are some of the highest rates we’ve seen in years! Image: Freepik

We’re also big fans of how the Overnight account lets you put uninvested cash to use. Whether you’re wary of dipping a toe in the world of investing or just want to build up an emergency fund, Scalable offers you a platform to earn high interest on that cash.

Access higher interest rates, without giving up flexibility

In the Netherlands, higher interest rates often come with additional strings attached.

Fixed-term deposits (deposito’s) can generally get you better rates than regular savings accounts, but you’ll be locking your money away for months or even years.

With Scalable Capital’s Overnight Account, you get the best of both worlds: high interest rates and unfettered access to your cash. Interest is calculated daily and paid monthly — and you can withdraw at any time, with no minimum amount required.

And if you’re not yet a Scalable Capital client, opening an account is fully digital, completely free, and takes less than a minute.

Built for modern savers (and investors)

If you thought Scalable’s generous 2.5% interest rate was its most attractive feature, you’ve barely brushed the tip of the iceberg.

In addition to its savings options, it’s a full investment platform — covering ETFs, stocks, crypto, bonds, savings plans, and more.

man-holding-phone-with-scalable-capital-app-in-use-investing-and-saving
Access high interest rates and a plethora of investment options, all from one app. Image: Scalable/Supplied

With a cash account built right in, transfers between Scalable’s savings account and its trading wallet are instant, so your money can keep earning interest right up until the moment you need it for an investment.

In other words, you can say “doei” to idle cash sitting in a brokerage clearing account earning nothing while you decide what to do with it. 😉

This makes it an ideal fit for:

  • savers, who are sick of getting shortchanged by the big Dutch banks,
  • investors, who just want to put their uninvested cash to use,
  • or just someone who’d like to build a financial cushion, without sacrificing flexibility for a marginally better rate than those offered by traditional banks.

Is Scalable’s Overnight account really worth it?

Oké, let’s get to the burning question: is signing up for Scalable’s Overnight account really worth the 2.5% interest you’d receive?

As a team of internationals who’ve spent long enough watching traditional Dutch banks pay out next to nothing, we found that this account offers a straightforward, low-effort upgrade.

READ MORE | I invested in stocks with Scalable Capital: here’s my experience

It’s accessible with Scalable’s free plan, with no minimum or maximum deposit limits, so we didn’t need to opt for a PRIME+ subscription.

woman-saves-shares-in-her-scalable-investment-portfolio-on-a-mobile-app-while-drinking-iced-coffee-and-eating-chocolate-cake
Combining affordability with high interest rates and easy withdrawals? A piece of cake to Scalable. Image: Freepik

Safety was another factor for us to consider. However, with a statutory deposit guarantee up to €100,000, our cash and money market funds are protected by both Scalable and its partner banks.

Of course, with this being an investment account, there are a few things to know before you sign up:

  • The rate is variable: The interest rate can shift depending on market conditions, so it’s worth keeping an eye on it. However, that being said, the same is true of Dutch savings accounts.
  • It won’t replace your regular betaalrekening: You’ll still need a Dutch current account for things like direct debit payments and Tikkie. You can think of the Overnight Account as a home for your savings, not your day-to-day spending.

Are you still keeping your savings in a Dutch bank account, or have you switched to a platform that pays better? Let us know in the comments.

Dutch petrol prices break 2022 record: now over €2.50 per litre

DutchReview Crew
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0
Dutch petrol prices break 2022 record: now over €2.50 per litre

Current petrol prices have broken the Netherlands’ 2022 record of €2.505 per litre. As of this morning, the price of petrol sits at €2.508.

As Iran continues to block the Strait of Hormuz, oil tankers in the region are unable to reach their destinations. 

According to UnitedConsumers, petrol prices are now above €2.50 a litre, higher than they were during the initial invasion of Ukraine in 2022. 

Despite these worrying numbers, the Dutch cabinet has indicated that an energy crisis is not necessarily imminent.

What’s happening?

As of last week, the Netherlands has joined other member countries in contributing oil from their reserves to the collective release organised by the International Energy Agency. 

This move will hopefully keep markets steady as issues regarding the Strait of Hormuz are resolved. 

The Dutch cabinet has indicated that it will closely monitor developments in the region. 

