This year, we’re celebrating 79 years since the end of World War II. The world we live in today is quite different, making this the perfect day to reflect on the grand historical event that WWII was.
World War II was something unprecedented in the history of humankind, and the marks it left behind are still visible.
However, like any major crisis, it brought out both the best and the worst in humanity, be it our ability to demonstrate solidarity or our destructive tendencies.
We’ve compiled a report with photos from World War II in the Netherlands, as a visual reminder of those days not long ago.
Dutch soldiers on guard shortly after the war started, around 1939
It’s Labour Day in the Netherlands. Yes, people, gather round! It’s the universal holiday on which we celebrate labour? (I guess). You might have missed the significance of it, especially if you have spent previous Labour Days in the Netherlands.
Perhaps you’re so well integrated that you’re not even sure what Labour Day is! ๐
Geen problem, let’s catch you up on what you need to know about Labour Day in the Netherlands.
What is Labour Day?
Labour Day (or International Workers Day) originates from the ultra-communist nation of the United States of America. Bet you didn’t see that one coming, ey?
So what happened in the USA? The Socialists and Communists chose May 1 as the date for International Workers’ Day to commemorate the Haymarket Affair in Chicago on May 4, 1886. Labour Day is celebrated in 80 countries that usually take the day off to protest.
Labour Day in the Netherlands
However, in the Netherlands, Labour Day actually isn’t usually a day off for most workers, in fact, it’s not celebrated much at all here. ๐คทโโ๏ธ
Political parties and Labour Day
Generally, most of the celebration happens amongst left-wing party workers and members.
Parties such as the Green Left-Labour Party (GL-PvdA) and the Socialist Party (SP) will usually celebrate by doing things such as visiting memorials that are important to them and singing “The Internationale.”
If you’re feeling particularly energetic this Labour Day, you can always join in.
What about regular folk?
Outside of these political parties, some public workers have the day off, the stock exchange is closed, and there are some marginal socialist meetings.
These include King’s Day (which used to be on April 30 until a few years ago), Remembrance Day (May 4) and Liberation Day (May 5). So lots of people get in their caravans and make a dash for a holiday in France or Germany.
Apart from this, though, more or less nothing happens in the Netherlands on Labour Day.
Chances are that you won’t notice anything, spend your whole day grinding away at the office, or you’re simply unemployed (but can’t be bothered to vigorously protest that on Labour Day).
So what the hell, Holland? I thought we were the shining beacon of socialism in Europe, at least that’s what Fox News taught me โ so, why aren’t there any protests on Labour Day in the Netherlands?
Why is Labour Day not widely celebrated in the Netherlands?
The answer can be found in the Dutch model of consensus politics: the Polder model.
If you’re new to the Netherlands, listen up, it’s essential for understanding our political culture and history. The Dutch model of government is centred around consensus-based decision-making.
Historically, in countries such as Russia, Germany, and France, communist movements fought vicious street battles with other political groups. The sharp edges of the socialist uprising were not seen in the Netherlands.
A consensus was needed, but it was difficult to achieve, as Dutch society was “pillarised” into various political pillars. As a result, socialism was just one of many different political beliefs.
Another reason you may not have heard of it is that the Dutch predominantly celebrate Christian holidays. Also, we’re capitalist enough in the sense that employers will never ever give us an extra day off. ๐
Should there be more happening on Labour Day in the Netherlands? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
When you pack your whole life into boxes, move to a foreign country and start a new job, one thing is certain: you want to make sure you can keep that job.
With a job market thatโs changing faster than the latest TikTok trends, itโs important to build and refine your skillset to stay competitive and seize fresh opportunities.
Letโs talk about seven skills you can start building today to future-proof your career in the Netherlands. ๐ช
Looking to boost your job security? Turn to Nyenrode Business University. With competitive MBAs, top-notch career advice and heaps of room for personal growth, Nyenrode sets you up for success in all aspects of life.
1. Leadership and project management
Every company needs good leaders. ๐ช Image: Freepik
Strong leadership and project management skills will always be in high demand. As workplaces focus on efficiency and innovation, they will need employees who can take the reins and manage a team.
