Do you have an annual come-to-Amsterdam-and-get-high tradition? Or do you love the city’s carefree attitude towards marijuana? Well, it may be a distant memory in the future as two researchers, Tops and Tromp, think Amsterdam should ban tourists from coffeeshops.
This resident-only system is already used by other cities and means only people who live in the Netherlands and possess a valid ID can access a coffeeshop.
Discussions with Halsema
On Tuesday, Tops and Tromp met with the Amsterdam City Council and Mayor Halsema to discuss the policy and highlight the positive effect it was having in other cities such as Maastricht.
“It would be very healthy if there could be an open discussion about this,” researcher Jan Tromp told the Telegraaf, “Initially, this led to an increase in street trade in Maastricht, but people were prepared for it and managed to suppress that fairly quickly and firmly.”
People gather outside a coffeeshop in Amsterdam. Source: Dominic Milton Trott/Flickr
Shaking Amsterdam’s reputation as a drug city
Many tourists flock to Amsterdam for its liberal drug policy. Tops and Tromp explain that if this system was to work, Amsterdam would need a ‘cooling down period’ where it makes efforts to change its reputation.
They explain that you cannot merely just introduce the policy “in one go. You must be well prepared.”, the Telegraaf reports.
Tops and Tromp think Amsterdam has “zichzelf in de vingers” (cut itself in the fingers) by not implementing this policy earlier.
How does the policy work in Maastricht?
The municipality of Maastricht introduced the ban as too many tourists started buying soft drugs and threatening public order.
Coffeeshop owners are fearful that the ban would harm their business but the ban does does not include visitors from Germany and Belgium.
Critics of the policy
Critics of the policy believe the ban violates European Union principles such as freedom of movement and equality.
Marc Josemans, chairman of the Association of Official Coffee Shops Maastricht, does not like the ban. “All these clients who are banned from the Dutch coffee shops… have to return to the illegal circuit in their own country, therefore it will become a bigger problem and cause more criminality in those countries,” the BBC reports.
European Court of Justice
Last December, the European Court of Justice ruled that Dutch authorities could implement the policy and ban foreigns from coffeeshops as it is in efforts to combat overtourism, which causes grave problems for the Netherlands.
What do you think about such a policy? Would you think it would be effective? Let us know in the comments below.
Two years ago, it was decided that the European medical organization, EMA, would relocate from London to Amsterdam. Today, the EU institute got the keys to their new building in the Dutch capital.
The decision to relocate the organization from London was made in 2017, once the implications of Brexit became clear (or at least, once it became clear that the implications would not be good). The new location of the organization was chosen from a selection of 19 cities. Amsterdam and Milan got the same number of votes, but happily for us, the Dutch capital won out.
New office construction went well
The new office, in Amsterdam Zuidas, was constructed on time and on budget. It cost 225 million euros to build, a figure that includes 20 years of maintenance costs. The maintenance costs are expected to be earned back by the EMA through rents from the building.
Is the EMA’s presence in Amsterdam a good thing?
There is a good reason that the Netherlands fought so hard to have Amsterdam be the EMA’s new headquarters: and that reason is jobs. In London, the EMA employed 900 people directly. Only 170 of these people elected to stay in London and resign- the rest have already followed the agency to their temporary office in Amsterdam Sloterdijk. However, the eventual economic impact of EMA’s relocation will be far more impressive than new jobs for 170 people in the Netherlands.
1550 new jobs will be created
It is expected that the relocation will eventually add 1550 jobs to the Dutch economy, because other companies and organisations will pop up around the EMA, as they did in London, according to the Ministry for Health, Welfare and Spot. These organisations could include research institutions, companies and social organisations in the health sector. Furthermore, there could be up to 36,000 business travellers attracted to Amsterdam each year as well.
New office fully operational by January
Even though the EMA will get the key to the new office today, their employees will continue to work at the temporary office at Amsterdam Sloterdijk until next year. The new building will be fully occupied by January 20th, NOS reports.
What other organizations and companies should relocate from London to Amsterdam? Let us know in the comments below.
Yes, we’re as shocked as you are that it’s that time of year again. If you’re in Amsterdam during the next month or so and you want to see the capital city light up, then here’s your chance. (want to see if there are other light festivals in the Netherlands?)
