The Dutch Way: The Cloggies and their peculiarities as observed by expats
The Dutch are firm believers in equality in all spheres of life. Nobody has an undue advantage over the other.
They are friendly people - kind, polite and helpful.
Moderation is the key to a successful living for the Dutch. Show-offs are not encouraged in any field.
There are probably more bikes than people in Holland. It is the most prized possession of the Dutch. This reflects well in their fitness and healthy lifestyle.
The Dutch are very good planners - weekdays as well as the weekends are planned, well in advance. The Dutch lifestyle is regulated by diaries. It is probably the single most popular gift on the new year!! Everything is jotted down religiously in the diaries from meetings to leisure time.
The Dutch seek consensus whether it be a meeting or discussion. They live by the principle of agreement and harmony.
The Dutch enjoy a great family life and firmly believe that money cannot buy happiness. The personal and professional lives are kept separate.
They are a private bunch and emotions are kept under check during dealings with strangers.
Weather is the most discussed topic in short conversations. The Netherlands weather definitely merits this, what with it showing all colors from snow, to rain, to wind, to sun.
The Dutch like to practice their English. As soon as you start off in broken Dutch, they start speaking to you in English.
Thanks to their spirit of openness and frankness, humor resonates well with most of them. ‘Doe maar gewoon, dan doe je al gek genoeg’ Act normally, that is crazy enough - is a favourite Dutch expression.