10 Dutch Cultural Shocks | Expat in The Netherlands

From greeting to Dutch planning, in this video I share with you 10 Dutch cultural shocks that I experienced, first during my exchange program and later when I moved to The Netherlands.
I moved from Portugal to The Netherlands more than 4 years ago. The reason why I am still living here is that I absolutely love this country.
Cultural Shocks are just part of the process of moving to another country, they are neither right or wrong and we can only grow so much from experiencing them.
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⏱️Chapters⏱️
00:00 Start
00:23 Greeting
02:00 Dinner Time
02:40 Opening Times
03:29 New Year's
05:10 Cycling
05:44 Food
06:10 Windows
07:09 Doctors
09:02 Directness
09:45 Planning

[@DuartJansen]

I'm Dutch and I've never understood why people don't care for privacy, because I do! As soon as it turns dark and I need to light up my house, I'll close all the curtains. During the day visibility inside is also limited by my window decoration.

[@ERTChimpanzee]

Hi! I'm from Tallinn, Estonia and my father taught me that you should always close all the curtains because when you leave from your house bad people like thiefs might steal your technology and other things because they see inside the house if you live in the first floor.

[@renevw5812]

Im also from The Netherlands and i totally agree, i also love my privacy.

[@RedRingOfDead]

Mate I'm from the nether, and i love my privacy. I already have my shit shut. No way people are able to check inside. No way people will know when or when I'm not home. Thanks smart lights

[@giovannilugas3639]

I'm Italian and I love my privacy.

[@mafaldaboers]

@@ERTChimpanzee indeed it doesn't just impact privacy, but also safety!

[@iihoipoiii]

haha as a dutch person i can confirm new years is basicly just a yearly purge day when no laws exist XD

[@frederikenederloflammers2706]

yes your right

[@soulangela7154]

That's what I've been calling it too lmao. I kinda hope that we will only have cool firework shows too, cause professionals shows do it better anyway.

[@xedor2003]

I'm Dutch and must say that your experiences with the doctors are very strange. I have never ever experienced that myself.

[@klaasj7808]

omdat ze buitenlands is doen ze zo achterlijk

[@knkerlekker]

Ngl, it seems to be happening only to foreigners because every dutch person finds this respond weird as hell, yet that is all that i get every time i go to the doctor lol. Like even with eczema... They look at it, hear that my cream finished and say, "oke, and what do you want me to do about it?" Echt raar :/

[@RikSolstice]

@@knkerlekker That's weird yeah. The doctor's assistant for my GP will gather some information beforehand so that my appointment with the doctor goes smoother, but that's about it. The doctor figures out what's wrong and prescribes something. We do have a "herhaallijn", which we can call to say that we need more of a certain drug we've been taking for a while. Sort of a repeat customer thing where you only have to call in and say, I need this or that and then 2 days later you can pick it up at the pharmacy.

[@arturobianco848]

Not really we ussually directly say i want an appointment or just some advise if i should come in foreigners don't so they get that question. Also de huisartsen are ussually pretty much booked all the time so they don't do advisery appointments for things you can look up for yourself or ask somebody else. I have some medical issues wich i discus with a special nurse and dietery specialist but not with my huisarts.

[@jefreyhendriksen1621]

@@knkerlekker yeah that's weird, but then you say "yeah oke" instead of i want this checked, or i need this medication

[@888records]

Doctors indeed do not give medication away easily but that's because it often is unneeded. If it is not necessary then it is better to naturally let your body do the work

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi 888 Records! Thank you for your comment 😊 there are indeed several approaches to health care and it was interesting to have a different experience in 2 countries

[@888records]

@@mafaldaboers Thank you for responding!

[@obimk1104]

I am Dutch, Dutch housedoctors can prescribe or hospital doctors. I have a rare braindisease, for some medication my housedoctor contacted my Neurologist to determine which medicine was effective for me. . We have a 2 tier healthcare system. After an accident you will end up in a hospital. Your housedoctor can cure about 50%, for the remaining care you will be send to a specialized Doctor in a hospital.

[@treintje1001]

@@mafaldaboers The problem is not that Dutch docters underuse medication, the real problem is that in other countries the docters overuse them in cases when it is really not needed. The human immune system can overcome most fevers and infections by itself without the need for medication. In general it is much better to let the human body work the virus out by itself rather than to use medication. Not only do you train your own immune system which basically increases your health, it is also because virusses and bacteria have a tendency to become resistent to medicine over time. For this reason one should limit the use of medication as much as possible to keep them effective. So the Dutch approach is both better for your own health and for medicine in general, because we try to avoid the risk of germs becoming reseistent against medication as much as possible. Other countries should do the same.

[@jannetteberends8730]

The dutch healthcare system is very cost efficient orientated. The medication prescribed by a dokter, is free for the patient. The insurance company pays for it. So the policy of describing medication is focused on minimising the costs as much as possible. That’s why you get generic medication in stead of brand names. This policy is decided by a central governmental organisation. There are protocols for medic treatments. That’s another reason that Dutch dokters don’t give medication in the case of a virus infection. Because nothing works for viruses, except vaccination. So it would make the healthcare more expensive without any real gain. For example antibiotics only work in the case of a bacterial infection. Taking it when you have a cold or influenza will only have a placebo effect.

[@mradventurer8104]

Nice. About the medication: resistance to antibiotics in southern europe is a bigger problem than in the Netherlands and happens because doctors give more antibiotics. So from a medical point of view it is better to give medication less often especially if the problem resolves itself after 2 weeks and if it concerns antibiotics, but yes if you are used to always getting medication I can understand it may feel strange.

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Mr. Adventurer, thank you for your comment!

[@konradm6514]

This is just excuse of poor medical system that you Dutch people believe. Bacterial infections growing very fast usually a number of bacteria in organism doubled every 2-4 hours. Do not treat this on early stage is very dangerous specially for small children. Resistance is mainly caused by to short time of antibiotic take in. In western countries is usually 5 days when in fact it should be from 7 to 9. The strongest bacteria are not killed and survive and they spread to start a new immune line. And situation is quite opposite, the most problems with resistance are on North of Europe , specially in Great Britain.

[@sdtok527]

​​@@konradm6514 We describe less than half the antibiotics as the USA but have 4 years higher life expectancy. We do not have a bad medical system haha. About cure length, if you get a prescription we do follow the scientific consensus. Only getting the prescription is harder.