Can you inspire teams? Manage resources effectively? And lead projects to completion? Not yet? Donโt worry, there are many ways you can learn:
Seek out a mentor: Find someone whose leadership style you admire and learn the ropes by watching them in action and asking them questions. This will give you insights into effective management techniques and problem-solving approaches.
Pursue an MBA: If youโre ready for a deep dive, a Master of Business Administration can teach you everything you need to know about the arts of business management, team dynamics, and project coordination.
Volunteer at work: You can start out small by offering to lead projects at work. Youโll be able to showcase your skills and add some serious accomplishments to your resume.
2. Self-learning and adaptability
Attending seminars or lectures can be great for your professional (and personal!) growth. Image: Freepik
With new developments, knowledge, and technologies, industries are changing faster than Dutch weather on an autumn day โ so being quick to learn and adapt is a new superpower.
Being flexible allows you to pivot and stay current, as no matter how much your industry evolves, you can evolve with it. ๐ช
Hereโs how to sharpen your adaptability and self-learning skills:
Listen to podcasts and read, read, read: Podcasts, industry blogs, and even books on trends and new ideas will keep you fresh and your mind sharp.
Make use of online learning platforms: Platforms like Coursera, MasterClass, or even LinkedIn can give you that extra edge. Just pick the skills that suit your interests and career goals and get learning.
3. Sustainability and knowledge of green technologies
Expertise in sustainability is a big plus in all sectors. Image: Freepik
As one of the global leaders in sustainability, the Netherlands has made it clear that the green economy is the future. That means knowledge in this field is invaluable for companies and those who want to future-proof their career in the Netherlands.
As sustainability continues to become more important, companies will look for employees who can help guide them towards greener solutions. Hereโs how to get ahead of the game:
Get certified in a specialised course: Take a course focused on green technology or environmental policy to get a deeper understanding of sustainability practices.
Attend industry seminars: Seminars, conferences, or webinars are hotspots for meeting like-minded people and hearing whatโs important in the industry.
4. IT and digital literacy
Many of us already have great digital skills, but it’s never a bad idea to learn even more. Image: Freepik
Digital is the new normal, and digital literacy is no longer optional in our technology-driven world. So, if youโre not up to speed, nowโs the time to catch up. โก๏ธ
Mastering essential IT skills can make you an asset in any industry. To build your digital fluency:
Enrol in online courses: Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Google Digital Garage, and Coursera can help you get in-depth digital training.
Pursue university programs: Many universities now offer short programs or certifications in digital literacy and IT.
Get hands-on experience: Nothing beats practical experience โ find those tech-related tasks or projects at work and build confidence!
Tech and sustainability are both high-demand skills โ so Nyenrode created a program that combines the two. In the Impact MBA, students learn to navigate a career in a world shaped by digital innovation and environmental consciousness.
5. Analytical thinking
Companies need those human skills! Image: Freepik
While Artificial Intelligence is reshaping industries, the need for critical and analytical thinking remains. Thatโs why companies will look for critical thinking skills that cannot be replaced by machines.
Here are ways to boost yours:
Earn a data analytics certificate: A certificate program can introduce you to the basics of analysing and working with data.
Read extensively on industry analysis: Thereโs a whole world of books and articles on strategic and critical thinking that will inspire you. A quick Google search will help you get started!
Exercise those brain cells: Practice tackling case studies or even puzzles that make you think through problems creatively.
6. Multilingual communication
The more languages you know, the more doors open up for you. Image: Depositphotos
In a diverse country like the Netherlands, being multilingual is a huge plus. Not only does it make you a better communicator, but it also makes you an asset in international roles.
If youโre an international living in the Netherlands, you likely already have the advantage of speaking a foreign language โ so it would be great for you to learn Dutch.
Other widely-spoken languages, like Spanish, German, French, or Chinese are also always in high demand. To future-proof your career in the Netherlands:
Take a language course: Classes or language apps like Duolingo or Babbel make learning a new language accessible and fun.
Practice with native speakers: Whether itโs a language exchange group or a one-on-one chat, real conversations are priceless for learning.
Use the language in your day-to-day life: If you know even a bit of another language, practice with colleagues and friends to boost your confidence.
7. Cultural competence
Cultural competence will take your networking skills to the next level. Image: Freepik
There are millions of internationals living and working in the Netherlands โ and in a globalised workforce where youโll have colleagues from around the globe, companies look for people who can easily connect across cultures.