In the case of further escalation or disruptions, several plans to support consumers and keep energy prices from soaring are being discussed, according to Nu.nl. 

For now, though, the cabinet says there are no critical fears of a gas/petrol shortage, but things remain ‘uncertain.’

What can you do?

While it’s certainly good news that the cabinet is not expecting a crisis, consumers are still stuck buying higher-priced petrol till things are sorted. 

There are ways to keep your petrol expenses down, however. 

Some petrol stations are cheaper than others — unmanned locations, for instance, have lower prices, reports Nu.nl. 

Plus, petrol stations along highways are reportedly more expensive, so avoid them! 

Smooth driving also makes a real difference. Keeping a steady speed uses significantly less fuel than stop-start driving. 

And finally, though this may seem obvious, take advantage of public transport. Even if it’s a bit more inconvenient, at these prices, the bus is sure to help you out. 

Have you been affected by rising prices? Let us know in the comments!

Dutch temperatures to reach as high as 17 degrees again this week

Kriti Swarup
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0
Dutch temperatures to reach as high as 17 degrees again this week

This morning is a cloudy one, but hold on tight. Today and Wednesday are set to be beautiful, sunny days with temperatures going up to 17 degrees.

As maart roert zijn staart (spring wags its tail), you may have already noticed that the air was milder this morning.

Aside from some lingering drizzle in the northeast, most of the country will stay dry today. According to RTL Nieuws, temperatures will start at around 5 degrees in the northeast and up to 10 degrees in the southwest.

But then? It’s terrasje time.

Up to 16 degrees expected today

However, this afternoon, sunny spells will start pushing through in the southwest and west, eventually creeping into the centre of the country.

The northeast and east? Stubbornly cloudy all day, thanks to a light to moderate southerly wind.

Clouds aside, temperatures are forecast to be balmy, with the south enjoying up to 16 degrees in the afternoon, cooling to 14 degrees in the centre, and 12 degrees in the northeast.

Making way for clear blue skies, the clouds will retreat by this evening. Although Friesland and Gelderland may cling to the cloud cover a little longer.

While most of the country will remain dry, do bring some layers to the terrace. Tonight, temperatures are expected to dip as low as 7 degrees along the coast and 5 degrees further inland.

Can’t make the terrace today? Try Wednesday

Sunshine is forecast across the Netherlands tomorrow. While the northwest will experience highs of up to 14 degrees, temperatures will soar up to 17 degrees in the centre and south of the Netherlands.

Specifically, around noon is the best time to step outside and soak up some sunshine.

@kimtachenyphotography When the sun comes out, the Dutch pour out on to the patios. #dutchlife #sunnyday #nederlands #haarlem ♬ sonido original – Julio Allendes

Don’t be fooled, though. It is still the middle of March, so the UV index will just be 2. You probably won’t get much of a tan.

How will you celebrate the sun? Tell us in the comments.

Explosion at Amsterdam Zuidas office, days after attack on Jewish school

Kriti Swarup
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0
Explosion at Amsterdam Zuidas office, days after attack on Jewish school

On Sunday night, an office building in the Zuidas caught fire as a result of an explosive device. Though security guards immediately extinguished the fire, this marks the third explosion that has struck the Netherlands in less than a week.

According to NU.nl, the attack was directed at the Bank of New York, an American company that operates from the Atrium.

This incident follows an attack on the Cheider Jewish School in Amsterdam on Friday night and at a synagogue in Rotterdam on Thursday night.

Who is behind the attack?

Although the footage has not yet been verified, a new Shiite group called Harakat Ashab Al Yamin Al Islamiyya (Islamic Movement for Righteous Companions) has shared a video of the most recent explosion.

The video reads, “This is a final warning to all the peoples of the world, especially in the EU.” It adds, “Distance yourselves from all American and Zionist interests.”

Luckily, no one was injured in the Atrium. However, as of now, there are no suspects for this attack.

A string of attacks

The Islamic resistance group has claimed responsibility for multiple incidents last week.

On the night of March 13, a synagogue in Rotterdam was set on fire. While there were no casualties, NU.nl reported that four suspects were arrested. All teenage boys between 17 and 19.

The night after, an explosion struck the outer wall of the Cheider Jewish school in Amsterdam.