[@Nature31]

@@konradm6514 The Dutch Heathcare system is ranked 15th of the world, so at least 200 other countries are worse .

[@lotteh6464]

@@konradm6514 I have to disagree with you on some things. You are acting like doctors would hardly ever prescribe antibiotics, but that's not true. When I went to the doctor with a cough, he quickly found out it was a lung infection and he immediately prescribed me antibiotics. They just only give it when it's necessary, not just to fight of any sore throat..

[@shyamalipaul730]

I really appreciate your point of view

[@bastange8856]

1. Kisses are for close friends or relatives, and we actually do three kisses in the Netherlands (which can be hilariously confusing for other people). 2. The municipalities actually do often have a firework show, but basically everybody is allowed to use fireworks during Newyear. The government would probably like to ban that, it's just a very unpopular thing to do so nobody wants to be the one to actually enforce the ban. There's been ongoing debate about this issue for years, especially given the safety hazards and vandalism that happens every year. 3. Actually almost all houses have curtains, which are usually used in the evening to give privacy, but during the day Dutch people like to keep the windows clear to enjoy the sunlight. People tend to have larger gardens at the back of the house, but are usually closely connected with a road in the front because all the utilities are buried beneath the roads in the Netherlands (gas, water, electricity, sewer systems etc). It is therefore cheaper for urban developers to build the houses close to the roads. Having said that, I grew up in a smaller village, things might be quite different in the bigger cities when it comes to privacy. 4. Most medicines are actually quite bad for you, and should normally only be taken if they are truly necessary. In a healthcare system that wants to make profit, doctors will suscribe you lots of medication because it earns money. In a nonprofit oriented healthcare system, they tend to wait and see first, because many things do not actually require medicine. When problems continue past a certain time frame they will take it seriously and proscribe medication and look for underlying causes. In the Netherlands doctors are trained to look for 'red flags' that might indicate more serious ailments that require immediate action, otherwise just rest and let the body deal with the issue by itself first, you're usually better off in the long run that way. 5. In many coutries people will say one thing to your face, and quite something else behind your back. I'll take Dutch directness any time of the day instead. Having said all that, I really love some of the mediterranean culture as well. Especially dining late and long and with good company. In the Netherlands dinner is often something to eat quickly at around 6 in the evening in between your work and your evening schedule. Maybe thats why our food is so bland, Dutch people just don't know how to appreciate it like you do in Portugal. 😂 The Dutch 'quisine' I grew up with was bland boiled potato's with bland boiled brocolli or cauliflower and a piece of meat, which was the only thing actually prepared with spices. I'll take foreign food over that any time of the day. 😉

[@azriel8549]

Very nice explained. Thank you.

[@4tarsus]

Enjoyed your video. Your English is great! (I hope you take this as the compliment it's intended to be). Keep up the great work!

[@wimschoenmakers5463]

Yeah.... you figured out nicely how it works here. 🤣 Enjoy your new home !

[@user-pj2ys2ri4w]

Funny 😊 thx / bedankt / obrigada from Germany 😊

[@OpaSpielt]

Hahaha, it's really amazing how similar the Dutch and Germans (like me) live and behave. There are two major differences though: we Germans love privacy and close our windows especially in the evening, so that no one can look inside the home. And the German food is perhaps more variable than the Dutch food. But handshake, dinner time, and other stuff I am used to too. Nice video, thanks 🖐👴

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi OpaSpielt, thank you for your comment :) A viewer commented that some of the cultural shocks are shared by someone living in Belgium. It is so interesting to know that 2 neighbouring countries have different views towards the way of living in The Netherlands.

[@ohhi5237]

ps no foreign food in germany, please travel more

[@patrickpowers5995]

I come from the UK and now am in my eighties. In the sixties I was involved in setting some scientific equipment in Holland along with another UK company who sent their installation team who I had never met. The Dutch scientists were amazed that all of us from the UK were immediately on first name terms - without any formality. They also shook hands each morning - they must have thought our reluctance to do that so impolite. It ended up with everyone using first name terms - even the professor - when speaking English but surnames when speaking Dutch.

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Patrick! It must have been a very interesting experience :) Thank you for sharing it with us!

[@marcoyt955]

The openings times of the shops are usually at 18:00. But already since somewhere in the 90s supermarkets are often open much longer. For example, a supermarket close to me closes at 22:00.

[@frankb1]

very good video

[@user-sx1ym9xp6p]

Regarding our windows, there’s funny thing some people (including my family!) have in their homes. Putting rectangular, decorative stickers on parts of your windows. These stickers often have patterns and some are bigger than others. With these things, you can sit on your couch without having everyone to see you. When you stand up, you will probably still be visible, though! But this may just be a town thing. A lot of homes have it here, even in neighbourhoods in cities that are outside of the city centre. I’m not in busy cities often, but I feel like this is definitely more common in more newly built houses, instead of the bigger, older homes

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi V! I have seen these stickers in a lot of homes!

[@kaivonneu-lich6327]

quite a bit the same in Germany, except for the open windows and biking in the rain. I am often surprised how much people from many other countries are super cautious or anxious. It comes with a lot of restrictions. I think mostly common sense is safety enough. Carelessness is the most cause for danger.

[@ohhi5237]

explain why germany has a helmet law?

[@andriesquast2028]

Hi from Dordrecht! I love Portugal! Anyway, It's an interesting video with things i didn't know. Thank you. Next time when i go abroad i won"t forget to bring along stroopwafels. To culture shock them. Have a great weekend!

[@wplaat]

nice, greetings from a dutch citizen

[@marijnnn4992]

The kiss on the cheek is for ppl that know each other for longer

[@Frodoshouse]

Can you make the subtitles optional please? Your English is very clear and for most people they are unnecessary.

[@willyct207]

Thanks dear the video was interesting. I am a Dutch, German, Belgium and English South African. Your first greet here might also be a handshake.

[@aaronvandijk3346]

where i live in holland (amersfoort) the restaurants are almost always open till midnight atleast

[@herbertvanrensburg6411]

It is always nice to experience different cultures, it also gives a chance to grow as humans

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Herbert van Rensburg! Definitely! One can become more open-minded and tolerant towards different cultures.

