8 THINGS YOU SHOULDN'T DO IN THE NETHERLANDS (from expats in the netherlands)

In this episode, Michelle and Alex count down the 8 things you just should not do when visiting (or living) in the Netherlands, while visiting the beautiful Villa Augustus in Dordrecht. Learn from the mistakes of these two American expats living in the Netherlands.
Episode 78 · Filmed on July 2 and 27, 2023 · Dordrecht, the Netherlands
🛍️ Check out our merch: shop.buncharted.com/
📸 Follow us on Instagram: / buncharted
🎥 Follow us on TikTok: / buncharted
📸 Our shooting gear:
· Fujifilm X-H2: cb.prf.hn/l/aQNA8Rg (NL), amzn.to/3ILU5tN (US)
· Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 lens: cb.prf.hn/l/eYN50bm (NL), amzn.to/3Zla7SG (US)
· Rode VideoMic Go II: cb.prf.hn/l/1MV802z (NL), amzn.to/3EUPVP4 (US)
📸 Our in-house gear:
· Sony ZV-1 (as a webcam): cb.prf.hn/l/A3kBx5O (NL), amzn.to/3mlZ7ps (US)
· Shure SM7B microphones: amzn.to/3mneJcg (US)
· Rodecaster Pro II mixer: cb.prf.hn/l/n0bd3zz (NL), amzn.to/3mpxJXq (US)
· Elgato key lights: cb.prf.hn/l/oVRNwZE (NL), amzn.to/3kM4Rsc (US)
🎶 Our music is from Epidemic Sound: share.epidemicsound.com/9ult2k
0:00 Introduction
0:24 Number 8!
0:54 A warning about this video
1:44 A bike ride in Dordrecht
2:01 Where are we today? (Villa Augustus)
2:22 Number 7!
2:44 Number 6!
3:02 Number 5!
3:33 More about Villa Augustus
3:50 Eating at Villa Augustus
4:26 Walking around the garden
4:40 Even more about Villa Augustus
4:53 Let's make ourselves a drink
6:01 Number 4!
6:56 Number 3!
7:57 Number 2!
8:29 Number 1!
9:05 Wrap up
#expatlife #netherlands #whatnottodo
---
WHO IS BUNCHARTED?
We're Michelle and Alex, a travel-obsessed American couple living abroad in the Netherlands.
In 2020, we quit our jobs to travel the world, and... yeah, that didn't happen. So in 2022, we decided to make an even BIGGER change, packing up our lives (and our cats 🐈), moving from Austin, Texas, to Rotterdam, in the Netherlands. Subscribe for new videos like this every week!

[@forkless]

The Dutch: Don't expect all of us to speak English, you need to integrate into Dutch society! Also the Dutch: Switch to English at every possible opportunity because we can't be bothered with inefficient conversation.

[@sannej]

Guilty as charged. 😅

[@NecramoniumVideo]

Never heard the first one before, only heard this towards immigrants who come from none English countries who refuse to learn our language.

[@Treinbouwer]

​​@@NecramoniumVideoDan heb je niet goed opgelet.🙃 Het is behoorlijk irritant dat je in grote steden regelmatig niet in het Nederlands kunt bestellen.

[@forkless]

@@Treinbouwer Big deal, then you use your grammar school English to order your sandwich. You full well know it's a mandatory language in the school system -- at every level here.

[@forkless]

@@NecramoniumVideo It is hard as someone who speaks English to learn Dutch because most of us switch to the language effortlessly for all sorts of reasons; because people want to show they can, because it's fun, because they don't like inefficient communication, because they can't be bothered to help someone learn (read: flat out selfishness), because they like the opportunity to practice the English language themselves, etcetera. ps. Another interesting observation that can be made in general that there are double standards for using the term immigrant (not suggesting you are). For all intents and purposes "expats" are immigrants all the same but somehow most western Europeans or those of western European descent don't like using the term.

[@MichaelPattiruhu]

If only Americans and Britons would realize that it takes a Dutchman an extra amount of effort to speak English. Occasionally making the extra effort is not a problem. That's why it's not a problem to communicate with tourists in English. But if you're an expat/immigrant and you become my neighbour or colleague, you cannot expect me to always make the extra effort to speak English; then you should make the effort of learning Dutch.

[@edwinbruckner4752]

Exactly this.... it's the lack of effort that is bothering me more and more, sometimes I just refuse to anwser back in english. Especially if someone is living here for more then a year, and still not able to understand Dutch, I rather not be around those people. The Dutch in this regard should be a little bit more like the French.

[@gustavthemagician]

@@edwinbruckner4752 Irishman here, it took me about three months to understand Dutch and maybe another year to speak. My neighbours are moroccans who after fourty years still barely speak dutch and it seems this is quite normal. The Dutch gave away their land and killed their own culture. Very sad, it used to be a good place.

[@edwinbruckner4752]

@@gustavthemagician This is mostly the case in (big) city's. The problem is that a lot of foreign people, Turkish, Moroccan, Polish, etc. cluster together, when they do that they barely (have to) interact with common Dutch people, and thus don't learn the language or barely. The problem gets even bigger, because in a lot of cases the children of these immigrants have more difficulty with the Dutch language, at home they don't speak Dutch, and also not (or less so) in their neighborhoods. So they develop poorer results in schools, etc. etc. etc. , so they kinda get full circle. It's just sad to see. Our governments allowed this to happen, it's just poor 'immigrant management' alltogether. There are lots of ways to prevent this from happening. If im not mistaken Japan has a policy that says only 1 in 1000 people in a neighborhood can be an immigrant, that way you kinda force the immigrants to learn the language and intergrate in the society. Our Dutch policy lacks everything regarding intergration of foreign people, they all cluster together. But, not blaming everything on the government because thats just to easy. The biggest problem is ofcourse just the mentality of some of these immigrant people. But the problem is much bigger then just this, schools and education is effected, healthcare, police, taking care of the elderly, housing, some workplaces even, it's putting an tremedous pressure on our general society. Young people are barely able to affort a house, this has a huge effect for the future, think children, schools, etc. etc. The problem is just gigantic, really on the point of spiraling our of control. South Afrika had apartheid, but it really seems like Holland is getting an apartheid light, this time not enforced by the government, but implemended by the people (native) themselves. And maybe this even goes for the whole of Europe, France and Germany are facing the same problems. I really wonder what the future will bring, but if this keeps up it can't be anything good...