From November 28, until January 19, Amsterdam will light up all over the city center. It’s their 8th edition and the theme this year is “Disrupt!”. What does this mean? They say on their website, “disruption is able to provide a positive, vital impetus for change too. It questions fixed assumptions, provokes new discussions, encourages people and organizations to take action, and makes previously unknown possibilities visible.”
What will be happening at the Amsterdam Light Festival?
There will 30 different pieces that will be shown to the public around Amsterdam city centre. Hundreds of worldwide artists submitted their ideas, so you can be ensured that they are going to be impressive. All of these can be viewed in a variety of different ways. You can walk, cycle or take a canal trip to see them all. It doesn’t matter which way you do it, you’ll be able to see them all in all their glory.
I’ve been for the past couple of years and it’s well worth a visit. Oh, and as I mentioned, as usual, it’s completely FREE! 😉 This makes the whole thing even better! So if you’re looking for something to do next month or somewhere to take your guests this Christmas period, then here it is.
Have you ever been to Amsterdam light festival? Did you enjoy it? Let us know in the comments!
The direct Eurostar train from Amsterdam to London is launching next year. By getting rid of the transfer in Belgium, you’ll arrive in the English capital in a mere three hours and 45 minutes. If that’s not enough to tempt you, then perhaps you’ll be convinced by learning that the train carrier has announced it will plant one tree for every train journey it makes.
One tree for every journey?
On Eurostar’s 25th anniversary, it has decided to strengthen its environmental commitments by planting one tree for each journey it makes. The train which that serves London, Brussels, Paris and Amsterdam makes around 50 journeys per day.
It means there will be around 20,000 new trees planted annually from this initiative that will be planted in the UK, France, Belgium and the Netherlands.
Mike Cooper, Eurostar’s chief executive, said “With our environmental ambitions and our tree planting programme we are providing an attractive, eco-friendly alternative to the airlines”, the Independent reports.
Source: lefteye81/Pixabay
Plastic-free Eurostar journey
Eurostar has also decided to get rid of single use plastic and introduce a plastic-free train on the London to Paris route.
Instead of plastic, this train journey will boast wooden cutlery, glass bottles and paper-based coffee cups instead.
Environmentally-conscious
Per person, train travel emits just one-tenth of the carbon emissions in comparison to flights.
Mike Cooper said “We have always had a strong sense of responsibility for the environment but as the demand for sustainable travel becomes increasingly critical, we believe we can raise the bar. With our environmental ambitions and our tree planting programme we are providing an attractive, eco-friendly alternative to the airlines”, the Independent reports.
Source: Hans/Pixabay
The UK-Netherlands Eurostar journey
Cooper believes that with initiatives such as this, many more people will choose train travel over planes. He pointed out that the Eurostar market share for the London to Amsterdam route will likely increase far beyond the 10% it currently holds but progress has been slow in finalising all the procedures for an Amsterdam to London Eurostar route.
“We’re confident that it’s coming,” Cooper said “We just can’t promise a specific date in terms of when it will arrive.”
Since its launch in 1994, more than 200 million people have travelled by Eurostar to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.
Do you prefer travelling by trains or planes? Have you ever caught the Eurostar? Check out this guide to taking the Eurostar for more information.
It’s that time of year again! Sinterklaas arrives soon, meaning Christmas is well and truly on its way in the Netherlands. ‘Sinterklaas Season’ is when Sint and his Piets travel to different cities to greet the locals.
Sinterklaas is coming! What’s happening then?
There’s usually a parade with huge floats, brass bands, cycling clowns and the like, but we can’t avoid talking about the controversy that comes with it all too.
We all know about the Zwarte Piet debate. It’s no secret that some people will be eagerly waiting in line to catch a glimpse of the man himself when he arrives, whilst others will certainly not be shaking the hand of Sinterklaas. He will be ‘arriving’ this weekend, the 16th and 17th of November. Whether you’re for it or against it, read on to know when he’ll be coming to your city.
All dates shown are this month (November 2019!), starting with Sinterklaas’ official arrival in Zaanstad…
The official Sinterklaas arrival: Sinterklaas arrives in Apeldoorn: 16th of November
This year the ‘official’ arrival of Sinterklaas will be hosted this year by a city in the middle of the Netherlands, Apeldoorn, which is slightly concerning given that the city has no canals. For those of you who don’t know, Sinterklaas is supposed to arrive by sea and make his way to his town of arrival by canal. So it’ll be exciting to see how Apeldoorn deals with that! In general, the city is excited to show itself off to the rest of the Netherlands, as the arrival of Sint will be televised by NPR.