Mayor Femke Halsema tells CNN, “This is a cowardly act of aggression towards the Jewish community.”

The group’s name also appeared in footage from an attack on a synagogue in Liège, Belgium, on the night of March 8.

“Antisemitism epidemic”

After the attacks against Jewish establishments in the Netherlands, the Israeli Foreign Ministry wrote on X, “The Dutch government needs to do much more to fight antisemitism.”

Hours before, Prime Minister Rob Jetten said he wanted to speak with the Jewish community in the Netherlands about the attacks.

Translation: “Terrible. There must be no place for antisemitism in the Netherlands. I understand the anger and fear and will enter into dialogue with the Jewish community shortly. They must always feel safe in our country.”

Meanwhile, police are asking witnesses or anyone with more information about the explosion in Amsterdam Zuid last night to get in touch. Know something? Call 0900-8844.

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Intensive, semi-intensive or bi-weekly: This Amsterdam-based Dutch language school offers it all

Katrien Nivera 🇵🇭
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0
Intensive, semi-intensive or bi-weekly: This Amsterdam-based Dutch language school offers it all

From your job prospects to making friends and being able to communicate with others in your day-to-day life, learning Dutch is a huge asset when you’re living in the Netherlands. 

However, I understand how important it is to pick the right Dutch language school for you — does a language school teach a course that suits your language level? Do they offer lessons that fit into your schedule?

Dutch Courses Amsterdam knows that many of its students face these struggles, which is why they offer a large variety of schedules and intensities to fit your personal learning style, language level, and availability. 

Frustrated-man-trying-to-learn-dutch
Learning a language could be at the back of your mind when you worry about time, level, and availability. Image: Depositphotos

Let’s get into exactly what Dutch Courses Amsterdam has to offer for an eager international like yourself. 

Choose from an array of course types

While every Dutch language school has its way of structuring courses, Dutch Courses Amsterdam has a wide selection of course types to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for intensive or bi-weekly courses, online or in-person classes, one-on-one lessons or group courses, Dutch Courses Amsterdam has a space for you.

Three-students-standing-around-a-laptop-and-books-studying-Dutch
You can find the learning arrangement that fits your style and availability best — for example, private lessons! Image: Depositphotos

Chosen a course type? Fabulous. Once you know what type of course you want, it’s important to choose the right language level for you. 

For higher language levels, Dutch Courses Amsterdam does intakes (level assessments) to make sure you’re proficient enough to take the course.

Dutch Courses Amsterdam is equally flexible when it comes to the level of Dutch you want to learn, offering courses from levels A0 to C1.

Nothing on during the day? Free your evenings with an afternoon course

If you have a flexible schedule in the afternoons or prefer to keep your nights free, you can take an afternoon Dutch course with Dutch Courses Amsterdam. 

Dutch Courses Amsterdam teaches these classes at their central location from 4:30 PM to 6:45 PM three times per week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. 

photo-of-students-in-Dutch-courses-Amsterdam-afternoon-class
If you’re busy or work during the evening, Dutch Courses Amsterdam also offers afternoon courses. Image: Depositphotos

These semi-intensive courses run for a total of four and a half weeks. 

This course is perfect if you’ve got a little time in the afternoon to spare or want to learn Dutch without having to dedicate your evenings to a class. 

Night owl? Join an evening course! 

Perhaps you’re a hustling professional and want to squeeze in some time for a language lesson. Dutch Courses Amsterdam also offers the option for extensive Dutch courses later in the evening. 

Woman-taking-evening-Dutch-courses-with-Dutch-courses-amsterdam
If you prefer working at night, Dutch Courses Amsterdam offers courses later in the evening. Image: Depositphotos

These classes take place from 7 PM to 9:15 PM on both Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays and run for seven weeks. 

Evening courses are available both online and offline for a gezellige group of seven students, where you’ll be learning Dutch at a less intense speed. 

Part of a group? Take a tailored course to suit your needs

If you like the idea of doing classes with your colleagues at work, your group of international friends or any other large group of people, Dutch Courses Amsterdam offers group courses that are easily adapted to fit your needs. 

group-of-colleagues-studying-together-at-dutch-courses-amsterdam
You could opt for a group course with your colleagues at work — now, you won’t have to learn Dutch alone! Image: Depositphotos

With these personalised courses, you can adjust the structure, format, and frequency of the course and pick the level of Dutch you want to learn. 