[@bwarre2884]

​@@gustavthemagicianA lot of (mostly) Moroccan and Turkish people that came to the Netherlands to work here were called "gastarbeiders". "Guest workers"; they were ment to stay for some years and then go back to Turkey or Morroco. So they weren't supposed to learn Dutch. It was even discouraged, because it could maybe be in incentive to stay. It was a Dutch policy in the sixties to invite "gastarbeiders" to do factory work that most Dutch didn't want to do anymore because of bad pay and/or bad working conditions. The policy was purely economical and there were no provisions whatsoever for "gastarbeiders" that stayed. And stay the did, and who could blame them. If you know that these people came mostly from poor areas in Turkey and Morocco (that was the condition these countries had for these aquisition rounds) and that a lot of 2nd and 3rd generations are doing well in education and jobwise, you can see the enormous steps a lot of people made. Of course that doesn't mean everyone. Some have difficulties with language, social norms, holding jobs, etcetera. This has a lot to do with poverty. Generational poverty is evil. By the way: I think the influence of American culture is a far greater risk for Dutch culture. Especially when you look at the language.

[@peterf1]

As an American... I think this is more than fair. It's not just being considerate or polite. If you move somewhere, and don't take up the language and customs of the society, it's pretty insulting. I plan to move to NL because I prefer their way of life. I'll never be a "Dutchman" but I can be a good Dutch neighbor.

[@eriktabbers3599]

Best tip right at the beginning : the Netherlands is just more than Amsterdam, spread the message 😂❤. Most people judge our entire nation on 1 city..

[@thesillypig785]

Which is probably the worst representation of our country.

[@Cergorach]

@@AlexK-yr2th That isn't really true to be fair, it depends on the people and often also their age/time of their lives. Ive lived in Amsterdam for over 30 years, 15+ years ago I moved to Zeewolde and I don't want to go back! The only thing I miss from Amsterdam is the way better public transportation. But I talked to a lot of young people that grew up in Zeewolde and couldn't wait to leave their small town and live in big cities like Amsterdam! There are other people who can't stand the quiet of small towns and want to live in big bustling cities like Amsterdam. These days the issue is also the incredibly high rents/house prices when your not in social rent living, this is especially true for Amsterdam.

[@Handwithaface]

@@AlexK-yr2th If that were true, housing prices in Amsterdam wouldn't be so high. A lot of people just want to live in a lively city where you can walk to a diverse range of museums, bars and cinemas. People in Amsterdam who would rather live somewhere else don't stay. They move somewhere else.

[@janotten9099]

Don’t be jealous 😂

[@TurdBoi-tf5lf]

Tbf Amsterdam is an amazing city

[@CakeboyRiP]

The absolute #1 is be friendly and polite and the Dutch will go the extra mile for you. Be rude or just expect them to go the extra mile and we... well... probably ignore you or be very curt with you

[@lennartvers1767]

Rudeness and anti-social behavior is definitely numero uno! Dutch people can be literally disgusted by that. It is all about small spaces with a lot of people in it that have the same minimal standard of civilization otherwise it will not work as well as it does. Japan is a nice example of that as well.

[@EGO0808]

@@lennartvers1767also very Dutch, to compare yourself with the highly civilised Japanese culture. Oh them Dutchies, so humble…😂

[@DataStorm1]

lol, ignoring the rude ones is at best. Malicious Compliance is what you'd need to watch out for... for I've send tourists out of town onto the highway when they asked for "give effing directions" to some in the town, while they where 30 meters away from it. But this was b4 phones where much of a thing...

[@hidera1434]

I'm moving to the Netherlands in 2 weeks, and I appreciate how you all discuss the Netherlands, even when the topic is negative. You manage to convey it in a positive manner, unlike other channels.

[@gaalattila829]

Same here moving in 2 weeks :-). Anybody here have any experience with work agency named Covebo?

[@viktorvondoom9119]

So youve been here for a week! How do you like it?

[@basvanderwerff2725]

Also dont expect you gonna get served 10 sec after walking into a cafe

[@radejong013]

A watertower is not to supply the system with water, but to maintain pressure on the system, hence the height of the tower ( 10 meter height delivers 1 bar pressure (14,5 psi))

[@arjenlaan4103]

Some of the don'ts could as easily be directed at Dutch people as at foreigners here. Especially when it comes to public transport: Blocking train doors? Noisy talk in silent compartments in trains? Happens all too often. When I am in a bad mood, I even avoid silent compartments, just to avoid being annoyed about fellow passengers not caring about the request on the sign. And saying hi, bye, and thank you to bus drivers is so much appreciated by them, and so often forgotten by passengers. Oh, and as a PSA: when you leave a bus, and where you get off there is not a platform but just red pavement or a strip of asphalt, you may be at a place where, inexplicably, the bus stop is next to a cycling path, you are immediately right in the middle of it, and chaos and possibly some yelling as well, may very well ensue. Don't let that make you feel bad, neither you or the cyclists are to blame, the stupidity was committed way earlier, behind some desk, somewhere. But for your own safety and calmness of nerves, do check if any two-wheeled traffic is approaching from the left or the right, and cross the path as soon as possible.

[@raatroc]

The oldest "watertower" the Netherlands is actually part of royal palace Soestdijk of the actual king's grandmother. It was used to get water pressure for the fountains near the palace. It dates back to the end of the 17th century (or 16 hundreds as you say).