Sinterklaas will arrive in the Netherlands via Apeldoorn this year. Image: olliebrands0/Pixabay
Sint will arrive, somehow, in Apeldoorn around midday on Saturday. No “traditional” (fully blackface) Pieten will accompany him, but this was also the case last year: nonetheless, people turned up ready-to-racist with their faces painted black. So, it remains to be seen whether people will obey the order this year.
Sinterklaas arrives in Rotterdam: 16th of November
There’ll be a show at 12.30pm at Willemsplein, and then the parade will make its way through town.
Sinterklaas arrives in Nijmegen: 16th of November
The oldest city in the Netherlands will greet Sinterklaas with all kinds of children’s festivities. At 1pm he’ll arrive on the Waalkade (near the Labyrint).
Sinterklaas arrives in Eindhoven: 16th of November
Sinterklaas and his Pieten will arrive at 1pm, but from 11.30am families are welcome at Kanaaldijk-Noord to witness him sailing across the Eindhovens Kanaal.
Image: Mark Vletter/Flickr. Most cities will not have blackface Pieten this year.
Sinterklaas arrives in Amsterdam: 17th of November
The Amstel River is the perfect place for Sinterklaas to arrive at 10am. Since this the capital city, he’ll ride his horse Amerigo through the streets before the parade.
Sinterklaas arrives in Groningen: 16th of November
Sinterklaas will arrive in Groningen at 11:30, and parents and children will gather to see him at the Zuiderhaven.
Sinterklaas arrives in The Hague: 16th of November
From 10:30am parents and children will gather at Scheveningen harbour to see Sinterklaas sailing towards the Hague, until his arrival at 11:30am.
Sinterklaas arrives in Utrecht: 17th of November
11:30am start in Utrecht also! See him at arrive at Weerdsluis. As usual, there will be a procession thoughout the city, culminating in a children’s event at Domplein.
At 11am, he will arrive at the Beestenmarkt. Events – such as a Meet & Greet with Sint & Pieten, Games, DJ-Piet and Danspieten – will take place at the Hooglandse Kerkgracht.
Sinterklaas arrives in Delft: 21st of November
If you want to catch Sinterklaas’ arrival, head to the Oostsingel before midday! You can follow Sint to the market afterwards.
Here’s our vid of when Sinterklaas came to Leiden in 2016:
Like this video? Want to see more about Sinterklaas or finally start learning Dutch? Then head over to Bart de Pau’s YouTube-channel (Learn Dutch) and get started
It’s unclear at the moment if there will be any protests at the arrivals. How do you feel about Sinterklaas and Zwarte Piet? Will you be joining in the celebrations? Please let us know your perspective in the comments section.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on 15 November 2018 but was updated for your reading pleasure on 14 November 2019.
When I decided to pack my things and trade Paris for Amsterdam, little did I know of the uphill battle ahead. Harsh weather? Expensive health insurance? Geen probleem.
But the dating in the Netherlands and dealing with the habits of the Dutch is an endless struggle. But here I am, ready to jump in and brave the difficulties of dating in the Netherlands.
Disclaimer: this piece is based on personal observations. It in no way claims to be a universal truth about dating in the Netherlands
Dating in the Netherlands…
As much as I love exoticism and variety, I believe in eating local wherever I go, so Dutch men it is. Brace yourselves, girls, for two major obstacles shall inevitably pop up during dating in the Netherlands:
There are tons of foreigners, expats and tourists, so forget about your supposedly sexy accent, looks and manners, these weapons are now part of the furniture.
2. Dutch women. Say no more. They’re amongst the hottest creatures on Earth.
Still looking to hunt for a red-pants-gel-haired viking? Fair enough. Like their female counterparts, they’re quite exquisite. Dutch men are overall well-travelled, sporty and ambitious.
Yet it seems they’ve skipped the essentials when flirting is involved. A vast majority of them act like picky slow burners, to the point where interacting with a nice guy starts to look like rocket science. And this is where the hagelslag crumbles.
The Dutchies and Hagelslag are in a committed long term relationship. Image: Amin/Wikimedia Commons
One genuinely wishes they would sell some dating lucky charms in all those souvenirs shops, because trust me, they would make a fortune by the time you’ve finished reading this article.
But before you even consider dating in the Netherlands, you should first consider learning some Dutch pick-up lines. Here is a very useful video that will help you with that in no time.
