Spreek je Nederlands? and other Amsterdam, Netherlands Local Custom Tips

With just about everyone speaking English, you have no worries being understood in Amsterdam. You may find that some people speak German or/and French, but the majority will prefer English to these languages.

A common misconception (and a very insulting misconception indeed) is that Dutch and German are literally mutually intelligible. Be aware that any referrals to the similarity of the two languages and you are bound to upset at least someone, since the Dutch do not want to be characterised as "German". In addition, the two languages are not mutually intelligible, but Dutch speakers actually have to learn German at school.

A few useful words and phrases:

Hi - Hoi/Dag
Good bye - Dag
Yes - Ja
No - Nee
Thanks - Bedankt (B'dunked)
Sorry - Sorry (with rolled r's)
Excuse me - Pardon
Nice (tasty) - Lekker
Good day - Goedemorgen
Good evening - Goedenavond
Good night - Goedenacht
Of course - Natuurlijk / Zeker
Enjoy the meal! - Smakelijk eten! / Eet smakelijk!
Take Care! - Doe voorzichtig!
Have a nice day! - Een goede/fijne dag verder!

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Unlike in some other countries in the world (let's take the US as an example), the price you see is the price you pay. All prices include tax and tips and this is required by the law.

The Dutch are not exactly known as big spenders in the world, so you certainly do not have to leave 10-20% tips. Often the normal practice in restaurants, bars and cafes is to round up the final bill to some whole number of euros, so that the tip is about 5%. However, you do not have to feel obliged to leave a tip at all, if you don't think the service is worth it or the food was not very nice.

In case the staff or the bill states that service not included, the restaurant is trying to rip you off and you should refuse to pay the additional service charge.

You don't need to tip the taxi drivers either, unless you of course wish to.

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Because Dutch people celebrate their main December event on 5 December (Sinterklaas), many people exchange presents that day and do not really celebrate Christmas the same way as many other countries do. It is still a festive time, as most shops will be closed, but the transport system will be running a Sunday service rather than shutting right down. The restaurants and bars are open, so people tend to go and eat out in restaurant, rather than make a traditional Christmas dinner at home.

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Dutch people love kissing each other on the cheeks (3 times). They do it to congratulate their friends colleagues on their birthdays, when they meet each other after a while (especially good friends, not so much collagues I suppose) and when they wish each other happy xmas or new year. Observe and imitate! :-)

Normally men don't kiss each othet on the cheeks, but I have seen that happen as well. It's more a women's thing.

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There are lots of cyclists in Amsterdam and the city has been geared towards this environmentally friendly means of transport by building cycle paths along the streets. In addition, it is an ideal place for cycling, because it's totally flat and there are lots of narrow streets where you can't get by car, bus or tram ;-)

The cyclists can pretty ruthless, ringing their bells vigorously should you wander in front of them. In addition, many ride not so sophisticated bikes that do not actually stop very slowly, so beware! Walking on bike paths is an absolutely no-no and should be avoid at any cost. These paths are distinguished from the walking paths by their red colour and occasional cycle symbols. Also take care when crossing roads, even if the pedestrian light was green.

Since the entire city (well almost) is on two wheels, you can, of course, do the same. There are lots of places where you can rent bikes (see my tips things to do: rent a bike). Word of warning: be cautious and avoid the most crowded places. Absolutely no one takes their bikes to the pedestrianised area.

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