Tips 1 - 5 of 5 Amsterdam Local Customs
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Language: Spreek je Nederlands?
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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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Local Customs: Xmas
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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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Local Customs: Kissing on the cheeks
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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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Local Customs: Cycling in the city
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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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Join a Discussion NYE parties (2 replies, Thursday, Nov 12, 2009, 6:02 PM UTC) Train services / Hotel / Place of interest (12 replies, Monday, Nov 9, 2009, 6:33 PM UTC) Smoking in Hotel rooms (5 replies, Friday, Nov 6, 2009, 8:02 PM UTC) Be the first to reply to these questions All alone in Amsterdam. (no replies yet, Monday, Mar 2, 2009, 5:23 PM UTC) I am looking for a partner in Leidschendam (no replies yet, Sunday, Jan 11, 2009, 7:35 PM UTC) travelseptember (no replies yet, Tuesday, Jul 22, 2008, 1:40 PM UTC) » All Amsterdam Posts » Ask about Amsterdam
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- Badhoevedorp, 9.23 km / 5.74 miles
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» See all locations nearby» Popular Provincie Noord-Holland locations» Popular Netherlands locations» Popular Europe locations |
Comments for annase about Amsterdam | | | | |
36waterfalls Thu Mar 27, 2008 13:01 UTC Lovely page here! Your Local Customs are very well spotted ;-) Tot ziens! |
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