Studying abroad is a popular way to gain experience, learn about new culture and, what is not less important than that, have loads of fun while you still have no other duties. If you are decided to go study in another country (whether it’s for an exchange or fulltime study) but you still don’t know where to go – you might want to consider the Netherlands. Geographically it’s not a big country, but when it comes to experiences – they have a lot to offer. Here are 5 things you’ll come across, when you study in the Netherlands.
1. Everybody speaks English
Although they have their own language, Dutch people are known for their capacity to communicate with the foreigners. If you are worried that you’ll get lost or confused – relax. Dutchies are there to help you with their perfect English language skills. Either you are at the university (many of them offer courses in English), at the city hall or even at the street market, you will have no problem what so ever to understand and to be understood. It has its downsides too, especially when you try to learn a bit of Dutch. Whenever a Dutch person hears that you are struggling to say something in their language, they immediately switch to English to make it easier for you. So you can live there for couple of years and still remain not to speak Dutch. On the other hand, some people find it really kind of you to know at least some basic words as “thank you” or “please”, so consider learning these when you go there.
2. Bike is a must
That’s probably the first thing that foreign students buy in the Netherlands. Traveling by the “OV” (abbreviation of the dutch phrase “openbaar vervoer” – “public transport”) can be rather expensive if you live on a student budget. That’s why it’s a lot easier to have your own bike. It’s the most efficient way to get to your work or university. While you’re there you’ll see many bikes on the streets, by the train stations, almost everywhere. And we have to admit, that the cycling infrastructure of the dutch cities is on point! What makes it even easier, you don’t even have to buy your own bike – there are quite some companies that rent bikes or mopeds. In some of them you can rent a bike for minutes, in some also for a month. But if you want to be independent, people often sell second hand bikes in good condition.
3. Internationalism
The Netherlands as a country are very much open to the foreigners. They offer a lot of facilities to students from other parts of the world. That’s why their universities are full of people from different countries, with different backgrounds and raised in different culture. It’s very much mind-opening to experience it yourself. While you’re in the Netherlands you’ll see, especially in the bigger cities, that nearly every person on the street is different. That’s what makes it easier to live there as a foreigner – there are a lot of folks in the same situation so you don’t feel alone. Depending on your country of origin, you can also come across communities that bring together people from the same homeland. So there are Persian supermarkets, Polish churches or Portuguese cafés.
4. Cannabis
Yes, it’s not a lie that it’s quite easy to get high in the Netherlands. Although it’s not as legal to do it as you may think, it’s tolerated and common. You’ll probably notice the typical smell of cannabis when you walk through a city center. The “coffeeshops” (that don’t sell coffee, obviously) offer a broad choice of marijuana products and related gadgets. Their employees can also advice you on which space cake to choose or on the best way to smoke hash. But remember – they have strict rules on selling and using cannabis. Don’t abuse it!
5. Weather
Depending on your homeland, you may find the weather conditions in the Netherlands rather disappointing. They do have some sunny days from time to time, but usually it’s quite cold, cloudy and rainy. And don’t forget the wind! Because of the relatively short distance from the North Sea, it can be rather strong sometimes. How strong? In extreme windstorms trucks are being blown away from the highways and cycling is impossible. But hey, dutch people can get used to it, so can you!
The Netherlands are for sure not the most popular tourist destination, but there is a lot to see and experience there. From rustic landscapes with sheep and windmills, through historical city centers to modern solutions and technologies. And due to the openness of the dutch people, it’s quite easy to live there as a foreigner. So don’t hesitate and try it yourself!
About The Author
Stephanie Braga
Hi, I am Stephanie Braga. A professional blogger and content community manager on this platform. I love to write and post content on different niche. Contact me, if you need any help related to digital marketing or content marketing.
