Hoyte van Hoytema is officially the first Dutch cameraman to win an Oscar. During Sunday night’s star-studded ceremony, he claimed the top prize for his cinematography for Oppenheimer.

The epic spectacle about the so-called father of the atomic bomb was the big winner of the night, picking up seven awards.

Remember his name (it’s pretty catchy)

Hoyte van Hoytema has already won a BAFTA and the American Society of Cinematographers prize for his work in Oppenheimer — but who is the decorated Dutchie?

Born in Switzerland to Dutch parents, van Hoytema mastered his craft at the Łódź National Film School in Poland after being rejected by the Dutch Film Academy in Amsterdam ().

READ MORE | Eye Filmmuseum: An unmissable experience for every movie lover

This is not the only time the Oscars recognised his incredible cinematography. He earned his first nomination for Dunkirk in 2017, also directed by Christopher Nolan.

The frequent collaborators are adventurous cameramen, choosing to shoot on heavy but SUPER high-resolution IMAX cameras. These were placed on top of the actors’ faces for the ultimate cinematic intimacy.

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Was it worth it? Well, the Oppenheimer trophy cabinet is certainly gleaming.

In addition to being crowned Best Picture, the Oppenheimer team also won awards for Directing (Christopher Nolan), Best Actor (Cillian Murphy), Best Supporting Actor (Robert Downey Jr. — surprisingly his first ever!), Original Score (Ludwig Goransson) and Editing (Jennifer Lame). 

Reaching new Hoyte-s 

If van Hoytema is one of the few Dutchies to take home an iconic statue, what else can be said for the Netherlands’ silver-screen success?

In total, 11 Dutch nationals have won an Oscar. The most recent was Erik-Jan de Boer for his work on visual effects for Life of Pi in 2013. 

The first Oscar ever won by a Dutchie went to King of Jazz art director Herman Rosse all the way back in 1930 — and did you know Rosse also designed the interior of the Peace Palace?!

Cinema styles of old were coincidentally on van Hoytema’s agenda last night — he took his acceptance speech as a chance to encourage more celluloid filmmaking in this digital age. 

Congratulations to Hoyte, and here’s to more Dutch cinema silverware in the future!

Did you watch Oppenheimer or other van Hoytema projects? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Multiple arrests were made following demonstrations in Amsterdam against the Israeli President’s visit to the opening of the National Holocaust Museum.

President Isaac Herzog, who has controversially claimed that “the entire nation” of Gaza is responsible for Hamas’ October 7 terror attack, attended the opening ceremony of Amsterdam’s National Holocaust Museum yesterday.

As you can imagine, it wasn’t a quiet affair.

Hundreds of demonstrators

Nearly 1,000 demonstrators awaited Herzog’s arrival, and demonstrations took place in multiple locations, including outside the museum’s doors.

And they made their presence known.

As the opening ceremony took place, boos, whistles, and the shouting of slogans could be heard.

As the Israeli president and King Willem-Alexander entered and exited the museum, they were met with more booing.

Stones thrown and arrests made

While the police have described the protests as going “well and peacefully”, not everyone stuck to just booing.

According to RTL Nieuws, stones were also thrown, and police vans were climbed and attacked.

As a result, riot police were deployed, and they made 13 arrests. The demonstrations were disbanded shortly afterwards.

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Most of us have heard of the American bible belt, but did you know that the Dutch have their very own?

The bible belt in the Netherlands goes by different names: bijbelgordel, bijbelbelt, or refoband.

The majority of the 400,000 residents are (you guessed it) Christian conservative Dutchies. That’s 2.5% of the Dutch population which lives in that area.

Quite a lot for such a small country, but those who are not from there sure love to point out how vreemd (weird/different) it is. And, for the most part, not in a good way.

What is it?

In the Netherlands, the bible belt refers to an area with a large number of conservative Calvinist Christians.

For those living there, religion still plays a central part in their daily lives.

For example, the majority of the votes for the Christian conservative parties CU (ChristenUnie) and SGP (Staatkundig Gereformeerde Partij) stem from this area.

READ MORE | Religion in the Netherlands: a perspective on the different religions in the country

It is called a ‘belt’ because, if you look at a map, you can see that the majority of conservative protestants in the Netherlands live in a strip of land that stretches from Zeeland in the South over the Veluwe to Kampen in the North.

Not all conservative protestants live in the bible belt (note the small speck of red in Flevoland, the city Urk) or follow religious teachings to the same degree.

Why do they do it?

So, why does the Dutch bible belt have such a bad rep?

Well, the bijbelbelt frequently makes the news because its inhabitants often have certain views that don’t sit well with the majority of liberal Nederlanders:

• Against abortion
• Against same-sex marriage
• Against vaccinations

In 2017, a Dutch version of the Nashville Statement (Nashvilleverklaring) made headlines because it openly opposed gay marriage, non-monogamy, and transsexuality.

Then, during the pandemic, the bible belt made headlines because of low vaccination rates and failure to adhere to lockdown measures.

The faith of many community members was so strong that they refused to miss their service and attended church regardless of restrictions.

“No, we won’t get vaccinated, because we believe that the Lord provides for us,” says a man of the Dutch protestant community anonymously in this video. None of his seven children are vaccinated.

Even before, Dutch conservative protestant parents were criticised for not vaccinating their children for serious diseases such as polio, typhus or measles.

Why is it quirky? 

