Dutch DISCOMFORT: The relationship with comfort in the USA vs. The Netherlands

Lately I've realized that the Dutch view the idea of comfort very differently from Americans. Since I moved to the Netherlands from the United States, there have been many changes in my life that reflect that. In this video, I share the ways in which my life has become a little less comfortable (for the better, I think!) since moving to the Lowlands.
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I like to share my experiences of an American expat in the Netherlands. I describe both the unique and everyday aspects of Dutch culture, and life in Holland while enjoying every bit of it!
Blog website: www.dutchamericano.com
Instagram: DutchAmericano
Get in touch: [e-mail]
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[@gert-janvanderlee5307]

Comfort is not just in owning a big car. It's also being able to park your car in small parking spaces in the city. It's not just in big houses, it's also in being able to afford to buy or rent your house. It's not just in big burgers, it's also in staying healthy because you eat normal portions. Americans may choose short term comfort but that might mean long term discomfort.

[@InonoYazy]

Agree!!!!!

[@gert-janvanderlee5307]

@Rico Ten If you had actually read my comment, then you would have noticed that my comment contains examples that apply to people in general and in my case, specifically to the situation in the Netherlands, and it's not (just) about Americans.

[@Earth098]

Well said!! In addition to that, in Netherlands, walking, biking or taking public transit is so much more comfortable than in the US

[@arturobianco848]

@@Earth098 Very good point i just rent a car whenever i go states side unless i stay in a big city only Public transportation is just crap in the US.

[@dutchskyrimgamer.youtube2748]

@@arturobianco848 The Netherlands has the best designed infrastructure in the world. You are faster walking in the Netherlands on a straight road then driving a car in the USA. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ooGQeGCfo9Ceesk

[@mariodriessen9740]

When I think of comfort I never think of the USA. I feel much more comfortable living here in the Netherlands, knowing that I can get sick and actually be treated without having to be afraid that it might cost me a ridiculous amount of money. Now that’s comfort to me.

[@dutchman7623]

Being free of fear, for your health, your job, your kids study, your old days, your well being. That makes the Nordic countries and the Benelux the happiest countries in the world for adults and kids.

[@ggAsuna]

@@dutchman7623 so basically, free of fear for your future, and that of your family and friends.

[@tyshamurphy3051]

Yes, I have AC but I’m scared to leave the house. Not very comfortable in my opinion.

[@AssBlasster]

America is a weird place. I live in an open-carry state and don't even bat an eye when I see some random dude carrying a handgun into a shop anymore. But I constantly worry about my future access to cheap insulin when I switch jobs or get new insurance. I just get used to the stress but am hellbent on leaving to enjoy a simpler life some day.

[@luk5464]

Comfort is also subjective. I'd rather walk or cycle 5 minutes to a supermarket, even if it's raining, than have to sit in traffic in relative "comfort" in my car for 20-30 minutes.

[@rpfs2691]

The weather doesn't make memories. People make memories. Do you fondly remember the times you stayed inside with the temperature just right? Or do you fondly remember the time you went hiking somewhere with friends and you got totally soaked? And how you were still dripping in the train on the way back home? The weather doesn't make heaven or hell. Being with people does.

[@barbarawarner4645]

For some of us, Dutch or American, the weather does matter . . . a lot. It’s biological, not attitude.

[@abvm4850]

@@barbarawarner4645 ????????

[@arturobianco848]

@@abvm4850 I guess if its freezing hard and a blizzrd is blowing i stay inside to. Or if its really really hot.

[@lichtbewolkt]

We're not made out of sugar

[@GaryKertopermono]

@@lichtbewolkt Other countries: The weather is really bad outside, it might even be dangerous to go out in this storm. The Netherlands: It's lichtbewolkt.

[@TerryVogelaar]

My wife gets all brain foggy and basically can't properly function when the temperature is too high. So about 15 years ago I got her a €20 table fan for her birthday. Back then she considered it to be an exorbitant luxury, but to this day she still sees it as the best birthday present she received, even though most of my other gifts were more expensive.

[@markjacobs1086]

And that's when you learn that it's not always about the monetary value!

[@Nighteye2]

It's not that we don't appreciate comfort, but we are very practical and also look at the cost of everything. Airconditioning, for example, tends to be very expensive both in money and environmental impact, so the benefits are just not worth it.

[@MarjWas]

We have a Dutch habit called: Uitwaaien. Which literally is going outside for a walk when it’s really windy en let the weather clear your thoughts. It really works! Also I once had a Spanish colleague who loved the Dutch appreciation for sunny days. We go out and soak up every ray we can, making town centers and nature parks come alive with “gezelligheid”. She loved that about living in the Netherlands because in Spain they took sunny days for granted because they have so many of them.

[@epbeket]

👆 this. Uitwaaien is really a cultural thing I guess. Pick a windy day (not per se rainy), go to the coast and walk a few miles up and down the beach. You'll really appreciate your hot coffee or chocolate milk with whipped cream (which you really 'earned' by then). Pro tip: if the wind is very strong, start walking into the wind (headwind), so when you're tired on your way back, you don't have to struggle against it. 🤞 and hope it doesn't change direction 🤣

[@Carrinthe]

@@epbeket I totally agree, there is nothing better than "warme chocolademelk met slagroom" after a windy trip along the coast. Yummy!!!