[@joostvanlinge263]

We used to have the dreaded 'three strikes': three (sometimes fake) kisses (left, right, left). During Covid, we were supposed to keep our distance. People were glad that that was the end of those obligatory fake kisses and they never came back.

[@michelvanerkelens3303]

There was a time once where you greeted everyone in the room on a birthday one by one. Handshake for the men and women who were not family or good friends and kisses for the women if they are family or good friends. Now, i adopted a much easier way, i congratulade the one who's birthday it is and his or her's spouse and kids and a common hello to the rest haha. At home we do eat between 17:00 and 18:00 mostly, but when i get guests like at 20:00 i normally put some crackers and things for on it on the table, some cheese cubes and other snacks. We never have quests for dinner actually, unless they stay longer on like a birthday for the kids. If you have to work late, the supermarket is open till 20:00 pm or 21:00 pm on fridays (in Rotterdam it's friday) so if you have to work later then that time you buy it the day before or else the nightshop or delivery or bad luck. I love new years eve, everybody lighting up the sky, we used to burn the christmas trees we collected or stole from other groups of kids, in our neighborhoud we did that on the streets. Starting at 22:00 pm and like ten at a time. Fire brigade showed up, put the fire out, we waited for ten minutes then another ten, and just before midnight we all went inside for the countdown and then the whole other bunch of trees saw fire haha. But at present time we burn some trees in empty barrels for some fire and the fireworks is some less then like 10 years ago but still nice and a lot. I only cycle to the supermarket or to the gym in the summer or when my car is broken in general. just cycling for the fun is not my thing. I only see a doctor for cleansing out my ears actually, or for the somewhat heavier stuff painkillers for my back if necessary. I have curtains and also like a strip on the window, that way people cannot look so easy into my livingroom but sunlight is still coming in. The curtains close at dark, because i cannot see who's outside and from the outside they easily can see us, i don't like that. I am direct, i don't like to give the idea that something can happen for them when i already know it's not going to. Sounds a bit blunt but i choose my words nicely. I am always on time, mostly even ten minutes before, never later unless i have a reason. If i invite visitors from like 19:00 pm i would not give a shit if they arrive ten minutes before but not a half hour. Because i hate it when people show up while i am still eating or still busy cleaning the table and all that. Punctual is my thing.

[@ob3443]

Very recognisable, as a Portuguese speaking Dutchman married to a Brazilian lady and having lived in Brazil and NL.

[@superfredje7742]

Very interesting. Two remarks: regarding the fireworks as a dutch person I would absolutely prefer the Portuguese approach. And secondly: I hate cycling in the rain, but sometimes you just cannot avoid it.

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Super Fredje! Thank you for sharing :) I believe we are all in this (cycling in the rain) together! But I want to try the rain clothes (jacket + pants), I saw some people wearing and I think it is very smart

[@superfredje7742]

@@mafaldaboers great idea, but please be aware that with the cheap ones it is basically wearing a piece of plastic, so you get sweaty as hell. Do not want to discourage you though!

[@treintje1001]

@@mafaldaboers Rain coat and pants are commonly used to keep the cyclist from becoming wet. Be aware that there is a lot of variation in quality, comfort and price! The cheap ones can be quite sweaty because they don’t ventilate, and may also not be very durable. However a high price is not automatically a guarantee for good quality either. Be aware that it takes some time and effort to put them on and off. Most people only use rain clothes for longer rides and consider it not worth the effort for a short ride. It also depends on how heavy the rain is, of course 😉.

[@jaysimoes3705]

Alcohol use, dog ownership are demonstrably a much bigger danger to the general public than fireworks. It simply pales in comparison when we look at deaths, costs to society, kids getting seriously hurt. I think 8 hours of fireworks per year that cannot be allowed opens a plethora of things we should no longer allow. To each their own. I would not like to live in such a society.

[@russellbanks5815]

same in Australia fireworks very hard to get...usually local council sets off fireworks..very controlled.

[@the_really_blobfish]

You should experience how different a smoll village is then a big city

[@robertvermaat2124]

Cycling: Dutch people also use public transport Mafalda! We usually cycle if the distance is a short one (up to an hour outside the cities I think). Or the car. If it rains I walk to the shop, I don't take the bike.

[@leanderbuijtendijk6241]

Boa noite, nice to see your reaction to our nice but sometimes crazy countrie. Agree totaly with your points and also hope the new years will change to be honest. Groetjes

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Leander, thank you for your comment! It is interesting to see the perspective of others regarding my experience. Have a great day :)

[@Samplesurfer]

If you have lived in the Maastricht area, there is actual quite a lot of local Dutch cuisine around there. Due to tribal reasons (60% of indigenous Dutch are Franks, 30% Saxons and 10% Frisians) there has been a lot of "cuisine overlap" with the other Frankish tribal areas: West-Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg and Northern France. Most of the kitchen isn't that different from French kitchen. That became even stronger after the Dukes of Burgundy inherited the Low Countries and moved their main Court from Dijon to Brussels. So called "Bourgondisch eten" (Burgundian dishes) has become the dominant historic cuisine in Belgium and the Southern Dutch provinces. Up to the 1970s most menu's in Dutch restaurants even were written in French. Maastricht is actually the city with the most wide array of restaurants, but I do understand most non-Dutch do think when served Burgundian kitchen and local dishes in Maastricht as eating "French" or "Belgian". Also a lot of these restaurants tend to be a bit more upscale. The ones you mentioned are cheaper (which also made them popular).

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Surfalong, thank you for your comment. Very interesting. I have to say that I love the cousine in Maastricht! When my family visits from abroad, it is a mandatory stop :)

[@hansd3295]

if the complaint is or sounds serious enough, you can always make an appointment with the doctor and he will certainly speak to you. If the 'complaint' is estimated, it is not very small or innocent. This is partly due to a major shortage of time at home doctors and a shortage of doctors.

[@Godwinsname]

That doctor that said to just look it up online seems weird.. but yeah, as someone from Belgium and now also living in the Netherlands we seem to share quite a lot of the culture shocks with Portugal! :) Food, doctors working differently, dinner time, privacy, planning, directness etc. we all share with Portugal instead of our Dutch neighbours.

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Godwinsname! Thank you for sharing, very interesting to know that a neighbouring country shares some of these cultural shocks.

