Netherlands

Directness and Communication
Dutch people are known for their direct and open communication style. Honesty is highly valued, and people will often speak their minds without sugarcoating. This can come across as blunt to some, but it is not intended to be rude-rather, it reflects a culture of transparency and efficiency.

Greetings and Social Etiquette

• When meeting someone, a firm handshake and direct eye contact are customary. In social settings, it’s common to greet everyone in the room individually, including men, women, and children.
• Among friends and family, the Dutch may greet each other with two or three kisses on the cheek, alternating sides.
• When entering a waiting room or small shop, it is polite to say “goedemorgen” (good morning), “goedemiddag” (good afternoon), or “goedenavond” (good evening) to those present.
• When leaving, it’s polite to say goodbye to everyone as well.

Punctuality
The Dutch are famously punctual. Arriving late, even by a few minutes, is considered disrespectful. Always inform your host if you’re running late. Social appointments, meetings, and even casual get-togethers are often scheduled weeks in advance and entered into a personal “agenda” or diary.

Dining Etiquette

• Wait for the host to indicate when to start eating. The phrase “Eet smakelijk” (“Enjoy your meal”) is said before beginning a meal.
• Table manners are Continental: fork in the left hand, knife in the right. Keep your hands visible above the table, but elbows off the table.
• When making a toast, say “proost” and make eye contact with each person.
• If you’re invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift such as flowers, chocolates, or wine. Don’t expect your wine to be opened during the meal-hosts may save it for another occasion.
• It’s polite to offer to help clear the table or wash dishes, but the host will usually decline.
• The Dutch dine early, often around 6pm. If you’re not specifically invited for a meal, don’t expect to be served food.

Paying the Bill and Tipping

• Splitting the bill (“going Dutch”) is standard practice, even among couples and friends. Apps like Tikkie are commonly used to settle shared expenses.
• Tipping is not obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a 5–10% gratuity for good service is appreciated.

Personal Space and Privacy
Dutch people value privacy and personal space. They may seem reserved at first and are unlikely to initiate conversation with strangers. However, they are friendly and open once approached. Avoid asking overly personal questions unless you know someone well.

Dress Code
Dutch fashion is casual, practical, and unpretentious. Jeans, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate layers are the norm. Business settings may require a suit and tie, but most social situations are informal.

Birthdays and Celebrations
Birthdays are important events. It’s customary to congratulate not only the birthday person (“Gefeliciteerd!”) but also their family and friends present at the celebration. Many Dutch keep a birthday calendar on display, often in the bathroom.

Other Social Customs

• Don’t point with your index finger; gesture with your whole hand instead.
• Cover your mouth when yawning, and don’t chew gum while talking.
• Smoking is prohibited in most public spaces. Always ask permission before lighting a cigarette, even outdoors.
• Sundays are considered family time, and unannounced visits are discouraged.