For a country as small as the Netherlands, it’s interesting to see such drastically different beliefs colliding in one country.

This can be explained by the not-very well-known phenomenon of Dutch pillarisation.

In the 19th century, to accommodate all the different worldviews and beliefs coming together in the Netherlands, social groups such as Catholics, conservative Calvinists, and socialists started to develop their own social institutions separate from one another.

READ MORE | Myths about Dutch history and the truth behind them

This made living together easier because it avoided overlap, but it also made it, well, separate.

If you hear Dutchies talking negatively about the bible belt (which most of them do), it’s probably also in part of that.

The Dutch bible belt highlights the long arm of Calvinist tradition in the Netherlands, and the many ties between American and Dutch history.

Should you join in? 

Maybe don’t hate on members of the conservative Christian community in the Netherlands, even if you disagree with their views on certain topics.

Ideally, we opt for healthy debate and mutual respect .

What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!

From your job prospects to making friends and being able to communicate with others in your day-to-day life, learning Dutch is a huge asset when you’re living in the Netherlands. 

However, I understand how important it is to pick the right Dutch language school for you — does a language school teach a course that suits your language level? Do they offer lessons that fit into your schedule?

Dutch Courses Amsterdam knows that many of its students face these struggles, which is why they offer a large variety of schedules and intensities to fit your personal learning style, language level, and availability. 

Let’s get into exactly what Dutch Courses Amsterdam has to offer for an eager international like yourself. 

Choose from an array of course types

While every Dutch language school has its way of structuring courses, Dutch Courses Amsterdam has a wide selection of course types to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for intensive or bi-weekly courses, online or in-person classes, one-on-one lessons or group courses, Dutch Courses Amsterdam has a space for you.

Chosen a course type? Fabulous. Once you know what type of course you want, it’s important to choose the right language level for you. 

Dutch Courses Amsterdam is equally flexible when it comes to the level of Dutch you want to learn, offering courses from levels A0 to C1.

Nothing on during the day? Free your evenings with an afternoon course

If you have a flexible schedule in the afternoons or prefer to keep your nights free, you can take an afternoon Dutch course with Dutch Courses Amsterdam. 

Dutch Courses Amsterdam teaches these classes at their central location from 4:30 PM to 6:45 PM three times per week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 

These semi-intensive courses run for a total of four and a half weeks. 

This course is perfect if you’ve got a little time in the afternoon to spare or want to learn Dutch without having to dedicate your evenings to a class. 

Night owl? Join an evening course! 

Perhaps you’re a hustling professional and want to squeeze in some time for a language lesson. Dutch Courses Amsterdam also offers the option for extensive Dutch courses later in the evening. 

These classes take place from 7 PM to 9:15 PM on both Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays and run for seven weeks. 

Evening courses are available both online and offline for a gezellige group of seven students, where you’ll be learning Dutch at a less intense speed. 

Part of a group? Take a tailored course to suit your needs

If you like the idea of doing classes with your colleagues at work, your group of international friends or any other large group of people, Dutch Courses Amsterdam offers group courses that are easily adapted to fit your needs. 

With these personalised courses, you can adjust the structure, format, and frequency of the course and pick the level of Dutch you want to learn. 

Prefer studying remotely? Enrol in an online course

On the other hand, if you’ve gotten comfortable with online Zoom lessons or prefer learning from the comfort of your own house, an online course could be suitable for you.

Online courses can be taken in the evening in more extensive classes twice a week. 

This option is definitely handy if you are working from home or can’t travel to and from their Amsterdam location easily. 

Want to have solo time with your teacher? Go for private or duo lessons

If you’re not a fan of big classes or prefer to have all of your teacher’s focus and attention, you can opt for a one-on-one Dutch course, or take classes with one other person. 

You can get in touch with Dutch Courses Amsterdam for a tailor-made programme at your own level, schedule, and frequency. 

Prefer learning in short, intense bursts? Take an intensive course

Whether you’re short on time, want to learn Dutch extra snel (fast), or just like working at a faster pace, an intensive course might be the one for you. 

Dutch Courses Amsterdam offers an intensive course occurring every weekday from 10:15 AM to 2:15 PM for two weeks. 

You can choose to do the course from A0 to B2 and in-person or online in small groups with a maximum of seven students. 

I know what I want, how can I sign up?

Easy, just get in touch! You can drop an email or call Dutch Courses Amsterdam to request information on a course of your choice through their contact page. 

Check out Dutch Courses Amsterdam’s host of courses and find the one that suits you best. 

Have you taken a Dutch course before? Tell us about it in a comment below!

The majority of us in the Netherlands have seen our workweek change significantly over the past few years. How? We now spend a large amount of our time working from the good ol’ home office.  

Is it actually good? Meh, it’s mostly improvised. Is it old? Yeah, it’s starting to feel it. The creation of many a home office in this country was spontaneous, thrown together, and largely seen as something temporary. 

However, the working world has changed. You’ll likely find yourself working from home for many years to come, but there’s good news — you can finally justify sprucing it up a bit! 

Here are some of our favourite pieces that we recommend for your home office.

^{This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.}

1. A standing desk that makes your back pain say “Doei!” 

If you’re still using your dining table, kick it to the curb! 

This standing desk moves seamlessly from sitting to upright, can remember four preset heights, offers wireless charging of your devices (smart!), and even has a drawer and cable management for you to keep things ultra-tidy. 

Better yet? If you don’t love it, you have 60 days to change your mind!

