10 Dutch Culture Shocks in the Netherlands | An American’s Perspective

[@tatjanaarmendariz2813]

I’m from the Netherlands and live in California now; I’ve also lived in NM and TX. Racism is all around us coming from all ethnicities, you only need ears to hear it! Growing up in the NL differences were openly discussed and embraced and we bonded over our love of food.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing! Hope you’re enjoying the sunshine 🌞 I need some more of it right now 😂

[@mandan8945]

I was born and raised in The Netherlands. I'm 42 years old, of brown origins and I have never experienced racism here. The only time someone told me to go back to my own country was a Polish guy who didnt even speak Dutch. Moreover, I was raised with 'black' Pete and I never ever thought it was racist at all.

[@hi.davidwen]

Great to hear and thanks for sharing!

[@0animalproductworld558]

black Pete actually really creep me out. I don't like it at all and yeah my skin is whiter than many white people especially during the winter

[@newsieboys1171]

That's a tough issue. It's worth noting that "acting" including impersonating other people like any art form like painting and music is universal. What's not so common is a shared history and culture. Black Facing has a notorious history in America because of its history with racism. It freaks people from America and some other Western countries a lot when they see something like that elsewhere. It's the same with anything else. Like the British and commonwealth term for cigarettes, "the f**". Of course, it means something entirely in the US.

[@shazzshank6393]

Yeah sure.. hate on us Polish people :)... I got called names by black people in den haag, and I don't whine about it all over the web get a grip dude

[@bobje2392]

@@hi.davidwen zwarte piet is a chimney sweep, look at pictures of coal miners thats what they are representing.

[@frankhooper7871]

I grew up in California, live in England, and regularly visit the Netherlands. I encountered way more racism in California than I've ever seen in England or the Netherlands.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks Frank. Oh yeah racism in the US...that's a whole different beast

[@franklin5000]

Nah white people are very racist in general. I've encountered racism from a dutch lady in my church and from white liberals in california. Not so much from the English but wouldn't doubt that is happens too - but white liberals and european immigrants to the US are the worst.

[@abandonedfragmentofhope5415]

Just because some place is more racist doesn't mean that it excuses another place's racism.

[@cocoaorange1]

I agrre, no matter the degree, it is wrong , cruel and stupid.

[@NisseOhlsen]

why is that, you think? Also, why has the US become so divided ? It's almost as if a wall is going through the American society.

[@simdejong9073]

The black Pete thing is really controversial in the Netherlands when it comes around these days, as the population is devided between a side saying "It's just a children's holiday, who cares?" and a side saying it's racist and should be banned. I remember going to a sinterklaas parade when i was like 6 or so with my Ghanese friend, who also wore black face paint despite already being dark skinned XD. I can definitely see why it's bizzare to see if you're a non-Dutch person though.

[@therabbithat]

The people who say its childlike.. Why can't Black Pete have blue-black skin instead then? He's specifically Pete of African descent and it's so creepy

[@TheSuperappelflap]

@@therabbithat Because in the past people here didnt have blue face paint, we had black shoe polish and thats it. Pete is black because shoe polish is commonly available, cheap, and its effective at making sure the little kids dont recognize that Pete is actually their cousin Henk.

[@gerjannevanhees1496]

Considering Zwarte Piet as being something racism, you do NOT know the story of Sinterklaas and his help! No way it is a racist thing. @therabbithat @@TheSuperappelflap

[@laurenzpero6050]

Ohh boy, the good old Black Pete discussion. In the probably most accepting country of the world you should look further than the black Pete. This wasn't even a topic until the rest of the world needed to have an opinion on something they heard somewhere in the news. I'd say let the Dutch ppl decide instead of the New York Times. As a Dutchman I find Halloween too scary for Children and is Krampus in Austria a creature straight from hell, but then again, if I didn't grow up there and didn't have the full experience, who am I to judge their tradition? However, since it seems to offend some fellow Dutchmen, I'd say it should be banned and we should move on. Just to make sure we don't get as divided as the US.

[@prinzessinaufderknallerbse]

@@laurenzpero6050 some traditions are really weird... As an Austrian I still find Krampus scary and I avoid goin out on 5th of December (Krampusday). Some (hopefully few) people here still use it to "educate" their children by telling them to well-behave otherwise Krampus will come and take them, it's so backward behavior.

[@2500dozo]

Well David, i am a coloured Asian person, who grew up with black Pete in the Netherlands. I have never seen this as discrimination and never met discrimination in dutch society as i am not an oversensitive person. I had all thechances and options as any dutch person. Yes sometimes kids said something abt my skin colour but same thing goes for kids with red hair.

[@hi.davidwen]

Glad to hear you never experienced discrimination. I know it's a sensitive topic. I am only offering a perspective as an outsider as what came to me as a shock (which is all relative based on where we all come from). Thank you for sharing your story.

[@-_YouMayFind_-]

Yes red haired kids in my classroom as well.

[@Dutchbelg3]

@@hi.davidwen Maybe (I am pretty sure) you feel appauled about zwarte piet because you associate the tradition with the way the USA is dealing with race diversity. The origin is very clear (to the Dutchies that took the effort to research the tradition) : A christian bisshop in Myra (Turkey) actually took care of the welfare of people around him by employing them and making them part of his house hold to keep them from poverty. When the Mores started to fight christianity he had to flee to Spain but he took his friends with him. Saint Nicolas saw a lot of children in poverty so he gave on his birthday gifts to the children but he did not want the children or parents to know as he did not want to show off his filantropic behaviour. The Netherlands came under Spanish rule and the tradition migrated to the Netherlands. Santa Claus is actually derived from him. And Santa Claus also has his helpers. Very discriminatory to the Elfs! ;-) The clothing the Pieten wear is derived from the clothes that were fashionable at the Spanish rule period. And not exactly poor and shabby (as slaves would be) but festive. Yes the Dutch made the "Zwarte Pieten" evolve in black curly guys as they were exotic and strange to the common Dutchies at that time. But Sint Nicolaas is also a caricature of a Catholic Bishop. It is a festive tradition, never meant to be a historic re-enactment. And for comparison: Thanksgiving in the USA is also a tradition sourced by a clash of cultures (European Invaders teaching the wild "Indians" some good western ethics ;-) ) OK just watched the next part: You are really bullshitting ... exaggerate to the extreme. I don't know with whom you are hanging out but these are not my friends: Never heard the Hanky Panky song and about lunch : we do eat so much more than bitterballen and bread and cheese. If you prefer burgers over a much healthier Dutch lunch .. up to you.. that's democracy and real freedom. And you complain about going to the doctor??? Tssssss really? I am not saying Dutch healthcare is perfect but compared to the USA... And then you scold the public urinals (which is not a thing in the whole of the Netherlands, just tourist-overflown Amsterdam where tourists think less than 1 Euro is too much to pay for a clean toilet.. Just to prevent drunk guys pissing against everything.. Yeah... then the US public stinking toilets are soooooo much better : 4 walls which are not connected but leave a hole on each side and leave space just under your knees and just over your head. Farting noises , splashing, smells are readily shared with every one! Yessss clearly so much better !

[@jsb7975]

@@hi.davidwen well you know , if people tell you you are a white supremecist again and again and tell you to be ashamed , you get sleapy from all that wokeness . You got statues of black holy Mary, every year after christmas januari 6 one of the three dressed up kings (drie-koningen) Singing in the streets for every house, is made-up black. In the Netherlands itself there was no slavery and black Piet came from the Spanish moors (=blacks) (maroccan occupation in Spain) and were dressed in the 16th century manor of a knight, noble-men from the Spanish courts Knecht (knight) like 'musketiers' for the Saint in this case. Look at their costumes.

[@vykkdraygo1234]

@@hi.davidwen I can see how the things that David Wen witnessed were shocking to him. They are racist regardless of their origin or how the race in power sees them. In the US, the discrimination and bigotry is much more passive-aggressive and hidden. I've spoken to quite a few Asian Americans who didn't know people were being racist to them when I, as a Hispanic American whose father constantly was put down for his accent and the color of his skin, could see that people were discriminating against them. I had a conversation with a Ph.D. educated professor at Purdue University that told me he did not know people being racist to him until 2 decades into his life in the US. I think the things David Wen witnessed were so shocking because in the US these things would still happen, but they would be performed in a seemingly innocent way. For instance, wearing Black face in the US is taboo, but you can fire someone without cause from their job in the US. And people are fired a lot for the color of their skin, but they are never told this because you can fire someone without telling them why. This is an imperfect example, but it can be extended to many other ways of life in the US.

[@i.k.8868]

I commend you for talking about racism in the Netherlands as a foreign resident youtuber. Many seem to shy away from the topic.

[@EelcoHillenius]

Zwarte Piet is awkward for people who didn't grew up in the Netherlands, but it's about as racist as Santa's Elves being a dig towards small people. There isn't a racist intent behind it. One variant of racism I've come across visiting NL with my wife are misplace jokes. They weren't bad natured per se, but my wife got really upset once when a guy behind a fish stand on the market made some sort of joke about her being Chinese (she's Thai). I don't even remember exactly what, but it was a good example of Dutch people being 'lomp'/ insensitive that can really sit wrong with people who aren't familiar with jokes 'Dutch style'.

[@Ken_Jones]

I grew up in 2 cultures: Dutch and Turkish. Born in the Netherlands with a Dutch mom who mostly raised me, but when at my Turkish family I also feel at home. Made me really open minded. 1. The racism. So many Dutch people indeed don't know something is racist. My Dutch mom lately said "hey poepchinees" (as a fun nickname) at my toddler, and I was like "mom, you can't say that, my best friend is Chinese. Think about how he would feel if you say that in front of him". She was shocked, because she is an ultra kind person. 2. The Doctor. My wife was pregnant and had a lot of pain. But you don't go to a hospital, but to a person guides you through your pregnancy. She said the kid (6 weeks) was healthy, already a beating hearth. The pain must be normal, is what my wife was thinking. But a few weeks later she was in the hospital, because the the kid didn't nest in the womb, but outside and it grew somewhere where it couldn't so it blew it's surroundings. My wife nearly died. All ended well, we have 2 healthy kids now and the hospital guided her pregnancies very very well. But to get a gynecologist to guide your pregnancies and see you every 2 weeks is not easy to get here in the Netherlands...

[@hi.davidwen]

Wow thanks for sharing. I felt the emotional pain…sorry to hear you and your wife had to go through all that pain. I hope all is better now. Yeah I’ve heard many stories like that unfortunately… And in regards to racism…I like to believe most people are good…and they have good intentions…but many people are ignorant or unaware of how what they think or say could hurt others…

[@M0_z]

This!!! Finally a real experience

[@EelcoHillenius]

The again, you know Chinese people call Western people 'big noses', right? :-) But yeah, 'poep Chinees' is one of these things we can retire by now.