Understanding diverse perspectives and working collaboratively in international teams is essential for many roles, so strengthen your cultural competence by:
Networking with people from different backgrounds: Events and networking groups are perfect for meeting people from all over the world.
Travelling or doing cultural immersion: Nothing builds empathy and understanding like experiencing another culture firsthand.
Taking a course: There are heaps of (online) resources that can help you better understand global business etiquette and cultural norms.
Staying future-proof in a world thatโs ever-changing isnโt a simple feat โ but if anyone can do it, itโs you. ๐ช
Whether itโs tech, languages, or leadership, building up these abilities will help you stand out and keep things interesting. Time to jump in!
Which skills do you want to work on to future-proof your career in the Netherlands? Share your thoughts in the comments.
As summer slowly creeps in, so do warmer temperatures. The upcoming days will bring plenty of natural vitamin D, which weโve been dreaming about for so long.
And the best part? Temperatures could soar as high as 26 degrees.ย โ๏ธ
Starting off sunny and steady
According to RTL Nieuws, todayโs forecast promises a dry day with uninterrupted sunshine.
In the afternoon, temperatures on the Wadden Islands will be a mild 17 degrees, while the southwest and southern parts of the country will enjoy a stunning 21 degrees.
Tomorrow, the weather will stay consistent โ an occurrence weโre not too used to, but happily welcome. ๐คฉ
The sun will stick around with maximum temperatures reaching 21 degrees once again.
Turning up the heat
If you thought that was good news, youโll be even happier to read that itโs about to get even hotter.
Buienradarโs Jelmer van der Graaff reports, โOn Wednesday and Thursday, it could be 25 degrees, and in the southeast perhaps even 26 degrees.โ
However, stay humble for the Wadden Islands โ theyโll be stuck with a chilly 11 degrees. Being an islander for these northerners is more of a โbrace for breezeโ rather than a โbeach cocktail in hand.โ ๐
First official summer day
Thursday, May 1, is expected to mark the official start of summer, with temperatures in De Bilt forecast to reach 25 degrees.ย
Usually, the first summer day doesnโt arrive until May 16, so consider this a small reward for enduring all those gloomy months. ๐
Friday will bring in a northwesterly flow, with slightly cooler air. The sun and dry skies will persist, but afternoon temperatures will drop down to between 15 and 20 degrees.
We’re used to hearing complaints about fatbikers being too fast or inconsiderate of other cyclists.
These past weeks, however, even more reprehensible behaviour has been coming from the Netherlands’ number one road menace.
According to the NOS, there’s been an influx of reports of women’s butts being slapped by young boys on fatbikes.
Social media trend
The police have already received 24 reports of such incidents this year. However, the actual number could be a lot higher, as not everyone reports the crime.
The assaults against jogging women usually take place in parks, for example, Vondelpark, Flevopark, or Erasmuspark.
The perpetrators also often film the assaults, feeling proud enough of their actions to post them to social media, such as TikTok.
Although the police haven’t arrested anyone in connection with the incidents, they claim to be investigating and urge anyone who hasn’t yet reported their assault to do so.
Additionally, they’re appealing to the young boys behind these assaults by posting an Instagram video urging fatbikers to โjust stopโ.
Hey, as long as they’re exhausting all options, right?
Perhaps you thought the Dutch were one-of-a-kind? Let me tell you about four ways in which the Dutch and Swedes are the same, yet also different.
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Population
For starters, the size of the population in both countries is quite different.
The Netherlands has 17.8 million inhabitants in an area of 41,526 kmยฒ. This means that around 508 people live within 1 kmยฒ. This fact makes the Netherlands one of the most densely populated countries in Europe.
And although we live in countries where it almost always rains, we love life.๐ฆ๏ธ
๐ Herring
Did you think that only Dutch people love eating herring? Think again! There are absolutely more herring lovers in the world, including the Swedes.
Swedes love to eat pickled herring with herbs. They eat herring for Christmas, Easter, Midsummer and, of course, all months in between. ๐
The herring is eaten with a dark crispbread called knรคckebrรถd, typically enjoyed with family or friends at home. It is very rare to see a Swedish person eating herring in public areas.