2. A fancy keyboard to brighten up your workspace

Now you have the snazzy desk, it’s time to style it with a funky keyboard to match.

Forget office grey; this eye-grabbing lavender keyboard is available in a variety of colours, is completely wireless, and can seamlessly connect to up to three different devices (be they Mac, Windows or Android). 

READ MORE | 12 of the best apps to have as an international in the Netherlands

To top it all off, it is also super lightweight, making it easy for busy bees on the go.

3. The chair you and your back deserve

Chances are that you’re reading this at home in an office chair that really isn’t an office chair. Well, newsflash: you’re not seventeen anymore, and you deserve a workstation that won’t give you crippling back pain.

With its ergonomic backrest designed for ultimate comfort and light, breathable upholstery to battle those annoying sweat stains from a long day on the job, this sturdy office chair might be just what the doctor ordered!

4. An orthopaedic mouse to match (and prevent strain)

While it’s easy to match a funky keyboard to your aesthetic, it can be harder to find a mouse that can add a pop of colour — and provide good ergonomic function. Well, we found a mouse that offers both.

Super lightweight, wireless, silent, and compatible with basically every operating system, this mouse is not just a pretty place to rest your hand. In fact, it has actually been designed and developed by certified ergonomists.

5. Some extra daylight for your desk

The one downside of having a beautiful home office is that, well, you’re at home — meaning you’re indoors. 

With its compact size, this medically-certified daylight lamp is designed to be added to your desk setup. The design of this product is made for ease, comfort, and well-being. 

By pressing just one button, you can simulate beautiful daylight (without the danger of UV rays). This not only adds some wonderful mood lighting to your office, but it is proven to help beat those winter blues. 

6. Plants to add to the outdoor feel

You’ve got the desk, the colour, the light, and now it’s time to get some leafy friends. 

READ MORE | House plants in the Netherlands: tips to make your Dutch house bloom

However, sometimes you don’t have the time (or patience) to slowly accumulate a variety of plants over time. You want an office jungle, and you want it now.

Well, here you go! For just €25, you can receive a box of 10-12 plants direct to your door that have been set aside due to (very) slight flaws. Not only is it affordable, but it’s also super effective in adding green to your office in a quick and easy way. 

7. Shelves for even the tiniest of office spaces

Does your home office put Harry Potter’s bedroom to shame? Fair, you probably never planned on having one — but who says you still can’t enjoy some pretty shelving? 

Perfect for offices that want to make use of every corner, these beautiful floating corner shelves are a great way to maximise your space. 

No sweat is needed; these lightweight shelves come in sets of four and include everything you need for installation.

8. A pen to out-perform all pens

Every office needs that one good pen — and a proper space to keep it. How about investing in a levitating pen? The futuristic Hoverpen is the first levitating pen that has been designed to float at an angle — and it requires zero power. 

If you’re looking to give your office a bit of a sci-fi, high-tech edge that makes you feel like a better version of Elon Musk, look no further than this unique office piece. 

Ready to make your home office really yours? Yes? Go you! We’re just glad you’re taking a moment to make your workspace that little bit nicer for yourself. 

Which office must-have will you be getting next? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! 

Whether we’re talking about pre-coronavirus or post-reopening of horeca, anyone who drinks has a night-out story they’re probably not proud of.

But like everyone else, Dutchies have their own remedy for the effects of a night of drinking — a trip to the snackbar.

What is it?

If you have no idea what a Dutch snackbar is, let us be your guide. Snackbars are small fast-food-like venues that make your classic Dutch frituur (fried food) go tos.

From friet (or is it patat?) and bitterballen to kroket and kaassoufflé, you and your empty stomach’s desires will be fulfilled.

Plenty of people, Dutchies and internationals alike, love going to a snackbar after the bar to grab a bite to eat when nothing else is open.

Why do they do it?

Frituur is the perfect food after a night out of drinks — it’s greasy, it’s filling, and it’s carb heaven, making it the ideal food to eat to soak up the alcohol.

(And, most importantly, prevent the impending hangover! )

READ MORE | The Dutch food dream: 13 unmissable dishes in the Netherlands

Not to mention, frituur can curb your salty cravings late at night.

Friet is a great snack to have if you’re sharing it with other people but otherwise, falafel wraps or a broodje frikandel is the perfect thing to keep for yourself.

Why is it quirky?

The more you drink, the more questionable your snack choices become.

Whether it’s putting obscene amounts of mayonnaise on everything or picking an “interesting” sauce combination for your friet, we can’t blame you for your cravings.

And while eating a lot of snack food in the night seems like the best idea at the moment, you might find yourself feeling a little queasy from it.

We can’t tell you if that’s the alcohol or the snack food talking, though.

Should you join in?

This activity is definitely something to try out, especially if you want to try some fun Dutch snacks but also drink responsibly!

READ MORE | These are 7 Dutch foods you need to try before you die

Although, these snack foods aren’t the most healthy (deep-fried in lots of oil) but it doesn’t do much harm if you have them once in a while.

What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!

Ahh, Maastricht. The metropolitan of Limburg. You’ll find plenty there! This beautiful city is the ultimate marriage of classic Dutchness and that southern European vibe.

Cute cobbled streets, pretty parks, and medieval monuments — Maastricht has a little bit of something for everyone.

