Home to the World Tribunal, the Netherlands seems forever in the news with its liberal approach to lawmaking. The Dutch, however, seem somewhat at odds over their image that they are clog-shod, cheese-headed, weed smokers who frequent brothels in their spare time. But their recent adoption of laws permitting euthanasia and homosexual marriages has placed them in the international spotlight once again. What most foreigners fail to realize, however, is that most Dutch are traditional, yet practical people, who do not always necessarily embrace their progressive policies. A recent report stated that some officials have refused to perform homosexual marriages, citing conscientious objection. Right or wrong, it sends a clear message that laws don't change the attitudes of a nation. Sure, they can all smoke weed and rent a prostitute, but the question is, do they want to? There are national campaigns combatting racism and violence. There are the regular debates over the Dutch seasonal tradition of Sinterklaas and Zwarte Piet, as well as whether or the not there remains the necessity of the monarchy. Pro or con, the Dutch have their opinions, and they don't hesitate to offer them, without raised voice or passion, stating their personal beliefs with unparalleled honesty. It is this sense of honesty that some foreigners love and others despise.
The
Dutch have turned cramped quarters into gezellige plekjes (cozy
little spots) with candles, flowers, pets and a hot cup of coffee.
However, not so gezellig is the accompanying dog poop. A simple
search for hondenpoep (dogpoop) will provide a glimpse into the
reality. "You come home, you wipe your shoes and then you discover
the brown spots on your recently cleaned carpeting: fresh dogpoop."
Hence, the popularity of shoebrushes that lie outside the outer
doors of most Dutch homes. Fresh flowers can be purchased inexpensively, and the Dutch home that doesn't have them is a rarity. The Dutch are admittedly club people, and many make their social contacts at these events. Joining a club should not be confused with "clubbing," or attending discotheques or nightclubs.
Weather is a frequent topic of conversation among the Dutch. Wet, hot, warm, humid, cold, there's hardly a day that goes by where it isn't addressed in a conversation, ranging from chatter on one's bike to attempts to make plans for the weekend. And while you never thought that you'd find yourself clad in rubber boots, they're a good investment, along with a lightweight rainsuit of some kind, particularly if you want to count yourself among the Dutch whose main mode of transportation is the bicycle (fiets). The Netherlands will make an impression upon you, favorable or unfavorable. One thing is certain. You'll have plenty of material to write home about. Following this page are links to more information about the Netherlands, its government, its history, its customs, its entertainment and sights, and some that may make just make your life a little bit easier while living here.
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