[@annebokma4637]

Congratulations, glad it did work out. It is true, you have to exaggerate to get seen by a specialist ASAP. It should be part of inburgering 🤔

[@miew8204]

Yeah the second thing is also somewhat rooted in culture. We just think that things go fine. Home births are very common in the Netherlands. we be like, if something goes wrong we still can go to the hospital. I myself was born at home, my sister before me as well. My brother the first one was born in the hospital. And my parents both from the early 50's were also both born at home. and actually many people i know. You call the midwife when something happens, she will come and help. And only when things get complicated you call an ambulance and go to the hospital. The Dutch women are just not impressed by the risks of child birth. but it sucks that your wife went trough that. i hope she's fine.

[@PietHein684]

David, in the Netherlands when you call the GP office you are talking to one of the GP's medical assistant. They are trained to assess your symptoms, and will confer with the GP if necessary and call you back. Just tell them what is wrong with you in a direct way without exaggerating. If the assistant thinks it is serious enough to see your GP they will schedule an appointment with the GP. The assistants might also give you advice themselves. The assistants can also help with a lot of minor things for which you do need to bother your GP. Without this system the GP would not be able to have a practice with so many patients. It is actually very efficient.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing Patrick. May need to call the GP again soon so this is good to know 🙏

[@M0_z]

Medical system is pure bullshit, you call it and they're indeed "trained" but to prescribe paracetamol. Let's acknowledge the fact that their system is not good as they make you think...

[@arjanpetersen]

@2:49. That’s funny… a lot of people don’t know that Cariben (Aruba, etc) is also Dutch. But is inhibited by black people. These people have Sinterklaas every year as well. And love zwarte piet. They don’t want it to be changed. In my view a weird narrative is given to zwarte piet by people

[@Handwithaface]

I'm always a little surprised when I hear immigrants say the food in the Netherlands isn't diverse. Sure, a standard Dutch company lunch is pretty shameful. But if you live in a city and you cook for yourself, what common ingredients can you not get here, that are easily available in the US? Maybe it's just me; I was very surprised and annoyed at not being able to find sambal and ketjap in New York supermarkets.

[@hi.davidwen]

Haha I think that's the beauty of these 'culture shocks'-we all come from different cultures and have expectations of what's good/bad/right/wrong. I do really like the supermarkets here (I mean with Netherlands being the #2 largest exporter of agriculture). Oh yeah...I can imagine grocery shopping in New York to just be...well hectic and chaotic.

[@Handwithaface]

@@hi.davidwen Oh, it's not so much that it was hectic. It's just that many things are not as easily available over there as they are here.

[@anikavisser4649]

Hmm you need to go to an Indonesian supermarket and also a lot of the food you can’t find in the US are probably dutchified Indonesian food.

[@Handwithaface]

@@anikavisser4649 Not much dutchified about the best ketjap in Dutch supermarkets, or the sambals you can get at many tokos in Amsterdam.

[@-gemberkoekje-5547]

We have great ans fresh jngredients here

[@el7griego]

"If you're in Nederland and you're looking for a coffeeshop, don't ask for a coffeeshop. That means something completely different" xD Loved that one. From my side, what was a complete shock to hear in your vid, was how quickly Americans seem to go to see a doctor. Indeed, we in Nederland go to the doctor when we feel our heart doesn't work properly for instance. If we have the flue for instance, we don't bother the Huisarts, we drink hot tea and call our employer that we won't be coming to work for the next week or 2 :)

[@LinnLinnok-fe5tq]

Not seeing a doctor when something is wrong is not noble or good. Seeing a doctor when something is wrong and you don’t know what it is or need relief, is the practical thing to do. Also FYI, Americans cannot just call off work whenever they get a cold. Workers in the US are lucky to get a week’s worth of sick days allowed per year. Often they may take vacation days if they have any left, to get time off for illness. Or they just go to work sick. So they NEED to see a doctor and get some relief asap in order to keep going to work all the time. Very few Americans have the luxury of being able to just call off work anytime they feel sick.

[@MarianneExJohnson]

There are plenty of Americans who don't go to see a doctor even when they're sick, because they don't have insurance and can't afford to pay out of their own pocket. But even if you do have good health insurance, there is this insane concept of "sick days," where you're not supposed to get sick more than 5 days a year, or it will cost you your paid days off, if you even have those. It's really a pretty awful country if you're not in perfect health. I've lived there for 20 years (in excellent health, thank goodness), and now that I'm back in the Netherlands, I'm never leaving again!

[@OrionKane]

Hey David, just wanted to say I love your videos. Coming from the US, I want to move to the Netherlands, and watching your videos makes me feel more prepared (and excited)! It's also quite brave to speak about your experience with race, I really appreciated hearing your perspective.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for watching and for the kind words. Glad to hear they've been helpful! What else do you need to make the jump? =)

[@OrionKane]

@@hi.davidwen I need to finish my degree here first, but I'll be studying abroad this summer, so I'll get to visit soon enough! Next I have to convince my girl to come with 😁

[@hi.davidwen]

@@OrionKane Best of luck! Especially with getting the girl to come...but hey, cheap and accessible travel around Europe (Paris one weekend? Florence the next?)...who wouldn't want to come?!

[@mairaineplayzgames2205]

considering black pete, there are also black people dressing up as black pete, just because of this holiday, a tradition to make kids happy Black Pete originates as a slave, Saint Nicholas bought many slaves, but let them free. they worked for the Saint with a paycheck on his property, they where not his slaves, but his labourers hanky panky shanghai...yes. defenetly wrong. no idea how it originated, fortunetley i never learned this in school though... 13:39 the bite wasnt big enough,???? what kind of crappy hospital do you go to?! as long as you have insurance, the doctors and nurses are supposed to help you! no matter the size of injury or illness! and for some people, theyre GP could live in another city, cant hop on your bike to see them if you are terribly ill or wounded!

[@Ivovify]

I am dutch, living in the Netherlands for most of my life. I have never heard that chinese song and know for sure this is not taught at schools. The Sinterklaas thing is really not meant to be racist, it is sad that people look at it this way. I am never hearing anything about people dressing up as Santa Claus which is similar to this. Dressing up as someone you are not and taking from a culture that is not yours. But this is a discussion going on here for quite some years now.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing Ivo. Appreciate these constructive comments, they’re learning opportunities. Yeah I am only sharing my view of what I see as an outsider…and I’ve definitely learned a lot about the history, especially from these comments too. But dressing up as Santa Claus is well a bit different from my eyes, he’s seen as a superior (like a superhero) on the outside. But most people will not paint their faces white to be like Santa Claus too…

[@Hephaestios01]

The Chinese song is a part of a whole song, quite old though so its not as common anymore. The whole song is singing happy birthday in different languages for pre-schoolers. So you have a french part, english part, "chinese part" and a dutch part. Not sure where it originated from but the thing is that no kid at 5 years old knows how to sing happy birthday in 4 or 5 languages so its just an imitation and i think the body language part of it comes from how you teach young children to imitation and association. Never seen adults without kids do it before though since as an adult you understand that its weird to do.

[@franklin5000]

You are dutch so you are a racist. All we have to know. Thanks IVO.

[@Consequator]

The black face of 'Black Pete' is due to the chimney soot yes, the real reason that was thought up was because they needed a disguise so the kids wouldn't go 'why is uncle Pete helping out Sinterklaas' and they were used as a way to try and get kids to behave. Because kids that did not behave would get taken to Spain. That wouldn't work if they could see the undisguised faces. Charcoal was more readily available and easier to do than full face masks that would really get in the way and most likely freak kids out a LOT.

[@NinaW1n]

Yeah what Hephaestos sais its correct, its usually sung also in French, German, Spanish, and some other languages if you know them. But we dont sing the hanky panky shanghai part anymore in schools. (Let alone make the eye gestures.) But it was sung untill the ‘90s i think. Actually the song has many versions now, ‘happy birthday to you, in de wei staat een koe, en de koe zegt I love you, tegen Winnie de pooh.’ ‘Broodje knakworst knak-knak’ and ‘tra-la-la-la pizza’ are some songs the children came up with in my class.

[@nannejandejong7112]

About Saint Nicolas and black Piet: Saint Nicolas was a bisshop who lived in Myra, now Turkey. He saved children from slavery. Black Piets dance in the street . For me they were the children saved from slavery. Ofcourse they were happy and looked like slaves.

[@drtonimatrisa]

David! I studied in The Netherlands so I know exactly you are talking about. I really like your content and your presentation, I think your Chanel will blow up pretty soon. Good luck dear.

[@hi.davidwen]

Hi Dr. Trisa - thanks for the kind words and motivation! I also hope you continue sharing your knowledge through your videos!

[@herb6677]

I wish, we'd live in a world where everyone can color his face in any color without being accused of being racist. You can color your shoes, you can color your shorts, your shirts, your hair, your ties, even your lies, but not your skin, apart from your lips or eyes. That does not make the slightest sense. This is diverse Europe, not prude America. If I'd like to paint my face once in a while looking Chinese, why should it not be allowed? Why can I change my cloths but not the color of my skin? We Europeans like beautiful faces, no matter if they are black oder Asian or whatever. We have a different mindset and many of us are very open minded.

[@hi.davidwen]

That would be a beautiful world if we could truly accept each person for who we are. Unfortunately, there is a lot of history behind "race"...and imitating another race could feel very demeaning, especially if the person you are imitating comes from a marginalized race. Yeah it's complicated. I also hope we can treat each other with kindness and respect...as humans. But humans are also very complicated...

[@fanmael5636]

I'm 62, lived most of my life in the Netherlands, apart from a few years abroad and never ever heard the Hanky Panky song. My son is half-Chinese and has never ever been confronted with any form of racism. Go figure.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Good to hear your son has never experienced racism

[@TheSuperappelflap]

Oh I definitely heard that song, we sang it in school in the 90s. Wasnt really considered racist back then. We also didnt have any Asian kids in class. In fact I didnt meet any Asian people back then except Chinese people running Chinese restaurants and the occasional (half) Indonesian person who moved here during decolonization. People cant be hurt by racism if you basically live in an ethnostate.

[@scorpioman1964]

I'm Dutch 58 yo , but sorry never heard of the Hanky Panky song. Never

[@hi.davidwen]

Sounds like it wasn't taught everywhere. I don't know 🤷‍♂️ But some of my Asian Dutch friends grew up with it. Thanks for your comment

[@koen3415]

@@hi.davidwen I'm 20 years old and almost all my friends know the song and now realise how weird it actually is

[@maartjewaterman1193]

Neither do I but I do remember how Dutch people would call Asian people 'pindachinezen', referring to the Chinese that came to our country in the 1930s of the last centure and were selling peanut cookies on the steets, beaches etc. Even as a child I found that so disgustingly disrespectful.