Having been ruled by French, Spanish, Prussian, and Austrian powers throughout history, the province of Limburg has a distinct character compared to its northern Dutch counterparts, making for a truly unique experience when visiting Maastricht.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day out on the Maas River, exploring the mysterious Fort Sint Pieter caves, or just want somewhere pretty to walk around, Maastricht is the perfect destination for a casual day trip.

Can’t wait to explore? Jump to a spot below!

• Main spots to see in Maastricht
  • The Vrijthof: delicious food, lively atmosphere, and events galore
  • The Markt: the heart of Maastricht
  • Wyck: the place to shop, eat, and be seen
  • Sint Servaasbridge: an ancient beauty
  • Boekhandel Dominicanen: a bookstore built into a church
  • AlleyCat: bikes and coffee in one
  • Helpoort: the old city gate
  • Stokstraat: fancy stores and eats
  • Bonnefanten Museum: the place for art
  • Onze Lieve Vrouw Sterre de Basiliek: iconic Catholic church
  • Basilica of St. Servatius: the church Maastricht is known for
  • Lichtenberg ruins: the castle on the hill
  • Pinnic in the Hoge Fronten: food for fort!
• Food and drink to try in Maastricht
  • Zoervleesj
  • Maltese beer
  • Vlaai: the Limburg pie
• Fun tours and activities in Maastricht
  • Boat tours on the Maas River
  • Cave tour at Fort Sint Pieter
  • Soak up the Dialect
  • Kingloops: second-hand steals
• How to get to Maastricht

Main spots to see in Maastricht

There are many hidden gems to see on your day trip to Maastricht, including stunning architecture, comfy cafés, and pretty plazas.

But if you’re only here for a day, be sure to check out some of these main attractions:

The Vrijthof: delicious food, lively atmosphere, and events galore

This square has some of the best bars and restaurants in Maastricht, not to mention the irresistible Pinky’s waffles and ice cream!

Many annual events take place on this square that people from all over the country come to see.

From André Rieu concerts to Carnival to Christmas — if it’s happening in Maastricht, it’s happening at the Vrijthof. 

The Markt: the heart of Maastricht

The Markt’s central feature is the town hall, and major events in Maastricht tend to spill over onto this square from the nearby Vrijthof.

It’s another hot spot for many lekker bars and restaurants in Maastricht.

On Wednesdays and Fridays, you’ll find a local farmer’s market here, where you can buy fresh local produce!

Wyck: the place to shop, eat, and be seen

The Wyck is a trendy area you shouldn’t miss on your day trip to Maastricht — with stylish art galleries, vintage boutiques, and upmarket restaurants.

It’s one of the first areas you hit when walking towards the centre from the station, and it’s a rather stunning first impression.

Sint Servaasbridge: an ancient beauty

This is quite possibly the oldest bridge in the Netherlands, dating back to the 13th century.

Spanning over the Maas River, this old beauty connects the two halves of Maastricht, whereby you can walk straight from Wyck into the old town.

When the weather is good, this spot is perfect for taking pictures with the Maastricht skyline behind you, as it offers a great view of both sides of the city. 

Boekhandel Dominicanen: a bookstore built into a church

This 700-year-old Gothic church was converted into a bookstore in 2006 — and what a bookstore it is! Over 50,000 books are packed in the stone walls and shelves.

The nave is dominated by what is essentially a two-story bookcase that you can climb and walk around. Here, timeless literature blends perfectly into the living history of the church.

Books in English and other languages are also available, and a cafe sits snugly at the back — gezellig!

AlleyCat: bikes and coffee in one

If you find yourself in need of a coffee break AND a bike part, look no further than the Alley Cat Bikes & Coffee.

They pride themselves in serving ethical, speciality coffee, as well as anything to do with bikes really. Homely wooden tables, fresh cakes, and the cutest dogs are always there to welcome you when you enter.

READ MORE | 9 brilliant places to work or study in Maastricht

If you’re not in the mood for a coffee, they also have a delectable dirty chai latte which we highly recommend.  

Helpoort: the old city gate

Helpoort was the city gate of Maastricht during medieval times, and it still stands remarkably well-preserved today.

Dating back to the 13th century, as many things in Maastricht do, this is the oldest surviving city gate in the Netherlands.

Take a stroll through the gate and along the old wall for a scenic walk and a taste of Limburg history. 

Stokstraat: fancy stores and eats

Known for its historic appearance, Stokstraat is one of the oldest streets in Maastricht.

Today, it hosts luxurious fashion and interior design stores. Traditional Burgundian restaurants with the finest wines and quality food can also be found along this street.

READ MORE | 7 Dutch foods you need to try before you die

Burgundian food is typical in Limburg and is where the French influence comes through. This cuisine is from the region of Burgundy and tends to be meaty and full of rich flavours.

In Maastricht, you’re never far from a cafe, so of course, Stokstraat is a treasure trove of delicious cakes, teas, and coffees.

It’s within the pedestrian zone, so wandering along this street is a relaxing feast for both the eyes and stomach.

Bonnefanten Museum: the place for art

If you’re craving some visual art but want something different from the museums in the north, Maastricht’s Bonnefanten Museum is ideal for you.

Their collection spans from medieval right through to modern, contemporary, and conceptual art — and there’s always an interesting new exhibition taking place!

The museum even sometimes hosts international events and travelling art worth checking out.

Onze Lieve Vrouw Sterre de Basiliek: iconic Catholic church

In English, this means “Church of Our Lady, Star of the Sea”. This Roman Catholic church is still active today, which is impressive considering it dates back to the fourth century!

