• Wait until you have established a relationship with your Dutch contacts before presenting them with gifts.
  
  
• Any gift should be of good quality but not obviously expensive. Modest gifts are usually the safest choices.
  
  
• If you are invited to dinner at a Dutch home, it's recommended that you bring a bouquet of unwrapped flowers or potted plant for the hostess. Another option is to send a bouquet or potted plant the following day.
  
  
• Wine may not be a welcome gift; your Dutch hosts may perceive this gesture as a hint that their wine cellar is inadequate. Since wine collecting is popular here, do not give a gift of wine unless you are certain that you can make an appropriate selection for the recipient.
  
  
• Bringing a gift of chocolate or candy is often appreciated when you are invited to a Dutch home, especially if there are children around. If you know that children will be present, it's recommended that you bring something for them, too, such as candy or a small toy.
  
  
• Appreciated Gifts
  
  
  • books about your home country or city
    
    
  • imported liquor
    
    
  • desk accessories
    
    
  • quality pens
    
    
  • pocket calculators
    
    
  • electronic gadgets
    

   

Reprinted with permission
Executive Planet