TRAVEL TIPS THE NETHERLANDS

SAFETY FIRST

Dial 112 for emergency services.

International dialing code +31

British Embassy
Lange Voorhout 10
2514 ED The Hague
Tel: +31 (0) 70 4270 427

Check my safety tips page for general travelling advice when abroad.  Whilst in the Netherlands please bear the following tips in mind.

• The Dutch culture is egalitarian, modern and individualistic.
• They are modest, independent, hard-working and value education.
• The Dutch are multi-lingual, the majority of Dutch people can speak 3 or more languages.
• Living the 'high life' is considered wasteful and frowned upon in the Netherlands.
• Finger-snapping at restaurants is considered extremely rude.
• If you are invited to the home of a Dutch person, please be on time and bring a small gift like chocolates or flowers.
• The Dutch are conservative and formal in nature, avoid brash and loud behaviour in public, for example, shouting to a friend across the street.
• It is deemed rude to talk to others with your hands in your pockets or to chew gum in public.
• When meeting someone, a firm handshake whilst using your host's title and surname are expected.
• Whilst political talk is a popular subject; religion, drugs and legalized prostitution are most certainly not!
• Never criticize the Dutch royal family.

TIPPING

In restaurants, a service charge is included in the final bill, but an extra 5 - 10% for excellent service will always be appreciated.  Taxi costs are very high in the Netherlands, so tipping is at your discretion.

DUTCH CLIMATE

Summertime in the Netherlands can enjoy long periods of sun then become quite clammy due to increases in atmospheric pressure often followed by thunderstorms, then the cycle repeats itself.  May to August offer the most sunshine.  Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year with the odd the storm presenting itself.  Temperatures in the winter drop to around the freezing mark.

COST OF LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS

Comparisons on the cost of living in the Netherlands varies, the following are essential for backpackers or travellers on a budget.

6 Free range eggs - €0.99
1.5 ltr Vanilla ice cream - €2.29
475g Pasta sauce - €0.99
4 Fresh beefburgers - €2.99
300g Rump steak - €4.99
250ml Fruit smoothie - €0.99
1kg Quick cook rice - €1.79
Medium chicken - €4.99
1kg Fresh cream Gateau - €3.49
450g Strawberry jam - €0.89
Cooked German sausage - €1.09
150g Streaky bacon - €1.09