En route for the Holy Grail
Anyway. Due to the Dutch’s strong background culture of gender equality and tolerance, think 21st century and ditch gallantry. Period. Get ready to sweat, swallow your pride and go the extra mile: just like in North America, it’s a no pain, no gain policy. If you want something, come out and play, and more importantly, ask for it.
Welcome to step three: a proper twister mental game to somehow manage going on dates. Communication appears to be über clumsy and blurry, and it’s got nothing to do with the language barrier: Dutch boys are far from being open books.
Picture trying walking on eggshells in a thick fog, attempting to read massive knots of mixed signals without a map. The thrill, passion and surprises are sadly not an option. Sure, it’s OK to split the bill, and of course, we understand it takes time to get to know someone — but there are a lot of deadly mistakes along the way.
But come on… we’re not teens anymore and I refuse to turn into a love soldier. Who hasn’t heard “Dutch boys like it when you’re mean to them,” or “it only took us seven months to be officially boyfriend and girlfriend?” I thought they were supposed to be very straightforward.
Dutch lads are actually a very busy specimen that will plan everything in advance, and it seems like they had everything served on a silver plate when it comes to relationships. Which, remember, is a scary word to them. Do us a favour, do not use it. Do not.
We don’t mind not getting flowers, even after months of “seeing each other” and we’re not necessarily big fans of PDA either. That being said, there are so many other simple ways to keep the boat floating in most countries.
In the Netherlands, you’re landing onto several sorts of undefined layers referring to what’s going on between you two. Like the so-called “probation period”, a traditional pattern screaming “try before you buy” and “I might switch to a better option as soon as I can”. A grey area you’re better off not mentioning under any circumstances.
Dating in the Netherlands: Chin up, ladies, and handle with care
Limbo definitely has to come from the Dutch language, implying a kind of stress many candidates have failed to comply with. The hardest part is not knowing when you’re going to see each other next (hmmm… how about January 2023?) or if you ever will again.
Some go through the infamous “talk” just like in most English-speaking countries. In France, although it’s on its way to change, you’re either in or out of a relationship, simple as that. Smooth transitions to a naturally functional couple? Wrong country. And wait, how in hell am I supposed to keep my cool on the back of a bike with the rain and wind ruining my eyeliner and hairdo, considerably reducing my sexiness potential.
The funniest thing is that whether you’re an expat or a native, you will come up with quite unusual anecdotes on your next girls’ night out. Be ready for some serious nodding, solidarity and advice flying all across the room. Who does in this day and age, have time for games and doubts anymore when for instance, Tinder became so popular and socially acceptable here? Dutch dating websites are booming as well.
I met Marije, a young entrepreneur whose successful dating business ViaMarije brings back the good old-fashioned and trustworthy side in meeting someone. These trends prove how being in a relationship actually matters. Is the love game like Dutch cuisine, slightly bland but with strong possibilities to spice it up a bit? One pattern stands out from the bumpy process: re-adjust your standards and adopt the laissez-faire attitude.
But there is an upside
Looking at the bright side, discovering new social ways is also intriguing. Turns out it can even be soothing — yes — to go with the flow. It leaves you some personal space and freedom Dutchies are so deeply attached to. Keep in mind that there are many boats on the canals and that lots of happy Dutch/foreigner couples assert that once you’ve won the key to their heart, you’ve successfully reached well-deserved romantic heavens. After all, Willem did marry Maxima.
I hope we helped you with dating in the Netherlands 😘
What kind of experiences have you had while dating the Dutch? Let us know in the comments below.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in February 2017 but was updated for your reading pleasure in February 2021. Feature image: StockSnap/Pixabay
The Central Bureau of Statistics revealed that there are 14,000 more people unemployed in the third quarter this year, as compared to the second quarter, reports RTL Nieuws. Ironically, there was also an increase in job vacancies in the third quarter: there were 4000 more vacancies.
Many in long-term unemployment are older than 45
Although unemployment is increased for the first in the last five and a half years, there is a decrease in the number of people in “long-term unemployment”. They are said to be so if they have been looking for a job for a year or longer, Right now, there are 82,000 people in long-term employment. That’s 28,000 fewer people than in the second quarter.
