Author: Bert van Essen

Internet on all your devices with a prepaid eSIM

Let’s be real, constantly switching SIM cards, relying on slow or sketchy public WiFi, or turning your phone into a hotspot every time you need internet it gets old fast. It’s clunky, it drains your battery and let’s not even talk about how often it just doesn’t work when you really need it. Whether you’re living in the Netherlands full-time or just visiting for a few days, you just want a connection that works, without the hassle. That’s where SimWallet comes in. One app, one setup and you’re online in minutes no stress, no surprises.

What is SimWallet?

It’s basically a digital SIM you activate through an app. No plastic card, no visits to a store, no endless forms. Just open the app, choose how long you want internet a day or a month and boom, you’re online. An prepaid esim for the Netherlands works on smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, even laptops, as long as they support eSIM. There are three options at the moment. You can grab a pass for one day or 30 days with speeds up to 100 Mbit/s, or go for a slightly slower 20 Mbit/s option if you’re looking to save a bit. You’ll get unlimited data, with a fair use cap at 20GB per day. Hit that? No worries, your speed drops to 1 Mbit/s, but you won’t pay extra.

Who’s it for?

Got a family visiting from abroad and they need the internet for a few days? SimWallet’s perfect. Maybe you’re going to a festival and your own provider has no coverage, but SimWallet does. It’s also great for everyday moments. Like your kids watching videos during a road trip they get their own connection, and your data stays yours. Or trying 5G on your smartwatch while running. Or just doing some work or study at a café without trusting the free WiFi.

Set it up once, use it when you need it

The app is super straightforward. You can activate an eSIM directly on your phone, or generate a QR code to use it on another device. You can even keep multiple eSIMs in one app. That’s where the name comes from. It’s like a digital wallet full of SIM cards. Once the eSIM is installed, it stays active on your device for at least three months. You don’t have to use it right away, you can wait a week, or even longer, then just top it up when you’re ready. Want another one? Just set up a new eSIM. It’s all done through the app, available on Android and iOS.

No long term contract

There’s no contract. No “oops, extra fees.” No waiting around. You pay upfront using iDEAL or a credit card. Apple Pay and Google Pay are on the way too, but not quite there yet. It’s important to know: SimWallet is data only. So don’t expect phone calls or texts. But that also means it’s way more flexible. Use it when you want, on whichever device you like. Going on a trip? Need a backup connection? Want your own internet bubble on the go? SimWallet’s got you.

Grocery shopping in the Netherlands: here’s what you need to know

When moving to a new country, there’s a lot to get used to. Like different layouts in grocery stores, or shops not stocking your favourite snacks from back home. However, it can also be very exciting to try out all the new products and explore all the aisles with unknown goods. Are you moving to The Netherlands and want to know what to expect on your first shopping trip? In this article, we’ll tell you all about it.

Dutch supermarkets: does size matter?

If you’re coming from areas like North America, Canada or Australia, the size of Dutch supermarkets might surprise you. In both very rural and urban environments, the supermarkets tend to be quite compact. But don’t worry: the space they do have is used very efficiently, meaning you’ll still be able to find most of the things you need.

Between different supermarket chains, the products might vary. Haven’t found what you’re looking for? It’s worth to give another nearby supermarket a try, as they might have the products you’ve been searching for. There’s also bigger supermarkets that you can often find in more suburban areas.

No grocery store nearby?

If there’s no grocery store nearby, or you just don’t have the time to go visit one yourself, there are lots of options to get groceries delivered to your house. For example, if you search for grocery delivery in Amsterdam, you’ll find a variety of options. At some, you’ll have to order a couple of days ahead. At others, they could be at your door within an hour after placing your order!

Opening hours

Want to know when you can visit a Dutch grocery store? Opening hours are mostly pretty similar. Most stores will open early in the morning (around 7:00 or 8:00) and close later on in the evening, often at 21:00 or 22:00.

Grocery shops in more rural areas might close a little bit earlier, often shutting down around 18:00. In these environments, it’s also normal for grocery stores to have even more limited opening hours or to not open at all on Sundays and certain holidays.

