Whether you’ve come here to work on infrastructure, data centers, or petrochemical plants, you’ve probably noticed one unpredictable thing: the Dutch weather. Don’t worry! With a bit of preparation – and a lot of humor – you’ll soon handle it like a local. Here’s your quick guide to mastering the Dutch climate and staying comfortable on and off the job.
1. Short days, cozy traditions
Winters in the Netherlands aren’t harsh, but they are dark. Daylight hours are short, with the sun setting as early as 4:30 pm in December. But the Dutch have a knack for making it cozy or gezellig. After work, you’ll find locals enjoying warm drinks, lighting candles, and gathering with friends. Look out for the legendary Dutch doughnuts – oliebollen – sold at food stalls, especially around the holidays. Embrace these traditions to make the dark months a lot brighter.
2.Prepare for rain (and more rain)
The Netherlands has a temperate, maritime climate influenced by the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. That means mild winters, cool summers, and plenty of rain. There’s an old saying here: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes!” You could see sunshine, rain, wind, and more rain all in one day. Invest in a good waterproof jacket (forget umbrellas as the wind will destroy them), and keep spare, dry clothes in your work locker.
3. Nothing can be done
When it comes to weather, Dutch people shrug and say: “Niets aan te doen”. It means “Nothing can be done about it”. Instead of complaining, they accept it and move on. So, take a page from their book. Working outdoors on a windy or rainy day? Gear up and focus on the job – it’s all part of the experience!
4. You’re not made of sugar!
If a Dutch colleague sees you hesitant about going out in the rain, they might say: “Je bent niet van suiker, je smelt niet!” Translation: “You’re not made of sugar, you won’t melt!” It’s their way of saying: ‘toughen up, the rain won’t hurt you’. It’s all said in good humor, so laugh along and show them you can handle it.
5. Beware of the wind
The Netherlands is flat and open, making it a paradise for cyclists – but also for wind. Gusts can be powerful, especially in coastal areas. If you’re biking to and from work, brace yourself and pedal hard. A good tip? Plan your route to avoid exposed areas like dikes or open fields on particularly windy days.
Side note: If you work outside, there are rules to work safely and properly protected. The client must follow the rules at all times. We don’t go for inhuman practices.
6. The warmer months are worth the wait
The payoff for enduring rainy winters is beautiful springs and pleasant summers. Tulips bloom, parks come alive, and outdoor cafés fill up with people enjoying the sunshine. Take advantage of the long daylight hours to explore cities, beaches, or the countryside after work.
Weathering the storm
By embracing the Dutch attitude and preparing for the weather, you’ll not only survive but thrive here. Remember, rain or shine, you’re building incredible projects and making your mark. Good luck, and welcome to the Netherlands!
For more insights into living and working in the Netherlands, read the latest news from InAxtion. View InAxtion New.
