I think there are

And this one is a Dutch original by a well known Dutch comedy writer and performer. You can watch this comedy with kids, unlike the other one. www.netflix.com/nl/title/816...

We enjoyed this comedy on Netflix (filmed in Dutch, we used English subtitles to help). It’s a bit silly but was good for learning everyday Dutch. www.netflix.com/nl/title/816...

Hawys from Wales 👍

Also most libraries run a free Taal Cafe where you can chat in Dutch with volunteers and other learners. This can be tricky to access if you work full time though. Ours is mid week.

Sure! Medical services (hospital, pharmacy, doctor, opticians, dentist) have all been happy to speak Dutch with me. Also at the market, florist, small independent shops, neighbours. In Leiden it’s the cafes and chain shops where English seems to be the go-to. Having CEFR A2+ Dutch helps though!

For those trying to learn Dutch, can I recommend NOS Journaal in Makkelijke Taal? Monday to Friday, short news programme in easy, slow Dutch. It’s great and helps learners understand about Dutch culture and politics.

www.youtube.com/@NOSJournaal...

At primary school the teaching is awful and they don’t do enough hours. My kids were still doing colours and numbers in French when they left primary school after 6 years of teaching. It’s just not a priority for schools as the system judges them on their Maths and English results.

I live in Oegstgeest and I find that if I start in Dutch both here and in Leiden, people speak Dutch back (especially if I quickly say in Dutch that I’m trying to learn). Managed a whole Doctor’s appointment in Dutch recently! Amsterdam is very English by comparison imo.

The person we have to thank is Kim Leadbeater: an astonishingly accomplished MP. She is proof that political change is possible, if you set your heart on it and put your mind to it. iandunt.substack.com/p/in-praise-...

Since we moved to NL my kids (early teens) have found a new, joyous independence thanks to safe biking. I love this healthier, happier adolescence for them compared to the equivalent in the UK.

It’s brilliant. I listen now on Sunday morning when R4 is all religious. Thoughtful, intelligent guests from across the world responding to world events and giving interesting insights.

Swimming In The Dark, a polish novel by Tomasz Jedrowski. It’s a gay love story set in Communist Poland. I thought the writing was beautiful and I learned a lot about Poland.

So pleased I voted for you! MC achieved nothing for Lewes in all those years and look at you after just a few months 👏🇪🇺🇬🇧