Safety Tips in Netherlands

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In many Dutch trains there are sectection called "Stilte Coupe", a part where you are required to be silent, so people can study, read or relax.

In these sections the use of cell phones is forbidden; the same goes for loud talking.

These sections can be recognized by the the wording "STILTE - SILENCE" on the outside windows.

Be aware of trees with a red/whire striped ribbon with the wording:

PAS OP EIKENPROCESSIERUPS.

These ribbons warn you for mainly oak trees that have processionary caterpillar colonies on them. The hairs of these caterpillars cause a red rash on your skin and a terrible itch.

In this small country, the road system is dense and well maintained. But that also means loads of traffic and loads of road works. This could turn a, say 80 km drive, into a 2 hour journey if you have the bad luck of getting into a traffic jam.
It's good to know beforehand where the road works are.
The road works are always well indicated on the road so it's not dangerous. Nevertheless they often cause traffic jams.
Check out the link below for current information in English, German, French, Italian, Polish, Spanish

When a friend of mine was introduced to my Netherlands page he pointed out that the main Danger was not listed on this page: ME !
So he writes:

Be aware that provoking this citizen is a hazardous activity. If confronted by this small Dutch person do not be unduly alarmed. Usually, offerings of small gifts such as chocolate or even large gifts of chocolate will render her entirely safe.

What are friends for, eh?

Do not change money when people ask you in the street. Not even make a bank-note smaller or bigger. If you have to do that for your own use, go into a shop or bank.

Look on the website for Euro information

I've seen many forum posting or I receive questions about working and living in The Netherlands. Now this is not so simple as many people think. For the necessary requirements for citizens of the USA, go to the link below.

If you want correct information, please direct your questions to a Dutch Embassy or Consulate in your country. See also link below.

Another good link is CWI, Center for Work and Income

After five years of working and living in The Netherlands you could become eligible for a Dutch passport under certain conditions.

http://www.usemb.nl/caslivi.htm

In The Netherlands guilder banknotes can be changed until 1/1/2032, legitimation required.
Coins can be exchanged until 1/1/2007 (max. 1000 coins per transaction, legitimation required).
Both only at the Dutch national bank.

The address is:
De Nederlandsche Bank NV
Westeinde 1, 1017 ZN Amsterdam
Postbus 98, 1000 AB Amsterdam

Telefax 020 - 524 25 00

Until 1/1/2003 you can go to your local Dutch bank and deposit the money into your bank account (no cash refund).
Read more on www.euro.nl

Read more about the Euro on my Europe page!
There's lots if info on all countries using the Euro and a historical travelogue with pictures all the old Dutch guilder coins.

Fun side I think.
One better laugh about it then get annoyed .. life s a box of chocolates, as Forrest Gump once stated, better be amazed because of it and try to be content with what you get.
Or hear, in this case.