[@GoliathAngelus]

True,,i have seen Maarten van Rossum's video about watertowers

[@patrickreuvekamp]

And when walking on a bicycle path without a footpath: stick to the edges and walk on the opposite side as much as possible. This is safer because you can see oncoming traffic.

[@hansklimstra5987]

Before I emigrated to Canada when I was 10 we visited Schiermonnikoog, one of the small Dutch Friesian Islands where my mother grew up and found out later that the local famous hotel was actually owned by one of my dad's relatives. Even though I was young I thoroughly enjoyed the month we stayed there. Enormous amount of history, there are even still bunkers from WWII there.

[@kerwin679]

@@ellievanderheide1926 Its not Friesian btw. But Groningen

[@ahumphrey6737]

Wikipedia (and myself) believe Schiermonnikoog to be in Friesland nl.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schiermonnikoog However, the two islands to the east of Schiermonnikoog (Rottumerplaat and Rottumeroog - both uninhabited and for conservation/scientists only), are in the province of Groningen.

[@TheSuperappelflap]

There are bunkers everywhere along the coast. Part of the Atlantikwall that the Germans built all the way from Norway to southern France. The Netherlands, having several major ports, was an important place to defend. If you walk a few km through the dunes anywhere along the coast you are guaranteed to see several bunkers. We never destroyed them because it would be a ton of work tearing down all that heavily reinforced concrete and theyre not really in the way. They also provide shelter for bats and other creatures of the night, so theyre actually a positive for biodiversity in the coastal areas.

[@celineleblanc4763]

​@@kerwin679 it is also not Friesian, but Frisian

[@aro8570]

If you want fresh stroopwafels, just go to the Lokal weekmarkt. A lot of them have someone making them fresh. And I can not say it is so, but think they will be better than those expensive one in a tourist area. And for sure cheaper.

[@user-vw4ui5gz6b]

And don't forget to ask for the cookie/stroopwafelcrumbs. They sell them dirt-cheap in large bags😊

[@EdwinHofstra]

Go to Gouda for the real deal. They're called Goudsche Stroopwafels after all. Just kidding, they're basically the same everywhere, but do get them fresh. And do visit Gouda. You'll love De Moriaan on Oosthaven. It has amazing Golden Age architecture and the groundfloor still has the original shop. (If you do visit the Mondriaan, DO visit the toilet on the upper floor and peek out the little window. I won't spoil the surprise. 😊 )

[@mariskavandasselaarofficial]

Some additional no go's in The Netherlands: - walk through a street and suddenly stop in the middle of the street, so you're blocking the other pedestrians. - 'Forget' to place the 'next customer sign' on the belt at the check out in the grocery store. - Act exaggeratedly, because: doe normaal, want dan ben je al gek genoeg. 😅 - Arrive late. - Own a SUV. - Not complain about the weather. And yes, the current weather sucks. Dutchies love complaining about the weather, whether it's dreary, sunny, cold or clouded. There is always a reason why the weather sucks.

[@Zooz.]

Never forget the beurtbalkje!

[@nairbvel]

My entire family lived just outside Brussels for a couple of years, then my folks lived in Den Haag for a couple more. We used to always tell visitors, "Don't worry about the weather, if you don't like it, it'll change in an hour or two anyway!"

[@vast001]

I agree about the point about not staying just in Amsterdam. The Netherlands has more to offer. Like for instance the hanging kitchens in the northern city of Appingedam or a Hotel/restaurant, Eemshotel, outside the dyke above the water in Delfzijl and where you can see Germany in clear weather when standing on the dyke. Or go to Bourtange an old living Fortress town. And there are events in the north as well. Next year, 2024, 13-16 of june there is Delfsail, every year an international dance event (op roakeldais) in Warffum at the end of June or around Pentecost events (Pinksterfeesten) in Delfzijl. Or go visit Drenthe with their Hunebeds and beautiful nature.

[@wanneske1969]

Zeeland is beautiful too

[@ncscoobysnack]

My son had an american collegue visiting his work in the Netherlands. The collegue used the standard US phrase "How are you today!" greating a female coworker. She started crying as she was having a bad day and thought it was visible. Leaving the american wondering what he did wrong.

[@buncharted]

😬

[@andriesvandeloo5166]

Yep, never ask someone in the Netherlands "How are you" as they think that you are getting too personal. I often still make that mistake after living for 35 years in English speaking countries (not the USA, thank goodness). If I ask strangers in Dutch "Hoe gaat het ermee", or in Frisian "Hoe gjit it ermei" (yes I live in Fryslân nowadays), I usually get a blank stare in reply and no answer. You can only ask that question if you know the person well.

[@TheSuperappelflap]

The key difference is that if you ask a Dutch person 'how are you', we actually think you expect an answer, while Americans just say it as a greeting.

[@nairbvel]

I also remember an informal, "Dag!" -- is that still used?

[@TheSuperappelflap]

@nairbvel yeah of course, it’s short for “goededag” which means good day, or we say “mogge” which is short for “good morning” but can be used throughout the day

[@spoonwinnipeg2021]

There's absolutely nothing I miss more about The Netherlands than Chocomel... and that includes my brother and other family members.

[@dukedool9490]

I enjoy your video agree with all those 8 point. Keep it coming.

[@ialrakis5173]

It's been many many years ago now but had a great time on the island Ameland. Good food and great paths for walking and biking.

[@tiniselles]

Wow, great that you’re visiting Friesland. I don’t live there, but have been there often since 45 years. All the ‘Elf Steden’ are worth a visit. Also go somewhere for a e-bike ride, the countryside is so beautiful and the Frisians are so kind. And of course, when possible, go on a boat to see Friesland from the water

[@ellievanderheide1926]

Things to eat and try in Friesland. Beerenburg (alcoholic herb drink), Friese droge worst (smoked and dried sausage), Oranje koek (a pastery) Best way to experience Friesland. Find a Skutsje (Frisian sail ship) for a day (or weekend) of sailing.