The Dutch prefer eating herring fresh and raw. The rawer, the better. Right? Since the Netherlands has a bigger population, they have more herring-eaters than Sweden.
The Dutch grab the raw herring by the tail, slurring it through chopped onions. The next step is to hold it upside down over their mouth and chew it all in 2-3 bites.
For whatever reason, Dutchies also seem to prefer eating herring in public places, such as crowded markets.
๐ฒ Biking
Both the Dutch and the Swedes love to bike. However, we tend to have different biking routes and use different biking methods.
Remember, the Netherlands is a small country with a big population. This, of course, means that there is less space for cyclists.
The Dutch often bike on the same road as cars, in a space roughly one metre wide. Sure, there are fietspaden, but often, you’re on the same road as cars.
For us, the Netherlands will always be the true bike capital! Image: Depositphotos
Meanwhile, Sweden has special roads just for cyclists. These roads are separated from the car roads and can be up to two or three meters wide.
Compared to the Swedes, the Dutch like to bike wildly โ at a really high speed and often ignoring red lights.
Sometimes, Dutch cyclists have more rights than actual cars. And it is considered normal to bike with kids in the bike basket.
On the other hand, Swedes are much safer, and the majority of them prefer biking with helmets.
โฝ๏ธ Zlatan Ibrahimoviฤ
Last but not least, the Dutch and the Swedes share the almighty football player Zlatan Ibrahimoviฤ. In 1999, he made his debut for the football club Malmรถ FF, and from then on, he became an icon in Sweden.
Swedes love him both for his skills and personality. Zlatan is a self-confident fighter on the field. Some Swedes want his face to be printed on Swedish bills.
After Zlatanโs debut in Malmรถ FF, he signed to play for AFC Ajax in the Netherlands. Score! Ibrahimoviฤ was a very popular soccer player in the Netherlands, and the Dutch still love him. (Who doesnโt?!).
So there you have it โ population size, salty fish, biking and football fans, the same but also not the same.
What Dutch habits are similar or different to where you come from? Let us know in the comments below!
Ok, picture this. You’re at the office, the clock reads 12:42, and you’re fired up like one of Jeff Bezos’ rockets. Is this due to an undying passion for your work, an enthusiasm that can’t be tamed? No, love. It’s coffee.
Specifically, it’s the three cups of lukewarm, extremely bitter, black-as-your-soul office koffie that you’ve already consumed that day. โ๏ธ
What is it?
The phenomenon is quite simple. You arrive in the office, take off your many layers, set up your laptop, and one of your colleagues gives you that look: coffee? No arguments there. ๐ ๐ผโโ๏ธ
You guys head to the office’s most beloved and abused member of the team โ no, it’s not you โ it’s the coffee machine.
A ’90s baby like you, this bad boy has been coughing out mediocre coffee for years now, the only thing that’s changed is its filter.
It is totally normal to take multiple coffee breaks in Dutch offices! Image: Freepik
Once that first coffee is done, your boss will arrive and pull you for another one, and then, right after lunch, it’s time for another coffee to beat that post-food slump.
Then, it’s 4 PM, someone switches out that filter and another pot is ready to be consumed.
By the time you’re packing up to leave, you are READY to take on your evening, and that coffee machine has been put to good use.
Why do they do it?
Honestly, I’m not entirely sure. Perhaps multiple coffee breaks stem from the Dutch approach to work.
With one of the best work-life balances in the world, it makes sense that the Dutch also make sure to take plenty of breaks whilst at the office too.
What better way to excuse yourself from the desk than a good ol’ coffee break?
Who cares if it tastes like pure rocket fuel when it’s free (great for the korting counting Dutchie) and it gives you a reason to bitch about the weather with your colleagues. ๐คช
Why is it quirky?
Listen, the concept of coffee is certainly not foreign to any office.
What makes it quirky, and quite Dutch, is the commitment to the coffee breaks โ and to that one god-damned machine. ๐๐ผ
Should you join in?
Absolutely. It’s a break from work, and it’s a key way to keep up with the office gossip. Forget the water cooler, it’s the coffee machine in the Netherlands.
If you’d rather dodge the coffee breath but still hang out by the popular machine, you can always find a mug that’s opaque enough to hide your betrayal beverage of choice. ๐
If you do opt for coffee, make sure to cap yourself once the jitters set in!
