Stereotypes of Holland

A guide to Dutch stereotypes – in English and drawn up by a Dutchman – is proving a big internet draw even though designer VictorVan says himself ‘this is no hard science (or whatever form of science, for that matter).

The map covers the entire European Netherlands, listing, for example the ‘arrogant schmucks and ignorant tourists of Amsterdam’ and the ‘broke Commies’ of East Groningen.

VictorVan gives a detailed explanation on the site Reddit. Click here to read this. Do not skip the numerous comments on the post.

‘Loud, obnoxious, and claiming to be the center of the universe’ Victor Van writes about the people of the Dutch capital. ‘We generally like tourists, apart from those who don’t see the differences between sidewalk and bike path, and those who think the Netherlands consists of Amsterdam and some windmills and tulip fields.’

Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog are described has having ‘less Germans, so more room on the beach for us. Great place for cycling and camping, as long as the wind blows in the right direction and you know how to properly set up a tent.’

Volendam is typified by ‘incestuous fisherman’ and is an ‘incredibly tight-knit fishing community, known for their traditional clothing. For some reason responsible for half of Dutch pop music production.’

Leeuwarden is the ‘capital of the province of Friesland, but they don’t speak the same language and they don’t support the same football club, so no one in Friesland takes them seriously,’ VictorVan says.

VictorVan has been overwhelmed by the reaction to his map, which has had widespread Dutch media coverage since he placed it on social media site Reddit. He has even been approached by a theater maker who wants to do something with the project.

It would be of interest to learn his views on the stereotypes of the Caribbean Netherlands. Maybe someone can write him suggestions?