[@zndernaam]

Nice that you all gave some advices for visiting the Netherlands! Did you guys also tried the cheesecake at Villa Augustus? They really have the best cheesecake I have ever eat😋

[@buncharted]

we didn’t - but now we have to go back and try it! we love cheesecake 🤤

[@charlottecajahuanca1149]

Thank you for this video, i just moved to nijmegen a couple of days ago to study. 😊

[@spinozatheobvious626]

Great to see you love Villa Augustus this much! It is indeed pretty great... I vaguely remember I actually recommended it to you guys before you even moved!

[@urbandiscount]

Another Dordrecht place with a beautiful garden and cafe is Huis van Gijn (also the beautifully preserved house of a Dordrecht Notable and art collector who travelled widely)

[@jackvandersluis1723]

Nice, nailed all of them! 👍👍

[@tessmontenegro9450]

My most favorite is their sausage rolls when I am in Amsterdam. And if Schipol is my lay over, I always run to get some sausage rolls before going on my next flight to Lisbon.

[@buncharted]

wow - where do you like to get them from? we just did a sausage roll taste test video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJW1emxuZsudrs0

[@renevaanhold]

If you like Villa Augusta you will definitely love Restaurant De Kas in Amsterdam! I had many business lunches over there andvthey just got a Michelin star. Two months ago Barack Obama was also a happy customer. When visiting Friesland you should also take the boat Vlieland and rent a bike. Only the islanders may use a car. And stay a night in the Havenkraan of Harlingen. Specially designed for the both of you!

[@marcwolverson1186]

I’ve been to Utrecht which was lovely! I also stayed in Hilversum.

[@buncharted]

utrecht is indeed a lovely city!

[@vanderquast]

9. Don’t count on good weather 😉

[@petervanlaethem]

Foodtip: one of the Belgian foodies are waffels and in big cities like Brussels, in touristic snack places they serve them with strawberries, Nutella chocolate, whipped creme (yes ALL of them on 1 waffle is possible). Just don't.. 🤷‍♂ A (homemade) waffle is just delicious but all those extras is just a reason to charge you, the tourist, more. But it completely ruins the taste of the waffle itself. Here in Belgium the locals eat a waffle with powdered sugar and yes, a few strawberries on the side is possible (or more like an extra treat). But all those layers of chocolate and/or whipped creme.. just overkill. Trust me on that one. 😉 PS: an advantage is also that this way you can eat more than one, like 2 or 3 .. just like the locals do.😋🤣 🧇🧇🧇

[@buncharted]

mmm liege waffles 🤤

[@Cergorach]

@@buncharted Just try them all! Waffles are great with powdered sugar. But sometimes the 'kitchen-sink' waffles are great as well. Waffles are great with Icecream, whipped cream, etc. It's like saying you should only try bitterballen without mosterd, as mosterd dilutes the bitterballen taste.

[@mnqblmmrt]

@@buncharted You have LIEGE (LUIKSE) wafels and you have BRUSSELS wafels they are very different The one mentioned here is the Brussels waffle absolutely delicious the are light and fluffy I can make them myself (thnx to my mum's recipe and living near the Belgium border) When I bake them I make my neighbors very happy with them But generally in the Netherlands it's more of a hit or miss to find a really really good one "Hate" to say it but yes you have to visit Belgium to get a terrific Brussels Waffle

[@B0K1T0]

Same goes for stroopwafels. Since recent years, in tourist places you see them served with chocolate sauce or other stuff, but this doesn't add to the taste in my opinion and just hides the delicious taste of the good old stroopwafel. Bitterballen / kroketten are meant to be with mustard though ;)

[@annekathleen4498]

Belgium is not the Netherlands

[@moai_man752]

Man I live in the Netherlands so lots of this is true and common ;) here is a sentence : ik hoop dat jullie nog een hele fijne dag en jaar hier in Nederland. Good luck translating it 😊😊

[@xybersurfer]

in Nederland hebben*

[@andreimircea2254]

@@xybersurfer Precies.

[@ilsefaber683]

Aaaah Friesland is next! That's great. Friesland is beautiful. Tip: 'Zwarte Haan' Pretty view over het Wad/ the Wadden Sea With clear weather you can see the Wadden islands. Plus there is a restaurant where you can lunch and dinner :)

[@user-vw4ui5gz6b]

You cracked the biggest Dutch secret: there are so many beautiful cities and towns, often much older and less. Overcrowded than Amsterdam. And there are also so many different countrysides within 200km as well. We (locals) would like to keep it that way, so don't tell to many people... Let most of the ignorant tourists and expats go to Amsterdam if only to keep housing elsewhere somewhat affordable. That being said: We are perfectly fine with welcoming those that put in some more effort to get to know the Netherlands.😊 Amsterdam isDutch for Disneyland 😂

[@FrankHouwelingBoskoop]

You had me with the chocomel 😂

[@MarceldeJong]

I was just shocked how violently she opened the chocomel package. I think you can simply screw that off. Then again I usually don't buy the official one, but the store brand chocolademelk. So maybe that's the proper way to open the pack.

[@plukkie070]

@@MarceldeJong You can't screw those off, you pull these open and these are on more packages aswell. De opschuimmelk van de AH heeft dit ook o.a.

[@MarceldeJong]

@@plukkie070 I did not know that.

[@WhoIsRamsey]

Don't expect free coffee refills like in the US. As you know here you have to pay for every cup.

[@GoliathAngelus]

indeed,,only Ikea has this option with a familycard

[@Wintertalent]

They can afford the free refills in the US, because they don't really serve coffee there. They serve coffee-flavored water.

[@GoliathAngelus]

@@Wintertalent :))

[@Kaasmof]

In regard sto entering public transport: More people will fit in it if you first let people exit. The faster they can exit, the faster you can enter. It is like carying water in a bucket: Once full, you can not transport more water. Once emptied, you have another chance.