Good to know

As an expat, there’s a couple of things you might not expect when first shopping at your local grocery store. Here’s a few examples that are good to keep in mind:

  • You have to pay for a plastic bag. This is often between 50 cents and 1 euro, but this can still add up overtime. This is why a lot of Dutch people bring their own reusable bags.
  • You might not be able to pay with credit card. This is not the case for all grocery stores, but some still do not accept (foreign) credit cards. For these places, you’ll need cash or a Dutch bank account.
  • There’s no liquor in Dutch grocery stores. You can find wine, beer and other low-percentage alcoholic drinks, but if you are looking for something stronger, you’ll have to visit a liquor store.
  • You can (and should) return your plastic bottles. Most of the bottles you buy at a Dutch supermarket can be returned, and you can even earn some money back from it. A perk for your wallet, and the environment!

New experiences

While visiting Dutch supermarkets can be confusing at first, you’ll quickly get the hang of how things work. Make sure to look up the opening times near you and explore the aisles to see if they have all the products you’re looking for. You’ll be a regular shopper in no time!

The Essential Guide to Using a Mortgage Calculator for Expats in the Netherlands

Purchasing a home in the Netherlands can be an exciting milestone, especially for expats adapting to a new country. To simplify your journey, using a mortgage calculator is an essential step. This invaluable tool, conveniently hosted by our partners at Hanno for ease of access, provides clear and practical insights into your financial options.

Why an Expat-Friendly Mortgage Calculator Matters

As an expat, you might face unique hurdles such as navigating different banking systems, understanding local financial jargon, and assessing your financial eligibility clearly. A mortgage calculator designed specifically for expats simplifies these complexities, helping you quickly determine:

  • Your borrowing capacity
  • Monthly mortgage payments
  • Impact of different interest rates and loan durations

Simple Steps for Quick Results

Using Hanno’s externally hosted mortgage calculator is straightforward and efficient. You only need to input a few essential details:

  1. Your annual income
  2. Desired property price
  3. Preferred loan repayment duration

With these inputs, you instantly receive a detailed overview, including:

  • Estimated total mortgage amount available to you
  • Monthly repayments, clearly split into principal and interest
  • A quick glance at how varying loan conditions influence your payments

Advantages of Our Mortgage Calculator

  • User-Friendly Interface: Specifically crafted for expats, ensuring clarity and ease of use.
  • Immediate Financial Insights: Gain a rapid understanding of your mortgage options without any financial guesswork.
  • Flexible Decision-Making: Adjust different scenarios effortlessly to discover the best mortgage option tailored to your situation.

Empower Your Home Buying Experience

At every step, our aim is to make your home-buying process smooth and understandable. With Hanno’s mortgage calculator, you can confidently approach the Dutch housing market, fully informed and ready to make well-founded financial decisions.

Ready to find your perfect home?

Understanding Mortgage Calculators in the Netherlands: How to Secure the Best Mortgage Offer

Buying a home in the Netherlands involves careful financial planning, especially for expats navigating the local property market. A crucial tool in this process is a mortgage calculator, which provides valuable insights into your financial possibilities and helps you find the best mortgage offer. At Hanno, we emphasize empowering homebuyers with clarity and confidence, starting with understanding how mortgage calculators work.

What Does a Dutch Mortgage Calculator Consider?

A mortgage calculator in the Netherlands typically evaluates several critical factors to estimate the amount you can borrow, your monthly payments, and potential interest rates. These include:

  1. Income and Employment Stability: Your annual income, type of employment contract, and income stability significantly influence your borrowing capacity. Mortgage calculators take into account fixed employment, freelance income, or temporary contracts differently, reflecting lenders’ criteria.
  2. Debts and Financial Obligations: Existing debts or financial obligations, such as student loans, car loans, or credit card payments, reduce your potential mortgage amount. Mortgage calculators factor these obligations into your borrowing capacity.
  3. Interest Rate and Mortgage Term: Calculators allow you to input expected mortgage interest rates in the Netherlands and terms (e.g., 10, 20, or 30 years). These details help determine your monthly payments and the total cost of your mortgage over time.
  4. Property Value and Purchase Price: The calculator assesses the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, comparing your desired mortgage amount with the property’s market value. This evaluation affects your required down payment and possible mortgage products.
  5. Personal Circumstances: Specific circumstances, like residency status or whether you’re an expat or Dutch national, can impact lending terms. Mortgage calculators tailored for expats typically account for these nuances.