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!
The Netherlandsโ fastest and most reliable VPNs enable you to protect your privacy online, access region-locked content, and securely browse the net. ๐คณ
Whether youโre looking to access foreign streaming services or stay private on public Wi-Fi, a VPN is one of the handiest tools money can buy.
Why? Well, in addition to boosting your online security, it gives you access to a whole suite of useful features thatโll help you:
Save money on hotels and flights by unlocking regional discounts
Access geo-blocked content, such as foreign streaming libraries and websites banned in your location
Stay safe online, by masking your IP address, encrypting personal data, and hiding your true location
Our top VPNs in the Netherlands
โก Best VPN overall:ExpressVPN ๐ Best VPN for security:NordVPN ๐ธ Best VPN for users on a budget: Surfshark
What is a VPN?
A VPN (or Virtual Private Network) is a service that establishes a secure connection between your device and the internet.
It does this by encrypting your data and rerouting it through a remote server, ensuring that your IP address stays hidden.
An IP or Internet Protocol address refers to a unique numerical label assigned to every device that connects to the internet. You can think of it as an online address, which tells the internet where to send your messages, emails, and other data.
However, because IP addresses can be used to track your web activity and approximate location, it leaves the door wide open for various dangers. These include:
Your internet data, banking information, or identity could be stolen by hackers
Your data could be sold to companies by your internet service provider
Your access to various sites and services could be denied, due to geo-blocking
A VPN acts as a shield against these virtual threats โ making it a stellar choice to use one! ๐ช
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The best VPNs in the Netherlands
With a powerful blend of speed, reliability, and a whole host of security features, these are the top VPNs in the Netherlands. ๐
ExpressVPNโs lightweight design delivers a faster and more reliable experience than competing VPN services on the Dutch market.
Itโs designed to be as unobtrusive as possible, boasting instant connections and minimal battery drain. During tests, I was shocked at my speedy connection, even while accessing the Dutch Netflix library from halfway around the world.
From defending your devices against malware-ridden websites to exploring the internet ad-free, NordVPN ensures a speedy and secure connection.
As a privacy-conscious user, I was a big fan of the fact that NordVPN offers โobfuscated serversโ โ ensuring that my location is kept private, without sites detecting that I have a VPN active.
Proving that premium protection doesnโt need to come with a premium price tag, Surfsharkโs comprehensive security makes it one of the best-value VPNs in the Netherlands.
Surfshark comes with a suite of handy web tools, like a fake ID to protect your info online, antivirus software, and connectivity for an unlimited number of devices. I also like that it offers a built-in ad-blocker, meaning thereโs one less plugin for me to download.
CyberGhostgives you a smooth and hassle-free viewing experience, with a range of servers optimised for popular streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, and Crunchyroll.
As someone who loves streaming both Dutch and international content, I was a big fan of the fact that these servers also come with unlimited bandwidth, so youโll never notice a dip in the quality of your connection.
With one Private Internet Access subscription, you can protect an unlimited number of devices โ making this VPN a great choice for the entire family.
I particularly appreciated how transparent PIA is about the security it offers, from its no-logs policy and open-source software, to its custom settings that help prevent data leaks. Users who want a little extra protection can even opt for premium features, like antivirus software and a dedicated IP.
Based in Switzerland and subject to some of the strictest privacy laws in the world, ProtonVPNโs free plan offers the best value for a no-cost VPN.
While I like the fact that the free plan avoids the data caps and annoying ads you can expect from budget VPNs, I did find that it was significantly slower than a paid ProtonVPN plan and all of the other options on this list.
Okรฉ, weโve outlined the best VPNs available in the Netherlands, but thereโs still one major question left unanswered: why exactly do you need a VPN in the first place? ๐ค
1. VPNs help you bypass geo-blocked content
Geo-blocking involves restricting access to certain sites and online services, based on a userโs geographical location.
This is quite common for streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime TV, and HBO Max, which have different content libraries depending on where in the world you currently are.
A VPN allows you to bypass these geographical restrictions, by masking your real location and making it appear as though youโre in the same country as the content library you want to access.