[@d.lauren1265]

Because of your age... When you're in your 30's you would know this and sing this song in elementary school.

[@alfred8602]

Hi David, when you're looking for some more cultureshock you should visit the more rural area's and the northern regions of the Netherlands. The city of Groningen for example. You would notice that the subculture of these area's are somehow different, sometimes very different from the rest of the country.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks Alfred. I have it on my list and just met someone from Groningen too. I have lived in Maastricht as well and visited many towns-though many more to go. I do notice small town culture is different from the cities-true everywhere.

[@Metalboyy97]

@@hi.davidwen Im from Groningen as well, and like everybody says, the Netherlands is not only Amsterdam, Rotterdam and maybe Utrecht. If you want to see a different kind of Netherlands i would recommend Groningen

[@StatusQuonald]

Ja jong, eem een aaierbal uut de muur.

[@annebokma4637]

Groningen is my favorite city for living and also visiting. Well worth the visit. And if you have a few extra hours, pack a picknick and visit Bourtange. It is an old star fortress. Free to visit, hardly any tourists. And if you have kids, they will find the toilet on the bridge hilarious 🤣

[@moniquearlar5449]

Zwarte piet is NOT dicrimination, they were UNSLAVED people who got PAYED by st. Niclause for helping him at night to give poor children a preasant or a bad needed meal.

[@albertlay8927]

I'm almost 60 and this is really the first time in my live I hear this "honky tonky Shang Hai" or whatever they're singing.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks Albert. I guess it wasn't taught everywhere? But I do know Asian Dutch friends who experienced it in school.

[@BobWitlox]

Same here. I'm 51y old. Never heard of it.

[@jrcreator2257]

There are a lot of things that you’ve never heard of, that will suddenly become “issues”, as American liberals begin to infiltrate The Netherlands. It’s called “identity politics”, and it’s one of the main reasons why Americans are so unhappy.

[@lienbijs1205]

My children did sing it at school with birthdays, amongst other " languages" like fake Russian, it starts in Dutch " Wel gefeliciteerd".

[@mcfrog5473]

I’m 20, we definitely all sang it when I was in primary school. Even at the time most of us were kinda confused about it because “what does Shanghai have to do with happy birthday?” Perhaps that shows it was already becoming dated when I was young, but none of us realized or were told that it was racist. It definitely wouldn’t fly nowadays anymore, though

[@serena8072]

I'm dutch and 35. I remember the hanky panky Shanghai song well. We where a multi cultural class and a main goal was to show different cultures and accept different cultures. That's how I felt about these songs. The whole class was exited about it, and it seemed a attempt to.. bring diversity. But I can understand it might not be welcomed by everyone

[@koen3415]

But those songs really don't represent other cultures though.... They just name a city and mock the language, It's more like mocking

[@serena8072]

In the end yes. I'm not defending it. But it seemed a combination of trying... but being naive. It had a positive outcome on me.... so . Made me interested in other people's cultures. And now I have friends around the world.

[@hi.davidwen]

Hi Serena! Thanks for adding your input, especially because you do remember it. I can only observe as an outsider based on research and what Dutch friends have told me (not a huge sample size haha). Yeah a friend of mine grew up with it too and didn’t realize how it could be mocking until she grew up. But I’m glad you had a positive experience (as I do think most people have positive intentions…just that we follow what we are taught when we are children and may not realize how they can influence our perceptions/biases as adults). Thanks

[@reprobert]

Really never heard of that hanky panky shanghai song? Maybe it's a regional thing or something from the Randstad?? I'm shocked that people sing such a song. But here in Groningen we never heard of that weird song.

[@michalovesanime]

@@reprobert I live in Rotterdam and had never heard this song. It's nothing to do with Randstad, a lot of the smaller towns have stuff like this. They have little to no experience with real diversity and culture

[@rinynewton8297]

Dutch food is very good! We eat a lot of vegetables, potatoes and meat. Nowadays there are a lot of different recepise and food is very diverse. As for a GP visit...no for a common cold we don't get antibiotics. Your body can heal itself and when you are really ill and need antibiotics then your body will respond to that more quickly then when your body is getting antibiotics for every sniff, cough or cold. Paracetamol and rest is sufficient for a cold to disappear. You do not have to act as if you are dying to get a GP's reaction....that's ridiculous. They are very good in their profession, in fact Duch healthcare is known as one of the best healthcare's in the world! We believe in making your body strong by helping itself so when it's really needed medical care jumps in.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks Riny. Haha I hope you noticed it was a bit sarcastic (Dutch food). I mean for fun. I do like the supermarkets here and have been eating a lot healthier here and cooking more

[@cocoaorange1]

I live in Chicago, and primarily go for checkups, when I need a prescription, or feel very ill. Minor things, I treat at home.

[@Paul_C]

What you, and most others forget, though the Netherlands have an outlook that stretches beyond their own borders, there is a particular system in place for any problem you might encounter. Let's say there is a Dutch born person who gets bitten by that same dog. He'd do what any Dutch person would do, shrug it off, take a paracetamol, phone the GP at 09:00, make an appointment for later in the day, get the tetanus shot. Being bitten by a dog is, eh, an occurrence of little consequence... Sure, that is the Dutch thing in me. The system has you covered. Born in this country means all your data from birth, is known. Every visit to the doctor, from the day you were born, gets recorded. Story time. This happened to me less than 2 weeks ago. I contacted my GP because I thought I could hear less than normal. Thus made an appointment to see the doctor. He had a look, didn't do anything but made an appointment at local hospital for later that day. Why that was so you might ask? Ever since I was a child I had troubles with my ears, a series of mid ear infections, a stupid thing of ripping off my right ear (never stick your head in an automatic revolving door). That and the fact cleaning ears can be difficult in my case, a visit to local KNO specialist. Result of it, can hear better now. Crux of the matter: I had to nothing more than make one phone call. And I have moved house and GP 4 times since my last visit to any GP. The system worked as it was designed to do. Oh, one last thing, that ripped ear actually happened, let's say I was accident prone in my youth. Ear infections was a common occurence as a child and that hearing issue happens every 15 years or so. Regarding other ailments, yep, have those too, heart patient and some eh, brain haemorrhage type of thing too. Those are not part of GP's job, specialist only for those...

[@RainglowHaven]

You can make appointments same day?? In the USA when I try to schedule a time with my GP its weeks in advance...

[@y.v.l.]

I like your videos because they are very well balanced. I do have some comments on this one though. 1) It is true that our idea of food is generally very simple, however you can get everything you want in the shops or in the many restaurants, so there should not be too big a shock. 2) The "no floor" thing stems from the time - not that long ago - that renting not buying was the norm. You usually stayed for many years (or until your death) at the same place and you could do with your home (within reason) anything you wanted to make it your own. 3) Do not exaggerate to make a doctors appointment, but be more realistic. Most illnesses (certainly a cold or a flue) get cured with time, sleep and maybe a few paracetamols. You do not have to waste a doctors time or get a lot of pills (like in the USA). Those pills are often far worse for your health or even addictive. Do not forget in this country you are allowed to get sick it does not cost you your salary or your paid vacation.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for the kind words and the advice too! Most of the shocks are not things I dislike (eg. I found the no floors thing really interesting because it was so strange to me haha) but find fascinating. I really like it here and am very grateful for many things like the healthcare and paid vacation-I plan to do a video reflecting on all the things I have learned to love and appreciate (hopefully soon)

[@isabelcastaneda1466]

yes, it cost you if you are a flexworker. Ducthhealth system sucks as well as their unexistence food culture...lets be honest here..dutch people hate not to be or be seen as the fisrt in everything...that is maybe the biggest downside of this society...that explaines the racism as well, and the justification for their rudness disguised as being direct type of common behaviour...

[@tarimastanaka615]

@@isabelcastaneda1466 You're welcome to leave :) Not rude, just direct ;)

[@isabelcastaneda1466]

@@tarimastanaka615 well, guess what? im leaving, i hope i made ur day...

[@arjanpetersen]

@@isabelcastaneda1466 hi Isabel you are welcome to leave Netherlands. And go back if you don’t like it. It seems more like a fundamental distaste (and baseless) of Dutch people? That’s all fine. But stop whining if you are profiting from our country.

[@zoeliu48]

Thank you for touching on the subject of racism! This is one of my biggest concern moving to NL from the US. Still navigating and trrying to figure out how to tackle this area when i live in NL

[@hi.davidwen]

Hey Zoe - just want to clarify…while there’s racism everywhere, I don’t think the racism here is like the US (where it’s a big thing). While it’s understandable you have concerns moving..in my experience, it’s fine. From your name, sounds like you are Asian. As an Asian myself, I never ever felt threatened. Of course the occasional stupid ignorant comments (mainly from teenagers) but it’s fine if you are in a big city. In smaller towns, may be different but I can’t comment on that. Make the move if your gut tells you, it’s a beautiful country here!

[@dicknr1]

This is insanity you all make it all about race while you know nothing of who its for or what its for. Its a children tradition. The one you all copied and made santa claus from. And we own the original version of that. Not about race. Its about fun for kids. And foreigners who are too shallow to go on the internet to find out how old it is and why this tradition exist do love to play race cards. Kids dont see race here. if they do its your fault as a adult for planting that in them. You the racist for always having that mindset. Not the kids, not the adults here. You all who are too shallow to see nobody absolutely nobody makes it about race. Except you foreigners and migrants. You all should be ashamed of yourself for being that shallow when this country is the most accepting in the world.

[@quintend1305]

@@hi.davidwen Yeah, we're racist because we're ignorant, not because we hateful.

[@yvon4366]

@ZoeLiu The Zwarte Piet discussion and tradition is currently at a turning point. Note that there is a relatively small group of Dutch people are fighting to keep the tradition alive. According to them this tradition must remain untouched because it's a children's party (and that is actually true) it has nothing to do with the slavery past. But times are different now. Strangely enough, this discussion fuels racism among this group of followers. Do you realize that this topic is rekindled every year around the celebration of Sinterklaas and then again hot topic in the media. Majority of the Dutch are willing to change the tradition for the good. I wish someone would speak about that. We are in a transition phase regarding this...look at it this way! In general you will notice little of racism in the Netherlands and you will see that we are a progressive people and live in a multicultural society.

[@arturobianco848]

We aren't really racist more insensitive and have some weird humor in that regard. If you are worried about the racisme in the Netherlands don't be. Yes like every country we do have the real ones but it doesn't get violent. In fact this is the first the clip that started with racisme as a culture shock.

[@koen3415]

Hi, I kinda feel bad for you David, us Dutch people get very sensitive when people speak about our country. In my experience most people I know don't care what colour black pete is and a lot of the people who do care are not necessarily racist but a little more conservative, they don't get how these 'traditions' hurt people and they don't like the change (even though it makes no difference). In a lot of places you never see a black pete anymore and honestly no-one cares.