How a Mortgage Calculator Helps You Secure the Best Offer

Using a mortgage calculator effectively is essential to finding the most favorable mortgage offer. Here’s how:

  • Clear Financial Overview: Mortgage calculators provide a precise understanding of your financial capabilities, enabling informed decision-making regarding affordable property choices.
  • Comparison of Scenarios: By adjusting variables like interest rates, mortgage terms, or down payments, you can easily compare different financial scenarios to find the most cost-effective and manageable mortgage option.
  • Negotiation Power: With accurate knowledge of your borrowing capacity and financial limits, you gain confidence and leverage in negotiating better terms and interest rates with mortgage providers.
  • Time-saving: Calculators streamline the initial mortgage exploration process, quickly narrowing down your choices to suitable lenders and financial products, thus saving valuable time.

Hanno’s Tailored Mortgage Calculator Service

At Hanno, we understand that expats face unique challenges in securing mortgages in the Netherlands. Our specialized mortgage calculator incorporates specific factors relevant to expat situations, offering personalized insights and clear, actionable results.

Additionally, our experienced advisors use these calculations to assist you further, interpreting results in detail, and guiding you through the next steps in your home-buying journey.

Getting Started with Confidence

Whether you’re just beginning your property search or ready to finalize your dream home purchase, using a mortgage calculator is an invaluable step. It equips you with critical financial insights, streamlining your decision-making process and ensuring you secure the best possible mortgage offer.

Ready to explore your mortgage possibilities in the Netherlands? Reach out to Hanno’s specialist advisors today and use our tailored mortgage calculator to confidently take your next step toward homeownership.

Mortgage Interest Rates in 2025: What Expats in the Netherlands Can Expect

As 2025 unfolds, expats navigating the Dutch housing market find themselves in a shifting financial landscape. With mortgage interest rates in the Netherlands fluctuating and policy adjustments in motion, it’s crucial for expats to understand what lies ahead. At Hanno, we specialize in guiding expats through the complexities of securing a mortgage in the Netherlands, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the changes that 2025 brings.

Mortgage Interest Rates: A Look Ahead

Mortgage interest rates have seen significant fluctuations over recent years, shaped by economic factors including inflation, central bank policies, and global economic stability. As of 2025, the market is projected to stabilize somewhat, yet volatility will remain a key consideration.

Financial experts anticipate that the European Central Bank (ECB) will maintain moderately cautious policies throughout the year. Interest rates are expected to hover around historically moderate levels, providing both opportunities and challenges for potential homebuyers. The consensus among economists indicates mortgage interest rates are likely to range between 3.5% and 4.5% for standard fixed-rate mortgages.

Why Mortgage Interest Rates Matter to Expats

For expats, mortgage interest rates aren’t just numbers—they profoundly impact your buying power, monthly payments, and overall financial planning. A slight increase in mortgage interest rates can significantly influence your monthly expenses, while lower rates might allow you to consider higher-priced properties or shorter mortgage terms.

Being aware of these fluctuations and understanding how to navigate them strategically is essential. Working closely with an experienced mortgage advisor can help expats seize advantageous interest rates and secure favorable mortgage terms, potentially saving tens of thousands of euros over the mortgage lifetime.

How Can Expats Prepare for 2025?

  1. Assess Your Financial Situation Early: Begin evaluating your financial position and goals now. Clear visibility of your income, savings, and debt obligations is critical when assessing how mortgage interest rate fluctuations may affect you.
  2. Keep an Eye on Economic Indicators: Stay informed about inflation trends, ECB announcements, and the Dutch housing market’s health. These indicators directly influence mortgage interest rates and can inform your timing and decisions.
  3. Explore Mortgage Options with Flexibility: Consider mortgage products that offer some flexibility. Products such as partially fixed or variable rate mortgages could be advantageous depending on market conditions and your personal financial outlook.
  4. Consult a Specialist Advisor: Engaging with a mortgage advisor who understands the unique circumstances of expats can ensure you’re equipped with the latest insights and tailored advice.

Beyond Interest Rates: Additional Considerations for Expats

While interest rates play a crucial role, expats should also be mindful of other factors such as:

  • Mortgage Approval Criteria: Dutch banks continuously review and adjust their lending criteria, particularly towards expats. Anticipating these changes and preparing accordingly can help streamline your mortgage application process.
  • Tax Implications: Mortgage interest payments in the Netherlands can be tax-deductible under specific conditions. Understanding your tax position and potential deductions can significantly reduce your overall costs.
  • Market Trends and Property Availability: The housing market in the Netherlands remains competitive, especially in urban centers like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. Keeping abreast of local market trends ensures you’re positioned effectively when opportunities arise.