READ MORE | 12 World Heritage Sites in the Netherlands: the country’s best monuments

Its beautiful Romanesque architecture is definitely worth seeing and is another reason why the culture and aesthetics in Maastricht are visually unique to the rest of the Netherlands.

Outside the church, you can find charming restaurants and a wonderful ice cream shop. 

Basilica of St. Servatius: the church Maastricht is known for

The broad chest of this magnificent church stands tall along the edge of the Vrijtof and is a recognisable feature of Maastricht which draws visitors from far and wide.

The mostly Romanesque style of this Catholic church contrasts the red Gothic structure of Saint Jan’s to its right.

For just a few euros, you can enter St. Servatius and climb the tower of Saint Jan’s for a great view of Maastricht.

Lichtenberg ruins: the castle on the hill

The “mountain of the Netherlands”, as locals call it (a hill, really), known as St. Pietersberg, is home to the Lichtenberg Castle ruins.

Just outside Maastricht, the ruins overlook the Maas River, and the walk up there is a scenic trail frequented by picnickers, dog walkers, and runners.

READ MORE | Hiking trails in Maastricht: 7 top routes for a walk in the wild

As the oldest castle ruins in the Netherlands, this is not one to miss for history buffs. Entrance is free with a voluntary donation, and the ruins are usually open from the end of April to the start of November each year.

In the summer, a restaurant opens up amidst the ruins, and it’s quite the lovely spot to sit and eat. 

Pinnic in the Hoge Fronten: food for fort!

Maastricht has many wonderful picnic spots, including the Stadspark, Céramique, and Griendpark.

But if you’re looking for something a little unusual, try laying your blankets on the grass of an abandoned fort!

The varying levels and heights of the fort sections make for an interesting maze to wander through — and also provide more privacy than the usual picnic spots. Very popular with the kids, this one.

Food and drink to try in Maastricht

The Dutch aren’t exactly famous for their food, but the interesting mix of European influences has created some delectable delicacies you don’t want to miss on your day trip to Maastricht.

There are many scrumptious eats in Maastricht, but the following dishes are traditional to the Limburg region.

Hearty stews, local brews, and oh-so-sweet desserts are all on the menu here. Lekker!

Zoervleesj

Zoervleesj is Limburgian for “sour meat” or zuurvlees in Dutch.

It’s a sweet and sour kind of flavour in what is essentially a beef stew. The unique taste results from marinating the meat in vinegar, and adding apple sauce and gingerbread.

Sounds weird, we know! But trust us, it’s great. Locals eat it with fries, and if you enjoy hearty meals with rich flavours, you will absolutely love it! 

Maltese beer

Any good meal needs a tasty beer beside it, and for that, Maastricht has a special treat. The historic Maltese beer is a full malt Dortmunder style beer and was one of the first speciality beverages in the Netherlands.

It has a dark colour with a rather strong taste and is very popular amongst tourists.

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #99: Drink beer like it’s a national sport

Through the grapevine, it gives you the power of the gods, the wisdom of Aristotle, and oh yeah — a throbbing hangover in the morning. But don’t take our word, give it a try yourself!

The local brewery, called the Maltezer, has been crafting the beer at its current location since 1954. You can find it on the Maas in the Wyck district, not far from the Sint Servaasbridge.

Vlaai: the Limburg pie

If you enjoy apple crumble or cherry pie, this is kind of similar — but also definitely not the same.

Vlaai is a traditional pie or tart-like dessert from the province of Limburg, where Maastricht is situated, with a yeast-dough crust and usually a fruity filling.

Variations of it exist, including in the surrounding Belgian and German regions, but typical flavours include cherry, apricot, strawberry, and plum.

Eating a warm slice of vlaai with ice cream or vla (custard) is truly heaven.

The best vlaai bakery in Maastricht is the Bisschopsmolen, where you can also take part in workshops and learn how to make your own.

Using local wheat, they grind their own flour with the watermill, which is in itself a tourist attraction.

Walking past their bakery window is enough to make your mouth drool, trust us. You won’t regret stopping by!

Fun tours and activities in Maastricht

Done with the tourist attractions, and ready to see a different side of the city?

Geen probleem, there are many fun tours and activities for you to do on your day trip to Maastricht!

Boat tours on the Maas River

There are all kinds of sailing options for the Maas River, depending on the company you go with.

There are basic riverboat tours, but also breakfast, pancake, and Saturday night dinner cruises.

You can even sail into Belgium and back if you want to! Tours are in Dutch, English, and German, and can be combined with other tours in Maastricht.

Cave tour at Fort Sint Pieter

The underground caves beneath Fort Sint Pieter have a fascinating history. The 60 kilometres long tunnel system was originally a mine but was later used for shelter by locals during WWI and WWII.

Since then, artists of all kinds have left their marks on the stone, and remnants of life underground can still be seen.

The caves are cool, refreshing, and extremely tall, and the guides that can take you are very knowledgeable. It’s definitely an adventure you wouldn’t want to miss! 

Soak up the Dialect

As you may have noticed, Limburg has its own dialect that differs a little from typical Dutch. It’s considered a mixture of German and Dutch and is referred to by locals as plat.

READ MORE | Too bad, peanut butter! The top 10 strangest Dutch expressions

For example, they would say boeten instead of buiten (outside), and sjoon rather than schoenen (shoes). The Maastricht catchphrase is haw pin! Which means houd moed or “stay strong”.

