We’ll be honest, it’s been a heavy week in the lowlands, so let’s ease in with something you can actually act on. If you’ve bought cheese from Jumbo lately, check your fridge. 🧀 The supermarket has recalled four own-brand cheeses over possible listeria, including its lepelkaasje (spoonable cheese) and a kaasplateau (cheese platter).

There’s also a national drug warning worth passing on. The Trimbos Institute has issued a “Red Alert” for ecstasy pills stamped with Donald Trump’s face, which have been found to contain a very high dose of PMMA — a substance that mimics MDMA but kicks in much later, leading people to take dangerously more. If you have pills you’re unsure about, get them tested at a DIMS centre. 💊

On a sombre note, four men were injured in a stabbing near Amsterdam Centraal last weekend, part of which was livestreamed on TikTok as onlookers egged the violence on. All four, including the suspect, have since been discharged from hospital. Police are still appealing for witnesses.

Now, some relief for your wallet (sort of). After all the political noise about international students, the Netherlands’ own economists have reached a conclusion: foreign students give the state far more than they cost, with non-EEA university graduates contributing nearly €250,000 each over their lifetimes. Turns out those years of stroopwafel-fuelled studying pay off for everyone. 🎓

Less cheery is your energy bill. A fixed one-year contract now runs the average household around €277 a month, up €53 since February, thanks to low gas reserves and geopolitical tension near supply routes. If your contract’s up for renewal, it’s worth weighing a fixed rate before winter really bites. ❄️

Speaking of life admin, tens of thousands of workers risk missing out on pension compensation simply by changing jobs at the wrong moment during the country’s big pension overhaul. If you’re planning a move, freelancing, or facing redundancy, it’s worth checking where your fund stands first. 💰

Tot de volgende keer! (See you next time!) 👋

Sarah @ DutchReview 🧡

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Fresh out the oven (and thoroughly listeria-free 😉), here are our top recs of the week! 👇

🏦 New to the country and need a local IBAN before your foreign card gets declined one more time? Read how to open a Dutch bank account before you even land. | SORT YOUR BANKING

🗝️ Just moved to Leiden, or thinking about it? Check out our five things to do when you land in the City of Discoveries, from picking a neighbourhood to joining a club. | EXPLORE LEIDEN

📚 Dreading the KNM integration exam? It’s more underestimated than you’d think. Discover a fluff-free online course that preps you fast — no dusty textbooks required. | ACE THE EXAM

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💸 Want your money working while you don’t? From savings and ETFs to property and pensions, read our easy guide to building passive income in the Netherlands (Box 3 tax explanation included). | GROW YOUR INCOME

🌥️ Feeling sluggish as the days draw in? You’re not imagining it. Read how the Dutch lack of light affects your health — and three expert tips to beat the winter blues. | BEAT THE GLOOM

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If you spent this summer glued to the couch and peeling yourself off every surface you touched, we have some validating news: it wasn’t in your head. The KNMI has confirmed that summer 2026 was the warmest the Netherlands has ever recorded. In fact, it was the sweatiest since measurements began back in 1901. 🌡️

On a more sombre note, the heat came with a sting in its tail. The RIVM has confirmed a person in Utrecht has died from West Nile virus, marking the second Dutch death from the mosquito-borne virus this year. The risk of catching it here remains very low, and it can’t spread from person to person — but keeping those muggen (mosquitoes) at bay is wise all the same. 🦟

While we’re on the subject of things to keep out of your system: check your egg carton. Hundreds of people in Belgium have fallen ill in its largest-ever salmonella outbreak, and the affected eggs were also distributed in the Netherlands. Free-range eggs with codes 2-BE-1073-01 through 04 have been recalled. 🥚

In no less important news, the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has announced it won’t take part in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest. The broadcaster says the event has lost its neutral character amid the ongoing tensions over Israel’s participation and the genocide in Gaza.

Closer to home, if you use iDEAL or Wero, keep an eye on your inbox. As iDEAL slowly switches over to the pan-European Wero, criminals are sending fake emails promising refunds to lure you into handing over your details. The advice from the experts is simple: don’t click any links, and check with your bank if you’re unsure. 📧

Now, some good news for a change. If you’re dreaming of Scandinavia, European Sleeper has announced a new night train from Brussels via the Netherlands to Copenhagen and Malmö. It’ll stop at Rotterdam, The Hague, and Amsterdam, though you’ll need to be patient — it’s not expected to depart until April 2028. 😴🚆

And finally, a rare bit of good news from the NS (we know, we’re as shocked as you are). The rail provider is now offering cheaper tickets to anyone who avoids the busiest rush-hour trains, with discounts averaging around 30%. The idea? If just a handful of people shift to quieter trains, everyone gets a seat. A win for your wallet and your personal space. 🚆