Hanno: Your Partner in Navigating 2025

At Hanno, we combine expertise, market insight, and personalized service tailored specifically for expats in the Netherlands. Our role goes beyond securing the best mortgage interest rates; we support you throughout the entire home-buying journey, from initial financial planning to finalizing your property purchase.

Navigating the complexities of mortgage interest rates in 2025 need not be daunting. With strategic guidance and proactive planning, expats can confidently approach the Dutch housing market, secure advantageous mortgage terms, and achieve their homeownership dreams.

Ready to plan ahead? Connect with our specialists today and navigate 2025 with clarity and confidence.

If you want to know more details about your mortgage, use our advanced mortgage calculator.

Health insurance for expats

Moving to a new country comes with many challenges, including understanding healthcare. As an expat in the Netherlands, you’re required to have health insurance. But does the basic package cover everything you need? Here’s what you need to know to stay protected and avoid surprises.

 What Is the basic health insurance for expats?

In the Netherlands, all residents, including expats, must have basic health insurance. This package covers essential medical services such as GP visits, hospital care, and prescription medications. It’s a solid starting point, but it may not include everything, such as dental care for adults or certain therapies. For expats, this raises the question: is basic health insurance enough?

When do expats need additional insurance?

Basic health insurance doesn’t cover every medical situation. Expats with specific needs, such as frequent travel, alternative therapies, or higher dental coverage, might require additional insurance. Dental care, physiotherapy, and mental health support often need extra insurance. If you plan to visit your home country regularly, consider a policy that covers international healthcare costs.

How to choose the right medical insurance

Selecting the right plan depends on your lifestyle and health requirements. Compare policies from different providers to find the best fit. Look for options that offer flexibility, especially if you plan to move frequently. Many expats opt for supplementary insurance to cover services not included in the basic package, such as extensive dental care or alternative treatments.

Benefits of extra health coverage for expats

Additional health coverage gives peace of mind. It can reduce out-of-pocket expenses for unexpected treatments and offer broader support for your specific needs. For example, if you enjoy outdoor sports, consider insurance that includes accident coverage. Having a more comprehensive plan can also speed up access to specialists and treatments.

Tips for managing health insurance costs

Last but not least: healthcare in the Netherlands can be expensive, but there are ways to manage costs:

  • Compare providers: Use comparison websites to find affordable policies tailored to expats.
  • Check reimbursements: Some employers offer health insurance reimbursements as part of their benefits package.
  • Consider deductibles: A higher deductible lowers monthly premiums, but ensure it aligns with your financial situation.

In short, health insurance for expats in the Netherlands starts with the mandatory basic package. However, depending on your needs, additional coverage might be worth considering. Take time to compare health insurance and choose a plan that ensures you’re fully protected, both in the Netherlands and abroad.

Remodeling your house in the Netherlands

Have you just bought or rented a house that needs remodeling – but have no idea where to begin? Then we have the perfect partner for you!

We can imagine that it’s hard to figure out where to start when you want to remodel your home or improve its sustainability. Veerkade Vastgoed is here to help you. We will gladly walk through your home with you, in order to come up with a plan for the work that needs to be done. We will take you through this process step-by-step, and are always available if you have any questions.

Years of experience

Thanks to years of experience and our knowledgeable professionals, we can support you as you carry out large-scale but also modest projects.
We specialize in remodeling and maintenance as well as in making homes more sustainable. For instance, we remodel bathrooms, kitchens, and toilets – while we offer you advice on how best to increase the sustainability of your home.
Does your home only need a little sprucing up? We also do plasterwork, painting, and the laying of laminate and PVC floors. Want to know more about what we have to offer? Take a look on our website!

Attractive discounts

We work together with a variety of companies, meaning that we can offer you kitchens and bathrooms at an attractive price. For instance, we offer a 5% reduction on all Maxaro bathrooms and tiles. All you have to do is go to the store and make your selection. We also offer attractive discounts on kitchens – feel free to ask us about this while we are walking through your home.