If this sounds like the course for you, reach out to Dutch Courses Amsterdam to discuss the best way to structure your course!

Prefer studying remotely? Enrol in an online course

On the other hand, if you’ve gotten comfortable with online Zoom lessons or prefer learning from the comfort of your own home, an online course could be suitable for you.

Woman-taking-an-online-dutch-class-with-dutch-courses-amsterdam
Sometimes it’s more convenient to learn Dutch at home. Image: Depositphotos

Online courses can be taken in the evening in more extensive classes twice a week. 

This option is definitely handy if you are working from home or can’t travel to and from their Amsterdam location easily. 

Want to have solo time with your teacher? Go for private or duo lessons

If you’re not a fan of big classes or prefer to have all of your teacher’s focus and attention, you can opt for a one-on-one Dutch course or take classes with one other person. 

Two-students-learning-dutch-together-in-duo-course
Who doesn’t love the idea of a group study date with your friend? Image: Depositphotos

You can get in touch with Dutch Courses Amsterdam for a tailor-made programme at your own level, schedule, and frequency. 

Prefer learning in short, intense bursts? Take an intensive course

Whether you’re short on time, want to learn Dutch extra snel (fast), or just like working at a faster pace, an intensive course might be the one for you. 

Dutch Courses Amsterdam offers an intensive course occurring every weekday from 10:15 AM to 2:15 PM for two weeks. 

Students-doing-an-intensive-dutch-course-with-dutch-courses-amsterdam
Intensive courses are great if you’re ever in a time crunch. Image: Depositphotos

You can choose to do the course from A0 to B2 and in-person or online, in small groups with a maximum of seven students. 

I know what I want, how can I sign up?

Easy, just get in touch! You can drop an email or call Dutch Courses Amsterdam to request information on a course of your choice through their contact page. 

Check out Dutch Courses Amsterdam’s host of courses and find the one that suits you best. 

Have you taken a Dutch course before? Tell us about it in a comment below!

This Dutch startup wants to replace lampposts with roads that glow in the dark

Kriti Swarup
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0
This Dutch startup wants to replace lampposts with roads that glow in the dark

Unfortunately, poor visibility during fog is a tale as old as the car. What if the road just… lit up?

In Helmond, a tech company based in the Netherlands has installed the world’s first road markings that light up in the dark.

In collaboration with road marking specialist Tpaint and infrastructure company Heijmans, Luxene has successfully debuted its “Guidance Light Lines” on a stretch of road at the Automotive Campus in the Brainport Region of Eindhoven.

How it works

Most road markings only become visible when a vehicle’s headlights hit them at the right angle. However, in the heavy rain and fog that Dutch roads know all too well, that is not enough.

Luxene’s system takes a different approach. Instead of reflecting light, the markings generate their own.

photo-of-road-marking-material-being-poured-into-the-road
These are not your usual painted road lines. Image: Supplied/Luxene

How, you ask? Optical fibres are sewn into the road marking material during its production, and a light source mounted outside the road surface feeds into those fibres. This distributes light along the full length of the road, making sure it glows in the dark, unfettered by foggy conditions.

Since the light source sits above the tarmac, the road itself needs no electronics — keeping maintenance simple.

Why it matters

The energy consumption of the Guidance Light Lines is about 30% lower than that of normal street lighting, according to Luxene.

As the light is directed at the road rather than the surrounding area, there is considerably less light pollution.

photo-of-illuminated-road-markings
See for yourself! Image: Supplied/Luxene

Meanwhile, the camera-based systems in cars that struggle when visibility is poor find a reference point in the glowing line that is built into the tarmac, preventing the need for blind driving.

Maarten Tobias, CEO of Luxene, says, “This pilot marks a fundamental change in infrastructure. This makes roads safer, with lower energy consumption and minimal impact on the environment.”

Ready to roll out

The bigger question: will all roads now look like this? Well, it is possible.

Installation was carried out using standard equipment and materials already approved for road use, meaning roads will not need to be rebuilt for this solution to be applied at scale.

Henri Nas, Director of Road Specialities at Heijmans, says, “From an integration perspective, this pilot confirms that Luxene’s solution can be efficiently applied within existing construction and maintenance processes.”