Tot de volgende keer! (See you next time!) 👋

Sarah @ DutchReview 🧡

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💳 New to Dutch banking and drowning in options? We tested the lot, so read our guide to the best banking apps for internationals — from everyday spending to saving and investing. | FIND YOUR MATCH

✅ Planning your big move to the lowlands? Wat leuk! Before you get swept up in the excitement, check off our 11 things to do before moving to the Netherlands. | GET PREPPED

⚖️ Can your Dutch boss really fire you on the spot? Not so fast. An employment lawyer breaks it down, so read exactly what your employer can and can’t do. | KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

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🧀 The city that gave us the cheese has been quietly sinking for a thousand years. Read why Gouda keeps dropping — and what Dutch engineers are doing to slow it down. | DIG IN

🎓 Got a budding scientist at home? Rotterdam’s Nord Anglia offers a rare triple-science IB track, so see how their programme fast-tracks your child’s future. | EXPLORE THE SCHOOL

🪑 Still hunched over the dining table you’ve called a “desk” since 2020? Check out our nine favourite pieces to upgrade your home office — your back will thank you. | UPGRADE YOUR SETUP

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If you rely on an NS train to get from A to B… there’s some bad news chugging down the tracks. The Dutch rail provider has decided to scrap compensation for alternative transport during strikes — including the upcoming September 9 demonstrations.

Helaas, train troubles don’t stop there. If your commute runs between Rotterdam Centraal and Delft Campus, your train will be cancelled from August 25 to 28. (Depending on your route, replacement buses have you covered. 🚍)

But fortunately, it’s not all doom and gloom on the tracks. Eurostar’s pricey grip on the Channel Tunnel might be loosening soon, with Richard Branson’s Virgin Trains cleared to link Amsterdam and London by rail. 🇬🇧🤝🇳🇱

And speaking of things looking up, Dutch investors just had their best quarter on record, with household investments totalling a whopping €234.2 billion. (Thanks, in no small part, to SpaceX floating on the NASDAQ.)

On a more serious note, the RIVM has confirmed that West Nile virus is back in the Netherlands, after a Utrecht blood donor tested positive. It’s the first human infection since 2020, but experts stress that we’re not teetering on the edge of another lockdown anytime soon.

And finally… a story that might have a happy ending, with your help. Amsterdam police are trying to identify a man nicknamed “Lucky”, who suffered a stroke back in 2023 that left him unable to speak. If his appearance or story rings a bell, the police would love to hear from you. 🙏

Doei doei! (Bye!)

Liana @ 🧜‍♀️

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💸 Tired of watching your savings flatline against those stingy Dutch rates? Read our three ways to grow your funds faster, from high-yield accounts to fixed-term deposits. | GROW YOUR MONEY

🏥 Eigen risico? Zorgtoeslag? Dutch health insurance is a beast to wrap your head around, so we’ve broken down nine things every international needs to know. | GET CLUED UP

🇳🇱 Facing the inburgering (integration) exams? Gefeliciteerd! Check out our ultimate 2026 guide, written by someone who actually passed. | SMASH THE EXAM

💰 Your Dutch SIM works almost anywhere, but venture past Europe’s borders and data roaming can get eye-wateringly steep. Read our cost breakdown of using a Dutch SIM outside the EU so you’re not caught off guard. | KNOW THE COSTS

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📱 That heart-stopping moment when your pocket’s empty and your phone’s gone? Don’t panic — here’s what to do if you lose your phone in the Netherlands. | DON’T PANIC

🏠 Renting you a flat with no floor? Nudging you to buy the last tenant’s ratty sofa? See our list of weird, but legal things Dutch landlords do. | GET THE LIST

🗣️ Something about the spreken (speaking) exam makes your Dutch vanish the moment the recording starts. Meet the app that drills you for the Dutch speaking exam until answering out loud feels like second nature. | BEAT THE NERVES

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Bad news if you love hunting for a bargain on Booking.com: scammers are cashing in on the platform too. They’re lifting real listings’ photos and details, then redirecting you to pay outside the site, only for you to turn up at a house that was never actually yours to book. 🏚️

And if you’re student-hunting on TikTok, be extra careful as well, because fake room listings are flooding the app, using real photos lifted straight from Pararius. Some students have lost up to three months’ rent, and rental platforms say TikTok isn’t doing enough to remove the posts. 📱

Flying out of Schiphol to escape this madness? Passport queues for non-EU travellers have hit up to two hours, thanks to the EU’s new EES biometric border system. Tuesday flights and evening departures tend to move fastest, so plan accordingly. 🛂

If a Schiphol escape isn’t on the cards, here’s more madness: a primary school founded by the far-right Forum voor Democratie has opened in Almere, funded by government subsidies. State Secretary Judith Tielen calls the situation “concerning”, but says her hands are largely tied by the law, and parliament is now questioning whether the funding rules need tightening. 🏫