[@nancyvdspek]

Comfort is also not having to worry about healthcare, shootings, muggings, rapes, home invasions, child disappearances, losing your job or home...🤷🏼‍♀️

[@nickyfaddel8672]

Childen keep on disappearing World Wide! Keep you children safe in the undercover pedofiel society’s worldwide!,,,,

[@tyshamurphy3051]

Yes, it is not fun being in the US right now. I don’t want to take my baby anywhere.

[@davidvandenbroeck5068]

All reasons why I hope to move to Netherlands when I retire in three years.

[@Cherylgielow]

I feel so secure here. I’m not afraid to walk alone at night, I don’t worry about the guy carrying a gun at the cafe will shoot me, no one carries guns here. I didn’t realize how much living in the US brought me a constant state of generalized fear, until I didn’t have it. My first visit back, I had a panic attack while in the grocery, where I saw two men with long guns hanging from their backs. They were just shopping, but how do we know they won’t shoot. I plan to stay here for as long as I can.

[@wimahlers]

Many, if not most, Dutch bicycles do have gears (most common gear: Shimano Nexus 7 gear hub). However, OV-fietsen (the rental railstation commuter bicycles) do not have gears. Also, for practical (getting stolen) and cheap (maintenance and repairs) reasons, many student bicycles have no gears.

[@corneliusantonius3108]

Love Nexus 7, Nexus 8 not so much.

[@wimahlers]

@@corneliusantonius3108 Nexus 8 is a much better gear hub. It is also more expensive (about €100 more or so if I remember correctly),

[@020matrix]

@@wimahlers so its more expesive and therefore better ?

[@wimahlers]

@@020matrix No. It is actual better with better gear ratios and less energy losses.

[@rudyvanwel7818]

If you consider that most bikes are stolen 4/6 times over its lifetime….

[@BobWitlox]

I guess the level of comfort that you are used to determines how you perceive discomfort. Some of the things you mentioned don't even register as discomfort. So it's not necessarily toughing it out, it's just how things are.

[@Dutchess0909]

Exactly

[@bobosims1848]

Right! As you get used to ignoring or even accepting some discomfort, over time you'll feel uncomfortable less often, and you'll be able to deal with a little less comfort, a little more discomfort. While at the same time, you'll appreciate comfortable situations/environments more, because you recognize the difference and how precious it is. When you're too comfortable for too long, too often, in the end you'll get complacent, jaded, until it's no longer enough to trigger appreciation and you start taking it for granted.

[@TheSimArchitect]

Not really. It's very discomfortable to feel pain because your doctor is cheap and thinks you must tolerate the pain while you heal instead of prescribing you something or to be wet because your house doesn't have an attached covered garage (or your work place, or the mall etc). We can survive without those amenities, as she mentions, but life is less enjoyable. You may not perceive these things as discomfort because perhaps you never lived long enough in a situation where you had access to those amenities. I am not saying it's healthier, but it's more comfortable for sure.

[@arturobianco848]

@@TheSimArchitect Who gives a crap about the garage thingy. So you get wet occaisionaly big deal..... And the pain meds ask about all the addict in the states because they prescribed to much comfort. Ofcourse depending on the painlevel some medication might be in order but a lot of times you can do without it. Its even better for you and speeds up the healing if done correctly.

[@anouk6644]

@@arturobianco848 Exactly! Prescribing pain medication for every ache isn’t a good thing. When all pain is taken away you tend to overdue things, because you don’t feel your injury anymore. This will prolong the healing process because you keep damaging that injury and increase the need for more pain medication with the risk of addiction. The doctor isn’t cheap, he is looking out for all aspects of your health. Pain is an indication you need to rest or at least slow down. People seem to forget that. If it’s too much you can always get the infamous paracetamol ;)

[@suecombelic6710]

In the Pacific NW it rains a lot. A true Seattlite does not carry an umbrella. And we have many words for the degree of rain-sprinkles, showers, pouring, deluge, etc.

[@peadar-o]

Another reason for not cancelling plans on a rainy day, is that it smells so nice after and during rain, and there are less people around, so also great to go in & out of shops.

[@markjacobs1086]

Just the sound of rain is calming, even if you're standing in the downpour yourself!

[@IlseMulAuthor]

Right? Especially when you're in a park or the forest! And rain on a warm/hot sunny day? That is excellent!

[@rpfs2691]

I'm approaching 60. 3 years ago I changed my standard bike for a 3 gears bike. It's wonderful. When I'm approaching 80, 85, I might go for either more gears or an e-bike. But yes, cycling is working out - for free!

[@se9865]

I'm going to use that line about not being made of sugar when someone asks me why I rode my bike to work in the rain. The more I learn about The Netherlands, the more I want to be there.

[@freekfaro5606]

You're not made of sugar. It's what my mother told me sixty years ago and probably all Dutch mothers told their children (I hope they still do!), when you go out in the rain. Cycling to school ... Looking back, I'd say it gave me a certain perspective on life. For the better!

[@MB-co6qj]

@@freekfaro5606 Still very much in use haha

[@waveboard111]

@S E you should check out the channel notjustbikes, if you havent already. hes a canadian that moved to the netherlands and makes great videos

[@LizaS70]

Charlie Vest, an american living in Indiana has made numeral videos about the Netherlands as well and is still learning. He also dreams of living here.