Be sure to make an appointment with Veerkade Vastgoed for a free quote.

How to safely use public wifi networks in the Netherlands

Public Wi-Fi networks are a convenient and often essential way to stay connected while traveling or moving about the city. Whether you’re catching up on emails, browsing the web, or checking social media, these networks provide easy access to the internet when you’re away from home or the office. However, as convenient as they are, public Wi-Fi networks come with a significant risk to the security of your personal data. Without proper precautions, your sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card details, and personal communications, could be vulnerable to hackers and cybercriminals. Fortunately, there are several proactive steps you can take to minimize these risks and ensure that your experience using public Wi-Fi networks in the Netherlands is as safe and secure as possible. By taking the right measures, you can enjoy the convenience of public Wi-Fi without compromising your privacy or security.

Always use a VPN

One of the best ways to protect yourself from potential threats on public Wi-Fi networks is by using a reliable VPN service. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts all the data traffic between your device and the internet, creating a secure tunnel for your information. This makes it significantly harder for hackers and cybercriminals to intercept your data, even when you’re connected to an unsecured public Wi-Fi network. A VPN not only enhances your security but also protects your privacy by masking your IP address, making it more difficult for anyone to track your online activities. In the Netherlands, where public Wi-Fi is commonly available in places like cafés, airports, and trains, using a VPN is highly recommended to avoid the risks associated with these open networks. Discover which is the best VPN provider for you, to ensure that you can browse safely while on the go.

Activities such as online banking, making purchases, or entering credit card details should be avoided when using public Wi-Fi

Avoid conducting sensitive transactions

While public Wi-Fi networks can be incredibly convenient for browsing the internet, checking emails, or staying connected with friends and family, it’s important to exercise caution when performing sensitive transactions. Activities such as online banking, making purchases, or entering credit card details should be avoided when using public Wi-Fi. These networks are often unsecured, which means that hackers can potentially intercept your personal and financial information, putting your privacy at risk. To minimize this risk, it’s best to postpone these activities until you’re connected to a more secure, private network, such as your home Wi-Fi or a trusted VPN connection. Taking these precautions will help safeguard your sensitive data and protect you from potential cyber threats.

Verify the network name

Before connecting to a public Wi-Fi network, it’s crucial to verify that the network you’re joining is legitimate. Hackers often create fake network names that closely resemble those of official Wi-Fi networks in public places, such as cafes, airports, or hotels. These fraudulent networks are designed to trick unsuspecting users into connecting, giving hackers the opportunity to intercept sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details. To protect yourself, always double-check the network name with the staff or the establishment offering the Wi-Fi, and avoid connecting to any network that seems suspicious or untrustworthy. By staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these types of attacks.

Exploring across the Dutch border: visit these must-see cities!

Have you been in the Netherlands for a while and are you craving a change of scenery? No worries, because there’s lots of vibrant cities just a few hours away. In Germany and Belgium for example. Here, you can get a taste of the local food and different cultures without getting on a plane. In this article, we’ll tell you more about some of the best places to visit across the border.

Antwerpen, Belgium

Antwerp is the capital of Flanders, Belgium. From the middle of the Netherlands (Utrecht), it takes about two hours to drive here. If you’re not familiar with what to do in Antwerp, don’t worry: this lively city has plenty to offer. The old center takes you on a journey back in time with it’s historical buildings, while luxury brands and gadgets offer an amazing shopping experience.

Are you traveling with kids? Don’t skip the Antwerp Zoo! The zoo, opened in 1843, is one of the oldest worldwide. The historical buildings and all the different animals are sure to leave an impression.

Düsseldorf, Germany

In almost three hours, you can drive from Utrecht all the way to Düsseldorf. It’s a hotspot for foodies: this German city has a wide variety of local breweries, cafés and restaurants. Visiting around Christmas time? Don’t forget to look at the iconic Christmas markets that Düsseldorf has to offer. Exploring Düsseldorf is a joy for anyone that enjoys art and historical architecture. There’s also multiple parks you can visit to get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy center.

Gent, Belgium

If you’ve been wanting to visit Bruges, Gent is also a great option. It’s a bigger city in Belgium that also offers lots of charming canals and historical buildings, while having a more urban feel. It takes three hours to drive there from Utrecht. Like Bruges, it’s popular with tourists. However, since the city is quite a lot bigger, it feels less crowded.