On the weather front, brace yourself, as the KNMI has issued a code yellow warning as temperatures climb to a sweltering 37 degrees, with the Nationaal Hitteplan (National Heat Plan) now active nationwide. Some relief, and possibly thunderstorms, are expected from Saturday. 🥵

On a lighter note, the whole country briefly united this week to watch an 88% partial solar eclipse, with crowds spilling onto the streets from Amsterdam to Scheveningen. Some people used proper eclipse glasses; others made do with a CD. We don’t judge. 🌘

And finally, Oranje’s long and slightly awkward coaching search is over. Xavi Hernández has signed on as the new head coach of the Dutch national football team, with a contract running through the 2030 World Cup. He’s the first foreign coach since 1978, so expect plenty of opinions on that front. ⚽

That’s your week. From scam alerts to a solar eclipse, the Netherlands managed to be equal parts stressful and lovely, sometimes within the same afternoon.

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!), The DutchReview team 💬

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💬 Wondering what the inburgeringsexamen actually costs, or what happens if you fail? Here are the eight questions everyone ends up asking | THE INBURGERINGSEXAMEN: 8 QUESTIONS ANSWERED

💬 Dreading the schrijven section of your integration exam? This app tells you exactly what you got wrong, and how to fix it | THIS APP HELPS EXPATS SURVIVE THE DUTCH INBURGERING EXAM

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Let’s start where the ripples are coming from: renewed fighting around the Strait of Hormuz has sent Dutch fuel and gas prices climbing towards record highs, with diesel up roughly 30 cents a litre in just two weeks. If you’re on a dynamisch (dynamic) energy contract, you’ll feel it fastest; fixed contracts are safe until renewal. ⛽

The same conflict has also tightened Dutch travel advice for six Middle Eastern countries, with Bahrain now marked red (do not travel) and Qatar, Jordan, and the UAE downgraded to orange. If you’re headed that way, check your airline before you pack. ✈️

Speaking of which, KLM has grounded all flights to Dubai, Riyadh, and Dammam until August 23, citing the ongoing security risk. Anyone booked on those routes can rebook for free or claim a refund, but only if the ticket was issued on or before July 16. 🛫

Closer to home, and altogether more sombre: 18 people were injured when two trams collided on Rotterdam’s Erasmusbrug on Wednesday morning, with two taken to hospital in serious condition.

Now, let’s have some good news, shall we? On the political front, the Netherlands is preparing to ban agricultural imports from illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. It’s a largely symbolic move, since Israel’s biggest exports to Europe (chips, medical kits, and software) aren’t covered, but campaigners say every bit of pressure counts. 🍊

More #hopecore for you: Eindhoven students have unveiled Stella Juva, the world’s first ambulance that runs entirely on solar power while also powering its own medical kit. A test run heads to Kenya next month to bring healthcare to areas with little access to electricity or fuel. ☀️

And finally, Rotterdam is adding another unique building to its skyline. A €240 million stack of “breathing rocks” called Rotterdam Rocks! has just won an international design competition, promising caves, terraces, and a sustainability showcase on the south bank of the Maas by 2032. 🪨

Between fuel prices climbing and a giant green rock on the horizon, the Netherlands is proof that global chaos and local optimism can share the same newsletter.

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!),

Sarah @dutchreview 💬

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💬 Tempted by a savings account outside the Netherlands? Here’s what to know about tax declarations, currency risk, and deposit protection before you open one | 7 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT FOREIGN SAVINGS ACCOUNTS IN NL

💬 Landing without a working phone is a special kind of stress. Here’s whether Jetpac’s travel eSIMs are actually worth the hype | CHEAP DATA, FREE AIRPORT LOUNGE ACCESS: ARE JETPAC’S TRAVEL ESIMS WORTH IT?

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💬 New to the Netherlands and dreading the paperwork? Here’s why ING’s straightforward sign-up and English-language support make banking here a little easier | SMART, PERSONAL, AND SECURE: WHY YOU SHOULD START BANKING WITH ING

💬 Setting up gas, electricity, and water in a new Dutch home can feel like a maze. Here’s the full step-by-step guide to get it all sorted | UTILITIES IN THE NETHERLANDS: THE INTERNATIONAL’S GUIDE TO GAS, WATER, AND ELECTRICITY

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Turns out the internet has a serious appetite: a single Microsoft data centre in Noord-Holland used up roughly 1% of all electricity in the Netherlands last year. Google runs two data centres here too, but won’t say how much power they draw…🔌

On the diplomatic front, the US is campaigning to dismantle the International Criminal Court in The Hague, with Marco Rubio threatening to take the court apart brick by brick. The Netherlands says it stands behind the court, but critics argue that words alone won’t cut it. ⚖️

If you’re driving south this year, brace yourself: Belgium wants to introduce a road vignette (a prepaid road tax) from May 2027, and it’ll apply to everyone, including Dutch day-trippers just popping over the border. Annual passes start at €100, with one-day options from €9. 🚗

