Section 1: The Netherlands

In this section, we'll introduce you to the Netherlands. Here you’ll find everything you need to know before you surf the rest of the website.

Section 2: The Dutch

Merel will tell you all about the Dutch. What kind of people are they? What do they do in their free time and what sports do they like? She’ll also introduce you to some famous Dutch people.

Section 3: Life in the Netherlands

What’s it like to live in the Netherlands? What do Dutch houses look like? If you ever visit the Netherlands, you’ll notice that the Dutch really like gezelligheid (having fun together). But what does that mean exactly?

Section 4: School

Merel will show you what it’s like to go to school in the Netherlands. She starts the day with breakfast and then cycles to school.

Section 5: Nature

The Netherlands has lots of green, open spaces. Annemiek knows everything about the Dutch countryside. She’ll introduce you to the lakes, the Frisian Islands and the dunes. She’ll also tell you about the constant battle against the sea.

Section 6: Work

The Netherlands is a rich country. Rashid will tell you why that is. He’ll show you where Dutch people work and tell you about some big Dutch companies.

Section 7: Government

In the Netherlands, the Queen is the head of the government, but she doesn’t make all the decisions. Joris will explain how the Netherlands is governed.

Section 8: History

Dutch history is very interesting. Merel and Rashid will tell you all about the history of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which is the official name of our country.

Section 9: Typically Dutch

What do you think of when you hear the words “the Netherlands”? You probably think immediately of wooden shoes, tulips, windmills and cheese. Other typically Dutch customs are Koninginnedag (Queen’s Day) and Sinterklaas (St Nicholas’ Eve). Joris and Annemiek will explain them for you.