[@Godwinsname]

@@mafaldaboers You're welcome :)

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

The big term God and words like win and ame cannot be in someone’s name, and must be changed - such terms only reflect me The God(dess) / Lady / Queen / Princess / Leader / Star etc!

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

I am to be moved to the Netherlands in the near future, actually, because there are more pros than cons, to be fair, but no country is perfect, unfortunately - but the best things about the Netherlands are the nature (there is a lot of green nature and there aren’t many houses / buildings, and it’s a very quiet country) and design / aspect and cleanliness (compared to most other countries, the Netherlands feels like real luxury) and the safety (it’s one of the safest countries) and also the fact that ppl seem to mind their own thing and don’t try to touch others, which is great for someone with OCD, so it’s really great for me, and definitely one of my favorite countries to move to, plus it borders Germany and Belgium and is very close to the Nordic countries like Norway / Sweden / Denmark etc, which are all on my list of favorite countries where I want to live and visit etc!

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

Plus, I am advanced level in Dutch (over 8.000 base words) and also learning German and French, so I know I would have no issues ordering foods / stuff etc off NL wss or buying food etc from NL supermarkets, because I can read the labels and I can understand most of the things they usually write in Dutch - the area around Limburg looks so peaceful and green, so I will probably be moved there, and it’s so close to the border with Germany and Belgium, so I will be able to visit Germany and Belgium whenever I want, which is another pro for me, because I also like those countries and the languages etc!

[@alexmultimodalpackrafting915]

great review! And as often it is about the details, that make it exquisit.: "Another shock was Dutch food.....they have amazing snacks, like these 3....and YES..that is.. uh.. almost it.... That is a polite... "gosh you suck at this..... but let me glance over this fact with the most dignity of politeness I can muster right now..."

[@p_mouse8676]

The three kisses thing seems to change a lot lately. It really feels like a generation thing or something (very) formal. Especially younger people just give each other a hug and this seems to catch on with some older people as well. Which makes it kinda awkward for people who are now in their 30s/40s, since they are in between.

[@bousica2]

Yep, true, we only use it to be formal

[@boon9849]

@@bousica2 i still do it with my grandma because its funny

[@bousica2]

@@boon9849 Yeah, I do it at parties and stuff

[@kilianhekhuis]

Covid also helped quite a lot there. Though the kisses are maing a comeback, it's not as common anymore as it used to be.

[@ohhi5237]

never start kissing people you dont know its sexual assault, in every country!

[@StuffMadeOnDreams]

The key point about the naked windows is not to look inside the houses. Just walk and look ahead without looking sideways. You were curious but this type of curiosity is cultural as well.

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

How could one not look tho! If I were in that situation, I would look and maybe even film it if it was something real funny! It’s in one’s nature to be curious about such things and laugh at something funny or embarrassing! After all, it would be ppl’s fault that they don’t care about privacy and don’t use curtains! I cannot even understand how can someone not care about privacy tho - I could never not care about my privacy, and I would always use curtains etc!

[@_PJW_]

6:10 Windows : common mistake with foreigners. Which may also get you in serious trouble in The Netherlands. It is considered extremely rude to look into other people's houses. Curtains or not. You keep your eyes to yourself and focus on the public place. Staring into Dutch people's houses, or even pressing your nose against the window pane, as some tourist are prone to do, will most likely cause the inhabitant to step outside to - in no uncertain terms - demand an explanation for your behaviour.

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi PJW, thank you for your comment. The behaviours described are indeed rude and people should not stare. I must confess that I'm still not used to when I'm walking and I see a movement or a light from the corner of my eye, a for a few seconds my head instinctively turns. With this I already feel that I'm invading their privacy, but sometimes it's hard not to look.

[@_PJW_]

@@mafaldaboers Spot on Dutch. We're only human. 'Glancing and looking away' is OK, 'looking' is sus, 'staring' is asking for trouble. But in the latter case apologizing and explaining 'couldn't help admiring' will usually defuse the situation. It might even get you an invitation for tea, and 1 cookie. 🤣

[@Londronable]

@@mafaldaboers Think cleavage, glance is fine, staring is not.

[@youngsterliam2.089]

I'm Dutch and do that very often...

[@_PJW_]

@@youngsterliam2.089 You must like the danger zone.

[@MrGregHiller]

Dear young lady As a foreigner living very many years already in the Netherlands, I must compliment you on this video: Really !! I hadn't wanted to watch it as I arrived here on your channel by mistake; but I couldn't stop. I think that what impressed me the most was your excellent command of the English language ! The only word you pronounce wrongly is 'Maastricht,' unless you are conciously trying to speak in the local Limburg dialect of course: Maybe ask a Dutch (or English) person how to pronounce Maastricht. What others write about the Dutch GP's is indeed correct. I don't know about Portugal (I'd love to visit one day, although I'd have much rather visited before they joined the terrible EU ), but in France and Switzerland, for example, if the doctor (GP) doesn't prescribe lots of medicines, the patient will likely change over to another doctor's surgery. The frequent no-medicine advice from a Dutch doctor is correct.

[@stevenbosch5497]

Love your video. I live in Amsterdam Nieuw West, a part of Amsterdam where lots of Dutch people with a Moroccan or Turkish heritage (amongst others) live. During Summer (like now) the streets are lively, almost like a little Istanbul or Marakech. People eating out and having a good time. I really love it. About the Dutch and curtains: the Dutch are in essence Calvinistic (protestant) (I just can hear the people in Maastricht screaming in disagreement, lol). Open curtains just means 'we have nothing to hide'. See it as an extension of the Dutch directness: 'you don't have to guess (what's behind the curtains), we'll show it to you.'

[@bousica2]

In the Netherlands the greeting with 3 kisses on the cheek, it still happens, but only to be formal. Otherwise we just hug or give a handshake

[@cosmoscloud121]

Hi Mafalda! Obrigada! I like those comparison vids. Would like to see more from your time in NL. I am from Germany and live close to the Dutch border. Have u ever been in Germany?

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Cosmos Cloud! I have been to Germany and visited Berlin, Monschau, Cologne, Bonn and Aachen. Very nice country :)

[@bousica2]

In my Dutch family, we rarely go to the doctor or dentist- And yes, we google everything, cause u can (almost) always find it

[@SuperDutchjohn]

The doctor that told you "just google it" is a disgrace for his/her profession!! I am 62 years old and Dutch and I never experienced such an attitude in my life, and IF a doctor would tell me that I would go to another doctor immediately!