[@seanm.9942]

Same

[@joebloggs2473]

Hi, I am seriously ill but yet I am contented. That contentment is comfort. Everyday I am happy that 60 years ago I came here. There is a good Dutch word that describes this comfort and contentment; tevredenheid. It is a state of being that English cant really describe.

[@comdutch]

??? tevredenheid = content/contentment/satisfaction

[@vincenzodigrande2070]

I have heard Chris Bruntlett mention this, I believe in a ridecast with Propel founder Chris, that Americans take comfort to a level where it becomes unhealthy. People are made to move and overcome challenges on a daily basis and this is actually good for physical and mental health.

[@MusicJunky3]

And she is back ...! Call it my Calvinistic upbringing but when I heard that the presenter, of another show I'm following , told what her parents house looks like in the U.S : (a television in every room and three cars in front of the house ) I thought 'Don't tell me this is normal because to me it's way over the top, but you may think different. I once had a job where I had start promptly at 0800 and had to cycle twenty kilometers every day through sunshine , rain ,frost and fog and sometimes mend a puncture in the rain under a lamp post.And when I left that job the only thing I missed was that bike ride.A colleague lived ten minutes away from her job and she came by car.And we gave each other pitying looks :) So it all depends what you are used to I guess.

[@paul.van.santvoord1232]

If you put your 'comfort' above your friends you will be left without friends in the Netherlands. Even pouring rain can not stop us cycling to friends. That is why there are rain jackets and trousers.

[@eronsentertainmentstore6487]

Prof. Doctor Dirk de Wachter, says you need to experience little discomforts to not take the beautiful things for granted, because if you take all the conforts for granted that avoids you experiencing true happiness. (I think this translation, although not literal transfers the message) Also my bike does have 21 gears, but it's always in gear 21... :)

[@pebertje]

Hi Ava, As you told it, it seems that a lot and often rain falls in the Netherlands, that is really a misunderstanding. At most for people who come from a dry climate, it seems that there is a lot of rain, but if we look at the climate measurements , it appears that in the Netherlands it rains on average 8% of the time, so 92% of the time it's dry. If you're talking about all the complaining about the weather here, you're right, it seems like it always rains. As far as that is concerned, you are already becoming a real "Hollander" 😀😀.

[@barbarawarner4645]

Now, compare the number of sunny days to the number of gray days. As a California girl living in The Netherlands, it’s the lack of sunshine that drives me nuts, not the rain. I’m a sociologist/psychologist who sees and lives both sides of this debate. The cultures are simply different. I’ve also lived in Thailand. Same thing. Most Thais didn’t notice the oppressive heat and humidity. Each culture/ location has many wonderful elements and some not so enjoyable elements. People adapt. Period.

[@janis9523]

@@barbarawarner4645 I life in the part of the Netherlands that's called Limburg Whe have the most sun from the Netherlands You should have moved to here.

[@carelgoodheir692]

But the proportion of days on which there is some days is probably quite a lot more than 8%.

[@ninasimons8066]

Thanks Ava, this is such a nice video! Very true and a great sense of humour. I think this is your best video so far 😄

[@bobosims1848]

Hey Ava. To many of us, comfort isn't found in the temperature, the amenities or the size of stuff. Dutch people often feel comfort in simply being with people we love, like, appreciate or enjoy. Friends, or even people you meet just that one time on the street, in town or in a park, can have a much greater impact on how you feel at the end of the day than something superficial like temperature, amenities or that huge burger. As the Irish say "a stranger is just a friend you haven't met yet". Well, I think that most of those unmet friends are outside and we need to go meet them! So we just accept whatever the weather may be, and enjoy our freedom to go outside anyways, just because we want to! Because if we let the weather stop us from having fun, our lives are going to be crappy and boring, and we'll have very few friends.

[@collectioneur]

The Dutch don't even use words like comfort and discomfort, it's all part of every day life...

[@PdronQ]

oncomfortabel

[@eddys.3524]

Hi Ava... a nice insight in USA and it's convenience culture... The obvious downside of which is that nothing in the end will be valued. Less convenience makes people value what they have and experience.

[@edwardlamb]

This is great. Thanks for sharing! Had a recent trip to Amsterdam and learned so much... I think the discomfort thing is real. There is a level of 'discomfort' indoors, but amazing luxury outside in the public realm, which encourages people outside to meet each other

[@museaengeschiedenisfestiva5212]

I love your personal journey...awesome that you talk about this. Keep it up, please.

[@martybrals9748]

As a Dutchie, I can say that you adapt (and evolve) very well into your new life ..well done!

[@DutchAmericano]

Thank you 😊

[@lbergen001]

Nice reflection 👍👍 for a and on this lazy Sunday.

[@chubbymoth5810]

That was an interesting observation. Thanks for setting out your thoughts in such an amusing manner. You made my day.

[@DutchAmericano]

That's very nice of you to say, thank you! 😊

[@vviolet934]

I've lived in the Netherlands for almost a year, and the epitomy of 'you're not made of sugar' was when my (very) Dutch athletics trainer insisted we do a track workout in 10 degrees/hard rain/wind.... that day I wished I had accepted that I was made of sugar and stayed home lol

[@peterkralt2478]

10 degrees wind and rain? The best weather for football training!! or fishing or for a long walk on the beach and the dunes to get some wind through your hair to loose the stress and worries of work or everyday life, and when your done and get inside again slide in to some dry cloths near the fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate with sweetened whipped cream than it feels like your in heaven!!