Wondering what to do in Gent? Make sure you take one of the boat tours over the Leie, a river that runs through the city. You can also rent your own boat or canoe to explore the waters. There are also multiple charming German breweries where you can sit down and taste the local beers.

Keulen, Germany

Keulen, known in English as Cologne, is a popular metropole in Germany. With more than a million inhabitants, it’s Germany’s third largest city. It’s recognized worldwide for the Kölner Dom, an impressive cathedral that’s almost 800 years old.

But there’s plenty more reasons to visit, like the museums and the old city center. It also has one of the best Christmas markets in Germany, so be sure to visit in winter! Looking for some more excitement? A visit to Phantasialand won’t disappoint. It’s nearby Keulen and has fun rides and activities for all ages.

Exploring new places

If you’ve recently moved to the Netherlands, there’s probably a lot you’d like to see in the country itself. Even though there’s many Dutch cities with a lot to offer, it can also be fun to explore across the border. In just a couple of hours, you could be in a completely different place! The cities mentioned above are the perfect way to get familiar with our neighboring countries.

Everything you need to know about celebrating Sinterklaas

As an expat in the Netherlands, there might be a couple of traditions that will surprise you. One of the most common ones is Sinterklaas: a children’s holiday that kind of resembles Christmas. However, Sinterklaas comes with a lot of different customs and expressions you might not know about. Because of this, we’ll give you a quick run-down of everything you need to know.

History of Sinterklaas

The image of Sinterklaas (also referred to as ‘Sint-Nicolaas’ or ‘Goedheiligman’) is based on bishop Nicolaas of Myra. He was declared a saint after his death, as stories of him helping the poor quickly spread. He passed away on the 6th of December. His life is now celebrated on the 5th of December in The Netherlands.

The holiday has been celebrated for more than 700 years! Sinterklaas’ helpers are called ‘Pieten’, or more controversially referred to as ‘Zwarte Pieten’ (Black Petes). The Pieten are known to the kids as helpers that hand out the candy, make silly jokes and give gifts. Sinterklaas also has a white horse that he travels around on.

Sinterklaas: how does it work?

The beginning of November is when the festivities start. Sinterklaas arrives on a boat in lots of different Dutch towns and cities: this is called the ‘intocht’. There might be one in your area! This is normally around the 11th of November. During the intocht, there will be celebrations and fun activities for kids. They might get to greet Sinterklaas himself, or might get candy and sweets from the Pieten.

Celebrating at home

There’s a lot of customs and traditions that come with Sinterklaas. Most Dutch households have their own way of celebrating the holiday, although there are some common themes. For example, Dutch kids are made to believe that Sinterklaas travels across the roof on his white horse, and that the Pieten throw gifts down the chimney. This generally happens on the 5th of December, also referred to as ‘Pakjesavond’.

A couple of nights before the 5th, most kids are allowed to put their shoe by the fireplace (or a similar spot). They’ll put treats for the horse, like carrots and hay, in the shoe. Often, they’ll also put in a letter or wishlist for Sinterklaas. They might even sing songs for Sinterklaas and the Pieten. When they wake up in the morning, they’ll find sweets or little gifts in their shoe. If you want a more detailed guide of how to celebrate Sinterklaas with kids, you can find it here.

Traditional sweets and baked goods

Around Sinterklaas, kids often get to eat a lot of traditional Dutch sweets and baked goods, kruidnoten and pepernoten being some of the most popular choices. Although these words are often used interchangeably, there’s a big difference: kruidnoten are round, hard and crunchy, while pepernoten are soft and generally resemble a dice-shape. You can also find kruidnoten covered in chocolate, caramel or other fun variations.

There’s also sugary candies like schuimpjes. These are soft, foam-like candies that often come in different fun shapes, like ones resembling Sinterklaas! Other than that, a variety of marzipan candy is often consumed during the holiday. Candy mixes for Sinterklaas usually contain kruidnoten and schuimpjes, but might contain other sweets as well.

Living like the locals

There’s a lot of new customs and holidays to get used to when you first move to The Netherlands. Because of this, it can sometimes get a bit confusing. If you’ve never celebrated Sinterklaas before, make sure you read the information above. This way, you won’t be caught off guard by all the festivities and weird traditions.