Luxene has confirmed the system works on roads, cycle paths, industrial sites, and airports, but an official tender is yet to come.

Given the Netherlands’ track record of leading on road safety innovation, glowing bike lanes may not be as far off as they sound.

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Ditch your savings: The EU wants Dutch households to start investing instead

Liana Risseeuw 🇱🇰
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0
Ditch your savings: The EU wants Dutch households to start investing instead

Dutch households are sitting on over €535 billion in savings, and the European Commission has a plan for all that cash: put it to work.

Under a new initiative called the Savings and Investment Union (SUI), the EU wants to shift money out of bank accounts and into investment portfolios, reports RTL Nieuws.

The long-term goal is to help companies grow faster and, in theory, give citizens better returns in the process.

Oké, but why now?

According to a report by former ECB chief Mario Draghi, battling climate change and geopolitical tensions will require around 800 billion euros in additional investment annually.

As the European Council reports, European households hold an estimated €10 trillion in bank deposits, and these funds could go a long way in tackling these challenges.

The focus is also on start-ups and high-risk ventures, as banks are generally reluctant to finance these projects, preferring to lend to larger, established companies. The EU wants citizens to step in where banks won’t.

Of course, this is easier said than done

Not everyone is convinced the new initiative will change investment behaviour overnight.

As Mark Sanders, Professor of International Economics at Maastricht University, tells RTL Nieuws, “Europeans consider it important that their savings are safe.”

With Europeans rightfully prioritising the safety of their savings, experts say that investment offers need to be genuinely attractive for the SUI to work: the best funds available across the EU, at low costs, in accessible languages.

READ MORE | Investing in the Netherlands: 7 great apps for getting into stocks in 2026

Sanders also suggests tax incentives, such as more favourable schemes for managing your own pension pot, could help nudge more Europeans towards investing.

Meanwhile, a deadline is looming

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has set June 27 as a deadline for member states to show sufficient progress on the SUI.

If they don’t, a smaller group of EU countries will move ahead without the rest.

The Netherlands is feeling the strain, with Finance Minister Eelco Heinen stating that “real steps” must be taken to ensure that the country makes it across the SUI finishing line.

Do you keep your savings in a Dutch bank account, or have you already made the leap to investing? Let us know in the comments.

Lost your phone in the Netherlands? Here’s what to do next

Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
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Lost your phone in the Netherlands? Here’s what to do next

We’ve all experienced it: the heartstopping moment when you reach for your phone and it’s no longer there. So, once the panic is over, what should you do if this happens to you in the Netherlands? 

Losing your phone is a nightmare, but if you take the right steps, it doesn’t have to be a disaster. 

Insurance providers such as Univé allow you to cover your electronic devices under their home contents insurance — and yes, that includes your mobile phone. In fact, insuring your phone this way often works out cheaper than taking out a separate insurance policy for your phone alone.

How to find a lost phone in the Netherlands

The most important thing you can do when you lose your phone is to act quickly, stay calm, and follow these steps: 

Call your phone or use GPS tracking (Find My iPhone or Find My Device)

It’s the classic first move, but it can be super effective: ring your number. If someone else found your phone (and they’re not in the habit of stealing), then they can arrange to meet up with you and return it. 

If this fails, it’s time to turn to your phone’s built-in tracking tools. If you have an iPhone, it’s the “Find my iPhone” tool, and for Android, you can use Google’s “Find my Device” function.  

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First step, check if you can track it. Image: Freepik

For this to work, though, you need your GPS and mobile data to be on. On top of this, tracking may only work for a short time if the battery is low.

Report a lost or stolen phone to the Dutch police

If your GPS tracking fails, or you locate your phone in a stranger’s house, it’s time for you to contact the Dutch police. 

However, before you dial 112, stop. You should instead use the police’s non-emergency line at (0900-8844). You can also use the police’s online reporting portal. 

While it may seem a little dramatic to get the police involved, it’s worth noting that if your phone is insured and you need to make a claim, you may be asked to supply a copy of the police report. 

Contact your Dutch mobile provider to block your SIM card

Another important step when you lose your phone is blocking your SIM card. 