[@hi.davidwen]

Hi Koen - thanks for the message. I think some people don’t get the intention of the video…I wanted to express what I found as culture shocks or different (which is entirely normal because I was raised in a different culture). And some sarcasm as well (a Dutch food…😄). And it’s the beautiful thing about this world. I love the Netherlands and have plans to do a video of what I really like about NL. There will always be overly sensitive people…I wish them well

[@ricardomeertens9165]

people care they are just to coward to speak up and get cancelled. where i live there was a anti black pete demonstration. 15 people where there to demonstrate against. there was a counter demonstration with people for black pete almost 3000 people. al kinds all colours all ages. and then the police came and started hitting old people some old lady was trampled by a horse. i got smacked in the face with a baton while i was filming with my bike in my hand and phone in the other while with my back to the police on the first row. this is how you make people angry. most people don't care in the Netherlands because we are not allowed to be proud of our history, if you are proud of our history your a racist or whatever because of slavery. while no white man captured a black slave they all got captured by their own people just like now more than 700.000 slaves in some parts of Africa. its low information most dutchies know very little about our history and culture. also its part of the internationalism and globalism. if i go to a supermarket the cashiers wont even speak Dutch i have to speak English and if i expect them to speak dutch I'm again a racist or whatever.

[@michalovesanime]

Nah a lot of these people are straight up racist. Hopefully you actually have knowledge and experience with this and not just a white Dutch dude excusing what is done to us.

[@ricardomeertens9165]

@@michalovesanime who cares anymore white people get called racist all their lives, maybe those other people should grow up and look at history and see they are hypocrite

[@Landkruizert]

@@michalovesanime Your comment is actually racist. And what exactly is "done to you"...? Playing the victim doesn't help you or anybody.

[@1Lyvyan]

If you want variety in bitterballen, try the Bitterballenbar in De Foodhallen in Amsterdam. Also: the dutch kitchen is not known for its own culture, but for its excellent implementation of other kitchens worldwide. There is no other country that knows Asian and Italian kitchen as the Dutch.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing…I’ve been to that bar! Love it.

[@TheSuperappelflap]

Hey, stamppot is pretty good though, every foreign person I have ever had the pleasure of feeding, loved boerenkool met rookworst. We also have an assortment of traditional stews and oven dishes comparable to the German and English national cuisine. And our cheese is of course famous around the world. We also bake really good bread. And of course, our snacks are famous as well, you mentioned bitterballen but we have a lot of other stuff that people from other countries like. I read a story a few years ago about a Dutch guy who moved to Poland, opened a snack bar and started selling people french fries with saté sauce, which became very popular very quickly with the Polish people.

[@timhendrix414]

I think if you look at Dutch history, they owned slaves like most western countries but if it comes to tolerance they are number one, thats why New York got so big, cause the Dutch used to own it and they didn’t care about ethnicity or religion as long as can do good business, and the Dutch even got taken advantage of that! So please, when it comes to ‘racism’ or acceptance, go look somewhere else cause they are number 1 in accepting people in the whole western world!

[@mickeydejong8950]

My children all live in the Netherland and they each have rented many different apartments/studios/rooms, but they never had to put in their own floors. I guess when you buy a house it occurs more often, but then you would want to decorate your house the way you would want it.

[@smurfiennes]

Black people aren't forbidden to dye their hair blond either, or whatever colors they prefer. So, it's my analogy with Zwarte Piet.

[@joysmith773]

I lived in the Netherlands several years ago and I must say my experience was different. I was an exchange student and lived with a Dutch family and I still communicate with Dutch friends. 1. The food - it's very hearty for dinner. They always have potatoes and gravy and meat and a vegetable - very basic. Breakfast and lunch are bread and butter with different toppings. Not really sandwiches with two pieces of bread with something in between - more bread and butter with cheese maybe or peanut butter - sometimes chocolate pieces (like sprinkles but not as sweet). Also the Dutch have Tea at 4 pm with cookies or sandwiches and Coffee in the evening with cookies. By the way when you get coffee at a coffee house you get a free cookie with it unlike our coffee places! Dutch chocolate and cheese is really good! The Dutch like Indonesian food a lot - At least that's what experienced. And then there's Pannenkoeken(not sure of the spelling) - pancakes which are more like big crepes rolled up with different kinds of fillings. 2. Racism - I am African American and I was in Holland on Sinterklas Dag (Santa Claus Day) in early December. Black Peter (or Zwarte Piet) is a Moor hence his skin color. During the week preceding Santa Claus Day it is traditional to leave carrots for his and Sinterklas's horse. Each night Piet leaves candy in your shoes - we put them by the fireplace or heater - and sometimes a note encouraging you to be good! The blackface thing is alarming and the Black people I know in Holland don't particularly care for it but the character is well-loved. Sinterklas visits on the eve of Dec. 6 (I believe) and leaves presents. Traditionally he is from Turkey and rides a horse. There is no sleigh or reindeer! There is no going down the chimney. He is very old and serious. Zwarte Piet is the fun one of this duo - they travel together. 3.In a previous video you compared transportation in Holland and California - don't mistaken this for all of the US! I live in NY and my take on American public transportation is quite different! We have subways! Anyway that's my two cents.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing Joy. Oh wow how nice, you got a true Dutch experience by living with a family! Yeah blackface is a very sensitive topic here. I was shocked when I first saw it in person. I do understand there is a long history behind it though. Oh yes the subway in NYC! What an experience. Though I still think the public transportation in the Netherlands beats the subway in NYC in terms of efficiency BUT in terms of experience…NYC subway takes the cake :)

[@Maussiegamer]

as native dutch person i have to correct you on a few things about sinterklaas -he is from spain not turkey -there is going down the chimney -black pete is black because of the soot not because he is a more -they arent a duo there are a ton of black petes

[@marinvanz.1924]

@Joy... what you are saying about evening diner and breakfast: that is really old fashion. These days we eat all kinds of diners. We love to make foreign food and also a lot of take a way haha. But the potatoes, vegetables and meat, more and more less people makes that. We still love potatoes a diner, but they will be fried, together with a good steak or schnitzel and a very mixed big salade.

[@Serso70]

the historical lyrics and depictions of black pete contradict every dutch right wing claim that there's no racism at play. it's all documented. it's deeply rooted in racism. a remainder that never got removed is the lyrics of "i mean well eventhough i'm black" in one of the most popular songs, with a clear implication of being black is normally something that is a red flag or means there's something fundamentally scary or bad about you. but that's one of the mildest ones that survived till today, only in the 90s they removed more and more of the blatant racist stuff.

[@TheSuperappelflap]

@@Serso70 The historical context is, there were very few black people in the Netherlands before we gave up the colonies and people immigrated from Suriname and the Dutch Antilles. So, the "I mean well though Im black" lyric was meant to not scare little kids who had never seen a black person before. Also, blackface historically was not a thing in the Netherlands like it was in the USA, nor was racism a problem, because we were basically an ethnostate until the latter part of the 20th century. These days still, outside major cities you wont see much diversity. Of course thew song lyrics can be updated a bit, and if people dont want Piet to be black they can do whatever they want. In my town people still put black shoe polish on their face and then the protestors show up and people toss fireworks at them.

[@danitaamallah9251]

I am dutch 79 old NEVER NEVER NEVER Heard about a song hanky panky Shanghai

[@hi.davidwen]

Good!

[@hujia430102]

Thanks for this video, I am moving to Amsterdam from Feb 2023 and hopefully can meet interesting people like you and get to know this city better.

[@hi.davidwen]

You're welcome and best of luck!! You'll have a great time

[@greggiggle]

Have to comment about being scolded by the nurse after your dog bite. Traveling in Amsterdam, I was doing some shopping at a supermarket and instead of taking a basket just tried to carry everything. Well, I accidentally dropped a bottle of beer and it broke. The entire store looked like I had just set off a bomb. One of the workers came over and was screaming at me in Dutch. When she realized I was a tourist, she ratcheted it down a bit, but she continued in English to read me the riot act. Yes, it was my mistake, and I created work for her, but being completely screamed at by a shop clerk in public was an eye-opener for me.

[@TheSuperappelflap]

Thats not normal Dutch culture. Thats Amsterdam. People there are rude. I remember last time I was there I went into a shop to buy a sandwich at the train station, had about five minutes to catch the train. There were 3 employees just standing there doing nothing. After waiting a minute, I asked them when they were planning to get back to work and they ignored me, so I left without a sandwich. At bars and restaurants as well the servers are rude. You probably cant understand them but they basically just put a beer down in front of you and tell you to go F yourself. In every other city personnel is much more polite. If you drop something in a supermarket, you can tell the staff and they will clean it up straight away, no one will get mad at you. I worked at a store for years and people drop things all the time. Sometimes I dropped things myself when stocking shelves. It happens.

[@casper64]

About directness how is this an issue? I don’t understand why (mostly Americans) find honesty about criticism rude. It feels so fake when you get a compliment from someone from the USA. I’d rather have the truth

[@hi.davidwen]

🤷‍♂️ Cultural differences? That’s culture shock for ya. Thanks for sharing your perspective.

[@elsotto3314]

I am Dutch and sometimes people visit unannounced and I like that. I will invite them to have dinner with us, if they want they can stay over. I mean to say not all Dutch are the same.

[@hi.davidwen]

True. We are all different as individuals first and foremost. But culture of course also plays a big role

[@arjanpetersen]

I don’t know the Chinese song. It wasn’t taught anywhere in the 80s or 90s. I’ve never heard it or seen it.

[@annetbakker8770]

I was sorry to hear about the nurse telling you to find you G.P. when you needed treatment for the dog bite. I hope you got the treatment you deserved in the end. You're right about people not going to the doctor unless they're very ill, I recognize my own behaviour. Thank you for the video.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks Annet. I was fine afterwards. But lesson learned!

[@Yuyayayu872]

How did you get bitten by a pitbull? Was the dog not on a leash?? That is so scary.

[@Ad_Astra2023]

I’m a Korean who’s been living in the UK for past 20 years. Things are improving slowly as we now can have our voice out there but before all social media platforms appeared, it was hard to let anyone understand or even simply to speak up. From my own and my other Asian friends’ experiences, the racism here is various from subtle as asking where we’re REALLY from to crazy as getting punched in the middle of the broad day light on the street by a complete stranger. It’s funny that white Brits say they’re sick of hearing those “complaints” because there is a simple solution : not being a dick to foreigner just because they look different from you.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Glad there's a platform to speak up...Asians traditionally don't do that. Let's hope for more kindness in this world...stay strong

[@cocoaorange1]

Is there a big Korean population in the UK? I know the Chinese have been there for centuries!