[@wanneske1969]

It's also very rude to try and enter a train when people are still getting out.

[@pim5527]

I recommend visiting the Dutch islands, I love Vlieland myself but the others are also nice.

[@andriesvandeloo5166]

They are actually called the Frisian islands, not the Dutch islands, as they are part of the province of Fryslân (Friesland in Dutch). Yes, the Frisians have their own separate language, which is the official language of that province.

[@jeroenschoondergang5923]

@@andriesvandeloo5166 Texel is Noord-Holland and they are called the Waddeneilanden

[@jgn593]

​@@andriesvandeloo5166no it's not. They are called de waddeneilanden.

[@EdwinHofstra]

The reason they are not called the Dutch islands is because there are more islands in the Netherlands, like the Delta islands in Zeeland. Not to mention all the former islands like Urk, Schokland, Westergo, etcetera.

[@EdwinHofstra]

​@@jeroenschoondergang5923Then again, that part of Noord Holland is known as West Friesland, where people still speak West Fries. As such, Texel is a 'Frisian Island', even though, as you said, it falls under Hollandsch administration. 'De Friese Eilanden' is a term used mainly in the tourism industry, to refer to the Waddeneilanden you can actually visit.

[@sobhironi]

From someone living in the centre of amsterdam, great list👍

[@catrionaelliott2317]

The Veluwe is stunning. Nunspeet is well worth checking out. It has a beautiful woods, a lovely lake and a mini beach on the edge of the woods. Eibertjes dag where traditional dutch clothes from throughout the centuries are worn. Lovely restaurants and a fantastic ice cream cafe. Well worth checking it out. Train stops at the edge of the village.

[@blodekont5458]

Go to Groningen...say "moi"when you enter and say "moi"when you leave..pronounciated like "hoi" better then all other cities :)

[@Blomrutger]

Have you guys seen the landscape in Twente yet? Beautiful countryside and tbh some fun cities

[@zigisamblak]

Good video! Side note: "Doei!" is very informal and generally only used between close friends/colleagues equivalent to "Bye!" in English including being possibly dismissive/unfriendly when not used correctly, the best way to say goodbye normally is "fijne dag!" (have a great day!). This works in every circumstance, of course you can also say "fijne avond" (have a great evening) when it's close to 6 o'clock. If you are in Amsterdam you can always say "mazzel" and be immediately recognized as a real amsterdammer. "doei" = short for "dag" = short for "fijne dag" so you are getting to the most informal level with that, like saying "later" in english. (which we also say and means the same)

[@moretoknowshow1887]

Chocomel, you're truly a wild man!!! Excellent tips, thank you!!

[@Joost8231]

Have fun in Friesland! The countryside in the lake area is so beautiful there, so don't stick in Leeuwarden. Try to visit a Skûtjesielen match and don't forget to eat the Friese Kruidkoek or Suikerbrood.

[@sprinkler20]

Did you guys try local food yet like wentelteefjes with home made strawberry jelly?

[@baskoning9896]

Learn the lyrics and meaning and pronunciation of these four Dutch tearjerkers: all by André Hazes: 1) Zij geloof in mij 2) kleine jongen 3) zeg maar niets meer 4) een beetje verliefd If you only do one: do 'een beetje verliefd'. Then go to any café/bar, ask them to put on André. When the song comes on: sing along. Loudly. Perhaps you should drink a bit Dutch courage first, and find some crowd that will join in. You will be 'honorary Dutch' from the day you can sing along. Practice on the pronunciation! It should sound just the way André says it, hehehe. There are some real tongue breakers in it. At least learn the chorus: Een beetje verliefd ... ik dacht een beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeetje verliefd (aaa-haaa-haaa) Als ik wist wat jij toen dacht...had ik noooooooit op jou gewacht Als een kind zat ik te droooomen: ....deze nacht, ben jij, voor mij... Maar die drooooom ...ging snel voorbij...

[@baskoning9896]

Translation 'De Vlieger' (the kite) M'n zoon was gisteren jarig, hij werd acht jaar oud, m'n schat - My son had his birthday yesterday, 8 years old, the apple of my eye Hij vroeg aan mij een vlieger en die heeft hij ook gehad - He asked to get a kite, and so thats what he got Naar z'n bal, z'n fiets, z'n treinen, nee, daar keek hij niet naar om - His ball, bike, trains, no, he did not look at those anymore Want z'n vlieger was hem alles, alleen wist ik niet waarom - His kite, was everything to him, I just did not know why... En toen, op zekere morgen, zei hij: "Vader, ga je mee? - And then, a certain morning, he said: 'father, will go you along?' De wind die is nu gunstig, dus ik neem m'n vlieger mee" - 'the wind is favorable, so I can fly my kite' In z'n ene hand een vlieger, in de andere een brief - in one hand, he had his kite. In the other, a letter. Ik kon hem niet begrijpen, maar toen zei m'n zoontje lief - I still did not understand. But then my boy said softly: Ik heb hier een brief voor m'n moeder - I have.. here, a letter, to my mother. Die hoog in de hemel is - who is high above, in heaven Deze brief bind ik vast aan m'n vlieger - this letter I will bind to my kite Tot zij hem ontvangt, zij die ik mis - so she can get it, the one, that I miss En als zij dan leest hoeveel ik van haar hou - and when, she then reads, how much I love her Dat ik niet kan wennen aan die andere vrouw - and that I cannot get used to that other woman Ik heb hier een brief voor m'n moeder - I have, here a letter, for my mother Die hoog in de hemel is - who is high, above, in the sky

[@lindaraterink6451]

This only applies in the randstad really, northern regions couldn't care less to be honest.

[@Wintertalent]

@@lindaraterink6451 The same goes for at least one person in the Randstad.

