5 weird Dutch habits
Every country has weird customs and habits, and the Netherlands are no different. If you have only just arrived here you are probably not familiar with all of them yet. So here are a five of them!
just say hi
Dutch people will say hi to a LOT of people. Not just people they actually know or indirectly know they will say hi to random strangers if they happen to get in the same elevator or pass each other by in the park. So if a random stranger says hi to you and you have no idea who they are, you probably really don’t know who they are and they are just a Dutch person being nice.
circle birthdays
If you find yourself invited to a birthday party, don’t be surprised if the party is a little different from what you are used to. Obviously Dutch people also have birthday parties that fit a more traditional form with music and people mingling but you could also find yourself sitting in a circle with people eating cake and drinking coffee. Also be ready to get congratulated for the other person’s birthday by EVERY person who comes in.
emergency alarm
Every first monday of the month you can hear a very loud emergency alarm. Do not worry we are not in danger! The alarm is merely being tested, this is a monthly occurrence.
kiss 'em three times
If you meet up with a Dutch friend they will most likely greet you with three kisses, especially if you live in Brabant. It might catch you by surprise but it’s a common way of greeting each other without any other intentions.
mayonnaise love!
Dutch people LOVE their mayonnaise and will eat a lot of it with their fries. Although ketchup is eaten with fries in most countries, you will probably raise an eyebrow here if you ask for ketchup with your fries in a “friettent” (frie/chip shop)
Are there any other weird customs you have noticed ? Let us know at fred@howdomagazine.com
