After the Brexit, maybe a Nexit? Posted by Sten on Jun 27, 2016
The people of the United Kingdom have decided: they want to leave the European Union (EU). This is also referred to as the Brexit, a combination of Britain and exit. But what does this mean for other countries in Europe, what about the Netherlands? Will there be a Nexit? The Brexit Even though many outlets and…
Euro Cup 2016 and Belgium Posted by Karoly Molina on Jun 24, 2016
If you regularly follow soccer (or football), you know the Netherlands didn’t qualify for the Euro Cup 2016. It is a sad summer for Dutch soccer aficionados, but lucky for us, our southern neighbor is in the Euro Cup! While I thought the above video was hilarious, this post is not meant to bully the…
Holland’s New Herring Posted by Karoly Molina on Jun 15, 2016
Today is a special day for all of us who love all things fishy. The first barrel of Hollandse Nieuwe Haring was sold yesterday for a whopping 90,000 euro, and the Dutch delicacy was available in grocery stores and local markets today. Every year, the money from the first batch is donated to a charity organization. The…
Can You Say This Correctly? – 5: Fair Trade Basmatirijst – How to pronounce ij Posted by Sten on Jun 14, 2016
One of the hardest things about learning Dutch is pronunciation. Whether it is about the ui-klank (the “ui” sound), the G-klank (the “G” sound) or other sounds you might have a hard time with. This series, called “Can You Say This Correctly?”, is about providing a speech example that I recorded. I will give the Dutch text, a translation…
Pet Names and Loving Nicknames Posted by Karoly Molina on Jun 8, 2016
When romancing in Dutch, it is important to know a couple of “pet names” or loving nicknames to use with your significant other. Saying “I love you cuddle-bug” or even a simple “hey babe” can make conversation sound sweeter and more loving. So what pet names can you use with your Dutch or Vlemish babe…
This Dutch Treat is Racist Posted by Sten on Jun 6, 2016
At least, so they say! Today, I have a rather controversial post for you. It is about “chocolate-coated marshmallow treats”, as Wikipedia likes to call them. I am talking about these things: Negerzoen and its origins What is controversial about them? In the Netherlands and Germany, they are known as Negerzoenen or Negerküsse, which literally translates to “Nigger Kisses”…
Book Review: The Dinner Posted by Karoly Molina on Jun 1, 2016
My latest Dutch read has been Het Diner by Herman Koch. A week after having read it, I am still struggling with what I think of the characters…which for me means it was a great read! Herman Koch was born in Arnhem and grew up in Amsterdam. He was an actor for the famous series Jiskefet and…