[@jclosed2516]

Well - Not everybody loves that stuff. My favorite café's in The Hague had artists hanging on the bar that played blues music mainly, and rock music in general. People I use to hang around with where from The Living Blues, Cuby & The Blizzards, Golden Earring, The Motions and so on. To say those guys where not overwhelmingly enthusiastic about Dutch tearjerkers is a bit of a understatement. Also - Lots of cafe's are orientated on Jazz music, so start singing a tearjerker over there is not really a good idea to be honest. As always - First take a look around and get an idea what kind of music is liked. It is the best advise I can give to not embarrasses yourself. Noting is worst than attacking a lot of unpleasantly surprised gazes in a bar you just entered a few moments ago.😏

[@lindaraterink6451]

@@Wintertalent There are always exceptions to the rule of course and that goes both ways.

[@basvandiepen2772]

9:26 there is alwasy a 1~3 week period in july/august when it rains a lot

[@zzzowie]

I am from Amsterdam and this is one of the better videos I have seen. I like to add one thing: do not waste time and money on where most people go: (Ann Frank house, Van Gogh museum, red light district). It is much better to spend several days walking around in the center and see the the Amsterdam architecture in the central canal area. If you visit one museum it should be Rijksmuseum. A boat tour in the central canals is good (I recommend an open boat). Also a local guide can help (don't do the "free" tours by some foreigners who give a lot of incorrect information and push you to pay a big tip). Study the history of Amsterdam before arrival, including VOC, Golden Age, the architecture from around 1610 to 1700 (when most canal houses were constructed. I don't agree with some peoples advice to spend a lot of time on Jordaan area. The best food is in the back of a supermarket (don't go for tourist section in front. The Albert Cuyp market has already turned into a tourist trap, so go to another one further out, such as the Dappermarkt. And be on your very best behaviour. This included not talking loud anywhere inside or outside. And not block other people just because you want to take a picture. Be very polite and friendly to the locals, especially in Amsterdam the locals already have to suffer a lot from crowds of tourists, often misbehaving, so be very very kind.

[@MarceldeJong]

Yeah this summer is pretty weird. The list is spot on, especially the part about leaving Amsterdam. My country is beautiful, once you leave that forsaken place. Also, drugs shouldn't be the reason to come to the Netherlands. Even the US is now more liberated than this old country.

[@tns5044]

We've had more summers like this in recent years: nice weather in spring and early summer, lots of rain over the summer and usually very nice later in August and even September.

[@ruudbremer]

number 9: Don't expect to have every day a gorgeous and perfect summer day in The Netherlands. It's the Netherlands for crying our loud..... 😋🤣

[@buncharted]

hey, we got it together and made the video anyway!

[@mickyme3696]

All good tips! Speaking about tips, the Netherlands doesn't have a tipping culture as the US does. Sure, your server would definitely appreciate a litte tip but people in hospitality usually earn a liveable wage so 15/20% is not required

[@TurdBoi-tf5lf]

Well this is true for pretty much everywhere in Europe and I think Asia as well

[@ncscoobysnack]

I hope you went to the "markt" to buy a freshly baked big "stroopwafel" which is great and not expensive.

[@user-gt2ud2gw9e]

Language. I'm a linguist and the first thing you learn is that in every society, some people don't have either the interest or the aptitude to communicate in a language which is not theirs. It's all down to what's in your geens, what's your background, your interests in life, and a whole lot more. Everyone is born with a certain aptitude, and this is different in every single person. And whether they're supposed to have learnt this and that when they were at school, doesn't change anything. You're born with certain talents/inclinations stemming from the parents, and that's also a reason why adopting a child very often doesn't work out as planned.

[@jeroenvanzwam6991]

How can you kcuf-up a stroopwafel?

[@TheHarolda1]

Hey guys, love this episode. The Augustus House in Dordrecht looks like an interesting place. Thanks. What not to do when in The Netherlands: I miss a few. First of all, don't go to the red light district; there is nothing interesting there, really. Second, don't do drugs (this goes for everywhere on earth and elsewhere, btw) because it will not improve the experience of visiting the Netherlands, and third, most important of all: please please please do not rent a bike while in a city! Tourists put themselves and everyone around them in great danger by thinking this is a good idea. It's not. Trust me. In the countryside, it's a different story. Enjoy my lovely little country though!!

[@circusbysilk]

yupp, Im always the person asking ppl if they can be silent in the silent space in the train. People (also the dutch) seem to forget to look to the windows and see what space it is. And btw, stamppot is not rly a staple anymore in winter months 😉, maybe only for the houses where elderly ppl live together bc they LOVE it usually 🤭😇

[@razorsharp9850]

You can pretty much notice the Gin kicking in 😁

[@neuron82]

Hey Michelle and Alex! Quick question, is there any chance you would do daytrips in the future to Belgium? Would love to hear your opinion about my country!

[@buncharted]

we have two vlogs in brussels and we have one coming up (though it’s not a day trip style vlog, haha). we do have plans penciled in to visit antwerp, ghent, and liege in the future but we’re not exactly sure when we’ll get there! any other relatively train-accessible spots we should prioritize in belgium??

[@neuron82]

@@buncharted already looking forward to the Antwerp and Ghent ( my favorite city here) video's! Leuven, Mechelen, Kortrijk are nice, but i have no idea if they are big enough to make a video about it. Oh and come to Bobbejaanland in Lichtaard, its our Efteling.

[@EdwinHofstra]

​​@@bunchartedKortrijk for sure. It's very pretty, rich in history and small enough to visit on foot. It's a bit of a train ride, though. A good idea might be to book a room in Ghent (I can recommend the Hospitium - a 19th C. neogothic former nunnery - and the Erasmushuis - one of the oldest houses in the Old Town) and make a few additional trips from there.

[@nairbvel]

@@neuron82 The Statdhuis in Leuven is worth at least a short visit, it's got enough statuary to cover a small town plus there are very, very old ruins viewable in the basement. (It's been a LONG time, but if "Al Parma" is still in business a couple of blocks away, the Special Tony and the Fra Diavolo were wonderful ).