[@TheSimArchitect]

The Dutch can be a bit crazy. Much better to stay home and cook something when it's rainy. Enjoy a book etc.

[@peterkralt2478]

Well you can't spent the whole year only cooking and reading, there is a life to be lived as well

[@vviolet934]

@@peterkralt2478 ja maar even my Dutch friends were complaining, so I don't feel so bad about it lol

[@janwensveen1406]

Lindsay, and afterwards, even now, it is still a lasting memory of something you have actually done. And you did not die and all.

[@WindmillChef]

It has been a long time since I have thought about this subject. Eva, you have touched on something here that is real, there's definitely a phenomenon here but I am not certain that your verbiage, your explanation really conveys the issue to unknowing foreigners. I am not trying to troll you. The Netherlands has not always the wealthy country, the level of GDP that it is today, merely 2-3 generations ago The Netherlands was an agricultural society with 70% of the population in, what I describe as, poverty. Added to this, geographically we all know that the country is a brutal challenge (one big storm can wipe away the entire country). Because of this the Dutch have developed some very stoic behaviors in their being which are now part of Dutch culture and upbringing. I recommend you listen to a song, the artist is: "Boudewijn de Groot" and the song's called: "Jimmy" or "De eenzame fietser" (same song, two titles). Boudewijn de Groot is, a generation ago, the Dutch version of Bob Dylan and the song tales in absolutely masterful artistic Dutch lyrics a person in a emotional personal fight concurring the Dutch elements and challenges and then also describes how one can weaken and loose this brave stoic character by gaining too much wealth or fame. I have always, to this day, found this song to be profound and the song could not ever be done in an English, Spanish. German, or whatever version. The song is so Dutch culturally that no other people would understand.

[@tyshamurphy3051]

I’m watching from the U.S. and love these videos. Thank you! Socially and politically (as many comments note) things are not very comfortable here but we are a people somewhat obsessed with our “creature comforts.” I thought you covered this aspect perfectly.

[@dodododo995]

I live in kuwait and the some cultural points are the same in the us such as high private healthcare,car independent,obesity and big houses.

[@ruudvisser712]

Loved this, as usual! I think that bicycles with handbrakes and several speeds are quite common though. I can't remember the last time I was on one without speeds and with a backpeddal-brake. They should be easy to find though...

[@TheSimArchitect]

They also have e-bikes, which are quite affordable used and assist you even better than the ones with gears. I can't use any bicycle, they're just too heavy for me (ME/CFS) so I walk and use public transportation instead.

[@gert-janvanderlee5307]

The bicycles without gears are probably the ones people use to go to the train station.

[@Belfastchild1974]

I didn't really know what to expect from this video and honestly was a little worried, but after watching it, I can only say Good on you girl, you're Dutch!

[@Whistler4u]

Having comfort is even more comfortable after being dis-comfortable.

[@robdegast3612]

OMG, je begint zo Nederlands te worden, dat ik niet eens meer in het Engels ga reageren. 🤣🤣🤣 Volg je YT-kanaal al vanaf het begin en vind het nog steeds geweldig!!

[@vitemapo]

In The Netherlands we tend to say: “it’s hot, it’s cold, it’s small or it’s tough”. In the US we tend to complain: “it’s too hot, it’s too cold, it’s too small or it’s too tough”. It is a useful conversation starter though.

[@LordCucumber77]

Yup. Saying "Boy the weather is shit today" and then sitting down still dripping, greeting the other person (possibly with three kisses) and moving on to the next subject.. the Dutch way :D

[@Paul-iq6pw]

Just take comfort in the fact that if you ever end up in a place without an AC again, you have hundreds of fans here. US discomfort is comfort for us. US comfort is excessive luxury for most of us. Nice to hear you are getting more Dutch every day.

[@aeiouaeiou100]

9:20 Gears just break and it costs more money and they don't add that much comfort imo. The less often you have to fix your bike the better.

[@Dawwwg]

They actually do; any cyclist that makes serious mileage will tell you. And if you buy a decent bike, the gears hardly break once every 10 years, nor are they that expensive; there is a reason you hardly see oma fietsen outside the big cities ... In big cities having expensive bikes doesn't make sense, including them getting stolen all the time, hence less is more; but that's very different in other parts of NL.

[@andrecostermans7109]

@@Dawwwg true, city-bikes and student bikes are merely used on short trips , on the other hand people biking in the villages and the open tend to do a lot of km , so some gear-system is very wellcome for those riders

[@trueg66]

FYI: More than 92 percent of the time it is dry in the Netherlands, but in the other 8 percent you can get quite wet. In a whole year there is an average of 853 millimeters of rain. That is more than 2 millimeters per day. Most rain falls in autumn (246 mm), followed by summer (235 mm), winter (219 mm) and spring (154 mm).

[@barbarawarner4645]

And how often is the sky GRAY all day. That’s the killer, not the rain and cold. Some of us need sun.

[@xegrex]

I've always believed that knowing that you can be comfortable being uncomfortable is an important mindset to have. I'm happy you have found some of that by moving to NL.