Closer to home, and somehow still about money: you now need a monthly income of €5,650 to rent the average Dutch home, as private rents crept up another 5%. There’s a sliver of good news, though: prices actually dipped slightly this quarter compared to the previous one, the first dip in two years. 🏠

And finally, in news nobody asked for, but everybody apparently needed: the NS has decreed that bags are no longer allowed on train seats, even on a dead-quiet Sprinter. Conductors will have a word with people who break this rule, though no fines are planned. Your rucksack’s new home is either your lap or the overhead rack. 🧳

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!),

Sarah@DutchReview. 💬

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💬 Fancy earning a promo rate of 3.10% on your savings, with zero penalty for dipping in whenever you like? Here’s how new customers can claim it | 3.10% ON YOUR SAVINGS, WITH INSTANT ACCESS: HERE’S HOW TO GET REVOLUT’S BEST RATE

💬 Built up some capital and not sure what to do with it next? Here’s how to weigh up saving versus investing in the Netherlands | INVESTING VS SAVING IN THE NETHERLANDS: WHAT’S THE RIGHT CHOICE IN 2026?

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Let’s start with something to actually look forward to: Arriva has applied to run direct trains from Den Haag and Amersfoort to Paris from early 2028, stopping in Antwerp and Brussels along the way. Nothing’s confirmed yet, but we’re already mentally packing. 🚄

Good news for parents, too: every child up to and including age 11 will travel free on buses, trams, and metros nationwide from 2027. The catch? The national discount for over-65s is being scrapped to help foot the bill. 🚋

Meanwhile, Trump’s loss is looking like the Netherlands’ gain: a Dutch fund has recruited 34 international scientists, 29 of them American or US-based. More arrivals are expected in 2027. 🔬

If you’re flying out of Schiphol this summer, bring a book: the EU’s new Entry/Exit System could add up to four hours to your passport queue if you’re travelling on a non-EU passport. Dutch and EU passport holders can skip the kiosks. 🛂

On the food safety front, a Salmonella outbreak linked to flavoured instant noodles has now reached the Netherlands, with over 100 cases confirmed across 14 European countries. The affected batches are mostly sold through Eastern European supermarkets, so it’s worth checking your cupboard. 🍜

Sticking with things you didn’t want to hear: Intertoys has finally pulled its Orb toy monkeys from shelves after lab tests confirmed asbestos in the sand inside them — a full month after journalists first flagged the issue. If you’ve got one at home, don’t vacuum the sand; bag it and take it to a milieustraat (municipal recycling centre). 🧸

And finally, the big one: Tata Steel is facing criminal prosecution after Dutch prosecutors concluded the steelmaker intentionally and unlawfully polluted the air around its IJmuiden plant. 🏭

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!),

Sarah @ DutchReview 💬

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💬 Still getting replies in English, no matter how hard you try? Here are 5 sneaky tricks to keep a Dutch conversation going | HOW TO FAKE YOUR WAY INTO SPEAKING DUTCH (IN 5 STEPS)

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💬 Just arrived from Ukraine and dreading the paperwork? Here’s how ING makes opening a Dutch bank account that bit easier | HERE’S HOW ING IS MAKING BANKING ACCESSIBLE FOR UKRAINIANS IN THE NETHERLANDS

💬 iDEAL is on its way out. Here’s what Dutch business owners need to know about the European payment system replacing it | FROM IDEAL TO WERO: WHAT THE NEW EUROPEAN PAYMENT SYSTEM MEANS FOR YOUR DUTCH BUSINESS

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Let’s start with the paperwork nobody asked for: a fresh batch of rules rolled out across the Netherlands on July 1, and banks can now freeze suspicious payments for up to five working days. Cold callers also got the boot — companies can no longer ring existing customers out of the blue. 📵

Meanwhile, if you tried to catch a southbound train from Rotterdam this week, condolences. A cable fire has knocked out the tracks until Saturday at the earliest, according to ProRail. NS has rustled up replacement buses, but expect your commute to take the scenic route. 🚌

On the money front, rents across the Netherlands rose on July 1, and that could shake up your huurtoeslag (housing allowance). If your landlord hasn’t passed your new rent figure on to the benefits authorities, then it’s up to you. 🏠

Your Shein and Temu habit is also about to get a little less cheap: the EU is scrapping its duty-free exemption for parcels under €150, replacing it with a flat €3 customs duty per item from July 1.

And if you were hoping to let off some steam later this year, tough luck: a nationwide ban on consumer fireworks kicks in from August 1. Municipalities can still grant permits for organised shows with real local ties, but backyard pyrotechnics are officially history. 🧨

Finally, to round off a slightly miserable newsletter: Oranje are out of the World Cup, beaten by Morocco on penalties after a nervy 1-1 draw in Monterrey. ⚽

Between frozen payments, frozen train tracks, and a frozen football dream, the Netherlands is really committing to the bit this week.