Of course, different towns and cities have different variations of this dialect.

About 750,000 people speak plat, although in Limburg they also speak general Dutch, and many people speak English well.

Locals in Maastricht are known for being friendly, so don’t be shy to say hello and have a go at plat! 

Kingloops: second-hand steals

If you’re a shopaholic and love a good bargain, or maybe you’ve started a more sustainable fashion lifestyle, Maastricht has many good-quality second-hand stores (kringloop winkelen) for you to browse through.

READ MORE | Studying in Maastricht: ultimate guide to Maastricht University and more

You can find anything from classic radios, record players, and type-writers, to timeless fashion pieces, and vintage furniture.

Take some time to wander through these shops, and you might be surprised by the gems you’ll find. 

How to get to Maastricht

You can get to Maastricht fairly easily by train, bus, or car. From Amsterdam, the train trip is about three hours and by car, it’s two hours.

The NS Dutch railway often has travel offers for those planning a day trip to Maastricht, such as a return day ticket to Maastricht for €25. 

Of course, there are many stunning places in the Netherlands to explore, and each one has its own unique character. But if you’ve already seen the major Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, why not try Maastricht next?

Its charm will leave you wanting more!

Do you have more hot tips for Maastricht? Tell us in the comments below!

It’s a Friday, it’s sunny, and nothing could possibly go wrong today… right? Wrong, say the NS and ProRail.

We apologise in advance to all commuters, but the NS expects “significant adjustments” to the timetable on various rail routes around Schiphol today.

Just how significant is “significant”? Well, as a ProRail spokesperson tells the NOS, around one hundred trains will be cancelled between the hours of 5:20 AM and 3:15 PM.

As such, this timetable adjustment will not only affect Schiphol, but almost the entire Randstad, too.

But… why?

The reason for this Friday morning mess? Rail work, of course.

Over the past two weeks, ProRail has been renewing some tracks around Schiphol Airport.

Among other things, the workers have replaced switches in the railway tunnel and checked the lighting and technical installations to make sure everything works smoothly.

This is all part of bigger renovation work being done on the Schiphol tunnel.

The only problem? Since no trains have run over the tracks for the past two weeks, ProRail cannot immediately let normal trains run over them.

Instead, they’ll need to remove the rust from the rails — and that’s what’s happening today.

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Throughout history, the Dutch have encouraged innovation, development, and creativity in many arenas.

In fact, the Netherlands is world-renowned for being progressive! So, naturally, I’ve compiled a list of the most forward-thinking things Dutchies do.  

1. Ban single-use plastics

This is a big one! As of July 2021, The Netherlands banned the production, import, and sale of almost all single-use plastics in line with the EU’s Single-Use Plastics (SUP) guidelines. 

From cutlery and Q-tips to balloons, these items were all outlawed (although stores are allowed to sell their current stocks). Want to know what makes things even better?

There’s also a 90% collection target in sight for plastic bottles to be tackled next by 2029!

2. Power transport hubs with the sun

The Netherlands may not see a lot of sunny days — even in the summer — but the Dutch sure are fans of solar-powering their methods of transportation!

READ MORE | Lightyear One: Dutch solar-powered car can drive 710km on a single charge

Tilburg built a super slick solar-powered bus station while Delft Zuid and ProRail are building the Netherlands’ first fully solar-powered train station.

3. Rehabilitate criminals rather than imprisoning them

Ter beschikking stelling (TBS) which translates into “detention under hospital orders,” is a system that ensures criminals in the Netherlands are rehabilitated in order to reintegrate into society instead of being locked up for their entire sentence. 

READ MORE | How the Dutch deal with mentally-ill criminals: the TBS system

The Dutch prison system aims at resolving criminals’ psychiatric problems as part of the sentence, rather than focusing on punishment methods only.

The result? Far more forward-looking verdicts overall.

4. Lead the way for same-sex marriage

In the spirit of Dutch tolerance, let’s not forget that the biggest gesture of all! That’s when the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage on April 1, 2001.

This step has led to Amsterdam having the biggest share of same-sex marriages, with 45 in every 1,000 married couples being gay.

5. Offer an at-home nurse to new mothers

Kraamzorg is a postnatal benefit for mothers in the Netherlands, where a nurse will be available to new mothers for up to a week after their baby’s arrival.

READ MORE | Everything you need to know about maternity leave in the Netherlands in 2022

The nurse will offer help with baby-related tasks. This is a forward-thinking move on the Dutchies’ side to support new mothers and help them get back on their feet as soon as possible.

6. Tell people exactly what they think

Yup, it’s that infamous Dutch directness, where you can be asked, “Does that upset you?” on a whim if it seems like you’re unhappy.

The Dutch are mad efficient, so they don’t waste time beating around the bush.

Instead, they’ll tell you exactly what they’re thinking, no matter how rude or abrasive it might be.

7. Recognise how important bees are

Whether the Dutchies do this for the environmental impact or just to ultimately train the bees to sniff diseases, with their futuristic vision, the Dutch understood the bee’s crucial role in pollination and food supplies long before it was cool.

From building bee-friendly bus stops to upkeeping a bee census, Dutchies sure is buzzing with nothing but love for the little things.

8. Give people the right to die

The Netherlands pioneered being the first country to legalize euthanasia back in 2002.

Ever since, people with a terminal or imminently life-ending illness have the right to be able to die with dignity.