[@sjoerdglaser2794]

Especially if you get rich, big houses are definitely a thing in the Netherlands. It's just that we don't have so many of them

[@xxmilannathanxx]

Bikes with gears are usually not used in big cities because those bikes get stolen a lot of the time. You don't buy something that's costs a lot and lose it due to vandalism or thiefs. I think that people who live in small villages do have bikes that have more comfort. It's just not very often used in big cities. My bike got stolen 7 times. If you just have a bike without fancy stuff and good locks you can depend on it beter haha:D

[@PH61a]

Ava, after watching this video you (Americano) inspired me (Dutchie) to have a walk through the rain in Utrecht this afternoon: het moet niet gekker worden 😄

[@sebastianhuvenaars6537]

Comfort gains from discomfort in a "no light without darkness" kinda way :-)

[@robklaassen8686]

Zolang het gezellig is, is alles goed! 😎

[@TheMntnG]

have you seen Wall-E? the people there are comfy. no second thoughts. also, how comfortable are the poor?

[@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands]

Enjoy the wind it brought us wealth, enjoy the rain, it makes things fresh and new.. and makes our crops grow..

[@squarecircle1473]

What is interesting and important in the discussion about comfort is to what extent comfort actually contributes to happiness and to what extent it can take away from it. Comfort is often the result of being in a position where an otherwise taxing task is being made less taxing or even avoidable entirely. However, a consequence of that is that, upon finishing the task, one does not have as big of a sense of accomplishment for having finished it, because the thing that has made life comfortable has partially carried the burden of finishing the task or has in some way made the task so easy that it is unjustifiable feeling accomplished for having overcome it. When this happens in too many areas of life, one will experience decreased sense of accomplishment in general, which I think obstructs feeling happy. Discomfort, or rather, the absence of too many things that add to comfort, puts you in a position where you have to invest more effort into accomplishing a task, but this increased effort also adds a justification to feel increased sense of accomplishment for having finished the task, which adds to happiness. Very relevant example which I think demonstrates this: it is not hard nowadays to envision a hypothetical future where AI does everything for us, and all we have to do is sit around in luxury, like pets. AI will do our jobs, it will drive us around, it will show us the way (GPS), it will write our essays, etc. In short: it will do everything for us that would otherwise require effort. Meaning this hypothetical future is a condition of maximum comfort. Yet, it is not hard to imagine this to be a depressing state of affairs. Or, another example: standing on top of a mountain after having climbed it feels greater than to stand there after being carried there. Of course, this should not be misinterpreted as me saying life ought be a struggle. That is also not true. Having a decent amount of comfort in ones life is a good thing. Comfort is important and beneficial in many ways, and I think *does* add to happiness when it is present up to a certain point. To deny this would result in masochism. It is just important to keep the balance, so that we not forget our own strength, not forget all we are capable of doing, in order to feel and be independent, strong, and happy. It interests me. Because, intuitively, one would connect comfort to happiness. As I said, I think to a certain point that is valid. Once comfort is present in excess, however, I think it stands in the way of what it means to be happy. And I think conscious exposure to discomfort (like purposefully walking in the rain) may sound odd at first, but really isn't that crazy when you think about it. After all, why would we not? What will happen to us if we do? Nothing. It's interesting to think about. I very much enjoy your videos. As a Dutchman, it is interesting hearing your observations and experiences. Hope you are well, have a great day and enjoy your summertime!

[@palantir135]

It rains a lot in certain parts of the Netherlands. The parts with the Droge Zandgronden/ dry sand ground in the south and east are much dryer. I only go outside with bad weather as it is necessary or I’m on Holliday.

[@goodsmile5170]

Love This subject ! Netherlands is the country with inner confidence! I love 💕 the healthy lifestyle

[@regiliok]

i have a micromave/oven combo its its great (i personaly find myself use the oven 60% of the total uses so u can take this with a grain of salt)

[@lordsleepyhead]

I think many Dutch bikes don't have gears because that's just another thing that can break, and Dutch people like their bikes to be as durable and long lasting as possible.

[@basv]

I agree with you! Though it could also be that Dutch people try to eliminate (or lower the level of) discomfort for themselves in order to feel more comfortable throughout the rest of their lives, as things become less and less discomforting that way

[@regiliok]

im dutch and my bike has gears..... it makes it faster and easyer my first few bikes didnt but most bikes in my adult life have had them

[@joopspeth6483]

When you grow up cycling against the wind, through rain and snow, you can have a liitle discomfort.

[@InonoYazy]

To be honest sometimes it's very sad to see people, who are too used to comfort. Not moving sitting on the couch, driving, for me they look like to have a serious disability

[@fickyni2]

Interesting! I think it's not necessarily about liking discomfort, but valueing other things over comfort. For example a fan or airconditioning costs a ton of energy, which is expensive and the dry air can make your throat hurt. Making food yourself is healthier. We just aren't raised to be lazy. By the way, outside of cities most people have gears on their bikes, because of the wind and distance etc.

