Traveler's Guide To The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a small but stunning country in northwestern Europe, known for its windmills, tulips, canals, art museums, and progressive attitude. It is a great place to experience Dutch culture, beautiful scenery, friendly people, and interesting history. However, there are some things to know before visiting.

Firstly, while Amsterdam is the most visited city in the Netherlands, it can be overwhelming. It is important to plan your time carefully so you don't miss out on any highlights. Create an itinerary beforehand and decide which attractions are a must-see. You can find amazing Amsterdam guides and travel tips online.

Secondly, cycling is a way of life in the Netherlands. It is the preferred mode of transportation for locals, and tourists are encouraged to get around on two wheels as well. The country is quite flat, making it easy to cycle long distances, and there are well-maintained bike paths everywhere.

Thirdly, English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, so communication should not be a barrier. Most Dutch people are quite proficient in English, and many can even speak it fluently. This is because English is taught in Dutch schools from an early age. However, it is always polite to try and learn some basic Dutch phrases before your visit.

Next, be prepared for unpredictable weather. The Netherlands is known for its temperate climate, but the weather can quickly change from warm summers to cooler temperatures with a lot of wind and rain. Winters are cold but not as severe as in other parts of Europe. Pack accordingly and keep an eye on the weather forecast before your trip.

Finally, understand and respect the country's liberal attitude towards marijuana and other recreational drugs. This has resulted in the growth of a coffee shop culture, where people can buy and consume cannabis products legally. Coffee shops are not the same as traditional cafes, and only people over 18 years old are allowed inside. It is illegal to take any drugs purchased from a coffee shop out of the country.

English is widely spoken in the Netherlands

Estimates for English proficiency in the Netherlands are around 90-93%, with most Dutch people able to hold a conversation in English. In the major cities, especially Amsterdam, you'll find that almost everyone speaks English fluently, and often to native-speaker level. Even in smaller villages, you'll usually be able to have at least a basic conversation with locals.

There are several reasons for the high level of English proficiency in the Netherlands. Firstly, there are linguistic similarities between Dutch and English, which makes it easier for Dutch people to learn English. Both languages are part of the Germanic branch of the Indo-European language family and share similar characteristics and vocabulary.

Another factor is the Netherlands' small size and its focus on international trade and commerce. English is the global lingua franca, and the Dutch have embraced its importance in the business world. Many international companies have their European headquarters in the Netherlands, and doing business in English is essential.

Additionally, the Dutch don't dub foreign TV shows and movies. Instead, they watch them in their original language with Dutch subtitles. This means that Dutch children are exposed to English from a young age, which gives them a more natural approach to learning and speaking the language.

While English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, it's always polite to try and learn some basic Dutch phrases before you visit. Locals will appreciate the effort, and it may even open up more opportunities for conversation!

Book tickets and accommodations in advance

Booking your tickets and accommodations in advance is highly recommended when visiting the Netherlands, especially if you plan to travel during the peak season between June and August. Here are some tips to help you with the booking process:

Tickets

• If you plan to travel by high-speed train, such as the Thalys train from Amsterdam to Brussels and Paris, booking in advance is necessary. However, for local commuter trains within the Netherlands, you can usually just buy a ticket at the station and hop on the next train.
• For local trains, you can use automated ticket machines at the stations, which have prompts in English. You can use your credit card to make the purchase, but there is usually a small fee for using the machines.
• If you prefer to book local train tickets in advance, you can do so through websites like www.b-europe.com/EN/. This allows you to choose your preferred time slot and class (first or second class).
• Keep in mind that most local trains do not require seat reservations, and your ticket is valid for the entire day of travel, not just the specific time you choose.
• An alternative to booking individual train tickets is to purchase an OV-Chip Card. This is a travel smart card that you can load with a travel credit. You can use it on all forms of public transportation in the Netherlands, including trains, trams, buses, and metros.

Accommodations

• Amsterdam, being the most visited city in the Netherlands, can get quite busy and overwhelming. It is highly recommended to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak season.
• Create an itinerary and decide which attractions you want to prioritize. This will help you choose accommodations that are conveniently located for your plans.
• Consider the different areas of Amsterdam when booking. For example, the Jordaan district is known for its design shops, while the Oud Zuid district offers luxury hotels.
• Compare prices and read reviews before booking. Websites like Booking.com offer a wide range of options, from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations.
• If you're looking for unique or boutique accommodations, consider staying on a hotel boat, such as Hotelboat Angeline, or in a cozy apartment in a quieter part of the city.
• If you're visiting other cities in the Netherlands, such as Utrecht or Maastricht, don't forget to book your accommodations there as well.

Coffee shops are different from cafes

When people think of the Netherlands, they often think of Amsterdam, and more specifically, its coffee shops. However, it's important to note that coffee shops in the Netherlands are quite different from your average cafe.