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!)

Sarah @ DutchReview 💬

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We think you’ll love these articles

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🍃 Wondering if your “100% green” energy contract is actually green? Here’s how the Dutch system really works, and how to spot the real deal | CAN I GET 100% GREEN ENERGY FOR MY HOME IN THE NETHERLANDS?

💻 Still working from a wobbly IKEA chair with your laptop propped on a stack of books? Here’s how to build a home office that won’t wreck your back | WORKING FROM HOME? HERE’S HOW TO UPGRADE YOUR DUTCH HOME OFFICE WITH DESKTRONIC

💬 Still nodding along to conversations you don’t quite follow? Here are 21 ways to sound a little more like a local | LIKE A NATIVE: 21 WAYS TO ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY DUTCH PHRASES

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🇳🇿 Fancy a go at a haka workshop or waka sailing? Wereldmuseum Leiden is celebrating Māori New Year this month | ENJOY MĀORI NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS THIS JULY AT WERELDMUSEUM LEIDEN

🎵 Broadway comes to Amsterdam this summer with an intimate rock musical about chasing your dreams before you turn 30 | ENJOY AN ICONIC BROADWAY CLASSIC IN AMSTERDAM’S DELAMAR

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Our big political story this week is the Netherlands approving the EU Migration Pact, marking the most significant overhaul of the country’s asylum rules in 25 years. The Dutch government went beyond the European baseline. Whether it’ll actually work is another question entirely. 📋

Speaking of keeping things Dutch, the government has officially blocked the American takeover of DigiD’s infrastructure. The concern? US law can compel American companies to hand over data to their government. The Netherlands said: nee, bedankt (no, thanks). 🔐

That Netherlands-US tension isn’t going away quietly, either. Speaking at a security conference in The Hague this week, Prime Minister Rob Jetten declared the relationship with the US “irreversibly changed” and called on Europe to stop relying on American security guarantees. 🤝

Sorry, coffee-lovers, this news isn’t on your side: Dutch coffee prices have shot up by 74% over the past five years, according to the Consumentenbond (Dutch consumers’ association). The good news: switching to supermarket own-brands and shopping at drugstores like Kruidvat can significantly cut your costs. ☕

Some good news for those of us already here: Amsterdam has been ranked the second most liveable city in the world for expats by Global Citizen Solutions. It scored top marks for safety, healthcare, air quality, and — unsurprisingly — English proficiency. The downsides? Cost of living, and the fact that making Dutch friends remains a competitive sport. 🏙️

And finally, this week’s most important story: 21-year-old Niels Wennemars has become the first Dutchman to win the Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling race in Gloucester, England. His reasoning for entering? “We are the land of cheese, after all.” 🧀👑

That’s it for this week!

Doei Doei! (Bye!),

Ida @ DutchReview 💬

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💬 Your savings don’t have to sit doing nothing. Trade Republic is currently offering 3% interest on unlimited cash balances in the Netherlands — with daily interest calculation and flexible withdrawals | AT THIS BANK, YOU CAN ACTUALLY EARN 3% ON YOUR SAVINGS

💬 Part museum, part castle — Museum MORE is your next must-see attraction. With two stunning locations in Gelderland, it’s Europe’s largest modern realism museum | A MUSEUM AND A CASTLE? INTRODUCING THE LARGEST MODERN REALISM MUSEUM IN EUROPE

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The big story this week is the Netherlands summoning the Israeli ambassador over footage showing Gaza flotilla activists being abused as he watched. The convoy was intercepted in international waters near Cyprus, and six Dutch nationals were among the roughly 428 people detained. 🚢

Meanwhile, turmoil in the Strait of Hormuz has rattled capital markets, sending Dutch mortgage rates shooting up. Around 15 increases from major lenders are already lined up, with experts warning of more to follow.🏡

With seemingly no end to the bad news this week, both ALDI and Albert Heijn have issued product recalls over possible metal particles in certain nut products. Both will give you a full refund — opened or unopened. 🥜

On a lighter note (literally), Dutch skies could be treated to rare noctilucent clouds this weekend. These lichtende nachtwolken (glowing night clouds) shimmer silver-blue after sunset, and are only visible in a narrow window around the summer solstice.✨

At long last, summer is finally incoming. After a grey and stormy start to the week, temperatures are forecast to climb sharply from Thursday, with the Pinksteren (Whitsun) long weekend shaping up to be a proper scorcher. 🌞

And finally, a bittersweet farewell, as the Netherlands is phasing out its iconic monthly air raid sirens for good. The luchtalarm (air raid alarm) network will be switched off permanently in 2028. 🚨

That’s all, folks! See ya next week.

Doei Doei! (Bye!),

Ida @ DutchReview 💬

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💬 Still using your home country’s bank account to pay Dutch rent and utilities? It’s technically legal — but it’ll likely cost you more than you’d think | CAN I KEEP MY FOREIGN BANK ACCOUNT WHILE LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS?