[@DanAndHoe]

I really love Brugge every time I visit. Beautiful well-preserved city, and quite small compared to Antwerpen or Brussel. There's a lot of history, beautiful sights, and of course brewery "De Halve Maan".

[@Jasphur]

Ha! Funny. Watching your video from a Stile Coupe. Nice video. Love that hotel

[@hcjkruse]

The city of Emmen had the colours of bicycle lanes and foot path reversed. Not sure if that is still the case

[@B0K1T0]

6:45 lol that sounds very German though :D I drove on the highways there a few times and when you're passing someone, cars behind you will sign if it takes you more than 2 seconds (especially on the unlimited speed roads).

[@macbosch64]

Fun video very recognizable too 😂😂….do you have a po box by the way? Would like to send you a little something Have fun in Friesland.

[@buncharted]

we don't have a po box! that's a cool idea though - we'll look into it!

[@mistahl87]

I would like to add (for #1) what my Grandma always thought me. And that is to always speak with two words. Ja meneer. Dankuwel mevrouw. Goedendag jongedame. It is a very polite way of speaking.

[@interanti]

A lot of great common sense advice; I felt like much of it is already known but it's still good to present it for the novice. In the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark, shopkeepers would look at me and speak their native language and I would embarrassingly respond mostly in English. And yes, find food and restaurants off the beaten path and you'll be happier. Next up: Utrecht and Rotterdam.

[@geraldinesleijpen5504]

And Maastricht!

[@otherpatrick]

note that number 4 doesnt apply all the time, the street at my house doesnt have a sidewalk and only has the bike lanes next to the car lane and its normal to walk on there

[@janvisser2223]

Jullie zijn zoooo leuk👍👌

[@peterf1]

It could be argued that EVERY nation has a "don't do 'X' when visiting" so all things considered, it's a reflection on the polite and tolerant Dutch society that this is a fairly short list. At the risk of really intimidating visitors from trying the bike paths, they often are a two lanes in each direction. So if you hear a bell behind you, it's asking you to move to the right so you can be passed. As with so many other things, that's just being considerate. That rigatoni with pesto looked delicious. Dag!

[@nicoanker1343]

I know something. Visit small places. I like Lith Vierlingsbeek and Overloon. (All in North Brabant).

[@jgn593]

Don't forget the ww2 museum in Overloon. It's a must see!

[@moonshinebrigade]

#3 is a good one, however.. there's only one real place to get the original "Bossche Bol", and you'll have to stand in line (outdoors) for at least 15min, rain or shine ;-)

[@Meine.Postma]

Are you in Friesland now? We have a lot of beautiful small cities and lots of old buildings. I'm from Leeuwarden. The oldest water tower is from 1680 at Paleis Soestdijk. Number 1: Be on time if you meet someone

[@buncharted]

we just left this morning!

[@peterjaro6804]

You forgot some of the most used questions or comment used by visitors to the Netherlands, such as: 'I need a new hydralic wire on my gen-gas Forklift' or even more used 'What medication do I need for my pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovoicanoconiosis?

[@buncharted]

waar is de febo?

[@peterjaro6804]

@@buncharted 'jaaaa' (always a long ' a ' ) and then: mejn drop is zout

[@Harolddespui]

Outside of Amsterdam, bikelanes which have a red pavement you can also ride with your snorscooter (25km/h). Bikelanes with a normal colored pavement are only for bicycles. That's why they look different. In Amsterdam snorscooters aren't allowed on any bikelane. A snorscooter is a scooter with a speed limiter on it and has a blue signplate. Fast scooters have a yellow plate and aren't allowed on any bikelane. In the past you were allowed to ride without helmet on a snorscooter, but they have changed that rule last year. All (snor)scooters need a helmet now.

[@fredegthuijsen4095]

je bent in nederland dus wisselt het weer een beetje en morgen gezond weer op nieuwe dag nieuw zonnetje🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@buncharted]

so true! we just had to leave, so we had to finish the video that day 😅

[@fredegthuijsen4095]

@@buncharted klaag nooit over het weer dat krijgen we dus kunnen wij nederlanders daar niets aan doen gelukkig hahaha

[@rahuls55555]

the oldest waterpower of The Netherlands is the one of Paleis Soestdijk; was built in 1680. If there is no sidewalk you are allowed (by law) to walk on the bike lane. By the way about 95% of the Dutch do speak English. But you are right knowing a few Dutch expressions if very polite :)

[@EGO0808]

You two are amázing, really…… spot on and with a nice dry sense of humour (like the Dutch. Or at least, that’s what we like to think of ourselves, the Dutch. That we have an awesome sense of humour).

[@12seppert]

In what place is it normal to leave your trash or stand in front of a public transport door if people need to exit the train to name a few?

[@aro8570]

Do not forget doei is used more in the western part of NL. And is a bit informal 9:41 way to speak. There are more was to say that you are leaving. If you say "Tot ziens" You can use it in whole country and is more a formal way, more polite. And yes there are whole amount of towns to see. But landscape too.

[@patrickreuvekamp]

'Tot ziens' can be somewhat too formal in a lot of cases, but I cannot really think of any scenario in which I myself would use 'doei'. I mostly use 'Daag!' (as used in Flanders) or, alternatively, 'fijne avond!' or 'fijn weekend!' if appropriate. In informal situations you could also use something in the line of 'joe!' or 'hoi!', although these two might be fairly dependent on the region. (I am not from the western part of the Netherlands.)