[@LordCucumber77]

Hey Ava. I recognized the bit where you were told the other person actually enjoyed the challenge of crappy weather after being in lockdown, it's very Dutch. It's kind of in our genes to battle the elements and being inside for the better part of a year probably brought that out when people started going out again. Screw the weather, I'm alive, that sort of thing. And yeah, we're raised with the idea that a little wind and water won't kill you. Umbrella's are for keeping your stuff dry, like groceries or your office briefcase, if you're on your own and wearing the right coat who needs one :P

[@LordCucumber77]

Also, there is the social cultural element of saying everything is relative: If there wasn't horrid weather, you'd not appreciate the little comfort things in life as much ;)

[@nagranoth_]

"tiny house" is defined as 40 m2 or less, actually. I don't think I know anyone who has paddle breaks and no gears on their bike. Omafietsen are really a big city thing, I guess...

[@DutchAmericano]

Haha, maybe it is a city thing. In Utrecht I always park my omafiets among a sea of other omafietsen.

[@Dawwwg]

@@DutchAmericano Yes, it's mainly a city thing

[@lws7394]

@@DutchAmericano Sort of yeah... The wires and handles get ripped when you often park your bike in station bike racks or narrow hallways. Also, I now just have an e-bike and I am a bit paranoia where to park it without it getting stolen. Being able to drop your old bike anywhere in town, without thinking of theft, is also a way of comfort.

[@martianpudding9522]

I don't think bikes without gears and front brakes are that common? I've had both on every adult size bike I've had

[@europeangardenflower9812]

I hate rain and avoid going out with rainy weather. I try to plan around it or go by car. Comfort on a personnel level for me is a good shower and a good bed. Comfort on a sociatal level is having a shops and supermarkets within walking distance, affordible and excessible healthcare, being able to take a day off when I feel like it. Having my family and friends live close by due to short distances and good infra. And the ease to go to a foreign country over the weekend, also easy excessible.

[@TomgTomg1]

theres loads of bikes in the netherlands with gears though.. its only certain classes/types of bikes that don't have them (and they're kinda popular for some reason , haha)

[@saevius1]

A bit of discomfort is honey for the brain

[@lucvergnes]

The thing with some, maybe even deliberate discomfort, is that it makes all the other nice moments even better because they are more beautiful relative to the discomfort, like she said. If everything is comfortable all the time, then all experiences kinda "flatten out" and life becomes kinda boring imo

[@TheSimArchitect]

This makes no sense. So you can't live in a mansion because you're poor. To feel better you go out in the cold to remind yourself life could be worse? 😆

[@12floit33]

@@TheSimArchitect Makes sense

[@WhoopsieDayZ]

@@TheSimArchitect It does make sense and has been explained and talked about by people for thousands of years. The idea that you need discomfort, hardship and tragedy in life to fully appreciate the good things about it. If your life is always great and perfect, you won't even recognize that it is. You need balance in life. It"s the same reason you were bored as a kid often during summer vacation. And then when school started again, suddenly everything was fun and interesting. A cold breeze will make you happy when you've been in the heat all day. Relaxing in the evening is great if you've been working all day. Having a normal, mundane life is great after you've been going through hard times. Etc. Etc.

[@Dutchess0909]

Discomfort to one might not at all be uncomfortable to another. I, (a Dutch-American with dual passports, banks, driver's licenses, etc) love today's weather: a bit overcast, a bit of wind, moist, etc. Reading the NRC paper at my tiny house (45m2) patio near Haarlem, in a T-shirt. Americans will not be able to deal with "discomfort" when times get bad: economy, war, environment, etc. Whereas a lot of Europeans will "deal with it". Keep wool blankets, grow your own carrots, etc. Wgen in the USA I never want a fridge with an outside icedispenser: one more think to break. Fancy car? Why? I would rather meet up with friends, or fly to see grandchildren. It's all a choice.

[@DutchAmericano]

You've just described my ideal Sunday morning. I also happen to be a fall/winter person, so I completely get what you mean.

[@Webjutter]

Biking is King, nice slogan 🙂

[@erikmulder2574]

All the comfort things you mention are actually a big discomfort. All the big things, the good to have appliances that you do not really need and the latest model of cellphone etc. Is good for economy however bad for sustainability. I do have appliances as well, however do not replace it when it is not broke and I live on a relatively small space. I have never seen the comfort of a large house. More cleaning to do and space you do not really need. I think it is where we were raised that causes a different way we perceive things.

[@marcusfranconium3392]

Vissit the coast during a heavy storm and you see why dutch people love the ocean. The dutch are made for the cold wet weather, most dont like anything above 20 Degrees . 17 degrees is perfect hot enough to not freeze and perfect to do labour intensive jobs with out over heating.

[@Dawwwg]

"most dont like anything above 20 Degrees" ... that is just not true !

[@TregMediaHD]

Nice content . Greetings from Zwolle..

[@cizlerable]

You can get a bike with gears. I'd say 5 is optimal. It's just about getting away from a traffic light quicker.

[@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands]

Go watch a storm at the beach, it's great..

[@SandsOfArrakis]

Ah yeah. "Even lekker uitwaaien" 🌪🌪😊

[@BlueStarDragon]

My bike does have frontbreaks and 3 gears. And is more then 10 years old. I use the first gear if I am going up a steep hill. Gear 3 is when I wanna go fast on a flat road. Most of the time I use gear 3

[@nlbergsma]

If you are sitting on the sofa all the time because you think it's too wet/too cold/too hot to go out you 'll become a vulnerable greenhouse plant.

