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April and May: Public Holiday Heaven Posted by heather on Mar 30, 2012
If you have lived in the Netherlands for any length of time, you probably have noticed that it isn’t a country blessed with many public holidays. Even worse, perhaps, is the fact that if one of those precious holidays falls on a weekend, the day off is basically lost. It is understandable then why when…
Hagelslag Posted by heather on Mar 22, 2012
“After a Mexican breakfast of fried plantains, churros, fresh pineapple, scrambled eggs with bacon, salsa, guacamole and refried beans – I am going to the gym.” It was this status update on my friend’s Facebook page that had me a bit worried. “Hope you don’t expect that when you come here….bread with chocolate sprinkles on…
Travel Related Words in Dutch Posted by heather on Mar 15, 2012
It is a very sunny day in the Netherlands today. All this sunshine has people talking about trips to the beach, walks in the park and yes, of course, going on holiday! Whether you are planning an exotic holiday abroad or something a little more local, knowing some travel related words and phrases can always…
The Verb Hebben (To Have) Posted by heather on Mar 13, 2012
Last month we looked at the irregular verb zijn. An important verb, I’m sure you will agree. This week, we will investigate another important verb if you are trying to learn Dutch – the verb hebben. Hebben means “to have” and it is another one of those verbs that you need to learn by heart…
Dutch Food: Kroketten Recipe – in English Posted by heather on Mar 8, 2012
A few weeks ago, I posted a Dutch recipe for kroketten. I don’t remember seeing any photos in the Facebook group of successful kroketten making but I did receive several requests from people who asked if the recipe could also be provided in English. So without further delay, here is an English translation of the…
Stadsinitiatief Rotterdam Posted by heather on Mar 6, 2012
If you live in the city of Rotterdam, then you probably received an envelope through your postbox inviting you to vote in the Stadsinitiatieven (City Initiatives). The annual event invites people to put forward ideas for an initiative that will benefit the locals. The top ideas are than voted for through a city election and…
The Netherlands in March – Things to Do Posted by heather on Mar 1, 2012
Despite predictions of a “horror winter,” we seem to have sailed right into the month of March, complete with hints of spring. The events calendar in the Netherlands is really starting to heat up and below, with descriptions courtesy of Holland.com, are some of the highlights happening in March: HISWA Amsterdam Boat Show (March 6th) – More…