In the Netherlands, a "coffeeshop" is a type of cannabis retail outlet. These shops are establishments where the sale of cannabis for personal consumption is tolerated by local authorities. The sale of cannabis products in small quantities is allowed by licensed coffee shops, and most of these shops also serve drinks and food. However, it's important to note that these coffee shops are not allowed to serve alcohol or other drugs, and they will be shut down if they are found to be selling soft drugs to minors or hard drugs.

The Netherlands' progressive approach to cannabis use is well-known, and it is an integral part of the country's drug policy. Dutch lawmakers take a pragmatic approach, and the coffee shop policy is seen as a way to free up resources to focus on hard drugs and more serious crimes. Although drugs, including cannabis, are illegal under the Dutch Opium Act, a tolerance policy means that the law is not enforced as long as certain regulations are followed. For example, customers must be 18 years or older, and there is a limit of five grams per person per day. Coffee shops are not allowed to sell alcohol, they must have a valid permit, and the shop can have a maximum of 500 grams in stock at a time.

Each region can set restrictions on how coffee shops are run in their area. For example, some municipalities, especially those near the borders with Germany and Belgium, have measures in place that ban non-residents from purchasing cannabis. As of mid-May 2023, smoking cannabis outdoors in Amsterdam's Red Light District is prohibited, and similar measures may be implemented nationwide.

So, if you're planning on visiting the Netherlands and want to experience its famous coffee shops, be sure to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations. And remember, if you're just looking for a cup of coffee and a slice of cake, steer clear of the coffee shops and head to a cafe instead!

The Dutch are direct, not rude

The Dutch are known for their directness, which can be mistaken for rudeness. However, it's important to understand that this directness is simply a cultural trait and not intended to be rude. Here are some things to know about Dutch directness:

• The Dutch will tell you things as they are and will give honest answers to your questions. They won't sugarcoat their responses or try to spare your feelings. For example, if you ask them how they are doing, they might give you a detailed answer about their current situation, which could be taken as oversharing by people from other cultures.
• In Dutch culture, directness and honesty are valued. What may be considered blunt or rude in other cultures is seen as being open and straightforward in the Netherlands. They appreciate it when people are upfront and genuine, even if it means delivering bad news or criticism.
• The Dutch don't like to beat around the bush or use indirect communication. They prefer to get straight to the point and address issues directly. This can be refreshing for people who are used to more indirect styles of communication, as you always know where you stand with a Dutch person.
• While the Dutch are direct, they also have a concept called "Gezelligheid," which refers to a sense of coziness and social connection. Once you've connected with a Dutch person, they can be very welcoming and inclusive. They enjoy social gatherings and will happily invite you to join them for a drink or a party.
• The Dutch are also known for their strong opinions and confidence in expressing them. They are less likely to hold back or be indecisive, which can be seen as arrogance by people from other cultures. However, it's important to remember that this confidence is often rooted in their desire to be helpful and move things forward.
• When interacting with the Dutch, it's essential to be mindful of cultural differences. What may be considered rude in one culture might be completely normal in another. Try to see their directness as a form of honesty and authenticity, and don't take things personally.
• If you're visiting the Netherlands, be prepared for this cultural difference and don't be surprised if you receive direct feedback or advice. It's also a good idea to learn some basic Dutch phrases, as this will be appreciated by the locals and can help you navigate social situations more easily.

Remember, the Dutch directness is not intended to be rude. It's simply a cultural trait that values honesty and straightforward communication. By understanding and embracing this aspect of their culture, you'll be able to connect with the Dutch people more effectively and have a more authentic travel experience.

Carry cash, not cards

When travelling to the Netherlands, it is important to carry cash as many shops, cafes, and restaurants do not accept credit cards. While card payments are the norm, you can expect to find many places that will not accept cash. It is also worth noting that the Netherlands is a very cashless society, with most locals paying with a Maestro or V Pay debit card. These cards are directly tied to the Dutch bank accounts and are used for most transactions, including on public transportation and even vending machines.

While credit cards are accepted in the Netherlands, it is best to carry a backup form of payment. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, followed by American Express and Discover cards. If you plan to use your credit card, be aware of potential fees such as foreign transaction fees and currency conversion fees.

If you need to withdraw cash, ATMs are readily available and accessible. They can be found at post offices, supermarkets, train stations, hotels, and on the street. Most ATMs have an English language menu and accept cards with chip and PIN technology. However, it is always good to carry some local currency as a backup, just in case.

When paying in cash, the amount is typically rounded off to the nearest 5 cents as the 1 and 2 cent coins are not in circulation. It is also important to note that most stores in Amsterdam do not accept €100 banknotes, and larger denominations may not be accepted at all.

In summary, while the Netherlands is a largely cashless society, it is important to carry cash or a debit card as a backup when travelling to the country. Credit cards may be accepted in some places, but they are not the most commonly used method for payments. By following these tips, you can ensure that you are prepared for various payment situations during your trip to the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions