The dark gap between us and the Dutch

Most of our compatriots have recently heard that due to the “special” attitude of tourists to the Netherlands, the authorities decided to rename it the Netherlands. But few people know what actually happens. Holland and the Netherlands - different territories. North and South Holland are only 2 of the 12 provinces that have always differed economically and therefore have gained special fame around the world.



But that's not what our article today is about. We would like to tell you about some interesting habits, features of ordinary Dutch people that can surprise our person. So get comfortable, we hope this material will surprise you with something!

The famous European squeamishness did not bypass the Dutch. The country saves literally on everything: communal, food, transport. There are a huge number of discount cards for almost any product. Even during courtship, young Dutch people are used to giving their ladies hearts various trinkets and purely symbolic gifts. The rest is not budgeted for.

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In this regard, purely popular and not quite understandable habits appeared for us. Take a shower for no more than 10 minutes a day. Wipe the foam on the dishes with a towel, and not wash off under the pressure of water. Even, I'm sorry, you don't always flush the toilet when you've gone small. Save money and take care of the environment!

In the countries of the former Soviet Union, Americans are often laughed at, saying that they always smile. But our people are used to going serious and as open as possible. Well, we never dreamed of the directness of ordinary Dutch people. For example, during a normal walk, one friend can harshly criticize the idea of another, and it will be absolutely normal, without any offense. Again, mate, I mean, not too close. This would be considered rude and rude.

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On the other hand, at work, this attitude is very popular with immigrants from the post-Soviet republics. The Dutch boss is not an “unquestionable authority” but a colleague to whom you can say whatever you think. Of course, just about the job. And, of course, not in a rough form. Just to the point. Roughness is not welcome in the Netherlands.

Bicycles and tulips are real symbols of Holland. And this mode of transport they use is not because of lack of money, as, for example, some Asian countries. Here, a bicycle is an indicator that you are fighting for clean air. There are more of them than the Dutch themselves. Here we go.

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There is a separate infrastructure for bicycles. And the “iron horses with pedals” themselves are remade (or customized) for any whim. You can see trailers for bicycles, various amplifiers, tandems and so on. But the locals warn that a new, beautiful bike may be of interest to local petty criminals. So it is better to stock up on a thicker chain for them. Don't get stolen.

The Dutch are used to philosophical problems. So to put it mildly. The average resident will not be surprised, but even if so, he will answer approximately: “Well, this can be,” and will probably immediately stop thinking about it. Even if the situation really deserves attention, the Dutchman phlegmatically shrugs it off and follows the path of least resistance.

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For example, when there was a heavy snowfall in a large area, and there was no equipment to clear it, local offices announced a triple salary on that day. Those workers who did not come were not fined, but were asked to stay at home. The bosses understood that you can not fight against the elements, so why unnecessary movements?

The decree is surprising, because the Dutch are very sensitive to the institution of marriage. Their families often have 3 children or more. But with the decree, things are not very good. Women are given only 4 maternity months: 1 before childbirth and 3 after. Traditionally, both parents work in the family, but it is not customary to “discard” grandparents: they have a pension and a well-deserved rest. That's why children are sent to nurseries.

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But at work you can agree on a reduced number of hours, while there is a need to raise a small child. In general, the Dutch are not used to infringing themselves, even despite the recent addition to the family. Their philosophy works at this stage as well. Dutch children are said to be the happiest in the world. Not because of their parents’ financial success, but because of the family atmosphere. Maybe the Dutch are right about something!

Here are the features of the inhabitants of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. On the one hand, look at it – nothing special, people as people. They also live, work, have children. And look closely - these little things work differently for them, but the relationship is not built in the same way as for us. We're so similar and so different. We hope that you love tourism and will soon visit this wonderful country. Good luck!