Thanks to VPNs, it’s a lot easier to access foreign content libraries โ even if you’re halfway around the world. Image: Freepik
How does this work in practice? Well, letโs say youโre dead keen on watching the latest season of The Boys โ but, helaas pindakaas, itโs not available on your local Prime TV library.
By switching your virtual location to a country where The Boys is available, a VPN allows you to access those episodes from the comfort of your own home (no flight tickets required! ๐).
2. VPNs prevent your service provider from throttling your bandwidth
If youโve ever noticed your Wi-Fi connection getting annoyingly slow during certain periods of the day, your internet service provider (or ISP) could very well be throttling your bandwidth.
The most common reason why an ISP would choose to limit your connection is because theyโre attempting to ease network congestion during periods of peak usage.
However, this can also happen if youโre in the habit of repeatedly using large amounts of data to stream, game, or download bulky files.
As a VPN encrypts all your data and masks your IP address, your internet provider canโt see what youโre doing online or what device youโre accessing the internet from, discouraging them from throttling your connection.
3. VPNs protect your data while on public Wi-Fi networks
Unfortunately, having your webpage load at a snailโs pace is the least of your worries when it comes to using a public Wi-Fi network. ๐ฌ
According to the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security, itโs always best to โavoid work or financial activitiesโ while using unsecured Wi-Fi networks. These networks are often vulnerable and allow personal data to be intercepted by nefarious third parties.
Even worse, the ministry notes that scammers can even โuse the name of your trusted networkโ to impersonate them and lure you into a false sense of security.
Though VPNs offer a great first line of defence, it’s always best to minimise your time spent using public Wi-Fi. Image: Freepik
VPNs stop potential hackers in their tracks as your IP address is masked, and all of your data is encrypted and rerouted through your providerโs secure servers.
In addition to this, several VPN providers also offer antivirus software, giving you an extra layer of protection.
4. VPNs shield your online activity from prying eyes
Whenever you hop online, your data and search history is visible to a number of curious busybodies. (Sorry, but that incognito tab wonโt save you. ๐ฅธ)
These entities range from the mundane, like your internet service provider and government, to the more nefarious โ such as advertisers and hackers, whoโll want to use your data.
Using a VPN stops these prying third parties from getting their grabby hands on your browser data, banking information, location, and other things youโd rather keep a secret.
This is because a VPN encrypts your information, creating a secure tunnel between your device and the websites youโre trying to access. Even if someone tries to intercept this stream of information, your VPNโs encryption will render it meaningless to them.
What to look for when choosing a VPN
Of course, not all VPNs are created equal โ there are a number of factors that separate good providers from ones thatโd be a waste of your money. ๐
Opt for a secure VPN protocol
You can think of VPN protocols as a series of virtual instructions. These dictate how your data is transferred between your device and the VPNโs remote servers, but not all protocols offer equal security.
If youโre looking for a great blend of speed and security, WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec protocols top the list.
Those youโd best avoid, meanwhile, include the functionally obsolete PPTP and the rather slow SSTP.
Good to know: All the VPN services that made our list use secure protocols.
Ensure thereโs a no-logs policy
Most VPNs nowadays advertise a no-logs policy, which means that they donโt store any of your data, such as your IP address or internet history.
In general, you’ll want to ensure that your VPN has a rock-solid no-logs policy. Image: Freepik
However, the most secure VPNs also conduct third-party audits to ensure that no user data is being logged. In general, itโs good practice to check if your VPN of choice has published the results of these audits.
Good to know: All of the VPN services on our list have a history of third-party audits, easily accessible on their websites.
Choose a VPN with widespread server coverage
In general, the more servers a VPN has, the better your speed and reliability will be.
This is because a VPN with widespread coverage allows you to choose a server close to your geographical location, increasing your connection speed.
Plus, having a large network allows a provider to distribute users across more servers and locations, reducing the risk of network congestion and a lack of protection in the case of server outages or maintenance.
For users who love streaming foreign content, opting for a VPN with global coverage is an absolute must. Why? Well, to maximise your chances of seeing that hard-to-find film on your bucket list, youโll need to access servers in different countries.
Good to know: All the VPNs in our list have solid global coverage and multiple servers in each country they operate in.
Whether you want to browse securely or access region-locked content, a VPN is one of the best cybersecurity tools money can buy. ๐ช
Have you ever used a VPN? Tell us all about your experience in the comments below!