[@Ulrich.Bierwisch]

Bubble people isolate themself from the different flavors of life. Everybody is partly in his bubble and partly sticks his head out - more or less. In the US it's typically less. I see this in much more areas than just weather. It's in social media. Restaurants are chains where you get your favorite flavor any time any place. You live in a neighborhood with mostly people like you. AC in the house, car, buildings and even outdoor cafes have cooling in the summer and umbrella heater in winter.

[@maxg2814]

Too be fair, for big cars, the taxes are just way to high in the Netherlands, and big houses are just really unaffordable, with like 517 people per square kilometres

[@Nynke_K]

Very insightful! But I think your friend who was happy for some toughening up should have just agreed with you and maybe done more toughening up on her own :)

[@DutchAmericano]

Haha, I was just surprised and was very much caught off guard.

[@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands]

AC???? just get up early in the morning, open all the windows let the cool air in, than close up , and keep doors etc closed during the hot hours, plant some trees in your yard, and your house will be okay all day..

[@DutchAmericano]

Hehe, yes, this is what I mean!

[@ammelovmokum7346]

@@DutchAmericano spain closes up in the morning, and opens up late afternoon...think AC is an american thing/fetish🙂

[@DescallD]

This might be a bit of an unpopular opinion, but I feel like in the US comfort is all about your OWN comfort. Regardless of how it makes the people around you feel. It can come off as a bit selfish. Riding in a big SUV might be very comfortable to you, but how do you think the small car driving next to you feels? I don't think they would feel very comfortable. And if you made plans with friends, but you decide not to go it might be more comfortable to you. But if your friend was really looking forward to it and now their day is kinda ruined, I don't think they would feel very comfortable. I think the average American doesn't like the idea or even thinks that you can be comfortable with less. And as for the psychological aspect of it, I think the more comfortable you are, the less bothered you will be with the comfort of others. It's like how being rich makes you less charitable. The better your life is, the less you will care about the lives of others. I don't think all Americans are like this, but it seems that this is an aspect of American culture that all Americans are exposed to all the time. So it inevitably leaks into your behavior pattern.

[@NiinaW]

I have gears on my bike but in the 15 years I've had this same bike I haven't used them ever... a big reason why we dont have gears is that they break so no gears is less maintanance

[@Dutchieboy20]

I'm really enjoying your channel! I'm Dutch in the USA currently, but my American partner and I are thinking of moving back to NL in the near future (2-3 years). We were wondering if you could make a video about your actual process of moving and dealing with immigration and residence permits. How did you go about it?

[@janwensveen1406]

Unless you are actually in the top 1% of wealth owners in the USA, moving away out of the USA is the financially sound decision. Otherwise, medical can cripple your status. If planning a family, you will get those medical costs, then risk your child being shot dead in school, being forced to chauffeur your child for 16 years, have a lacking education for your child unless home schooling.

[@IlseMulAuthor]

Thank you again for a fun video! About biking: I don't know where you got your bike, but a bike with pedal brakes and no gears is...... That's something little kids may start with, but normally, nowadays, a bike with hand brakes and at least 3 gears it pretty normal. Also, an umbrella on the bike?! Please, no! Do you have any idea of the risks?! If the wind catches your umbrella slightly wrong, you might end up under a car! About cars: I don't understand the "need" for or obsession with a big car. Sure, some bigger cars can be very handy when you want to transport large things, or when you have a big family, but why would a single person, living in the city and having an office job need a range rover? I mean.... That's the moment when certain big cars become a status symbol instead of a transportation vehicle. Other comforts here in the Netherlands: - health care. I feel a great comfort in the fact that I can go to the doctor or the hospital and at most I need to pay 385 euro in total for the year and the rest is covered by my insurance (with some exceptions) - travel distances: to go from the North of the Netherlands to the utmost South will take you about 4 hours I think.... That's to cross our country. I've been in the USA once for a 3-week holiday and we needed this time to cross the distance from one city to the next in the same state....... - No law that gives people the right to carry guns which leads to no school massacres, etc (sure, we have the exceptions, but those are just that; the exception)

[@citizenkane4831]

Don´t you have e-bikes in the netherlands. They have become very popular here in Sweden and comes in varius prices and models.

[@mariadebake5483]

There are many in the Netherlands too

[@MusicJunky3]

Yes we do ,but now the people that have one, cycle so fast that they end up in hospitals...

[@citizenkane4831]

@@MusicJunky3 yes it´s the same here. It´s like people can´t use common sense.

[@PatriciaBrooksCarefreeExpat]

I think this might be true of Europeans in general. I'm in France and I describe the French as hardy because they don't seem to mind sitting outside at a cafe on a cold winter day. I also don't find furniture here too comfortable. I miss my La-Z-Boy recliner.

[@DanielFokker]

Just another year and you will be comfortable taking ‘Wim Hof the Dutch Iceman’ - ice baths, cold showers and go to Finnish saunas every week. Our bodies work better while being exposed to these conditions, I believe.

