The municipal offices of Amsterdam recently announced that the city's residents represent more nationalities -- that's 177 -- than any other city in the world, even more than New York, which ranked No. 3. With all the different cultures present here, it's no wonder that most Dutch are fluent in at least two or three languages. It's especially convenient for English-speaking visitors that they begin learning our native tongue early in their schooling.
But, that doesn't mean the Dutch won't appreciate a nod to their native tongue. By using these Dutch greetings, goodbyes and polite words you'll show your hosts that you appreciate their language, and their ability to communicate with you in yours.
The phrases aren't that difficult and some are really fun to say in the high inflections of the Dutch accent. Try them out -- in this land of bilinguals, you'll feel better having given Nederlands (Dutch) a try. Tot ziens!
But, that doesn't mean the Dutch won't appreciate a nod to their native tongue. By using these Dutch greetings, goodbyes and polite words you'll show your hosts that you appreciate their language, and their ability to communicate with you in yours.
The phrases aren't that difficult and some are really fun to say in the high inflections of the Dutch accent. Try them out -- in this land of bilinguals, you'll feel better having given Nederlands (Dutch) a try. Tot ziens!
Thank you for this very helpful collection of greetings. I think it’s a shame when people don’t make the effort to at least learn the polite greetings before visiting a country. I am already learning Dutch, but thank you, this is set out beautifully and more info is always helpful. Take care and tot ziens