READ MORE | 8 weird things about dying in the Netherlands

Naturally, this is heavily regulated: patients will have to discuss their decision with their physician and the physician will have to follow a list of protocols before they honour the patient’s wish. ‍

9. Flip old buildings into new spaces

Dutchies are masters of DIY — their bigger projects involve giving old buildings a makeover into a modern shape!

In Utrecht, a 1924 post office was reconstructed into a modern library, and similarly, a thirteenth-century Maastricht cathedral was turned into a magical bookstore.

READ MORE | 10 bookstores you have to visit in the Netherlands

The previously old building of LocHal in Tilburg was also transformed into a spectacular new library which was recognised as World Building of the Year.

10. Be masters of 3D printing

Maybe it’s the DIY in Dutch blood, or maybe it’s just downright genius creativity — but to 3D print oxygen valves, steel bridges, and even houses is over-the-top forward-thinking by the Dutch.

READ MORE | Dutch Designer combating food wastage through awesome 3D printed food

11. Choose cycling and public transport over cars

There’s cycling and then there’s Dutch cycling — a skill that’s in a whole different league.

READ MORE | Car sharing in the Netherlands is on the rise: here’s why it should continue

But whether you’re a bicycle person or more of a pedestrian you’ll realise that the Dutch almost always weigh in favour of ANY transportation method that doesn’t involve moving in a personal car.

12. Ban diesel vehicles from city centres

What’s the best way to keep Dutch cities’ air clean? Get rid of anything diesel!

The Netherlands has introduced milieuzones, meaning that diesel cars, motorbikes, and trucks can’t enter designated areas — making the air cleaner and fresher to breathe.

13. Take work-life balance seriously

The data supports it The Netherlands ranks top in the world for its work-life balance according to the OECD Better Life Index.

In a fast-paced world, steering society away from workaholism isn’t an easy task to achieve!

But when a country enlists burnout, moving, or even taking an exam as pressing reasons for work leave, then you know the Dutch are looking ahead into the people’s future.

14. Work on making high-speed hyperloops a thing

Construction of the life-changing new “hyperloop” is currently underway at the European Hyperloop Center in Veendam. 

The invention of the 420-metre-long-test-tube is silent but violent.

The goal? To whoosh passengers in a capsule noiselessly through a high-speed hyperloop — without any emission — from Amsterdam to Paris.

Now that’s forward-thinking if you ask me!

As this list comes to an end, we give Dutchies a super 4.5 stars for their forward-thinking — but we left half a star out because there’s always room for improvement!

What other forward-thinking things do Dutch people do? Tell us in the comments below!

There are so many places to eat in Amsterdam that it’s enough to make you feel paralysed by choice. But geen probleem, we’ve narrowed the list down to 7 places you absolutely have to try.

These are some of Amsterdam’s most chill and hip restaurants that offer delicious food and amazing cocktails!

Also, know that different DutchReviewers went to different trendy places, so we got all our brains together to find the best places. Enjoy!

1. Ode aan de Amstel

The name “Ode aan de Amstel” translates to “ode to the Amstel” — it’s an homage to the river that flows into Amsterdam’s iconic canal ring and helps shape the city.

Both the terrace and the ground floor of this restaurant are located on the Amstel river (you can even dock your boat on the terrace!), letting you enjoy the peaceful sounds of the rippling water and a stunning view.

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Ode aan de Amstel is all about providing guests with a peaceful dining experience. The intimate interior is complimented by an open kitchen and, of course, a menu that will leave your mouth watering.

If every single item on the menu sounds good to you (we feel you), we suggest going with the three, four, or five-course chef’s selection menu. This is a daily-changing menu with the chef’s most tasty, innovative and original dishes.

With only the best cuts of meat and the freshest seafood, this place truly left us wanting more.

2. Midtown Grill

An eclectic and excellent eating experience! Honestly, the prospect of eating at a steakhouse near Amsterdam’s Leidseplein wasn’t too exciting initially. But we were wrong!

When you walk into Midtown Grill, you immediately feel it won’t be your usual steakhouse experience. Its interior is showered in class, luxury, and eclectic wallpaper. (How often do you appreciate that in a place?)

READ MORE | 33 best things to do in Amsterdam in 2023 [UPDATED]

The staff is courteous and never makes you think you’re eating out in Amsterdam — which is a compliment — and the menu is limited. Not 627 options, but what they did, they did well. (It had proper veggie options like any place should have nowadays.)

The steak we had was a proper beast. The staff shows you the cuts beforehand and advises on how you should want it prepped (a thick cut should be a bit medium, or else you’re just eating raw meat).

They also prepared a custom whisky sour, and we have to recommend the ‘mixed plankje and the lobster bitterballs’ (how can we not?)

3. NOMADS

Twice a year, NOMADS “travels” to a different location. Not only does the menu change to the country’s food but the interior design of the restaurant.

We visited when it was adorned with photographs of the streets of Alfama and typical blue tile murals in the bathroom — you guessed it, Portuguese cuisine.

We had a four-course meal, accompanied by a bottle of white Serras de Azeitão from Setúbal. Everything was great, particularly the octopus salad and the pastéis de bacalhau (or codfish pastries).

These are staple dishes in Portuguese culture, and we are glad they haven’t been forgotten. The oysters were the best part of the meal; they literally tasted like the sea.

For dessert, we got a true Portuguese treat. THE pastel de nata that is so hard to replicate was by far the most authentic we’ve eaten outside of Portugal.