[@landsgevaer]

To be fair, we don't hear their side of the story.

[@rickpanneman3604]

I am also Dutch and I have experienced this a a year and a half back. I called my familydoctor for my backpain and they suggested I would go to the 'thuisarts' site and look there for a solution, I was suprised because this had never happened before. I obviously declined and then they allowed me to go see my familydoctor. It probably was a consequence of the high pressure on the medical sector because of covid. Although I kind of get it from their side, I think you got to stand up for yourself when they suggest idea's like that.

[@ohhi5237]

why did you NOT google it?

[@arturobianco848]

Hehe i liked your take on dutch new years eve i'm dutch and the whole country basicly turns into a very happy drunk filled warzone. And you are correct it isn't safe i much prefer what they do in portugal. As for the GP they are heavely overworked so don't go ask for an appointment on some minor medical advise you can find somewhere else they don't have the time. My neighbour was one (well he still is but he moved) and its not that they don't want to give it they really are to overbooked to do it. Ussually you can call with the receptionist if they know where you can get the advise if you do want more info on the subject. Also dutch are direct we ussually say we wanna come in or just want some advise if we need to come in foreigners are a bit more fuzzy about that so its not uncommon you get that question. And last but not least over use of medication especially with antibiotics is a serious problem (way more serious and dangerous then most people realize). So dutch doctors are trained to not prescribe medicines if you can fight of things the natural way. Medication is not meant to be used just to make you feel better but only to get better if its harmfull or dangerous not to do it the natural way. The only excepton is basicly parcetamol wich in low dosis is pretty much harmless and does help recover you faster. And even that doesn't work always right because you are sick or have pain for a reason, masking the symptome doesn't do much to actually help you and potentionally can make things worse.

[@quatra1000]

You are definitely not supposed to look into people's houses unless you are a neighbor or friends. You just wave and go on. Yes, you have to make an appointment, even with your parents. Another thing is that it is very rare that the Dutch invite friends to their home. You can be coleagues for years and have never visited.

[@jannetteberends8730]

Hallo Malfada, I also studied in Maastricht. How did you like PBL? Was it very different from what you were used to in Portugal? I loved your video. At many times it was like reading a book from the seventeenth century. When people told the same stories about The Netherlands. Especially about the windows without curtains. But it’s more a thing of the northern Netherlands. In the neighbourhood I lived in Maastricht, the people had vitrage and in the evening the roller shutters came down in most houses. But I feel a bit nervous when I can’t look outside. I want to know if there is any danger lurking nearby. 😂

[@xtinalucia3684]

I’m going in September. How is MU?

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Jannette Berends! I really liked the PBL (Problem-Based Learning) approach! In my view, it is much better than just studying to remember for the exam and then forgetting everything after the exam. I have the opinion that portuguese universities should adopt this method. In addition, it really exposes you to the rest of the class and allows everyone for a chance of interaction.

[@mafaldaboers]

@@xtinalucia3684 I had a great experience in MU. It was very easy to meet new people, the Problem-Based Learning was useful to actually learn and I liked the teachers. The city is also amazing, specially for who is a student. I hope you also have such a positive experience!

[@xtinalucia3684]

@@mafaldaboers thanks!

[@mmamommamo6152]

I recognise much of what you said.we have almost the same issues in Denmark. With the doctor/ medicine. With food. With windows. Its damn boring as in Holland.

[@framegote5152]

good observations! About bicycling in the rain .. here we say (translated) "you're not made of sugar so a bit of rain won't hurt you". The thing about Dutch doctors; I have some medical issues myself which can't be treated with paracetamol or just waiting till it's over, so I have no choice, but when you have, it's much better to not fill yourself with chemicals, because every pill has it's own side effects, which a doctor should then treat with again other pills, so when it isn't really necessary they don't prescribe medicines. Many expats (especially Americans) find this not good, because the want to be treated (and go to work). Here - like in Portugal, I'm sure - we just stay at home when we're not well enough to work.

[@bousica2]

In the Netherlands you need to be very specific with what you want. That's the best advice I can give you

[@rubidesa353]

100% True

[@nicolefrie7326]

We Dutch people are also in shock when we visit Maastricht Limburg, the people are different from other provences

[@AlexSeesing]

Let's have a coffee tomorrow in Rotterdam. Oh! Wait! I can't. Shall we postpone that till next month? Sure no problem! Actually, I have already an appointment there but I might be able to reschedule that. Nah! Don't worry. We'll grab a coffee the day after tomorrow then.

[@redme7828]

Never been to Netherlands. But had a layover in Spain.

[@SidewaysStewie]

Is goed, dan zie ik jou over 2 maanden ;)

[@robertvermaat2124]

Fireworks: you never bought it in supermarkets, only in stores with a permit, and it's getting more and more restricted. Possibly in a few years it will be the same as in Portugal.

[@wimhuizinga]

I will close the curtains when we watch some specific kind of movies .. But I really liked your video. As a Dutchy I agree on the weird opening times of shops and the fireworks. Yeah.. the kissing, three times, only if you know someone well and when they are from the opposite sex (for most people) and some but not all women. Do they kiss two times always in Portugal? Even acquaintances and does their sex matter?

[@jamesvandemark2086]

A very pleasant place, overall. Esp when you have a Dutch family name........

[@edwardbergevoet]

Mmm Google it, was indeed strange, yet the doctors in the Netherlands are definitely very reluctant to provide medicines for relatively minor problems. And I've heard the question ′′ what do you think yourself ′′ more often.

[@waltersteyger1215]

New years eve is almost like a warzone.

[@ruudvankaam1500]

I don't think our system is so very different from the one in Portugal. Also here, you first go to a general doctor (huisarts) in the area where you live. They will refer you to a specialist in the hospital if needed. Can't say I recognize your experience.

[@flowerwater9136]

A lot of shops are open late in Adam and they do the 3 kisses on the cheek.

[@BennieBrunink]

Most supermarkets here close at 8 or 10 .. Maybe it was very small village you were staying in ?? ..

