Understanding Dutch culture

• Keqi Zhan
• 24 years
• first year
  
  

‘When I was still living in China, all I knew about the Netherlands was the tulips, the windmills and Philips. I came here for business reasons. I first took an English-language HBO study and then started Dutch Studies this year. I want to learn to speak Dutch well and particularly to understand the country’s culture. In business it is important to know about the customs and practices of a country.

Learning Dutch is easier than I thought it would be. I think it’s because I speak English and I see some similarities between the two languages. The pace in Dutch Studies is fast, which I like. And when I step outside my door, there are plenty of places where I can practise my Dutch: in the train, while shopping and on the street! My knowledge of Dutch culture is also improving. I have recently visited the National Museum, and I understand why Dutch people are so fond of orange!’