It couldn’t beat the original “Pastéis de Belém” as it follows an ancient recipe from the Jerónimos Monastery, but it would surely beat a lot of well-established bakeries in Portugal.

We also had a “rice pudding”, a take on the classic “arroz doce”. The pudding’s consistency and taste were perfect, which is hard to do with just milk and rice.

It’s usually topped with cinnamon, but the chefs at NOMADS innovated by adding raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, as well as a fruit-infused foam.

It was a great experience. NOMADS made us feel like we were back in a mother’s kitchen in Lisbon.

4. In de Waag

When in Amsterdam, you truly can’t miss out on a meal at one of the city’s most iconic restaurants: In de Waag.

Located in an old city gate in the centre of the lively “Nieuwmarkt”, this place is a historic monument that was built between 1425 and 1488.

What used to be a city gate eventually became a “weighing house” (Dutch: Waag, hence the name ), and finally one of Amsterdam’s trendiest restaurants.

The rustic interior at the Waag is lit by more than 300 real candles, creating a romantic vibe that compliments the interesting history of this building. But besides the stunning interior, the Waag also sports one of Amsterdam’s sunniest terraces — perfect to enjoy during the warmer months of the year.

We stopped by Waag for lunch, and went for the famous Waag burger and the puffed aubergine. Both were fresh, full of flavour, and of course, heel lekker!

For dessert, we were served the “Apple tarte tatin”, a small apple pie with cinnamon ice cream and vanilla custard.

Whether you come here for a mid-day snack or for a nice dinner, the selection of bites, main courses, desserts, and drinks won’t disappoint — and the lovely staff will make you feel right at home.

5. NENI Amsterdam

A sharing menu including the best falafel in town? Sign us up. We took a trip to NENI Amsterdam to try their new Balagan menu — and we weren’t disappointed.

Right next to the Olympic stadium in Amsterdam-Zuid, NENI‘s location might not be the first choice for tourists. However, it is worth the short journey outside of the centre.

As you enter, you’re greeted by the smell of fresh bread baking in the deli (well, only on the weekends). Here you can purchase freshly baked Mediterranean goods, including sourdough, babka, and challah.

The concept at NENI is that sharing is caring. There is a wide range of plant-based, fish, and meat dishes, ideal for when you are as indecisive as we are.

We had the Balagan menu, which offers a variety of their top dishes. The more people you have, the more dishes they add. You can ask for just vegetarian dishes.

It’s not the cheapest, coming in at €40 per person, but you get a lot of bang for your buck. For four people, we were completely stuffed — and happy about it.

All of the food was fresh and had a perfect balance of salt and spice. Our highlights were the caramelised aubergine and possibly the best falafel we’ve ever had. But there wasn’t a dud dish on the menu.

NENI has a great concept and food that’s packed with flavour in every bite. The sharing menu was a little on the pricey side, but you get a lot of food for the price you pay. Perfect for a special occasion or a stop-by for a deli lunch.

6. Kanarie Club

The former tram depot in Amsterdam, known as “Food Hallen”, is where you’ll find one of Amsterdam’s most stylish hotspots.

The interior of the Kanarie Club’s design is made up of materials and colours inspired by the different industries housed in the hall. From woodwork and metalwork to painting.

It’s split up into different zones: a café where you can work, a cosy restaurant, and a beautiful cocktail bar. With film and food halls in the Kanarie Club’s backyard, this old tram depot in Oud-West is rightly one of Amsterdam’s most popular working spots.

The Kanarie Club isn’t just an ideal work spot for students, freelancers and those looking for a place to enjoy some quiet time or chill with friends and family.

The menu is extraordinary, the atmosphere is nice, the staff are cheerful, and the setting is as beautiful as expected.

Whether you’re there for breakfast, for flexible working, lunch, dinner, or just to drink cocktails: Kanarie Club remains one of Amsterdam’s best hotspots.

7. Bardak Amsterdam

Bardark is a Tel Aviv-themed bar in Amsterdam, located in the ever-growing hip and cool area — de Pijp. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to go for some chill drinks but know you’re going to get hungry. It’s truly one of the best places to eat in Amsterdam!

The menu is pretty simple — everything you order will arrive on a tray with three sauces, street food style. The three sides are tahini, manjo, and chilli.

READ MORE | 15 delicious vegan restaurants in Amsterdam

If you like meat and mint, treat yourself to the Arais kebab. It comes in a “flavour-soaked pita”, which is delicious.

If you want to go for something a little less fatty, then we’d advise getting the kebab from the grill, the rib-eye steak or their melt-in-the-mouth chicken liver.

For the vegetarians out there, you’ve got to try the grilled okra. Quite rightly, it’s nicknamed the “Sexy Okra” by the head chef. There’s also a vegan mushroom shwarma, which comes with oyster mushrooms, sour cream, and a lovely warm pita.

The bar offers a unique range of some of the best cocktails in Amsterdam. We’d recommend the Solero Sour, the Chili Cucumber Margarita, and the Pink Lychee Martini.

As for desserts: while the Kanafeh was a beautiful mix of Kadaif pastry and goat cheese (with ricotta and honey), our favourite dessert had to be the Babka, AKA “Grandma’s Chocolate Roll”.

So there you have it! These are some of the best places to eat in Amsterdam in 2024. Have you been to any of these amazing restaurants? Let us know in the comments below!