What makes Dutch people so Dutch? Why are the Netherlands famous for direct communication, bargain hunting, and endless discussions about money? And why does your Dutch friend send you a Tikkie for €2.37 after one beer?
At Koentact, we believe that truly understanding Dutch culture goes beyond learning the language. To feel at home in the Netherlands, it helps to understand the history, values, and cultural mindset that shape everyday Dutch life. That is exactly why we created the Amsterdam Roots Course.
A successful first trial session in Amsterdam
The very first trial session of Amsterdam Roots at the Claverhuis on the Elandsgracht was a huge success. The historic building was filled with curious internationals, expats, and history lovers, all eager to better understand Dutch culture and the Dutch mindset.
During the session, teacher Boris explored one fascinating question:
Why are Dutch people so commercially minded?
From sending Tikkies after drinks with friends to their love for discounts, Dutch people are often known for being practical and financially aware. But where does this characteristic come from?
Boris connected these modern-day Dutch habits to the Dutch 17th century, a period that played a major role in shaping modern Dutch society. Participants explored how trade, merchant culture, and economic expansion influenced today’s Dutch mentality and cultural values.
At the same time, the session also reflected critically on this period. While the 17th century brought wealth and global influence to the Dutch Republic, it was not a “Golden Age” for everyone. The course also touched upon colonialism, inequality, and the role of slavery in Dutch history, encouraging participants to look at Dutch culture and history from multiple perspectives.
But this was not just a history lecture.
Participants actively joined the discussion by ranking the most important causes of Dutch prosperity in the 17th century and debating their choices together. The evening became an interactive exploration of Dutch identity, intercultural awareness, and the roots of “Dutch directness” and pragmatism.
Understanding Dutch culture through history
Many internationals living in Amsterdam experience culture shock when interacting with Dutch people. Dutch communication can feel blunt. Dutch social habits can seem unusual. And sometimes the Dutch approach to work, friendship, and money can be difficult to understand.
The Amsterdam Roots Course helps expats and internationals gain a deeper understanding of:
- Dutch culture and traditions
- The history behind Dutch directness
- Why Dutch people value equality and independence
- The roots of the Dutch resistance to authority
- Dutch communication styles and intercultural differences
- The historical origins of modern Dutch society
By connecting Dutch history to modern behavior, the course offers a unique way to improve intercultural understanding and feel more connected to life in the Netherlands.
A new in-depth Dutch culture program this June
Because of the overwhelmingly positive reactions to the first session, Boris and Koen decided to develop a complete in-depth cultural program.
This June, the Amsterdam Roots Course will consist of three interactive sessions, exploring Dutch history from the year 0 until today. Together, participants will uncover how historical events shaped the Netherlands into the country we know now.
Topics include:
- Dutch directness
- Dutch frugality and “cheapness”
- Trade mentality and entrepreneurship
- Resistance to hierarchy and authority
- Tolerance and freedom in Dutch society
- The evolution of Amsterdam and Dutch identity
The course combines storytelling, group discussions, intercultural reflection, and historical insights to help participants better understand the Dutch mindset.
Ready to dive into the Dutch mindset?
If you want to better understand Dutch people, improve your intercultural awareness, and discover the roots of Dutch culture, this course is for you.
Whether you are an expat, international student, newcomer, or simply curious about Dutch society, Amsterdam Roots offers a meaningful and fun way to connect more deeply with life in the Netherlands.
