Archive for September, 2010
World Cup 2010: The Aftermath Posted by Elena on Sep 23, 2010
For the Dutch, this summer was an emotional roller coaster – and we are not a people accustomed to a high emotional pitch. While the world watched, the Dutch national team ascended to its first World Cup final since 1978. In the weeks leading up to the final match in South Africa, voetbal pundits made…
Dutch animals Posted by noortje on Sep 22, 2010
When you think about Holland, one of the last things that comes to mind are exotic animals. Sure, we have our cows and sheep, but they (usually) don’t make our hearts pomp with excitement and create “oooh”’s and “aah”’s. Still, once upon a time there were those kind of creatures. Hereby a list of some…
The Dutch wooden shoe Posted by noortje on Sep 3, 2010
One of the Dutch trademarks is the wooden shoe. Even though they are not a part of our daily outfit anymore (for the most of us anyway), they still play a big part in our history and culture. The eldest wooden shoe ever found dates from 1230 and was found in Nieuwendijk in Amsterdam. It…
The great 3 – Harry Mulisch Posted by noortje on Sep 3, 2010
Holland is small, but as you might have read in previous blogs, a country of great artists as well. Let me tell you about our big three writers: Harry Mulisch, Willem Frederik Hermans and Gerard Reve, who’s books all made an impact in not only Holland, but worldwide. Let’s start off with Harry Mulisch: Harry…
Dutch ways to be polite Posted by noortje on Sep 3, 2010
Where one culture appreciates it if you leave some food on your plate or give a burp after dinner, another culture might be appoaled by your behavior and show you the door. Personally, I think the Dutch are pretty flexible when it comes to manners, but no Dutchie is the same, so let me give…