Most people in long-term employment seem to be over the age of 45-years-old. Age discrimination is very common in the Netherlands, so it’s not that surprising. According to director Petra van de Goorbergh of OVAL, organization for career companies, says, “Firstly, there is the negative image that still exists among employers. Older employees would be less productive and flexible,” she says in conversation with RTL Z, reports RTL Nieuws. But she also says that once they find a job and start working, their employers are always increasingly happy about it.
High unemployment and a high number of vacancies
But what about the rest? According to RTL Nieuws, 319,000 people have been registered as unemployed in the third quarter.
However, employers also seem to be having a tough time finding people to fill in their vacancies in the last three months. The vacancies “grew particularly in trade, transport, and the hotel and catering industry”. However, there was a decrease in work in temp agencies.
Are you unemployed in the Netherlands? Did you know you can get unemployment benefits? It is great the government has you covered while you go through this difficult phase in your life.
What do you think of this? Let us know in the comments below!
Prime Minister Mark Rutte has said that he was impressed by his meeting with farmers and agricultural delegates today at the Catshuis in The Hague. The Minister for Agriculture was also present.
Most of the farmers said that they had a good conversation with the Prime Minister, but that concrete measures to tackle the nitrogen crisis and their role in it were still lacking. This morning Rutte also unveiled measures to bring construction work back on line, as it was halted a couple of weeks ago due to new regulations intended to combat the nitrogen crisis. However, given the housing shortage in the Netherlands, this was not an ideal consequence.
In order for this to be possible, farmers will have to feed their animals new food, so that their dung doesn’t release as much ammonia. The farmers don’t really have a problem with this, but they fear more sever measures being introduced. There have been talks of reducing the amount of livestock in the Netherlands significantly. They are afraid their profession will disappear.
According to Rutte, the government is committed to ensuring that farmers who want to continue farming can. Minister Schouten emphasised that there would be compensation for those who want to call it a day, though.
What are your thoughts on the government’s solution? Let us know in the comments below.
Need to know which Christmas markets, festivals and other amazing holiday events are happening in the Netherlands in 2019? We’ve trawled the events calendars and come up with the best things happening in Holland for Christmas 2019.
The amount of time and energy Dutch people spend on the feast of Sinterklaas might make you think that they don’t really celebrate Christmas in the Netherlands. And while for most Dutchies Sinterklaas is more of a big deal and that’s when most presents are given, they do still like Christmas. In fact, there are A LOT of Christmassy activities which happen in the Netherlands every year and they are just as exciting and magical as the ones in Germany!
So instead of going to Germany this year to sip mulled wine and wander around traditional stalls in the snow, why not check out some of these amazing Christmas markets, festivals and events in the Netherlands?
Welcome to DutchReview’s epic guide to Christmas events in the Netherlands 2019. This list is sorted alphabetically, so scroll down to find your nearest city or town!
Christmas Events in the Netherlands 2019: Amsterdam
If you’re spending Christmas in the capital, lucky! There are tons of Christmas events happening in the city of Amsterdam. Now the only question is: which ones will you choose?
The Dam
Every year in December a huge Christmas tree is set up in the Dam Square in front of the Royal Palace. Along with the pretty lights throughout the city, this is a great spot for some festive photos before you head to…
Museumplein
With the Rijksmuseum as a ridiculously stunning backdrop, Museumplein is transformed every winter to a big ice-rink, with an Ice Village Christmas Market surrounding the skating area. There are booths for buying gifts as well as mulled wine and, of course, oliebollen!
When: November 16, 2019 – February 2, 2020
Leidseplein
Another ice rink is set up on the Leidseplein, also surrounded by stalls selling food, drinks and gifts. There are also restaurants around the edges of the Leidseplein, so definitely a good spot to go ice-skating in order to work up an appetite!
Flower Market
Amsterdam’s famous floating flower market also gets into the festive spirit by selling lots of Christmas trees alongside the usual tulips. Make sure you also check out the gorgeous Christmas Palace; a shop selling beautiful Christmas decorations all year long!
Christmas Circus
Adding to all the festive craziness is the fact that Amsterdam hosts a special Christmas circus every year as well! The internationally renowned World Christmas Circus features only the best acts and runs in Amsterdam’s Royal Theatre Carré from the 20th of December – 6th January 2019.
When: December 19, 2019 – January 5, 2020
Amsterdam Light Festival
During the Christmas season the Amsterdam Light Festival is also held. Illuminated artworks and installations are dotted around the canals of the city from the 29th November – 20th January. You can go on self-guided walking tours through the city at night to spot them, or a very romantic Light Festival canal cruise!