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The big story this week is the hantavirus outbreak aboard the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius. Three people have died, and at least four more have fallen ill. The WHO confirmed that a Dutch woman from Friesland was also carrying the virus when she died. 🚢

Furthermore, the Dutch woman had briefly boarded a KLM flight bound for Amsterdam from Johannesburg before being removed from the aircraft. A KLM flight attendant from Haarlem has since been hospitalised with mild symptoms at Amsterdam UMC and is being tested for the virus. 😷

Moving on to a different kind of crisis: last week, the Netherlands called for international backup to fight a string of wildfires for the first time in history. Blazes broke out across four provinces, with France, Belgium, and Germany sending aid. The fires are now under control. 🌲🔥

Another story everyone is talking about: Donald Pols, the long-serving director of Milieudefensie, is joining Tata Steel as Director of Sustainability. The shocker? Milieudefensie lists Tata Steel as one of 28 major polluters it actively challenges. 🏭

One more for anyone planning a UK trip: the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has gone up in price. The fee has jumped 25% compared to last year, with a family of four now looking at £80 just for travel authorisation. ✈️

That’s all, folks! See ya next week.

Doei Doei! (Bye!),

Ida @ DutchReview 💬

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Starting off strong, King’s Day brought its usual orange chaos, and Tikkie had the numbers to prove it. Tikkie hit a new record of 756,316 payments processed on 27 April, with transactions peaking at 45 per second. 💸

In less cheerful news, Instagram has banned Dutch LGBTQIA+ clubs and organisations for the second time in six months, with little to no explanation from Meta. One club lost 40,000 followers overnight, and several account holders say they’ve been unable to get any meaningful response from the platform. 🏳️‍🌈

On a brighter note (literally), the Netherlands finally saw a sunny stretch, and temperatures could potentially hit 25°C by Friday. Don’t get too attached, though. The weekend looks a little chillier. ☀️

For anyone who pays taxes in the Netherlands (so, everyone), the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority) is switching its main bank this May. That means new account numbers for payments and refunds: it’s worth checking out the details to see what that means for you. 🏦

And finally, some good news for part-timers and lower earners: Dutch workers on lower incomes are set to see more vakantiegeld (holiday pay) this year, thanks to changes in the arbeidskorting (labour tax credit). Handy timing with summer around the corner. 🌴

That’s all, folks! See ya next week.

Doei Doei! (Bye!),

Ida @ DutchReview 💬

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Goedemiddag (Good afternoon),

From changing rental laws to a rogue cow, the news has kept us super busy this week. So, chop-chop, there’s a lot to report to you!

Firstly, the Housing Minister is planning to alter the Affordable Housing Act. This would allow landlords to increase rent prices in major cities. Apparently, landlords don’t find renting profitable anymore. Jammer! If you live in a popular neighbourhood or without a balcony, you may receive a message from your property owner.

Speaking of high prices, the Dutch cabinet has been racking its brain to combat the skyrocketing cost of fuel. As of Monday, the Netherlands has activated phase one of its National Oil Crisis Plan, where a dedicated team will keep a close eye on fuel-intensive sectors. Later phases involve banning home delivery services, car-free Sundays, driving below 80 km/h on the motorway, and mandatory work-from-home days.

In order to reduce the demand for fuel, the Dutch government plans to make public transport cheaper. How much cheaper, you ask? Think €49 a month for unlimited travel on trains, metros, buses, and trams. However, the Parliament is still debating GroeneLinks-PvdA’s proposal, the so-called “Nederlands Ticket.”

Further, there has been a series of data breaches at prominent Dutch companies. The home and body cosmetics store Rituals has reported a leak of customer information such as names, email addresses, phone numbers, and more. So now’s the time to be extra-vigilant of shady phone calls and spammy emails.

Regarding the Netherlands’ largest data breach, where the sensitive information of six million Odido users was stolen in February, we might have some good news. A Dutch privacy firm is launching a class action lawsuit against the telecom provider. Current and former customers of Odido may join the mass claim for free and may receive a payout of up to €500 per person.

On Monday, a cow broke free from a slaughterhouse in Groningen. A dramatic police chase followed on the A7 motorway. When cops failed to capture the sweet angel, a marksman shot the cow five times. A vet immediately sliced the animal’s throat so her meat could still be sold.

Alongside crying about the state of the world, we’re preparing to celebrate King’s Day on April 27. Soon, King Willem-Alexander turns 59, and all streets in the Netherlands will turn orange (and smell like beer).

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!)

