The Netherlands is a small country with big traditions! You’ve probably heard some funny ideas about Dutch life — like everyone riding bikes or eating stroopwafels every day. But how true are these ideas? Let’s look at 10 of the most famous Dutch clichés and see if they’re fact or fiction
1. Everyone Rides a Bike
True! Bikes are everywhere. In fact, there are more bikes than people in the Netherlands. Dutch people use bikes to get to work, school, and shops — even in the rain!
2. Dutch People Eat Cheese All Day Long
Cheese is a big part of Dutch food. People eat it on bread for breakfast or lunch, and you’ll see it in snacks too. But do they eat it all day? Not really — but they do love it!
3. Dutch People Only Eat Bread and Cheese for Lunch
It’s true that many Dutch lunches are simple with bread and cheese. But now, more people eat salads, soup, or hot meals too.
4. It’s Always Raining in the Netherlands
Not always, but it does rain a lot! The weather changes quickly, so many people carry umbrellas or wear raincoats.
5. The Netherlands Is Full of Windmills
Windmills are part of Dutch history, and you can still see them in places like Kinderdijk. While they’re not on every street, they’re still iconic.
6. Every Celebration Involves Beer
Yes! Dutch people love beer, especially during King’s Day or football matches. Brands like Heineken and Amstel are well known, but local craft beers are also popular.
7. They’re Always Eating Stroopwafels
Stroopwafels are a sweet treat with caramel syrup inside. People enjoy them with coffee or tea, but they’re not an everyday food.
8. Coffee Shops = Cannabis
Some coffee shops sell cannabis, but many don’t. If you want a regular coffee, go to a "café" or ask for "koffie."
9. Everyone Wears Wooden Shoes (Clogs)
Wooden shoes, or klompen, are part of Dutch tradition. Farmers in the countryside still use them, but city people don’t wear them daily.
10. The Netherlands is Just Amsterdam
Amsterdam is famous, but it’s not the whole country! Places like Rotterdam, Utrecht, and small villages like Giethoorn are also worth visiting.
The Netherlands is a country full of surprises! While some clichés are true, like the love for bikes and cheese, others are not. Whether it’s rainy weather, stroopwafels, or windmills, each part of Dutch life has its own charm. Which cliché did you find most interesting?
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- French Girl Tries -