[@marksean9947]

Quite frankly, you don’t have the right to move to a foreign country and call their traditions “racist”. This is where you are applying your American, specifically Californian views, to a tradition that may not make sense to you, but it does to them. The intention behind the Zwarte Piet celebrations does not come from a place of hate. That is quite clear. It may not appeal to you, but it is not violent and not hateful.

[@pandapolka]

Interesting as an American who works in healthcare, to see the hot-take that in the US people just freely go to Dr's whenever they want, or when they don't have a "real" problem. This may be true in some cases (I do see some people making frivolous appointments or getting overly concerned about things that are very likely nothing) but I think the bigger issue in our system is people NOT going to the doctor or delaying their care because they don't have health insurance, or the insurance they have does not cover the type of care that they need, or other financial concerns around how and when they will have to pay their medical bills. Still, the Dutch system does sound different and I appreciate your perspective on this. Very interesting video, thanks!

[@hi.davidwen]

You’re welcome and thanks for sharing! You have a point…I know several people in the US who decided not to go to hospital (or call an ambulance) due to the extravagant costs…

[@mudkip_btw]

In schools we used to sing birthday songs in like 5 different languages. Of course, kids don't know anything about language other than Dutch, so it's really dumbed down and made childish. For context, this is typical for grades 1 and 2, so kids from 3 - 5 years old. We used to sing in Dutch, then English, German, French or Spanish, and Chinese. Of course, none of it made any sense but it made the whole experience really fun and memorable. The "hankie pankie shanghai" song is part of it. I understand now that it comes across as racist, and maybe there's some truth in that. But I hope this gives some context in where it comes from, and why (almost) nobody who is Dutch sees it as racist. This also explains why people are so reluctant to change, since it is a common cultural thing which many Dutch people can relate to. Same for Zwarte Piet as well. I'm all for changing traditions, btw. It's a shame how polarising this debate has become over the last few years... Why not just let everyone be a Piet in any color :| Anyways, I enjoy these videos, thanks for uploading ^^

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing your perspective Ren!

[@group555_]

What is feels like to grow up with the black facepaint every year? I don't think it's an issue because there is another place where the holidays is celebrated where the majority of the population is of colour and they still paint their faces. This was never an issue until people started to force the dutch culture to uphold to American culture. Somehow this turned black pete into a blackface character even though this has never been the case before.

[@tonnycroezen85]

Hi David, Sinterklaas with his black helpers (black pete not black face) are to represent a bisshop from Myra (Turkey) and the helpers from northern Africa, being Moors which are dressed accordingly. In history they were internationally being referred to as "blackamoors" (source: National Geographic 2019). The festivities in The Netherlands exist since the 13th century and as such have no racist intent. With saying that, I am not denying there is racism in The Netherlands, but I would not consider the Sinterklaas-festivities being the example to be used for it. On the other hand, since people are being offended by it, it ought to be changed. There is no way to not adapt as I see it and this is what has been happening all over the country over the last decade(s), but for sure there are still examples left. To put Sinterklaas and Zwarte Piet in some other perspective; I could imagine a situation where the aboriginals would remember the landing of the first Dutch on the Australian cost and painting themselves white for that matter. Would I consider that being racist? No, I would not. But again, if people take offense of black pete, it ought be changed.

[@Handwithaface]

Black Pete was not a part of the Saint Nicholas celebrations in the 13th century. He showed up in the 19th century, and was played as a blackface caricature similar to the American blackface tradition, which also made its way over here around those times.

[@hi.davidwen]

Hi Tonny - thanks for the comment. I appreciate it and your perspective. I know it's a controversial topic, and it's always nice to learn from people themselves (vs. the media). As you can imagine...it's a 'shock' for me (and probably many other foreigners that visit)...but I also know there's another side of the story, and it's enlightening for me (a foreigner) to hear all the different sides of the story.

[@hi.davidwen]

@@Handwithaface Thanks for the input. Do you know who invented him or how he became so popular?

[@Handwithaface]

@@hi.davidwen He was popularized by Jan Schenkman's book "Sint Nicolaas en zijn knecht" (Saint Nicholas and his servant), published in 1850. That book is where a lot of the current ideas about St. Nicholas originate (him arriving by steamboat and going on a parade through the town was also introduced by Schenkman). In the book, the servant is nameless. The name "Pieter-me-knecht" was given by Joseph Albert Alberdingk Thijm in 1884, who recalled a private St. Nicholas celebration in 1828, where St. Nicholas was accompanied by a black servant as well. But Black Pete only became a staple of the celebrations in the late 19th century, when the "intocht", the entry ceremony when St. Nicholas arrives, became popular. There was usually just the one Pete with him in those days, sometimes two or three. The first intocht with a whole load of Petes took place after WOII, when Canadian soldiers all wanted to play Black Pete. Pete has been controversial for most of his existence: the earliest known article that criticizes the character's racism is from the magazine De Groene Amsterdammer in 1930. However, the debate didn't become truly mainstream until the 2010s. There are also people who believe that Black Pete is based on the demon who used to accompany St. Nicholas in medieval times, but there's no evidence for that connection, and it's very unlikely that there is any, since that demon was absent from the celebrations for a very long time before Black Pete first showed up.

[@hi.davidwen]

@@Handwithaface thanks for the history lesson!

[@MYoung-mq2by]

The Dutch food item I found to be rather strange. What you displayed on your table is a handful out of many foodstuffs available here. Believe it or not, there is also an abundance of fruit and vegetables, for instance. Vegetables are eaten in many different ways but also in typical Dutch combinations like stamppot (basically a potato/veg mash). Even stamppot has many different combinations and is eaten with a variety of different protein sources. Variety is the spice of life, and that's certainly not less so in NL. So, I just thought that this bit was like a visitor to the US saying that American food is ketchup, fries, soda, bagles, and hotdogs. So, yes, my instinctive reaction to this was: very, very strange indeed.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Haha yes it's a bit sarcastic and I had a little fun with it (it's KZbin after all). But I think the Dutch are very well known for many things...just not food.

[@frankhooper7871]

English here and I love stamppot! But of course, I also love bubble and squeak LOL

[@GItoKeG]

Mmmmm stamppot.

[@MYoung-mq2by]

@@GItoKeG Absolutely!

[@Yayarayaya]

Yeah and erwtensoep is honestly one of my favorite soups! And the Dutch pancakes are just the best pancakes in the world to me! The sweets and pastries and breads etc in the Netherlands are also really really good. (Much better and better quality than in the USA) Overall we have very high quality food. And you can also get nearly any kitchen from the world in the Netherlands which i really love too. But i do understand his point that we are not KNOWN for our food. But it was doing Dutch food a bit unjustice for the people abroad looking at this video.

[@TheDarkestLord]

I am a white Dutch person and even I think the Hanky Panky Shanghai song is stupid and insulting. When it was sang to me in my younger years, on my birthday, I was told it was the Chinese translation to Happy Birthday to You. And, as a young impressionable child, I actually believed it... Now that I know better, I find the song insulting to both the Chinese people, for obvious reasons, and to my own intelligence, for being fed such a nonsensical explanation.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing your perspective as a white Dutch person 🙏

[@gstar1084]

Please don't exaggerate your problems when speaking with your gp. People in the medical sector have bigger things to deal with than conditions that can be solved with bedrest. Just stick to the truth. The dutch healthcare sector is among the best in the world when it comes to health outcomes according to several international studies. They know what they are doing. Also: if you exaggerate your symptons based on this advice, gp's will start to notice. Crying wolf can have devastating effects...

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for offering your perspective. I can understand that if you're not that sick, just stay at home. True. Unfortunately, I've heard stories where the person actually had something big but didn't know until it was too late...but when they called the GP to check, they were turned down because it wasn't severe enough. I mean not all stories but a few. Again...it's not bad or wrong...it's just different compared to what some expats are used to...and that's what a culture shock is. It's a learning experience =)

[@anikavisser4649]

Actually the Dutch healthcare system is the worst of private and public healthcare combined.

[@Paul_C]

@@anikavisser4649 pray tell what that sentiment is based on? Seems to me you has a tendency to disbelief the actual data.

[@stefaniagobessi8582]

instead, it is really a good advice to exaggerate. One of my friend risked his daughter's life when the GP underestimate a serious infection that was quite obvious and refuse to send the child to the hospital, treating her with paracetamol. BTW: my friend is an Italian doctor and she knew perfectly what was going on and insisted but to not avail. The kid was literally saved by her mother! And this is not the first time I hear about this. Moreover, I found very inefficient the lack of preventive medicine in this country. Check up visits to specialists are inexistent. I need to go back to Italy to have a full Woman check up, which often can detect early-stage malignant diseases, and pay full price....

[@hi.davidwen]

@@stefaniagobessi8582 My friend's husband also just found out he had skin cancer (luckily it was treated)...his GP told him it was fine and there was nothing...but he decided to dig deeper and used an app that detects skin cancer...and the app (well the specialists through the app) told him to seek further help...and indeed he had skin cancer. It could've been way worse... Just an observation. I think the healthcare here is great...but I've heard this observation from many people.

[@prinzessinaufderknallerbse]

This is so interesting David! Thanks for sharing your experiences. I'm looking forward to visit the Netherlands next week :) best regards from Austria, Iris

[@hi.davidwen]

Have a fun trip! The weather seems to finally be nice 😄

[@prinzessinaufderknallerbse]

@@hi.davidwen Thank you, I'm expecting a mixture of sunshine and rain, sandals and raincoat are packed. My first trip to the Netherlands and my first time traveling with a nightjet in a couchette, so excited 🙂 Thanks again for your inspiring videos!✌

[@ddejongh3466]

Henkie punkie isnt a part of a the educational system. I never heard this Being sang at schools.

[@racingweirdo]

It was in my time. But my kids dont know this song

[@s.b.907]

I knew the song as a kid, not sure if I learnt it in school. My brother is 9 years younger, he doesn’t know the song. So it hasn’t been taught in about 30 years so far as I know.

[@MaartenKuif]

I'm a bit late to the party, but telling people to exaggerate their illness is just bad advice. If you need to exaggerate your illness to see a doctor, you don't need a doctor (yet). You just clog up the system and take the place of someone that actually needs to see the doctor. Just tell your employer that you'll take sick leave for one or two days and stay in bed. You'll be fine in a coulple of days. If not, then the doctor will gladly see you.

[@t.f.5578]

Hi David, I'm new to your channel and have been thinking about moving to Amsterdam from Japan. Thank you for sharing your experiences there and information about the Netherlands. looking forward to next video!

[@hi.davidwen]

Hey there, welcome! I hope you make it here one day. Let me know if you have any questions!

[@-gemberkoekje-5547]

I heared that in Japan they tend to romantisise places like Paris or Rome or London or Amsterdam. So be sure to do plenty of research.