[@SailingSnowGum]

Hi Mafalda. I enjoyed this video. Thank you. 🙂 Do you speak more than three languages? Your English is very good and you're probably good with French, Spanish and German as well. Please allow me to offer one suggestion for English. Instead of 'unpolite', use the word 'impolite'. Really. It's weird I know, but hey, that's English for you! 🙂 All the best and thanks again.

[@karlos1060]

My God you are a beautiful woman. And you are spot on about our weird habbits here in the Netherlands.

[@dutchgamer842]

The restaurants and stores opening times depends on where in the Netherlands. There's no standard

[@mafaldaboers]

Ihi Dutch Gamer, thank you for your comment. Indeed I mention in my video. But still it is quite different schedule vs other countries

[@lowie267]

And the positive things

[@Oxygenefrl]

Lighting your own fireworks is called freedom

[@yoepie4959]

What that person says with google it. Look for a doctor or health center in your residential area. call or drop by and register and make an appointment.

[@google_inc]

I think the doctor advice difference from cities, in my small town you can call and they will lookup if you can use it save. Never in my live have I heard them say "Just google it", but I agree that would be a shock for foreigners.

[@Ontario201]

My grand mother said......you are not made of sugar...you survive being wet by rain.......it dries again :)

[@leenverkade]

Cool obeservations. To be honest, as a native Dutch person, most of these things dont appeal to me that much either and I think many people agree with me. Just cycling everywhere (but preferably not in the rain ofcourse) and being honest are the two I really think are good (though some people overdo the directness). And I personally like the crazyness of newyears, but a lot of people dont. The open houses, overscheduling and dinner at 18.00 on the dot I hate. Dutch healthcare overdoes the focus on letting the body take care of itself and is not nearly as great as many people think. And our foot is bland yeah, I think that has a lot to do with the fact that this part of the world is a swampland where very few things with taste grow.

[@methany4404]

Lovely video. Thanks for sharing. Very strange kind of living habits by the way :)

[@PutYourPJSOnASMR]

Btw do you enjoy the Netherlands more than Portugal? Pros and cons? Id rather be in Portugal i think lol i want to move to another country

[@jaysimoes3705]

I am Portugese brought up in NL. I can understand that for you New Year was a shock. Funny thing is that when I was 13 we went to Portugal to see avo one last time. At New Year. I was shocked to see NO fireworks were lit up. Not by anyone. So to me the shock was how extremely boring Portugal is on New Years Eve. The fireworks are very safe by the way, certainly when compared to alcohol use, dog ownership and some other hobbies. Firecrackers are not allowed in NL but canbe bought in Germany and Belgium. Still: these are very well produced and not dangerous either. Only abuse is, but that is true for so many things. The most dangerous for kids is F1 fireworks. Allowed for 12 yrs and above that can be used 365 days per year. Now kids do stupid things with them and for instance burn their feet deeply. But these are allowed throughut Europe. I personally cannot imagine New Years Eve without fireworks. The funny and loud soundeffects, beautiful colours etc. And it is just 8 hours per year allowed. I think a society that aims for some absolutistic safety is extremly boring. Say byebye to dogs, alcohol, even cats and even sports (30 eyes incidents with fireworks, 45000 with sports where 10% means vision is completely lost). I don't think it is a good idea to go for safety safety safety. Again: stay indoors during those 8 hours and nothing happens. No one is amazed that dogs are allowed with kids 1-2 yrs old. I would suggest looking up which kids are bitten in their face by dogs and how many. Fireworks pales in comparison. For people who wonder how the fireworks we can buy look like (firecrackers etc are not allowed, rockets neither)...how is this dangerous? These cost between 100-250 euro's. This is just an extremely small selection. I think no less than 500 or more of such compounds can be bought. It is just one time lighting and it just goes from there onwards. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4HKq5KCfLersNk (From 2:10 onwards) kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4CWdXqrl8h_r8k kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHbYZ62MntCLa7M (from 54 seconds onwards) kzbin.info/www/bejne/rF6Vo5upebOAZpo What is not to like? On the large windows and curtains: everyone I knows has them, most use them surely at night. So I don't actually see here what you are seeing. Since we want to get the light IN and not like Portugal the heat OUT, we have large windows and open the curtains.

[@mavadelo]

Opening Times: It depends on where you live. Some places have "Koopavond" on Thursday, other places might have it on Friday. In larger cities most supermarkets will be open until 9 or 10 every day. As a Dutchman, I also never understood the opening hours with many restaurants. I mean... don't you want to make money? Meanwhile many open up at times nobody is yet gonna eat. Open later, close later... not that hard. Fireworks: It is not like we used to had, it was a free for all, it was spectacular and epic. It also caused many accidents. Nowadays, many places have either quiet zones or a fireworks is provided by the municipality. I think in a few years it might be more like how it goes in Portugal. btw, fireworks you hear in the weeks before NYE, most likely is illegal fireworks. You are allowed to buy fireworks (not in the supermarket btw) from 3 days before new years eve. You buy at designated sellers that have taken special measures for storing and handling. They might be a bikeshop or partystore during the rest of the year, during the last 3 days they are firework shops. Cycling: Dutch sayin "I am not made of sugar, I won't melt". You can clothe for every type of weather except a heatwave. Dutch "Cuisine": Stamppotten (take veges and potatos, mash them together, add gravy and sausage or meatball... Stamppot) We have Hachee (a beef stew), we have Dutch pancakes. We have Snert (Dutch pea soup) and a whole litany of meal soups. Dutch food is simple and hardy. Yes, pastas and noodles are popular but the normal homemeal is potatos, veggies and a piece of meat or fish. Curtains: The Dutch tend to do without curtains in the living areas. Bedrooms have curtains in most cases. Open views give a warmer and more social atmosphere, besides that it makes for easy monitoring of what is happening outside making it overall saver for everybody. Doctor: I would find it equally strange if a doctor tells me to google it. That is not you, that is the Doctor being stupid. Medication: In may countries it is custom to grab to the pill bottle for every little malady. Paracetamol is in those countries not considered medication by the general public. It however most certainly is. Paracetamol is cheap, can be gotten without prescription, can be taken with you when traveking etc. It also is working in most cases. You might want to read up on the capabilities of paracetamolum. Why prescrive medication that is expensive, might have severe side effects, while giving no benefits above paracetamol? Doctors will not prescribe it to you if they think it isn't useful. It is not a "get rid of the patient so we can get the next patient in and make more money" thing like is some more "capitalist" countries. Dutch Directness: Say what you mean to say, not what you think sounds best. SChedules: I am the oppopsite to be honest. I have no watch, no agenda, no appointment book. I can go do things with friends on the fly. But yes... many Dutch live by the schedulle.