[@jgn593]

There are so many ways to say bye. Ajuus, doei, tot ziens, dag, fijne dag/middag/avond, hou je, enz enz

[@Andre_Ons_Marshall]

At 53 I was looking forward to my first time travelling overseas. But all these do’s and don’ts I’m to scared I’ll do the wrong thing and it sounds all to hard. Maybe I’ll just spend my money at home. Thanks for the video

[@buncharted]

no way - you should absolutely travel abroad. we've made way worse mistakes and still had a great time in other countries :)

[@marnixebbelaar3152]

The best stroopwafels are sold near the exit of GAMMA or a similar shop

[@user-gt2ud2gw9e]

Maybe you recorded your video off-season - When I was in the Netherlands, the weather was just like in your bike tour of Friesland. However, another BIG reason why I prefer Europe in summer, is the amount of daylight - 6 hours more per day between mid winter and mid summer - that's an enormous difference.!!

[@achondar1]

Villa augusta us a nice place. A good friend of my had his wedding over there.

[@buncharted]

amazing place - with great food!

[@SEPedersen]

It's a good enough list! The whole "famous places" thing frankly pisses me off, as a Dutchman I just feel embarrassed when visitors get either such a limited experience or are just ripped off. There's so much to do and see and Amsterdam, yeah, well, I guess you 2 have already figured that particular thing out, living in Rotterdam, which is of course a truly beautiful city in its own right. One more thing though, you can eat any variety of stampot no matter the season. To be honest, I have no idea where the whole "winter food" idea even came from. You'll find all the ingredients or even ready made in any supermarket year round and just a quick glance will tell you these really are very common, popular and staple dishes. I think that its either some myth put forth by internet "experts" or just ignorance. But then again, if you look up what some people think "Dutch" food is like, it shouldn't come as much of a surprise. A bit sad really, as we really do have a Dutch cuisine and we are a pretty distinct culture and it's just a shame to see that reduced to "Amsterdam" and some tourist attractions. A good remedy for that is to get beyond "Holland" (although Holland has a lot of truly amazing things) and go see the rest of the country and meet the people. You'll be surprised.

[@timdettmann4067]

Do you ever get used to the rain?

[@buncharted]

we're actually not really bothered by it anymore unless we're vlogging - then it can be a bit frustrating since i don't want my camera to get soaked 🙃

[@basvandiepen2772]

2:01 according to wikipedia there are 5 older watertowers

[@erikmulder2574]

On food, did you try smoked eels?

[@buncharted]

i tried paling in haarlem!

[@erikmulder2574]

@@buncharted good, missed that, have to look at that 🫣 did you like it?

[@buncharted]

oh yes! but i think i prefer haring

[@Paul_C]

For me it all depends on how get asked the question. And yes, at times I actually say Nee, sorry. And depending on their reaction I once reacted with 'you are welcome'. Sarcasm is the best with obnoxious English visitors... 😊

[@buncharted]

😂

[@Cergorach]

If it's really annoying/demanding, you can go with the "No hablo espanjole!" and look confused... And when they walk away, wave and yell "Have a nice day!". ;-)

[@HB-mj2jz]

Most important tip: The Netherlands is more then Amsterdam. The ironic part is that most people in The Netherlands dont even like Amsterdam or the people in it. They tend to be more arrogant and not very pleasant. The city itself has got nothing to offer except for stereotype tourism places you find nowhere else in the Netherlands and are totally not representative for the rest of The Netherlands. I sometimes have to go for my work, but rather avoid it for the rest of the time :)

[@pauliensluimer3639]

I am Dutch, I agree !!!!!

[@circusbysilk]

I find it always so so super cute when internationals say dankjewel or goede morgen in dutch lol. And Im sure many ppl highly appreciates it too, for example my mom. She doenst like it that many ppl living here cant speak dutch (not my opinion, I love internationals)

[@lindaraterink6451]

'Rutte might sue' Is as American as it is hilarious. 🤣

[@buncharted]

we do have a reputation

[@LianeCarina]

I’m Dutch and living here my whole life and I’ve only been to Amsterdam twice or something😂 my favourite city in the Netherland is Utrecht I think it’s a lot cozier😌

[@frankhooper7871]

I'll add: don't go to one of the many touristy cheese shops. Want a good selection of cheeses? Albert Heijn! (My favourite souvenir shop)

[@c.morees9698]

The food looks great...whatever garden it does come from🍟🥘🍲

[@loonranger469]

Does the 90/180 rule in The Netherlands not apply to you both?

[@buncharted]

we're residents of the netherlands

[@andreathegreat7765]

Again, such a great vid, guys! How about What the Dutch should do (more of) when in the company of American tourists and International Expats like us? Das lachen!

[@andreathegreat7765]

And your Please don't crowd the paths (think of exits when trying to disembark trains, metros, busses, etc.and OMG, at the luggage claim at the airports!) that is for the Dutch to try sometime! How, as a former world power, did they not learn to que up and stand politely in line waiting their turn I ask you?

[@buncharted]

americans are bad about it too - it really seems like in the last decade it became common everywhere 🥲 our only asks of the dutch are to put up with our terrible dutch and don’t immediately switch to english on us 😂 and to let us keep living here!!!

[@Faithra]

The way my face dropped when the chocomel came out

[@Rinusj1]

your #1 is also my number one ...just because English is required (for work) it doesn't mean you only should. People then in 98% out of a hundred respond that they don't speak Dutch which kind of disappoints me..Just a simple hi and and make me feel welcome if i then say someting they dont understand because they're not fully skilled yet i'm happy to go over in speaking English. i don't like to be forced into anything eventhough my English is fine.

[@Blackadder75]

I still don't get how you two keep so slim and fit while eating outdoors so often!

[@B0K1T0]

2:44 And also don't keep standing before the door once you're in and there's other people wanting to get in as well (given there is plenty of space to move). Unless you enjoy the risk of getting pushed over by me in a very rude fashion ;)

[@ceesvanderschoot9799]

So the watertower is from Westcord ??? Weird I did not know that !!!

[@damarmar1001]

Such a lpty that because of the bad weather the parkies in het Wantijpark with live music isn't a thing to really enjoy.I hope next week it will be better.

[@freddeboer2471]

If you are in smaller place and there is no sidewalk you have to walk in the bikelane