For something a little less traditional, but ten times more historical, the Archeon archaeological living museum near Leiden holds a special Midwinter Fair. It’s a great place to find alternative Christmas presents for the people in your life who like steampunk, fantasy and medieval items.
The Midwinter Fair features music and shows (such as sword-fighting!) as well as an indoor Fantasy Market. While not exactly a Christmas themed event there are definitely Christmassy aspects to the Midwinter Fair, and it might be a good event for you if you’re feeling a bit over all the Christmas events but still want to be entertained and have some yummy food and drink!
When: December 7 – 8, 2019
Christmas events in the Netherlands: Deventer
A very Dickens Christmas in the Netherlands. Image: Ronald Rugenbrink/ Flickr
This is one of the most loved Christmas events in the Netherlands! Every year the historic Bergkwartier of Deventer is transformed for two days into a real-life scene from a Charles Dickens novel.
Everywhere you can see traditional 19th century Christmas decorations and more than 950 characters from Dickens’ novels are brought to life around you. From wealthy lords and ladies to pickpockets, you will feel like you have stepped into the events of “A Christmas Carol” or “Oliver Twist”.
Combine this with a market on the square, traditional carolers and the scents of roasted chestnuts and you can’t fail to feel festive!
If you’re in Dordrecht you can visit one of the largest Christmas markets in the country. Dordrecht Christmas market features hundreds of stalls, multiple stages for live music performances, a Christmas circus on one street, Christmas theatre in the Grote Kerk garden and a living nativity scene in the garden as well!
There are so many different things to see and do over the three days that you will definitely need to check out the program if you are thinking of going.
When: December 13 – 15, 2019
Christmas events in the Netherlands: Efteling
There’s nothing more magical than Efteling during Christmas in the Netherlands. Image: Marco Derksen/Flickr
The Netherland’s answer to Disneyland, Efteling is a magical place all year round; but during winter they like to kick it up a notch. There’s an indoor skating rink, a cross-country skiing track for children, bonfires, mulled wine and hot chocolate. They even do special accommodation packages if you’d like to stay in one of their fairy-tale themed rooms over Christmas with unlimited access to the park and a Christmas feast!
Christmas events in the Netherlands: Gouda
Gouda by Candlelight
In the medieval town of Gouda a special day is held every year when the historic city center is closed to traffic and music is played, walks are set out, a living nativity scene is present and there is street theatre and dance.
There are free concerts in the churches and when it gets dark, instead of the city lights being turned on only candles are lit. The mayor reads a Christmas story, the lights on the huge Christmas tree in front of the town hall are lit and then everyone sings along to Christmas songs.
When: December 13, 2019
Is that Christmas tree taller than the church? Hello Gouda! Source: Ruben Holthuijsen/Flickr
With over 300 stands the traditional Christmas market in Haarlem is another magical place for you to find special handmade gifts or simply enjoy the sights, sounds, food and drinks! There is a Dickens orchestra in the centre, multiple free choirs in the local churches and even a Christmas ballet in the Bavokerk.
For something a bit different you can also take part in the Haarlem Winter Beer Festival and taste different speciality beers from the Netherlands and abroad!
What’s more magical than a Christmas market? A Christmas market at a CASTLE! Slot Assumburg in Heemskerk (North Holland) hosts a Christmas market in and around the castle itself, with live music and fireworks shows taking place as well.
The fair opens on Thursday 29th of November and then runs until Sunday 2nd of December. You can check out the program of events and ticket prices on their website.
When: 28 November – 1 December, 2019
Christmas events in the Netherlands: Het Loo Palace
We could live here, but Christmas will have to do. Image: Gerard Gebruiker/Wikimedia
Christmas in Palace Het Loo
If you want to feel a bit more royal while you celebrate the season make sure you visit Het Loo Palace during its Christmas event; where the beautiful rooms are decked out with Victorian Christmas trees and decorations formerly belonging to the previous Queen Wilhelmina and Prince Hendrick.
The palace is also decorated with plants from the palace’s orangerie greenhouses and the tables are bedecked with damask, crystal, silver candelabras and fruit. On the palace grounds there is also an ice rink for skating, and in the Coach Houses you can see carriages, sleds and cars used by the Oranjes.
Another Christmas market but the one in Leiden has the distinction of being the country’s only floating Christmas market. Featuring cosy chalets with gifts to be bought and, of course, tasty treats to be eaten, this is definitely a unique experience.