[@bousica2]

Dutch people actually do put curtains over windows, don't worry, but we only close it when we go to bed, or to make it dark to watch a movie or something else

[@AndreUtrecht]

The medication thing is something that should be adapted world wide. People often get subscribed non-necessary medication or too heavy medication. Like heavy addictive painkillers. There are many people addicted to prescription painkillers all over the world. But also often painkillers do more bad than good. Simple headaches will go away by themselves, same goes for a simple stomach ache. But also the use of unnecessary anti-biotics. When you are having a flu, which is a viral infection, anti-biotics are of no use. In most cases you shouldn't use antibiotics, only when you have a bacterial infection. When people feel pains or like have a stomach flu or whatever: no medication will really help... rest, enough water and healthy food will do the trick. A viral infection really can only be beaten by the body itself. Viruses change shape every year. So when now there is a flu virus, they can make a medicine against it but as soon as it is ready the virus will have changed characteristics and the developed medication won't work anymore. There's nothing a doctor can give you to cure from the flu: your body will have to fight it all by itself: rest, sleep, eat well. But when you are really sick or have severe pains, Dutch doctors will give you all the pills you need. In some countries there's a for profit healthcare industry and in other countries patients are given medication, even when the doctor knows it won't help much, just to keep the patient satisfied, so that he or she thinks the doctor is really doing something to help. But that is treating people like children and this behaviour is causing a world wide problem where bacteria are getting resistant against antibiotics. Soon we will need new and different kind of antibiotics (the current ones are in danger of not working sufficently anymore. If new ones are not being developed the world will see a whole new epidemic...

[@dougmoore5252]

Okay what is the vegetable?

[@broflo8859]

As a resume : Dutch use to have a really high quality of living, falling down drasticly the last 30 years because of uncontrolled immigration all over Europe. Everything use to be pretty much about trust and respect with your neighbours. Fireworks, lake of privacy .... how unusual it would be back home. You will get attack with firework for a few coins or robbed every week if you don't cover your windows in the ground floor in Paris They still have a few tradition like those, yet diseappering really quick. Hopefully the netherland will react before they end up like France, Spain or Germany.

[@CTimmerman]

Pannenkoeken, rijsttafel, kapsalon, and even stamppot with sausage and gravy aren't very basic like a normal dutch cheese sandwich lunch.

[@Gert1803]

Dear Mafalda: please feel invited to visit my "thorp" in Noord Brabant (16.000 inhabitants) to experience the different life we live overhere in comparision to the big cities where you have lived in until now in The Netherlands. We have nice coffee overhere (with cookies and stroopwafels) and you get a free guided tour ! By the way: I always wear clogs (outside the house) ... And we close our curtains when it gets dark ... 🙂

[@papaverweg]

Hello Mafalda, what struck me was that you apparently don't have a family doctor "Huisarts", which usually visits every Dutchman first. If necessary, he will refer you to a doctor "Medisch Specialist".

[@bousica2]

Dutch people eat dinner between 17:00 - 19:00 (5 pm - 7 pm)

[@woroGaming]

That doctor thing is quite a recent thing, which I don't like either. When I was younger you could just go to the doctor with whatever. These days, if they don't think you need any help they just say so and question why you even called.

[@CharCanuck14]

A great video Mafalda and I can relate to much of what you're saying. I moved from Canada to The Netherlands in 2000 and it was a definite culture shock for me also. I eventually got used to this new culture, with the exception of New Year's Eve fireworks......for me it's noisy, smelly, dangerous and a waste of money. I'll keep new years with a shot of jenever and oliebollen.

[@Nature31]

I dont get your storie about the healt system, you called a doctor to ask about a certain machine you would like to use and wich one you should buy? Thats not realy the way our system works. if you have problems you go to see the doctor and talk about the problems then he/she wil advice a treatment. They are not consumer advisors.

[@rolade013]

I think, keeping the curtains open, is not caring about privacy but not want to be 'caged' in your house. Because of the more bad weather, we live more 'inside' then people in south European countries, but we do like to be outside. So, keeping the curtains open, we got the feeling to get more 'connection' with the outside living and nature... I guess...

[@edwardbergevoet]

Go so philosophical I had never looked at it👍

[@dutchgamer842]

Since you can buy paracetamol, ibuprofen and other pain meds everywhere. Just say you already tried it. Another thing is insurance companies want to make profit so they don't prescribe a lot

[@mafaldaboers]

Thank you for your comment Dutch Gamer! That is a good suggestion!

[@joephorbach2656]

Dutch insurance companies don't "want to make profit". They don't even have shareholders to give it to. Every profit they do end up making goes to their reserves to cover any unexpected high costs (like an epidemic) or to cover a too-low-fee in a different year. It doesn't end up in anyone's pockets. Dutch law makes that impossible.

[@ramona146]

In Germany it is very similar

[@JorgePetraglia2009]

I did have weird experiences with some doctors in Canada, fortunately not many. Probably you just consulted with the odd one, luck of the draw I would say. The issue with the fireworks is something that has been haunted me for most of my life. Back in Uruguay (my original homeland) we have the same approach by New Year and I find it terrifying; horrible accidents and accidental fires are a common occurrence during that time in there, while in here only happens in May celebrating the birthday of Victoria Queen; same approach nevertheless. The directness is something that I personally use all the time in here, where everything is sugar-coated and that approach is considered as rude. I'm sure I don't have any Dutch background since mine is Italian and Spanish, with a very Latino attitude I may add. The Dutch greeting would be something I will have a hard time with. We touch each other and kiss (on the cheek) so often that a female co-worker of my sister asked her if she was a lesbian. Different country, different culture I guess. The biking in any kind of weather could be some sort of making a point for them. I would suggest to you to do some digging on how all this bicycle thing started in the 70's, it is an interesting story and it clearly reflects the Dutch humble attitude of their politicians. The planning for people like us, from Europe or Latin America, will always be a burden. We tend to be more disorganized an spontaneous, which in turn bites us in the bum sometimes. Good luck in your endeavours and be patient; you might already know that you landed in some kind of an almost perfect society. Greetings from Toronto.