[@ilonkagootjes858]

The Dutch comfort-level, still leans on the dutch saying; "Doe maar normaal". (Just be normal) for example, I'm 49. When I was about 7 or 8, and I didn't want to go play outside in the snow, because it was to cold. My parents would say; 'Doe normaal', just put on an extra sweater, you'll have fun, and it's good for your health, makes you strong. And i'm sure lots of my fellow Dutchies round the same age are familiair with that. We also didn't have central heating in those days. Bed- and bathrooms had iceflowers on the windows in the winter. Only the livingroom was warm. The fact that winters aren't the same anymore (sadly) is already a reason why we are not impressed when it gets a bit colder. Same with rain and wind.

[@esiebring7436]

I agree. But things change in the Netherlands as well; lots of people will heat their bedroom to 18C nowadays. Another thing that stems from my youth: amenities are something to be distrusted; beware! Usually they're used to cheat you out of more money. I wouldn't say we revel in discomfort; we try to see the upside of nasty things, in order to turn it into something better. The upside of stormy weather is that gives you a free work out. And rain will make the crops grow; so it exchanges discomfort for cheaper foodstuffs later on. Doe maar normaal. And: if it's efficient, it's good. Frills usually aren't efficient.

[@captainchaos3667]

I agree, and I think it's worth pointing out that all that comfort comes at a price: energy and resources. Driving everywhere, A/C everywhere, huge houses, etc. costs huge amounts of energy and resources and produces a lot of pollution and greenhouse gasses. Some say Americans use two to three times more energy per capita than the next highest country. Americans will inevitably have to accept a lower comfort level if they want to take their responsibility in the fight against climate change.

[@rebeccacarter1914]

I love simplicity. I would be fine with the Dutch mindset.

[@danobanano2505]

I bet you already heard the Dutch saying "Doe maar gewoon, dan doe je al gek genoeg" meaning act normal, thats already weird enough. Over here we don't have the need of a mansion, tv in every room, 3 huge sized cars and a Pool. We're happy with less, so you enjoy everything on top of that. In America you see its either the minimum or maximum.. huge cars vs homeless people and not alot in between.. over here, we try to have the majority around the middle.

[@Rob2]

I think it is not that the Dutch do not like to have comfort, but they carefully weigh in the comfort that something brings against the disadvantages it also brings. E.g. things can break, they have to be stored, they cost money, they need maintenance. E.g. your friend that does not have a fan when it is hot probably thinks "I can buy a fan but that will cost money, and I will have a fan for 52 weeks a year while I need it only for 2 weeks. the other 50 weeks it is only taking up space". "teveel spullen" is something lots of Dutch people hate. An umbrella in the rain keeps you somewhat dry, but usually not completely, it is difficult to handle in the wind, and once you arrive at your destination you have a wet umbrella that you have to put somewhere and not forget when you leave. Gears on bikes are not that uncommon. But there is a class of bikes ("oma-fiets" of "stadsfiets") that does not have them and one reason would be that what you do not have on the bike cannot break either. And the bike is less attractive to steal. So in general I think the Dutch just weigh the advantage of having comfort against the disadvantages of the things that bring it.

[@singlepringle7485]

That's what I thought! I don't have a bike with gears just because I can do the maintenance of a simpler bike myself! I'm not very technical so fixing a broken gear is out of my capability to be honest. Also, fixing a tire or a new break is not such a big deal with a simple bike. I also fully agree with your umbrella and having too much stuff explanation.

[@komkwam]

Imo, a fan doesn't really cool you off, it just moves warm air around.

[@bentels5340]

What are you talking about? There are tons of bikes here with gears. And hand brakes. And even both. Just look a little harder.

[@gordonwallin2368]

Cheers from the Pacific West Coast of Canada.

[@gordonwallin2368]

"Comfort" is such a cultural and psychological thing.

[@Kelsea-2002]

Too much comfort makes you fat and lazy. For 'bad' weather there are the right clothes.And camping is fun even in winter if you are properly equipped.Greetings from Iceland,Kelsea

[@DutchAmericano]

Haha, yes, I've also heard the "there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!"

[@Kelsea-2002]

@@DutchAmericano Lol;den Spruch gibts wohl in ganz Europa.

[@McNessie101]

It’s funny when you hear people in Holland say “it rains a lot”! I come from Scotland.....

[@moldar81]

We don't use umbrellas in Seattle as well. Most people use a rain jacket. If you use an umbrella then you're an outsider.

[@LizaS70]

Sometimes when I see the homes in the US I get a little jealous.. I would love a separate dining room, mud room, laundry room, a master bathroom and large bedrooms. But it's not like that here. We have a half bath downstairs. A bathroom upstairs. Kids have their own rooms, but not huge ones. My laundry I do in the attic. Kitchen, dining room and living room are all in one space. That's really a comfortable house here in the Netherlands. I'm happy with it ☺

[@jeanpierreviergever1417]

The difference is that the Dutch adapr to any environment so they don’t get distracted from what they want. Americans want to control the environment so they don’t need to adapt to it. Question is where do you put your energy.

[@ArrowRaider]

As an American living in the US, I perceive almost nothing around me as comfortable. I detest the big vehicles and how inaccessible and far away things are. Everything is a huge ordeal here for me. The weather sucks in Ohio too.

[@moshemordechaivanzuiden]

When I'm a guest of the non-Dutch they ask me over and over if I'm sitting comfortably. They have no idea what I mean when I say "I'm not a fakir, I'm not comfortable sitting on a nail but for the rest I don't care."