VPNs in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions
Is using a VPN legal in the Netherlands?
Yes, itโs legal to use a VPN in the Netherlands.
In fact, the Dutch have one of the strongest stances in favour of digital privacy and internet freedom โ so you can surf stress-free with your VPN activated.
Does using a VPN slow my internet connection?
Due to the process of encrypting your data and rerouting it through a remote server, all VPNs will slow down your internet connection.
However, better VPNs tend to have systems that minimise these reductions in speed โ like ExpressVPNโs Lightway protocol and NordVPNโs NordLynx.
What is the fastest VPN in the Netherlands?
Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer some of the fastest internet speeds for users in the Netherlands.
How can I improve my VPN speed?
Although an active VPN will always result in a certain amount of speed loss, there are several handy ways to minimise this.
For example, you can connect to a server closer to your physical location. This will reduce the distance your data has to travel to be routed through one of your VPNโs secure servers.
Is it safe to use a free VPN?
Although a free plan from a reputable VPN provider might offer some benefits, itโs worth noting that many free VPNs make their money by selling user data to third parties.
Further, some free VPNs may either have malware loaded on their software or lack strong security protocols, making them an unnecessary risk.
One of the only exceptions is ProtonVPN, which has a speedy free plan that also offers quite solid security.
At first glance, Italians and the Dutch seem worlds apart, shaped by different histories, climates, and habits, but whatโs less often explored is what unites them.
Because yes, the differences are obvious. But the common ground? Now thatโs the juicy part no one talks about.
So what connects them? Letโs take a closer look at the things Italians and the Dutch have in common, and yes, itโs more than just a mutual love of coffee. โ
1. Theyโre both serious about sport (and even more serious about winning)
When it comes to sport, especially football, some people watch it. Others live it. And no one does โliving itโโ quite like the folks from Italy and the Netherlands.
Italians donโt sit through matches quietly. They stand, pace, and passionately shout at the television as if the referee were personally ignoring their advice.
Italian and Dutch footballers are at their very best! Image: DutchReview
Over in the Netherlands, things are no less intense. Streets flood with fans dressed in vibrant outfits, and even the most low-key neighbour suddenly goes wild with Oranje fever. ๐งก
What unites them? Passion, absolutely, but also a fierce determination to win. Neither side is fit for a friendly match.๐ฅ
2. Thereโs no chatting without food and drink
Different cuisines, same unspoken truth: nobodyโs starting a proper chat with an empty stomach. Call it an aperitivo or a borrel, either way, bites are the social glue.
In Italy, the table overflows with wine, olives, and enough cured meats to make dinner feel optional. ๐ท
Meanwhile, in the Netherlands, itโs a more relaxed affair, a borrelplank with cheese cubes, bitterballen, and biertjes that turn even the quietest guest into a storyteller.
Whether itโs a sunlit piazza (read: Italian square)or a canal-side terrasje, the rule holds strong: once the snacks show up, the conversation gets real. ๐
3. Everythingโs a reason to party
If thereโs one thing these two countries know how to do, itโs celebrate anything. A royal birthday? Absolutely. A successful harvest? Break out the confetti. ๐
In the Netherlands, Kingโs Day turns the country into a sea of orange, with street DJS playing everything from house music to those unexplainable Dutch tunes everyone knows by heart.
Down in Italy, itโs all about the sagra: a local festival where food is the guest of honour, wine flows like water, and thereโs a 98% chance of clapping along to a folk dance led by your auntโs neighbourโs cousin.
The setting may differ, but the spiritโs the same: eat, dance, and make memories youโll only half-remember. ๐
4 . Theyโre both from โthe best place everโ
Ask an Italian or a Dutchie where the best place is, and youโll get a passionate TED Talk, with food tips and strong opinions, mostly about how everywhere else in their own country gets it wrong.
Tuscans boast about their Renaissance art and throw some shade at Rome being โa bit much.โ Campanians keep it simple: they gave the world pizza and nonnaโs legendary glare. ๐ตย
The Dutch get just as proud. Limburgers praise their white gold (yes, asparagus) and rare Dutch hills. The Frisians point to Friesland, proudly apart, with its language and more lakes than you can count.