[@JCriceguy]

As a Asian , I don’t want to back to the states just because the racism, so Why you want to stay in Netherlands? Is that difficult for you ? Good luck bro

[@dannymiewdg]

@@JCriceguy toto s

[@dannymiewdg]

@@JCriceguy to sum up things change but it is during times of crisis that the less beautifully characteristics show

[@hansonel]

Thanks for the very helpful tips. As an American planning on moving to The Netherlands soon who grew up bicycling and walking to school in all seasons and weather, is fairly direct, likes open windows and doesn't care about whether people can see in at night and basically never goes to the doctor and hasn't been in a hospital since I was born (knock on every piece of wood around me) now I know why I'm drawn there. In addition to amazing and efficient infastructure. The lack of floors in new apartments and food culture will take some getting used to though...

[@hi.davidwen]

You’re welcome and haha sounds like you’ll fit right in! For the most part, I love living here and hope to do a video soon on the things I like the most. Where are you coming from by the way?

[@buttdickenz]

Do not come here, do not make our problems worse.

[@r.a.h7682]

yes you have, donuts are ours, pie cake is ours, gin is ours, gouda cheese is ours.

[@crazymonkeyVII]

Regarding Zwarte Piet. It belongs to the beloved fest of Sinterklaas, and is also celebrated in the Dutch Caribbean. It wasn't generally considered racist until Veronica Shepherd, a white, foreign dignitary of the UN, decided that it was racist and that we should do something about it (probably because the U.N. has not managed to solve a single humanitarian crisis and is totally ineffective in solving real problems, they want to be seen as capable of changing the world "for the better" and this is a thing they can actually pressure the country on). Since then, the population is split in two factions, the ones that have great memories to celebrating Sinterklaas as a kid, don't consider it racist, have no racist intentions in celebrating it, don't like to be called racist while they are not trying to harm anyone and don't even associate Zwarte Piet with slavery and see what the UN has done as meddling in our culture and making a problem where none exists out of a place of total ignorance about the cultural origins of the myth, and (mainly white) Dutch people that are convinced that it's highly racist and have advocated change out of fear of offending black people. It's a divide that transcends politics and causes heated arguments even within families. As a result of this heated debate between opponents and proponents of Zwarte Piet, the tradition has largely died (shop owners won't advertise with either traditional Zwarte Piet and the "new" Zwarte Piet (who is colored with only black streaks or with different colors completely) out of fear of pissing off the Other Side). It's a damn shame. Personally, I think making it not-done to have Zwarte Piet be black is racist in and off itself, but the woke crowd doesn't see it that way :(

[@dutchyjhome]

Once you have decided to live in another country, especially in a country on the other side of the world, you will go through all the steps of grieving: you say goodbye to family, friends and everything you are emotionally attached to in your original country. And don't underestimate it; this farewell can be compared with saying goodbye to someone who has fallen away from you. In addition, the home country and the conditions in the home country as you left it will not be the home country and the conditions in which you will find the it after years abroad for 2 reasons: 1. Your home country and the people who live there (family and friends) is/are subject to constant changes and evolution's, however small as they can be which you hardly notice when you live there, but all together most likely will provide you a completely different experience of your home country and that this is the reason that after years of absence your home country does no longer feel like your home country and your friends and even family the way you left it/them. 2. Like it or not, you'll still get used (socially, politically, climate-technically and more) to the host country where you stay for a number of years and this habituation changes your perspective with regard to many things to your homeland. Being critical in your home country with regard to matters that you previously never would have discussed in your home country will therefore occur more often than you would like. And you simply cannot have both; you will have to make choices. Structural choices that give you a future in your country of choice. By choosing a certain country, you distance yourself and say goodbye to the other country, including the people who live there, and you welcome the new country, the new language and the new culture and the new norms and values ​​and the people who live there just like yourself. Even if you would fully accept the host country or new country and you would fully integrate into this new country with the new language and the new culture and the new norms and values, you still will go through the complete grieving process of parting with regard to the old country. It is absolutely not possible to keep everything you had in the old country without hindering your integration in the new country. This really is a Black or White situation, you've gotta choose...so it's all about choices unfortunately. You simply can't have both. The grieving process is inevitable, but don't go into the grieving process without giving yourself a real chance of success in the host country or perhaps during permanent immigration; the new country. These are unfortunately the facts as they are. I wish you wisdom at your choices.

[@ykyk917]

This is the first time i'm hearing somebody describe migration as a grieving process, and it sounds totally right. Thanks for sharing

[@Xx-ib6bf]

Learned so much from your video! Thank you. New info that others don't include, both facts & insight. Done in a respectful & thoughtful way.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for the kind words! :)

[@BostonsRandJ]

Interesting. Would like to see an updated version 5 years from now.

[@nannejandejong7112]

About : No curtains - When I walk in town in the evening, I feel much safer in a street where windows are open then when the curtains or windows are closed with blinds. In a village where a friend of me lived I walk instreets nearby. An old man lay in a bed near the window. Every time I passed by I waved and he waved back. Until one day ....

[@8teein]

What happened??

[@viderethevaccinatorfromhol7536]

We are a mixed couple. Both born here but one of us has Indonesian roots. Our food is very mixed. My husband looks Asian but his behavior is 100% Dutch.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing. I am soooo curious, what is it like being a mixed couple in the Netherlands? I’d love to do a video about that!

[@viderethevaccinatorfromhol7536]

@@hi.davidwen no problem. Welcome

[@williambolton4698]

This film is a perfect example of what has gone wrong in the west. We accept all cultures and creeds. We offer the best of our society and what happens? People who demand that they should be allowed to come here then demand that we reshape our entire culture to suit them. If you don't like Holland then what are you doing there? Generations of Dutch people have grown up with black Piet as Santas helper. its horrible that an American visitor should have the audacity to criticise Holland as racist for its historical cultural Christmas fun. Try travelling around Japan and witness the refusal to admit white people into certain restaurants, or go to Africa and witness the cultural behaviour there before you pick on Holland. Your attitude is utterly shameful.

[@Weener927]

Hear hear!!

[@LL-cc4ro]

You did a great job presenting and explaining the Dutch Culture.. visiting for the 1st time in April.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks, have a great time!!

[@misha76]

David, as a native Angeleno of Asian descent I find it fascinating to have found your channel about your living experiences abroad. I have a ton of questions, the first of which have to do with food and diversity in the Netherlands. Coming from San Francisco with so many choices related to food, are there decent ethnic food options in Amsterdam?

[@hi.davidwen]

Hey there, thanks for stopping by! Oh food...coming from California and especially LA...as an Asian person myself coming from California, I really do miss good Asian food. There isn't much here compared to LA (but it's hard to compare because you have a HUGE Asian population in California). But Amsterdam is very international and you do find "ethnic" food and restaurants here for sure. Indonesian. Surinamese. African. European. Turkish. I could keep going. So yes, there is a lot of "ethnic" options in Amsterdam (also other cities like Rotterdam/The Hague) But compared to Los Angeles, LA wins in terms of food options and variety in my opinion.

[@Weener927]

Dhûhhh...? Are there decent ethnic food options in Amsterdam? Have you tried Google? So your presumption was: there's a likely a limited option regarding ethnic food. Already in the 17th century, the Dutch imported and traded spices form all over the world. Since the 17th century, the Netherlands has welcomed a variety of cultures and was one of Europe's true safe havens for refugees. And yes: Amsterdam - 1 million inhab. - is not LA or London. My advice: stay in the US.

[@samirpradhan8504]

Thank you for this awesome video. I’m in the SF Bay Area and seriously looking at moving to Amsterdam soon, so everything you covered is super helpful!

[@hi.davidwen]

Hi Samir - You’re welcome! I miss the Bay but love it here too. I hope you get the chance one day. Let me know if you have questions. David

[@rdevries3852]

If you plan on moving to the Netherlands, you may want to look into getting a place outside of Amsterdam. Not that there's anything wrong with living _in_ Amsterdam, but it can be significantly easier and cheaper to get a home even just a few miles outside of the city. And with public transportation and bicycle infrastructure in the Netherlands being absolutely excellent, getting into the city is pretty much always quite easy. Or, if you're a car person, you can just take the car. Because the good public transportation and bicycle infrastructure also means that the (well constructed and superbly maintained) roads aren't nearly as busy and crowded as you might think, considering how densely populated this country is. Honestly, driving in the Netherlands is a joy compared to driving in many other countries; including car-centric America.

[@hi.davidwen]

@@rdevries3852 That's great advice and true. The public transportation in the country is very convenient (when it's on time!). I know quite a few people that live just outside and they commute to Amsterdam. Although living in a city still makes a big difference if you want to experience true city life!

[@samirpradhan8504]

@@rdevries3852 Thanks for the recommendation, and it's similar to what others have mentioned as well. Any suggestions on where to look? Some have recommended the Zuidas district to get away from the touristy area, while others mentioned farther out like Haarlem and even Utrecht.

[@mg78611]

@@samirpradhan8504 I’m in the bay area too and also considering moving. How about we connect?

[@jooproos6559]

Painting the faces to become zwarte Piet is really a hommage to the black man who helped Sinterklaas with all the presents to the people.Its by no way a anti black statement!They are just good helpers for Sinterklaas.Ok,you could be saying that why dont he do it himself?Well because he is so old he cant do it himself!So why black people?Because he comes from Spain and they have a lot off black people..

[@lordnazar6382]

Actually the actual reason, why black people, is because they were black slaves. The Saint bought them, and gave them freedom, and offered a job as his servants/helpers.

[@hunchbackaudio]

I live in a smaller town Amersfoort, 150000 people. I can eat a different cuisine every day for one month straight and still people complain about the lack of variety in the food culture? Puzzles me every time. I can buy any ingredient in my own town, if it’s African Asian, South American doesn’t matter, it’s all there. Heard people say how they are missing Mexican food, while I have literally 6 supermarkets in walking distance that sell enchiladas, tacos, burritos, tabasco or whatever it is Mexican people eat? I grew up on 25 rijsttafels for every time I had stamppot, but bami or nasi is not considered part of Dutch food culture. Even a snackbar has 20 times the variety of your average American fast food chain. Try to find something as simple like a frikandel in NY, good luck with that. They do have donuts, which are actually Dutch oliebollen with a hole in the middle. Must be the same reason why foreigners think we’re all on clogs. By the way, black pete must go, always hated that character. Looks like he is been finally putting to rest.

[@hi.davidwen]

Hey hey thanks for the response. Yeah I guess each person has their own preferences on what good food is. I'm sarcastically complaining about the food if that makes sense...I mean Amsterdam has a lot of food options which I am very grateful for, but the Dutch are not known for their food culture from the perspective of outsiders (though very well known for many other great things!)