There’s also a floating ice rink, a special children’s Christmas area on the square in front of the Hooglandse Kerk (where they can meet Santa), a nostalgic funfair and a light parade – that’s the full package!
Christmas events in the Netherlands: Maastricht
Come for the Christmas gifts, stay for the mulled wine. Image: Kleon3/Wikimedia
Magical Maastricht
The whole town of Maastricht goes into Christmas overload between the 1st December and the 1st of January; with skating rinks, a market, decorations, a ferris wheel, a ‘House of Santas Claus’, and a culture festival featuring music, dancing and theatre.
There’s also a light route you can follow to see the best of the Christmas lights and the culture festival features many different performances throughout the month all over the city. Check out the website for all the details on this very magical event!
When: November 29 – December 31, 2019
Christmas events in the Netherlands: The Hague
The Christmas Fair at the Lange Voorhout. Image: Kevin Coellner/Supplied
Royal Christmas Fair
If you’re in The Hague then you’re in for a treat with the Royal Christmas Fair to add a touch of extra class to Christmas. For a week-and-a-half, the centre of The Hague is transformed into a beautiful Christmas fair featuring a market, gorgeous decorations, cultural events and, of course, Santa.
The Netherlands’ very own ‘Christmas Town‘, Valkenburg near Maastricht, is host to many Christmas events. There are three different Christmas caves, underground Christmas markets surrounded by murals, sculptures, and an 18th Century Chapel.
The town also has a Christmas parade on Wednesday and Saturday nights and there is also a fairytale forest, Santa’s village and Santa’s gift factory for kids. Definitely a little town packed with Christmas fun!
When: November 15, 2019 – January 5, 2019
Christmas events in the Netherlands: Zwolle: Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival
And finally for Christmas events in the Netherlands, if you want to feast your eyes on some amazing ice sculptures then the Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival is the largest in Europe!
This year’s theme is ‘Journey Through Time’ which means you will get to see incredible ice sculptures inspired by dinosaurs, mammoths, the industrial revolution, the Golden Age, and the first man on Mars.
When: December 14 – March 1, 2019
There you have it, more Christmas festivals and events than any one person could ever hope to see in a month and all within the little country of the Netherlands! If you visit any of these Christmas markets, events or festivals make sure you tag us on Instagram with @DutchReview and follow us! 😉
If you’ve ever paid attention to Leiden’s skyline from the train, you’ve probably seen Naturalis. I certainly had, though I hadn’t realised quite what it was. Housed in a beautiful new building that has been open to the public since 31 August 2019, Naturalis is home to all 42 million pieces of the Naturalis collection and over 100 researchers.
While you’re in Leiden visiting this fabulous museum, there’s no harm in checking out what else Leiden has to offer. That’s where Stad van Ontdekkingen comes in: anything you need to know about Leiden is right there in front of you.
There are eight different galleries in the museum, which chart life’s course from inception to death. You’ll pass from Life into the Ice Age, and from there perhaps to the Dinosaurs, Early Humans or Live Science. We decided to give you a sneak peak into five of these galleries in today’s article, as well as giving you an overview of what you can expect from this amazing museum based in Leiden.
Naturalis: A new (rather fabulous) home for the museum
Now, as I think is obvious from the photos we’ve accompanied this article with, the building Naturalis is located in is totally gorgeous and very impressive. This is actually Naturalis’s new building, which has only been open to the public since 31 August 2019. Inside, there’s a beautiful mix of oak-coloured wood, marble, specially made white concrete sculpted into patterns that resemble the cells in plants, and a red stone filled with tiny, sparkling crystals from Iran. The whole feeling of the building is airy, accessible, and welcoming. School children were visiting when we were there, and they seemed so at home in the building.
The new building of Naturalis is absolutely stunning. Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen.
The exhibits are focused on being very accessible and interesting to all ages: in the Life gallery, you can touch four of the taxidermy animals; in the Seduction gallery, there are a bunch of interactive games that would work for anyone, child or not. You can really see that the museum is built to educate and enthuse anyone who visits it about natural sciences.
Just look at this place! Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen.
