Integrating in the Netherlands: adaptation to Dutch customs and culture

The Netherlands has a rich artistic heritage, with Dutch painters like Rembrandt, Vermeer and van Gogh achieving international acclaim. Dutch people are known for their open-mindedness, tolerance, and progressive values, fostering a society that embraces diversity and individual freedom.

Relocating to the Netherlands will necessitate adapting to these new customs and culture. Understanding key cultural aspects will, therefore, be essential.  Below is a reflection on this topic:

 The ins and outs of Dutch culture: Your guide to integration

While learning Dutch is not mandatory for international PhD researchers, it can significantly foster adaptation to the Dutch work environment. Learning the Dutch language can also provide a competitive advantage for the PhD researcher in both academic and professional settings. In addition, to Dutch, there is also a dialect in Maastricht, which may benefit you in your work/daily social environment.

There are several opportunities to follow a Dutch language course either at UM or at other external institutions, although the latter can vary. Also, some courses might require a fee. Below are links to Dutch language courses:

 Dutch language course - education - Maastricht University
 Expat Centre Maastricht Region - language-courses

Next to Dutch customs, there are also events and traditions specific to Maastricht. Often, holidays are formed around them. Please visit the following webpage to find more information hereon:

Furthermore, the Netherlands has a reputation of being a ‘cycle country'. If you are coming to Maastricht from abroad, it is not always obvious that you already know how to ride a bike. In Maastricht, there are two organisations that provide cycling lessons for immigrants, expats, status holders, and foreign students. Please see this webpage.