[@hunchbackaudio]

@@hi.davidwen wel, I know we’re not known for that, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have one. What I like is that Dutch will embrace any food culture and add it to the menu if they like it. That’s why we have so much Indonesian, Surinamese, Chinese, Turkish and Maroccan food. Besides the food from other European countries of course. Also a large range of fresh seafood. And if you want something else we have lots of Thai, Greek and Argentinan restaurants. Never seen this variety in an average small town anywhere else in the world, correct me if I’m wrong. Bigger Dutch city’s have even more choices of course. But still people think we eat bread and mashed potatoes all day? What can you do, that’s what people think 🧐

[@rooooooby]

Most Mexican food in Europe is Tex-Mex, American style Mexican food.

[@krystanruitenbeek3636]

I think that the open toilets are less weird here, because seeing the human body naked or partially naked is normal here (from what I have experienced my whole life) from just walking in on people doing it or naked beaches (naaktstranden) or even naked camping.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Oh yeah...also the nude Dutch spas can be a shock for many foreigners too

[@singlepringle7485]

Hi David, I'm really glad to hear your best example for racism is a traditional annual celebration - good or bad. It would have been really bad if you were surrounded by unfriendly people in your day to day life! There is a lot of different cultures here, and I hope you get to discover and enjoy all of them!

[@TheWalonja]

Weird that mostly ppl from the US can find racism in everything 😂

[@anniek4681]

Black face has ABSOLUTLY NOTHING to do with "zwarte piet". If you go to Bonaire, there you have a dark skinned man who paints his face white so he can play Sinterklaas. There is absolutely NOONE who get's a CULTURESHOCK from that guy. Blackface was there to mock the afro-americans. Zwarte Piet is a dark skinned helper of Sinterklaas. No more, no less. If someone gets mocked here it's the silly old white dude who cant get things done without his trusted helpers. What a lot of foreigners dont know. Sinterklaas is actualy based on a real person. A bishop of Myra (now Antalya-Turkey) He died on the 6 of december 342 AC. He was the patron saint of children, and what a lot of people don't know he was also a matchmaker. A remnant are the spiced cookies in the shape of a boy or a girl. These cookies were sent to both parties if the match was accepted. The 6 of december his deathday is chosen to honour and cherish his generous nature and charakter by giving children pressents. That is the tradition we love and cherrish. But back to zwarte piet. The bishop lived in the 300's AC, he most likely had a servant, probably a moorish one, which not that strange for a bishop living in the region that now is Turkey. I don't know who started the "slavery link" But it was not an issue then. Amerika as you know it didnt even exist. So i really, really want people who believe that Santa Clause was there first and dont know he was nothing more then an add for Coca-cola, to research the history of a tradition before giving an opinion. Slavery is terrible, but if you researched our tradition, you would find it had nothing to do with it. For 1, the timeperiod where upon it's based doesnt match the Amerikan time periode when slavery had his hayday 2. If you look at the charakter of the man who was the real one: Saint Nicolas, he would not have slaves. It would not have fit his beliefs and caring nature. 3. Zwarte Piet is based on picture in a picture book which was drawn "en profile" So the whole figure was black and you only had the outline to identify it. But guess what, the Sinterklaas was drawn the same way so all black too. Who says the helper was black to begin with. I don't like it that our tradition is trashed and smeared by populist beliefs that have absolutly nothing to do with it. It's stupidity that trashes my fond childhoodmemories, so thanks a lot for pressing adult beliefs on a childrens-holiday and absolutly destroying it in the proces. I am sorry but i stopped whatching your video after hearing you repeating all the populist trash. You are the 6th or the 7th amerikan-dutch culture shock video where this is a thing. Sorry for the rant but I hope you are little bit educated on this topic now.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for taking the time to share your perspective. Yeah I recognize we all have different perspectives based on where we come from. I love traditions and never said it should be stopped…at the same time, I am not black and cannot say but I do wonder…what do black people think? And what effect does this have on how black people are portrayed in the modern word? What unconscious biases could arise? I don’t know…but I wonder. Anyways hope you take care. Enjoy learning from all different sides

[@anniek4681]

@@hi.davidwen Thank you for your reaction. I understand the biases ( as far as i am able to and i can reason why there are biases). The next bit is TLTR, i hope you do untill the end. I am as white as can be...i was called names for it too. I was too white, my uncle (he was married to my aunt (sister of mom) he came from the carribean. So yeah he was dark skinned. I once stood up to my bullies, "I am too white, ny uncle is too dark, when is it to your liking?" They never answered that question, but they left me alone after that. So the colour of the skin was never an issue in our family. I was very fond of him. i know how it is to becalled names shut out because of the colour of your skin. It was in school, and i know it is not in comparison to what some have endure. And still i never hear anybody complain about how an elderly man is portraid as an old senile man who cant do anything on his own. If that man was a woman, would she be portraid as a senile old woman who couldnt do anything on her own? No, she would be portraid as a strong independant woman. I still get the feeling that equality is not equality. Only now the scales are tipping to the other side to one specific group and now everyone is ok with it? What biases arise there? If i would live abroad in the States where they have different customs, i need to adjust and intergrate too. I cant go tell someone that thanksgiving is hypocritical. To me it seems that they celebrate how Native american tribe helped the pilgrims from England and the pilgrims gave thanks for helping them and to show the support to a rivaling tribe. Now those native americans were forced in to "reservations" because they were savages. (I think they native amerikans were more cultured that the people who arived on the shores in ships. But what would i know of it? Except that it was a harvestcelebration in the beginning and it changed tto something with a more relioius turn that came withe puritans and pilgrims that came from England. Or that even they might been influenced by watching the annual services of Thanksgiving for the relief of the siege of Leiden in 1574, while they were staying in Leiden. (Before they came to the States) It's not my history, it's not my country. But i am not going around destroying this celebration. The thing is that people who dont know the real history behind the celebration of Sinterklaas, form an opinion about it and destroy it in the proces and want to be praised for doing a "good" job too. The modern world should be equal, for man, woman, every gender you can think of, every colour and mix thereof too. But it isnt. And i am sorry if the white middle aged man is conciderd evil incarned, and are concidered worse beings then certain relious people in a certain country which was called persia in the olden days. Who cut off bodyparts as a message. No, equality is nowhere to be found. But everyone seems happy with it now. What unconscious biases are arising? I am looking forward to your answer to this to long to read post. (You are a hero if you finished to this point, just saying i admire your commitment in this discussion)

[@fitzhugh2542]

Hey Thanks for this video! Asides from the racist and urinal stuff, Dutch culture sounds great to me (I'm Canadian). The whole low context/high context spectrum explains so much about communication with my wife (who is Korean). I love Dutch directness although I don't know if I have a thick enough skin to handle direct negative feedback. Also I love Dutch food. Herring sandwiches and the cheese sandwiches. PannenKoekken. And not to mention the Indonesian food in the Netherlands is great.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks! Haha wow if you love Dutch food, then really this is the perfect place for you because that (plus the weather) are usually the biggest "shocks" for many foreigners haha.

[@jbk6907]

At work we have a work café. They serve salades, soups , snacks, fruit and mixed sandwiches, veggie or meat , fish. Very diverse. We do not al eat cheese sandwiches.

[@Gxport]

Thank you for speaking about Black Pete. I’m Black from the US and part of my family was born and raised in Amsterdam. Our grand parents are from Curacao(Netherland Antilles). My cousins that grew up in Amsterdam are very against the racism of Black Pete and protested against it in recent years. For people attempting to draw comparisons to other types of discrimination, ask yourself if the other group you’re thinking of was generationally enslaved based on their race. Please research the history of blackface. Nothing exists without historical context.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing your perspective Naomi, especially as a black person. We are not treated as equals based on factors that you just mentioned unfortunately...so we do need more empathy

[@sirilidionilirium4857]

thank you for your perspective however I think the culture of Blackface in the US where it comes more from a mocking or satirical protral of black people and black pete that has a long cultural respect of the character is pretty diffirant and I just feel like Dutch culture is easily disrespected this way.

[@Harrypjotter7]

America is so much more racist. My Surinaams friend don’t have any problem with zwarte Piet because why would you? They are not a zwarte Piet.

[@foggy4180]

Black Pete has nothing to do with racism. In this tradition our children were told that black pete came from the top of te roof through the chimney to put some candy in their shoe. That black pete had a black face and hands was because of the coal dust coming from climbing through the chimney but that part they never tell. It's better to read deeply into cultural traditions before judging, black pete here is not the same as it is in the US.

[@TheSuperappelflap]

There is no history of blackface in the netherlands. American history is not our history. Thankfully for you, Amsterdam is the perfect place, people there love making a fuss about irrelevant non-issues.

[@TarikDaniel]

About your point on racism: It's a bit strange to hear you stating that "we're in the 21st century" and some things seem to be old fashioned in your opinion. But on the other hand you focus on ethnical differences even where not appropriate (as we don't know where the swate Piet comes from) which sounds even more outdated to me. You have a different cultural background and it will be challenging to fit in if you don't accept that things are seen differently in the region you live now.

[@flyy1226]

Thank you sharing your experience David! Really appreciate you talking about these topics, racism included.

[@hi.davidwen]

🙏🙏

[@Mithical_C]

As a kid growing up I'm the Netherlands, with white parents also from here, I have never heard about that "Hanky Panky" song. Kinda shocking to me that I have to learn that at 16 from a video. Don't get me wrong, I love you video's!! It is kind of shocking to me that it is even a song over here! Though I got to say, we are doing something about the Black Pete thing these days!! Though, seeing as this video was uploaded almost a year ago, I can see why you hadn't put that in! Racism in the Netherlands is lessening these days, though not as much/fast as many (me included) want to see it happen (still in shock from the song- a birthday song? That is a bad cover-up)... Edit: Also, yes!! Housing is a nightmare, I honestly am really scared for my future and housing here! I might be living with my parents until I am 30+ O>O

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing. I went to this event last night about "Anti-Asian Racism" (right now it's the "week against racism" in Europe) and heard from Asian Dutch people who grew up in the NL who remembered that song. At the time, they felt "uncomfortable" when the song was sang but couldn't understand why (I mean they were kids)... Housing...oh my...I've had so many sleepless nights trying to find housing...it's crazy!! Thanks for watching!

[@TheSeNaBi]

One should not talk about things they don't understand. This is the Dutch food: cheese and bitterballen, Really? And Hellmanns???