Life: from under the sea to the king of the jungle
You enter the Life gallery from under the sea. Image: Ailish Lalor
We start with Life, which you enter from under the sea, and slowly make your way to the surface. There, you’re greeted by an immense mountain of animals, which you slowly ascend to the tune of rain storms, animal noises and birdsong. You’ll see an elephant, tigers, lions, tiny shrews, tortoises, moles, frogs, buffalo… It’s a truly awe-inspiring sight that really makes you consider humanity’s place among all these beautiful animals. What I particularly loved was the way the animals were mixed together. In a lot of natural history museums, the animals are put in similar groups, which can make things feel a bit sterile. At Naturalis, you see shrews alongside an elephant. Not only does that give you an amazing sense of the diversity of the animal kingdom, it also makes the whole exhibit feel friendly and accessible.
You really got a good feeling for the sheer size of the animals. Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen.
Another wonderful aspect of the Life gallery was the four animals that you could touch: a hedgehog, an aardvark, a mole, and a tortoise. Even as a so-called adult, getting to touch these once-living animals was an amazing feeling. The whole room was incredibly atmospheric. Hearing rain patter down and watching a thunderstorm take place on one of the many projector screens in the room made me want to stay hanging out with all the beasts all day.
Dinosaurs: step back in time
The dinosaurs are awe-inspiring. Image: Ailish Lalor
This gallery will please anyone who has ever wanted to hang out with the most awe-inspiring of prehistoric creatures. And we really do mean hang out: the whole idea of this exhibit is to bring the dinosaurs to life (luckily, not in the Jurassic Park sense). With the help of incredible animations and eerily realistic sounds, it really does feel like you’ve travelled back in time.
We loved seeing the dinosaur skeletons. Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen.
The star of the exhibit is, of course, Trix, the resident Tyrannosaurus rex. She was around thirty years old when she died- which seems to have been old for T. rex standards, as Trix is one of the oldest found in the world. She lived a tough life- you can see she had broken ribs at one point from her skeleton, the exhibit explains. There are also lots of other dinosaur skeletons- a Triceratops, long-necked leaf eaters, flying dinosaurs and an awesome Stegosaurus will thrill you as you wander through the gallery.
Seduction: life, love and reproduction
The Seduction gallery is set up like a department store at Naturalis. Image: Ailish Lalor
This is probably my favourite of the galleries we visited when we came to Naturalis. Set up as a department store (perhaps the most seductive of all attractions) it’s an absolute treasure trove of reproductive organs, cute baby animals, and perhaps the best part of the entire museum, a circular lampshade adorned with crocheted sperm. There is an interactive game in which you can race two sperm to the egg by bouncing an exercise ball up and down; a telephone through which you can hear animal noises and then their interpretation in English (or Dutch), and the opportunity to go on a blind date to see if you’re as decisive as animals are about who’s hot and who’s not.
Death: the end of life- or not?
Be prepared to be utterly enthralled by this gallery: it’s beautiful, mysterious and an ineffable combination of sad and uplifting. The message that the gallery tries to get across- and does so very well- is that there can be no life without death. The two are deeply connected. The room is set up as a labyrinth, with semi-transparent black walls. You can watch an incredible animation of the circle of life (the projector screen is also circular, which just adds to the effect). One of the first things you see upon entering this section is a taxidermy gorilla facing a gorilla skeleton. This really sets the scene for the entire gallery, which is all about confronting death in a non-threatening, non-depressing way. I found it really refreshing and just plain fascinating.
Live Science: making science accessible to the public
Check out Dutch animals in Naturalis (I am not part of the permanent exhibit). Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied.
This particular part of the museum is open to the public for free. Its aim is to showcase the scientific research Naturalis is doing. You can wander through and check out the taxidermy Dutch species- we found the collection of Dutch native birds particularly nice. There are also working scientists present: we watched one dismember a bird to prepare it for the taxidermy process, which was totally fascinating (though perhaps not for the squeamish). Then we headed upstairs and saw the Dino Lab in action: a scientist there showed us some dinosaur bones that they were in the process of separating from each other and then identifying. It was amazing to see this work being done right before your eyes. There is also an extensive collection of reference books for anyone to consult. I loved the effort to make some of the museum accessible to people who might not be able to afford the ticket price.
Want to see more of Leiden?
If this article has inspired you to want to see more of Leiden, then we have the place for you to go! Leiden’s tourism office, Stad van Ontdekkingen, can help you find out about everything from museums to shopping in Leiden. If you want more museums in the this cute city, then check out our favourite museums in Leiden.
Have you been to Naturalis yet? What’s your favourite animal? Let us know in the comments below.