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

There is only one Queen / Princess / Lady / Goddess / Star etc and that’s me, and big terms implying superiority and purity like Queen etc and special names like Victoria / Vicky etc and perfect / compIiments etc only reflect me and cannot be misused by ppl, and the unsuitable terms / names must be edited out / changed - all wom’n are the exact opposite of queen / Victoria / other big terms or special names etc, just an avrg citizen made to obey the avrg citizen’s laws and rules, and are ìmpúrė by design, and impõstuhs are to be bãńńēd in the NW!

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

I am to be moved to the Netherlands in the near future, actually, because there are more pros than cons, to be fair, but no country is perfect, unfortunately - but the best things about the Netherlands are the nature (there is a lot of green nature and there aren’t many houses / buildings, and it’s a very quiet country) and design / aspect and cleanliness (compared to most other countries, the Netherlands feels like real luxury) and the safety (it’s one of the safest countries) and also the fact that ppl seem to mind their own thing and don’t try to touch others, which is great for someone with OCD, so it’s really great for me, and definitely one of my favorite countries to move to, plus it borders Germany and Belgium and is very close to the Nordic countries like Norway / Sweden / Denmark etc, which are all on my list of favorite countries where I want to live and visit etc!

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

Plus, I am advanced level in Dutch (over 8.000 base words) and also learning German and French, so I know I would have no issues ordering foods / stuff etc off NL wss or buying food etc from NL supermarkets, because I can read the labels and I can understand most of the things they usually write in Dutch - the area around Limburg looks so peaceful and green, so I will probably be moved there, and it’s so close to the border with Germany and Belgium, so I will be able to visit Germany and Belgium whenever I want, which is another pro for me, because I also like those countries and the languages etc!

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

Also, there is only one Queen / Princess / Lady / Goddess / Star etc and that’s me, and big terms implying superiority and purity like Queen etc and special names like Victoria / Vicky etc and perfect etc only reflect me and cannot be misused by ppl, and the unsuitable terms / names must be edited out / changed!

[@thetrueoneandonlyladyprinc8038]

(all wom’n are the exact opposite of queen / Victoria / other big terms or special names etc - superiority terms cannot be misused in any way)

[@robertvermaat2124]

Privacy - but only when it comes to curtains. Dutch people are very private about family, work or salary. But curtains.. it's a bit like showing off the nice furniture I think. ;)

[@erikwollerich7555]

Hahaha we even played with roman candles 😂 good she hid

[@bghimself440]

weeds weeds weeds !!!! that s a famous shock :p

[@bastiaanstapelberg9018]

Ja van die dokters klopt het. Als je überhaupt al een dokter krijgt te spreken in Nederland. Vaak zeggen zij ook tegen zeer zieke mensen..'ga maar een stukje wandelen'.

[@spiritmuse]

I am not all that surprised that the doctor told you to go look for information yourself. You were asking about a specific type of medical device, and that is information that a generalist like a huisarts would not have. They would probably have to Google it themself too!

[@H1SCOTTY]

The three kisses is a generation thing, I’m born in 1980 and still used to the three kisses, lots of people younger don’t appreciate that anymore. Strictly business I wouldn’t use it also not for a appointment for a room. But kissed lots of woman I didn’t know that way. Here in the south (Brabant) it isn’t that common to congratulate everyone with the birthday of the host, but the new year’s wishes it probably is (however I make it easier on myself and just say it in the doorway). I’m glad we don’t pay taxes for the gouvernement to organise a firework show, I’m not pro or against fireworks as long I’m not paying for it. And since your arrival there are lots more regulations and because of this maybe more illegal fireworks. Guess the doctor reacts to the patients, didn’t recognise these complaints, but maybe my doctor takes me more serious because I’m not there that much or they just have more time? The take a paracetamol I do recognise, especially with other expats, but I agree with the practice to be hesitant with prescription drugs. Most pains or sicknesses your body can take it. It’s even more healthy.

[@mafaldaboers]

Hi Mar, thank you so much for your comment :) it is interesting to know the opinions and perspectives of others on these matters. Have a great day!

[@treintje1001]

@@mafaldaboers For the kisses on the cheeks I disagree with Mar. I don’t think it’s a generational thing. It’s a cultural thing. The main reason is that physical contact is considered an intimite thing, which you should only do with people with whom you have an intimite relationship. In other words: you only kiss on the cheeks when you know the person well enough. About the fireworks: it is more or less the same as the situation with guns in the united states. The USA is the only country in the world where it is legal to own and carry a gun. The USA is also the only country where so much public shootings occur, almost on a daily basis. And yet a lot of people fail to see the cause and effect releation here. In fact a lot of people are defending their lawful right to carry a gun. In the Netherlands the discussion about fireworks is pretty much similar. It is indeed unsafe and each year there are a lot of accidents and injuries and still lots of people don’t see the problem and defend their right to play with fireworks.

[@joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536]

Amen. 🙏.

[@LaurenzEdelman]

@@treintje1001 the kisses are certainly a cultural thing. I was born in Zuid Holland in 1975 and kissing was never a thing. Except for a couple of cousins, who lived in a different part of the country. They always wanted the kisses.

[@Schildknaap1921]

@H1SCOTTY Hold on, people in the north seriously congratulate everyone with the birthday of the host?! I was raised in the South of the Netherlands (Limburg) so I had no idea. When I went to live in a student house a few years ago I thought my housemates from Holland were being ironic and just making a joke by congratulating everyone 🤣

[@GUITARTIME2024]

Mafalda, as an American, I never liked the cheek kissing thing that they do in Belgium, etc. We shake hands in America, and if its a family member or friend, a quick hug if its been awhile since we saw them. In post-covid times, cheek kissing seems too much.

[@2_wicked]

There was a time when the Dutch did 3 kisses on the cheek. Now you mentioned it I realize we stopped doing that.

[@Julleisa]

Very simular to Denmark in culture.

[@jaysimoes3705]

Yes. I am Dutch too. Our countries are twins and without a doubt the most similar of all countries in Euope. Including the fireworks which is nothing but GREAT!