Wherever you land, every local swears theyโve won the postcode lottery. โจ
5. Small talk is not their love language
Pleasantries? Pass. Letโs skip to the good stuff. ๐
A conversation in Italy might start with warm greetings, but it will quickly shift to existential matters, family gossip, and what youโre doing wrong with your tomato sauce. Politeness is there, but so is plenty of unsolicited advice.
Dutch and Italians suck at small talk but youโll know exactly what they think ๐ฅ Image: Freepik
In the Netherlands, small talk gets skipped entirely. โYou look tiredโ isnโt rude, itโs justโฆ accurate. Opinions fly freely, feedback is unfiltered, and silence? Totally allowed, sometimes even preferred.
Turns out, the Dutch and Italians are just two sides of the same straightforward coin โ one delivers it with emotion, the other with precision, but both always keep it real.
6. Their stubbornness should be studied
Another thing they share? Being convinced they’re right, and no, theyโre not here for your counterpoints.
In Italy, this comes loud and proud. Bring up politics, football, or the right way to make ragรน, and prepare for a passionate lecture with dramatic hand gestures and a slightly raised voice. ๐ค
In the Netherlands, the delivery is calmer but no less confident. Theyโll hear you out, nod thoughtfully, then carry on as planned, fully equipped with facts, charts, and confidence.
Changing minds isnโt on the table. Youโd have better odds arguing with a brick wall in both countries. ๐งฑ
7. Theyโre both obsessed with the weather, despite having no control over it
Of all the things out of their control, weather ranks first. Itโs the daily headline, the trusted excuse, and the ultimate shared enemy.
In Italy, itโs pure drama. Itโs either too hot, too rainy, or not sunny enough. Forecasts are checked religiously, then immediately questioned. And beware the dreaded colpo dโaria, the mysterious breeze blamed for everything from sore throats to life choices. ๐ฌ
The Dutch treat complaining about the weather like a national pastime. Rain, wind, or suspicious sunshine spark nonstop Buienradar checks. People bike through storms, arrive soaked, and still complain about the drizzle.
When the sky acts up, both countries are emotionally invested in its betrayal. โ๏ธ
Are you a Dutchie with an Italian enemy? Or an Italian trying to mesh your Dutch friends with your Italian friends? Well, here are seven reasons they might just get along. ๐ค
From dramatic weather obsessions to the fine art of digging in their heels, these two cultures share more quirks than most would guess beneath all their evident differences.
Admitting it, though? That might take a bit longerโฆ on both sides. ๐
Spotted more unexpected connections? Drop it in the comments, weโre all ears. ๐
Amsterdamโs got one royal request this Kingโs Day: keep the party local and donโt crush the canals.
The city council is waving the orange flag of caution as crowds grow wilder each year.
This time, theyโre begging you โ yes, you in the inflatable crown! ๐ โ to avoid the city centre and stick to your buurt (neighbourhood) bash.
Kingโs Day or Chaos Day?
With Kingโs Day landing on a Saturday this year, the city is bracing for record crowds. (Think longer parties, louder music, and streets so packed youโll be elbowing your way through. ๐)
As a result, the municipality is concerned about the pressure on public safety and emergency services.
“The public space, the facilities and the emergency and aid services are approaching their maximum load to keep King’s Day manageable, festive and safe,” a spokesperson for Mayor Femke Halsema told Het Parool.
And if you were planning to party along the Haarlemmerpoort quay, donโt. Itโs being fenced off to avoid the whole thing collapsing under the weight of too many partygoers.
Yes, even a canal wall has its limits. ๐ฌ
The funโs still on, just, you knowโฆ spread out
But donโt panic: Kingโs Day isnโt cancelled, itโs just getting a strategic makeover. ๐งก
The city is rolling out the orange carpet with free street parties from Amstelveld to NDSM shipyard. So, you wonโt be short on beats, beers, or bitterballen.
But hereโs the catch: moderation is the name of the game. You canโt buy more than one alcoholic drink at a time (bye-bye six-packs), and cold booze wonโt be sold in central shops.
Itโs party smart or party elsewhere. And honestly? That doesnโt sound too bad. ๐
Are you keeping it local or squeezing into the city? Let us know in the comments. ๐ฅ