Kriti @ DutchReview 💬

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Kicking things off with diplomacy (or whatever you call it when a king sleeps over at the White House), King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima, and PM Rob Jetten dined with Trump on Monday. While the royal couple was quite tight-lipped about what was discussed, the king stressed that the two countries must “always remain on good terms.” 🍽️

Think that’s bad? Helaas, Booking.com has confirmed a data breach in which an unauthorised third party accessed customer booking details. Payment info appears to have been spared, but the company has been remarkably tight-lipped about the specifics. 🔓

On the financial front, the Dutch cabinet has announced a €1 billion support package to help households and businesses cope with soaring energy costs. The catch? None of that money will lower prices at the pump. ⛽

Meanwhile, a report out this week has confirmed what anyone who’s been clipped by an e-bike already suspected: cycling in the Netherlands is getting more dangerous. Cyclist fatalities hit the highest level since 2007, with older riders bearing the brunt. 🚲

And finally, to round off a truly cheery week, Russia has named a Dutch company as a potential military target. The Netherlands responded by announcing a €248 million drone investment for Ukraine, so make of that what you will. 🎯

That’s your week. From White House sleepovers to Russian hit lists, the Netherlands is proving once again that “small country, big drama” is accurate.

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!),

Ida @ DutchReview 💬

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Hoi daar! (Hi there)

The week after Paasdagen has moved sluggishly along. While the sun’s been shining, the royal couple made travel plans, the CEO of KLM earned an unprecedented raise, and the Strait of Hormuz might open again.

Starting off, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima are scheduled for a working visit to the United States next week. Aside from dining with Donald Trump at the White House, they will visit Philadelphia and Miami. Hot topic: Dutch PM Rob Jetten will be joining the dinner party, despite previously having called Trump a “misogynist who flirts with dictators.”

Speaking of Jetten, he’s been busy this week joining an international effort to help protect the Strait of Hormuz. The deal goes: If there’s a lasting ceasefire between the warring countries, the Netherlands will assist with navigation and ensure safe passage through the strait. The outlook is promising, with Foreign Minister Berendsen believing the opening of Hormuz will offer temporary relief for soaring Dutch energy prices.

Speaking of prices, one person in the Netherlands who can afford any kind of price hike is Marjan Rintel. The CEO of KLM earned a humble sum of €1.6 million in 2025. As the Dutch state is a shareholder in Air France-KLM, the Finance Minister wasn’t happy about Rintel’s 30% raise. Yes, the capitalist world isn’t fair, but enjoying a fat bonus while your employees are fighting against a wage freeze is a wee bit drastic.

Finally, certain Dutch political parties are considering banning Kanye West from his upcoming concert in Arnhem. The UK recently rejected the rapper’s visa for the Wireless Festival due to his antisemitism (calling himself a “Nazi” and denying the Holocaust). However, Arnhem Municipality can only act if there’s a serious risk to public order.

While we’ve been covering all this news, the Netherlands has been surprisingly warm with highs of 20 degrees Celsius. So, natuurlijk, we’re on our way to the nearest terrace!

Tot zo (See you soon)

Kriti @ DutchReview 💬

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Starting off, on April 1, the Netherlands marked exactly 25 years since becoming the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage. To celebrate, Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema personally officiated three weddings at city hall, with Prime Minister Rob Jetten — the country’s first openly gay PM — in attendance. 🏳️‍🌈

In slightly more complicated news, Thuisabortus.nl — the brand-new online abortion pill platform — had to hit pause on operation after just five days, overwhelmed by 150 requests in a single week. The service is now on hold while more doctors are trained. 💊

On to something lighter: Albert Heijn launched a phone case with a built-in eierdopje (egg cup) on the back, and swears it’s not an April Fools’ joke. Followers were unconvinced until an AH spokesperson confirmed it’s the real deal. 🍳

Meanwhile, big news for anyone who has ever been nearly run down in Vondelpark: fatbikes will be officially banned from Amsterdam’s most beloved park from May 11. The fine for riding inside the park is a whopping €115. 🚫🚲

And finally, festival season is here. Paaspop kicks it off in Schijndel this Easter weekend (April 3 to 5), with over 350 acts across 17 stages. Sean Paul headlines Friday, Scooter takes Saturday, and Tom Odell closes Sunday. 🎶

That’s your week! From historic weddings to eierdopje (egg-cup) phone cases, the Netherlands continues to contain multitudes.

Doei Doei! (Bye bye!),

Ida @ DutchReview 💬

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This week in Dutch news has been quite the mixed bag, from blooming cherry blossoms to rainy days and an impending financial burden. Let’s get into it!

To start you off, as part of the “Game Over!?” campaign, Dutch police released photographs of 79 wanted scammers online, on billboards, and on national television. Caught on doorbell cameras and CCTVs, most suspects pretended to be police officers to “secure” the valuables of the elderly.

However, scammers aren’t the only threat to your finances; the DNB (De Nederlandsche Bank) declared a “code orange” warning for our wallets. Due to the Iran conflict, there is an imminent risk of persistent inflation and higher unemployment rates. Whether circumstances normalise within a year or the Dutch economy takes a serious hit is left up to fate.