This will prevent anyone from, for example, accessing your mobile data, sending texts, or making calls under your name. Most importantly, it will prevent someone from using SMS verification to access your bank accounts and other services. 

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It’s important that you file a report. Image: Depositphotos

Most major providers like Lebara, KPN, and Vodafone have pages dedicated to blocking your SIM card. Follow the instructions on these to quickly block your SIM. 

Let your insurance company know as soon as possible

If your mobile is insured, the next step is to let your insurer know what has happened. To file a claim, you will need to provide: 

  • Your insurance policy number
  • A copy of the police report 
  • A description of the loss/theft
  • Proof of purchase of the phone
  • Your contact information

Your specific insurance provider should also list everything you need. 

Life happens, which means that sometimes, you lose things. You can insure your phone alongside your other important belongings as part of Unive’s home contents insurance package. Calculate your policy. 

Not sure whether your phone is insured? Even if you don’t have insurance taken out specifically for your phone, it may be covered under other insurance policies that you have, such as home contents insurance or travel insurance. 

Use Dutch lost and found websites and municipal platforms

The Dutch are an organised bunch, which means that yes, they have a national lost and found database, verlorenofgevonden.nl. Don’t give up all hope just yet, because a good Samaritan may have come across your phone and turned it in.

It’s also worth checking out Facebook pages and municipal websites for the area where you lost your phone; never underestimate the power of strangers on the internet! 

What to do if you lose your phone on public transport in the Netherlands

Stood up at your stop, hopped off the train, and realised that your phone remained happily enjoying the journey onward? 

Before you panic, it’s time to fill out some forms. In the Netherlands, essentially all transport services have services where you can report what has happened and try to retrieve your phone.

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Lost your phone on public transport? There are a number of sites you can check. Image: Depositphotos

I lost my phone on the train (NS)

If you lost your phone on an NS train, you can either approach a service desk at the station or look for your phone on the NS’s lost and found webpage. 

Images of items found by other passengers or train personnel are uploaded to the site so that people can be easily reunited with their lost belongings. 

I lost my phone on the tram, metro, or bus (GVB, RET, HTM, etc.)

If you were travelling around Amsterdam and lost something on the tram or metro, then you need to check out the GVB’s iLost page. Photographs of items found on trams and metros in Amsterdam are uploaded here, and you can claim your item. 

Don’t see your item? You can still report it as lost with the GVB. 

Lost it on the tram or metro in Rotterdam? Then you need to contact the RET customer service at +31 0900 500 6010. You can also check out their lost and found page. However, their website says it may take a few days before items are displayed there.   

READ MORE | 11 things that can go wrong in your Dutch house

Finally, if you lost your phone on the tram in The Hague, they also use the iLost website to help reunite owners with their lost items. 

Lost your phone upon arrival at Schiphol Airport? Firstly, welcome to the Netherlands. Secondly, you can check out Schiphol’s lost and found to see if someone turned it in. 

Top tips to help make the loss easier

Sometimes, you just have to admit defeat and mourn the loss of your phone. While this is never going to be something you’ll just shrug off, there are ways to make your life easier should this ever happen to you. 

  1. Make sure your passcode isn’t 1234
  2. Enable device tracking
  3. Keep a copy of your IMEI number 
  4. Make sure everything is backed up to the cloud
  5. Add your contact info to the lock screen
  6. Insure your phone

It’s never a good day when you lose your phone, but there are steps you can take to help yourself — and who knows, perhaps you will be reunited.

Have you ever lost your phone in the Netherlands? Tell us about your experience in the comments below. 

Want to seriously level up your Dutch? This course is for you

Juni Moltubak
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Want to seriously level up your Dutch? This course is for you

Sure, in the short term, you can get around by just speaking English in the Netherlands. But once you’ve stayed in this wonderfully flat, rainy land for more than a couple of weeks, you’ll inevitably get an unsettling feeling of missing out. That’s when it’s time to learn Dutch!

There’s a scary urban myth living among internationals in the Netherlands that’s trolling people into thinking that Dutch is a terribly difficult language to learn. 

In fact, the opposite is true if you know how to learn it efficiently. The Dutch Brainwash course at Talencoach is here to bust the myth and help you seriously level up your Dutch skills — fast. Let’s talk about it. 👇

The perfect way to learn Dutch? Get brainwashed!

