The Dutch are famous for being fun-loving, easy-going, and free-spirited people. You can’t take things too seriously when you live below sea level and all that stands between you and swimming in the cold North Atlantic is a dijk. From the land of tulips–and other plants–windmills, great beer, famous artists, and beautiful women, the Dutch love having a good time.
Sometimes in our travels foreign customs can be a bit surprising. The Dutch don’t mean any offense, it’s just different from back home. So if you ever meet a Dutch person in your travels, give him the benefit of the doubt if he’s said or done something to make you upset. Let him make it up to you by buying you a beer, sharing a good story, and explaining simply, “Hey, I’m Dutch!”
Experience the Netherlands through the eyes of an American Expat going native in the Netherlands. Learn things you would only know from living in the Netherlands. Treats like Frisian suikerbrood to pindakaas and sambal sandwiches. Ponder oddities like why are Dutch toilets like that? Discover the rich Dutch culture. Did you know the Netherlands has the oldest national anthem and the oldest stock exchange?
Follow along as I travel around the world with my Dutch partners-in-crime meeting interesting people, learning new customs, and sharing what it is to be Dutch. Laugh at the awkward predicaments where we find ourselves. No hijink is too silly and no stunt too juvenile if it will bring a laugh and great story. We hope you become fans and the next time you find yourself in an awkward situation from a slight misunderstanding you can proudly proclaim, “Hey, I’m Dutch!”
