Moving to the Netherlands means getting used to a new country, culture and way of life. You may soon find yourself cycling everywhere, discovering typically Dutch traditions and picking up your first Dutch words. As an international student at HZ, you will experience life in the Netherlands from Zeeland, a coastal region in the south-west of the country. Here's what you can expect.
What is life in the Netherlands like?
The Netherlands is a small and well-connected country, so it's relatively easy to explore. Cities, beaches and other parts of the country can be reached by public transport, and cycling is part of everyday life. Living here also means getting to know Dutch culture. Communication can be quite direct and informal, and you may notice that people like to plan ahead. Some things may feel familiar, while others may take a little getting used to.
Tips from students who made the move
Getting to know Dutch culture
- Direct communication
Dutch people are often quite direct in the way they communicate. What may sound blunt at first is usually simply meant to be clear and straightforward. - Informal atmosphere
Don't be surprised by relatively informal interactions in everyday life, including at school. - Planning ahead
Spontaneity certainly exists, but you will probably notice that Dutch people also like their calendars. Meeting up often means choosing a date in advance. - Going Dutch
Sharing or splitting the bill is common when going out together. You may quickly become familiar with the very Dutch habit of sending each other a payment request.
Cycling is part of everyday life
Bikes are everywhere in the Netherlands. For many students, cycling becomes an easy way to travel between home, campus, the supermarket and the city centre. Cycling in Dutch traffic may be different from what you're used to, so give yourself some time to get comfortable with the local rules and cycling culture.
Travelling further
For longer journeys, trains and buses connect cities across the Netherlands. This makes it easy to explore other parts of the country during weekends and holidays.
What's it really like to live in the Netherlands?
Do I need to speak Dutch?
You don't need to speak Dutch to study an English-taught programme at HZ. You can also use English in many everyday situations in the Netherlands. Still, learning some Dutch can make everyday life easier and help you connect with the people and culture around you. It can also be useful if you want to work in the Netherlands during or after your studies.
Dutch traditions you might discover
- King's Day
On 27 April, the country turns orange to celebrate the King's birthday with festivals, markets and events. - Sinterklaas
A Dutch tradition celebrated in the weeks leading up to 5 December. - Dutch food
Stroopwafels, poffertjes, fries and plenty of other Dutch snacks are waiting to be discovered.