The Dutch Brainwash course is nothing like your average language class.

The one-week-long, intensive, and highly effective classes are centrally located in Amsterdam and open to anyone interested in boosting their Dutch skills fast. 

With a conscious focus on learning the mechanics and dynamics of the language rather than mere memorisation of vocabulary and grammar, the Dutch Brainwash course is designed to give your journey to complete Dutchness a fun twist.

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Who says brainwashing can’t be fun? Image: Depositphotos

Start with Dutch that you’ll actually use

You’ll learn to speak Dutch the way Dutch people actually talk, rather than meaningless textbook phrases and statements.

You’ll learn to express yourself, crack jokes, and show your personality — not just order een biertje, alstublieft (one beer, please).

Immerse yourself in more than just the language

The Dutch Brainwash course is centred around the people attending, not necessarily a certain number of textbook chapters. 

Where some language classes teach you to fill out your gemeente (municipality) forms to schedule your BSN appointment, Talencoach wants you to obtain language skills you can use for the rest of your life. 

If you’ve (somehow) never had a stroopwafel (syrup waffle) before, your Brainwash tutor, Albert, will ensure you do — and teach you the proper way of asking for one. 

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Learn Dutch, and have a good time while you’re at it! Image: Talencoach/Supplied

If you struggle to keep a conversation going with your Dutch in-laws, Talencoach will give you a crash course in Nederlandse dinner party customs and even teach you to say het is tijd om te gaan (it’s time to leave) while you’re at it. 

The course will definitely get you hyped about Dutch culture. From windmills and tulips to bitterballen and borrelen, you’ll sign up for it all.

Choose to learn about the topics you’re interested in

But it’s not all about Dutch stuff. You also get to talk about what interests you the most, be it the World Cup, pancakes, or Pride and Prejudice. 

How cool would it be to be able to explain, discuss, and learn more about your favourite topics, all in Dutch?

Instead of learning to say basic (and let’s face it, boring) things, like de pannenkoek is plat (the pancake is flat), you can learn to describe how much your grandmother’s famous pannenkoeken recept (pancake recipe) means to you instead! 

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Ever wanted to be so good at speaking Dutch that you can explain (in detail) just how awesome your dog is? Image: Depositphotos

The topic-based, creative, and personalised technique used in the course will make you an expert at speaking Dutch about the things that matter to you. 

Enjoy a warm and positive group energy

Have you ever done a language class and felt like you didn’t really get to know anyone? Yeah, we know the feeling.

Learning a new language can sometimes feel like it’s a solo sport when in reality, it can be one of the most social things you do as a Dutch novice. 

At Talencoach, you’ll all sit around a table together and focus on getting to know each other in Dutch. There will be no classroom-style row of desks, no headphones and no silent booths.

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You’re guaranteed to be greeted as a friend at the Dutch Brainwash. 😊 Image: Talencoach/Supplied

The combination of small class sizes and the interesting and unique topics of conversation makes for great learning outcomes as well as great personal connections. 

In other words, the approach used at the Dutch Brainwash course has positive vibes written all over it, and you’re bound to leave class with a bunch of new friends. 

How the Dutch brainwash will help you learn, also outside the classroom

The Dutch Brainwash course is only seven days long, which is great if you’re down for a quick, intense immersion into Dutchness.

But what’s also great about the Talencoach approach is that with the above techniques, you’ll lay the foundation for even more learning after the course ends. 

The Dutch Brainwash classes will also stay with you for a long time because of the people you’ll meet and the connections you’ll make. 

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Maybe you’ll make some friends for life! Image: Depositphotos

No matter how diverse the crowd is in your Brainwash class, you’re very much in the same boat: you’re all trying your best to improve your Dutch.

It goes without saying that you’re guaranteed to meet a bunch of new friends you can practise your Dutch with in the future!

Sign me up!

Ready to be able to speak about more in Dutch than just the (bad) weather? Yeah, same here. So why not go for it? There are plenty of seven-day Dutch Brainwash courses coming up this year. 

And, with courses that start at 10 AM and end just before 5 PM, you’ll still be fresh and rearing to speak some Dutch!

Sign me up, alsjeblieft.

How is your Dutch language journey going? Tell us in the comments below!

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