[@hi.davidwen]

A bit of sarcasm 😂 I don’t fully understand and therefore I talk to open the conversation to learn :)

[@TheSeNaBi]

@@hi.davidwen Nothing to do with sarcasm. Think you need to find another way to learn

[@KristiKreys]

Really interesting video! The lighting, poses, design, just all is perfect! Good job

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks Karoline :)

[@autohmae]

As someone born and raised in the Netherlands, I've never heard about 'hanky panky shang hai'. What a strange song. Sounds like it's from a time multiple generations ago. Teaching it seems strange too, has to be at some kind of 'backwater' where they've never seen any multiculturalism. Which is pretty hard to find in the Netherlands.

[@hi.davidwen]

Glad to hear and thanks for sharing your opinion. Perhaps it is from a while back…though there are some KZbin videos of it from the past 10 years..a few friends who are late 20s-30s have (one grew up in a small town here)

[@autohmae]

@@hi.davidwen Well, I still hope you have a good stay (permanent or not) in our little country.🙂 regardless of some old habits which take a long time to die... 😕

[@Xindi86]

You got it wrong when it comes to Sinterklaas. You say nobody knows where Zwarte(black)piet came from. But that's not true, we (dutch people, as children) learn that the Piet came down a chimney indeed and there's no question about that and we never saw them or they were never meant as "black people", this is just what people in last years make from it and try to ruin our not so many traditions, please think about that. We already do not have a lot of traditions and it hurts me seeing people making this something else entirely. I'll try to explain what we learned and what it actually means. The piet would crawl to the chimney to surprise children with a present in the morning, when the evening before the children put something for the horse of Sinterklaas (like Santa and his sled, someting like that) we were told Sinterklaas walks with the Piet(s) on our roof to bring present through the chimneys indeed, it is actually and always has been meant very innocent and very much like Santa and his elfs, the only difference is that this are no elfs but people becoming black from the soot from the chimney. Please people do understand that this is meant this way and very innocent and also pretty hurtful that it is made out to be racism when it never was and I am a Dutch woman and always learned this in this innocent way, there was never any question of these being people with dark skin. This is just what people make of it these days and it is very sad😢

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing, I appreciate you writing. I think we can all learn each other’s perspectives. I know it’s a sensitive topic and so I’ve learned it’s nice to be educated on different viewpoints (whichever side one is on)

[@Xindi86]

Thanks for your comment. I do hope people realize all this "speculation howerver education" already damaged our tradition a lot

[@fidgetykoala]

Northern European cultures are quite similar across the board. I'm a Southern European, although I was born in Turin which is supposed to have a more systematic approach to life, and I love planning, this personality trait is usually seen as a bit overexaggerated when dealing with SE people. I wonder how good would be to complete a project management course in the NL, considering what you were saying. Also, as far as GP goes even in Scotland doctors were reluctant in giving away too many meds. I found this practice quite off-putting at that time, but I can tell you that in Italy is actually the opposite and we have far too many meds, and people think is the only way a body can heal.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing Rosa. Very interesting perspective. You are now in Scotland? Yeah I can imagine there to be many cultural differences between northern and southern europe…of course we learn to adapt over time…and of course we still retain many from our home cultures. What’s still shocking or challenging for you to accept living in Northern Europe?

[@TheSuperappelflap]

I did a minor here in NL in college in project mgmt, it was a good programme, I still use a lot of that knowledge in my job

[@RFGfotografie]

Compared to Paris these Public Urinals are nothing. In Paris there are free toilets that clean themselves...That amazed me more then those urinals...

[@Hrn250]

Bitterballen is a snack . In a normal Dutch family we eat those sometimes at a party, in a cafe with a drink , bitterballen is not daily food.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks. I’ve had bitterballen for dinner before…delicious

[@Hrn250]

@@hi.davidwen bitterballen for dinner is unthinkable with us, but if you like them that much, be free to do so ☺️

[@kaspareddyyeruva]

I am a vet from India who got veterinary license in Netherlands. If you don't like me you can directly. But they keep calm.how do you say that they are direct

[@fizzfizzbang]

Random question: how do you keep UV rays from fading everything you own if you don't have window coverings? I procrastinated putting up curtains for over a year (in the US) and the backs of my armchairs were much lighter after that...a mistake I won't make again!

[@hi.davidwen]

No idea! Anyone know?

[@Taliesin6]

@@hi.davidwen we just get new carpets when they fade or turn them around to even it out lol. and we take care not to put precious things like paintings in direct sun.

[@TheSuperappelflap]

You dont. My dad bought a red cabinet 10 years ago, it was stood in the living room close to a large window facing south. After a few years, it was pink. Then he got rid of it and bought a white cabinet. However we dont have as much sunshine as many places as the US, the weather here is quite cloudy and it rains 200 days a year, for 3-4 hours on average. So it wouldnt be as bad. Also, quality furniture wont fade quickly, I have persian rugs that have been in direct sunlight for decades and they didnt fade at all. And you can put covers on your armchairs.

[@atelesh]

Hi David. I encountered your channel by accident. And I would like to tell you have a quality content. I like the topics you raise and the way you formulate your thoughts. You seem really intelligent. Wish your channel success! Subscribed

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for the kind words Anton! Really appreciate it :)

[@dorryakgul1119]

Sinterklaas is the culture of the Netherlands , it is for the children ....and the happiest time in Growing up for children i grew up with it and also my children Only foreign People who live her not so long have problems with it But if you ask the most dark Coloured People they have no issues with it Let every land have there own culture And about the directness? We dont like the little talks who means nothing, it is wasted time !

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing your perspective!

[@eetwatkaas1157]

I can understand why a forgeiner would have very mixed opinions about Zwarte Piet. But as a mixed kid growning up sinterklaas is one of my favorite hollidays. Kids cant even grasp the contept of racism. It was a good thing if anything. They always give candy (pepernoten) to kids. Also they are trying to implent something called "roet pieten". Its basically zwarte piet but it actually looks like they went trough a chinmey because only a small part of their face is brownish

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing your perspective (especially as a mixed kid). Yeah I do see the differences in how it's celebrated in Amsterdam vs. down south (Maastricht).

[@ddejongh3466]

I have No idea Where you get the idea we plan lunches years ahead. Again...Maybe something you heard again.

[@hi.davidwen]

Haha you caught me. I didn't mean it literally...well I hope you sensed some 'exaggeration' on my part =)

[@dapengu777]

TTT ist echt mein Lieblingsforma4! Danke Jungs ❤

[@edwinbiere9305]

I'm dutch and I never heard the hanky panky shang hai text sung on happy birthday before. Sure didn't learn that in school (luckely!). To me booking the summer holiday for next year in april, is extreme. I am sure people do this, but i don't think the majority of the dutch already are taking care of next year's summer holiday

[@amosamwig8394]

wij deden dat op school, ik was het helemaal vergeten dat het een ding was, zo slecht als ik er nu over nadenk, maar destijds stond je er niet bij still

[@-gemberkoekje-5547]

The difference between black face and zwarte piet is that zwarte piet is a character, not a race. We didnt see immitating someone of another race as bad. The Chinese birthday song, I honestly remembered thinking that that is actually the translated happy birthday song lol. Thats pretty shitty.

[@-_YouMayFind_-]

I see racism more when you portray a person in a negative way. Not when you just paint your face black. I know America looks different in that. I mean I would not care if black people would paint their face white, as in fact some darker toned people are at times using products to make their skin lighter. No one talks about that. As well white people can be darker as well which I found funny because I saw an American on KZbin and she thought that someone that just has toned skin is immediately a black person. I can be darker if I lay in the sun lol suddenly people think I come from Spain. This is so annoying because being coloured does not make you black. Black pete is looked at positively so its not there to offend black people, but indeed there is no country that does not have racism. Yes looking for a home is difficult. Especially Amsterdam indeed, but generally its hard now because we have so many people in such a small space. We have not yet built enough homes. I still live at home with my father and sister. This reason made me stay at home longer, but they are building so it will be fixed over time I believe.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for the response. Yeah I definitely believe in customs and traditions and don't think it's intentional racism, but it does come off as racist to many outsiders (who come from different cultures). I mean that's what culture shocks are. It was shocking to me but what has lessened the shock is hearing more stories about the tradition. Yeah Amsterdam......I've been searching for a place, and it's so stressful.

[@arturobianco848]

I am dutch most dutch black people i asked didn't have any problem any problems with it in fact they did the same when they where kids painted them selves black and dressed up. Some did have problems with it though so i don't mind it changing a bit. But please don't bring youre own preconceptions of the country you where born in and call its racisme. Black face here isn't seen as racisme. If we immitate or pretend to be a black persone we colour ourself not to be rasist but to be authentic. I do agree with you about the henky penky song, that wasn't the only one unfortunatly. As far as i know they aren't sung in any school anymore that i know, we do learn. Again it wasn't meant as racist its just that we are very insenitve culturaly about that kind of stuff (not that that makes it right). As for a doctor you don't need to exareate but you have to be very clear. A lot of americans that think they need treatment we do not think so. So yes that can be culture shock. Just don't go to the dokter if you have normal decease that youre body can handle by itself just take sickleave and stay in bed thats perfectly fine in the Netherlands. ofcourse if you don't trust it call for him/her. oh and do listen what the docter says when he sends you home. They do expect that you will follow the instructions and not doing so can lead to dangerous situations. As last thing i wanna say good clip i enjoyed it always good to see how other people see my culture.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks so much and appreciate you sharing too! I’ve learned so much from these comments myself. And yes interesting to hear multiple perspectives…helps me become more aware and empathetic

[@ChrisRedfield--]

The Hellmann's is noting like Dutch mayonaise.

[@hi.davidwen]

Haha thanks. I’ve already been shamed by people by having Hellman’s mayo! I now know better

[@quatra1000]

Regarding studying, for the Dutch it's much easier. They live with their parents in a small town and take a short daily trip by bus or train to/from where they take classes. For them, living in a big city would be crazy. I've been living in Mexico for 44 years but my children, who studied in The Netherlands, lived with my family in Bilthoven and took their daily 20 minute trip by bus to Utrecht University.

[@hi.davidwen]

Thanks for sharing. Yeah everything is so small in the Netherlands (relative to other countries) and accessible. You just answered my question in another reply. Seems like you are in Mexico...curious, what brought you there?

[@physicalinvestor]

I felt many of the same things having lived there as a teenager in 2006-2009! We were shopping for a home to rent and the floors were all torn out and we had to get a new floor installed. Also Mayo on fries 🍟! Great video.

[@hi.davidwen]

Haha yeah that one is an 'interesting' shock (the floors)..all internationals I talked to were also shocked at the no floors.

[@carrstone01]

That's not nearly as bad as french fries without mayo.

[@pandabear153]

That sandwich is fine with me! The bread looks much healthier than most bread sold here in the States! Born across the bay here!

[@hi.davidwen]

Hey Calvin - thanks for sharing! Nice to get a message from someone also from the Bay. Oh the bread here is so much better if you like bread :)

[@pandabear153]

@@hi.davidwen I was just born there only.