Meanwhile, given the current geopolitical turmoil, reintroducing compulsory military service in the Netherlands is on the cards. The country aims to recruit 122,000 new personnel over the next four years. If they don’t meet this requirement through volunteers, selective conscription is the next step.

In health news, the abortion pill can now be ordered online in the Netherlands. Usually, an in-person visit to the gynaecologist or abortion clinic is compulsory to terminate a pregnancy. Not anymore! On the website “thuisabortus.nl,” people with a uterus who are up to nine weeks pregnant can order the pill to their nearest pharmacy.

Finally, on a lighter note, this week marks the beginning of cherry blossom season in the Netherlands! While Amsterdamse Bos was crowned the best place to see the blossoms in all of Europe, taking a walk around The Hague’s Peace Palace or Utrecht’s Valkstraat Park will also do the trick!

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!),

Kriti @ DutchReview 💬

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Kicking things off in Eindhoven, big news for big tech: the city council voted 35 to 6 to approve ASML’s massive campus expansion. Some landowners weren’t exactly thrilled, but when the economic stakes are this high, the council wasn’t in the mood to say no. 🏭

Meanwhile, Odido customers got more bad news. An ethical hacker discovered that Odido routers had been quietly sending home network data to a foreign AI firm. The info included device names and MAC addresses. 😬

In financial news, De Nederlandsche Bank is now advising Dutch residents to keep cash on hand and hold accounts at multiple banks. The worry is that over-reliance on foreign payment infrastructure leaves Dutch banking vulnerable. 💶

Some good news for a change: Dutch cheese is officially the best in the world! Beemster Royaal Grand Cru, made by CONO Kaasmakers in North Holland, beat over 3,000 competitors from 25 countries at the 2026 World Championship Cheese Contest in Wisconsin to claim the top prize. 🧀

Finally, chip equipment firm ASM (not to be confused with ASML — yes, there are two of them) is sounding the alarm over Dutch immigration policy. The company’s CFO is calling on the government to create a separate track for highly skilled international workers, warning that the tightening of the 30% ruling and plans to cut English-language university programmes are already costing them talent. 🌍

That’s your week! From routers spying on you to cheese conquering the world, the Netherlands knows how to keep it interesting.

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!),

Ida @ DutchReview 💬

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This week in Dutch news has been a wild ride, from the joyous arrival of spring and sunshine to student scams and repatriation troubles. Let’s get into it! 🫡

Let’s begin with some good news. The weather gods finally showed us some much-needed love. Temperatures hit 18 degrees this week, with daily sunshine and barely a cloud in sight. Is spring really here? 🌸

Meanwhile, a company called myStudentFinance had been charging international students a commission to apply for free government financial aid. Around 350 students already paid up before realising DUO applications cost nothing. Students, do your homework! 💸

As the Iran conflict continues to escalate, the first KLM repatriation flight touched down at Schiphol this week, bringing relief to 83 stranded travellers. More flights are being scheduled to bring residents home safely. ✈️

The war has driven Dutch gas prices up, but we examined the impact on your energy bill depending on your contract type. Thankfully, the situation might not pinch your pockets as much as you’d think. 😮‍💨

Finally, the Dutch hyperloop dream is officially dead. Hardt Hyperloop declared bankruptcy after burning through millions in funding. Turns out, building pneumatic tubes to catapult people at 1,200 km/h is kind of expensive. Who would’ve thought? 🚅

It’s definitely been one of our more interesting weeks. But that’s all for now! We’ll catch you again next time.

Tot volgende week! (See you next week!),

Kriti @ DutchReview 💬

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This week in Dutch news has been quite a mix — from weather warnings to political moves and sporting glory. Let’s roll! 🫡

If you thought we were done with negative temperatures, you were wrong. Snow is expected across the Netherlands this Sunday! Forecasts are hinting at wintry weather that could shake up your plans (and your Insta feed). ❄️

In more sobering news, another Dutch national has been deported from the United States over alleged national security concerns. The harrowing story of the man’s time in ICE detention has raised eyebrows both here and across the Atlantic. 🧊

Commuters and travellers, listen up! Nederlandse Spoorwegen has revealed its big plans for 2027, with faster routes and changes coming to the Dutch rail network. 🚃

Speaking of speed, huge congrats are in order for Jutta Leerdam! The Dutch speed skating superstar smashed it at the Winter Olympics, bringing home gold and making the Netherlands proud. What a performance. 🥇

Finally, some political news: back in The Hague, the new Dutch cabinet has officially named its ministers under Prime Minister Jetten. This fresh team is now setting the course for the government’s agenda. Let’s see how they perform. 🇳🇱

That’s all, folks! We’ll catch you again next time. 😉

Fijne Valentijnsdag! (Happy Valentine’s!) ❤️

Ida @ DutchReview 💬

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