What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Eindhoven?
We asked people in Eindhoven if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"In Eindhoven, it's important to avoid discussing personal matters with people you've just met, as Dutch people value their privacy. It's also considered rude to interrupt someone while they're speaking, so try to wait your turn in conversations. Avoid being late for appointments or meetings, as punctuality is highly valued in Dutch culture. If you're invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a gift such as flowers or wine. Don't assume everyone speaks English, even though many Dutch people are fluent in the language. It's polite to ask if they speak English before starting a conversation. Avoid discussing controversial topics such as politics or religion unless you know the person well. The Dutch are known for their directness, but they also appreciate tact and diplomacy. Don't leave a mess behind when you're in public spaces. The Dutch take pride in their clean and well-maintained cities, so be sure to dispose of your trash properly. Avoid being overly loud or boisterous in public. The Dutch value modesty and discretion, so try to keep your voice down and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Finally, don't forget to respect the local customs and traditions. The Dutch have a rich cultural heritage, and they appreciate when visitors take the time to learn about and respect their customs," remarked another expat who made the move to Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Eindhoven?
- What do I need to know before moving to Eindhoven?
- How do I find a place to live in Eindhoven?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Eindhoven?
- What is the average cost of housing in Eindhoven?
- How do I meet people in Eindhoven?
- What should I pack when moving to Eindhoven?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Eindhoven?
- Will I be able to find a job in Eindhoven?
- What is life like in Eindhoven?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Eindhoven?
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- What is the social scene like in Eindhoven?
- What advice to expats in Eindhoven have about housing?
- What are medical services in Eindhoven like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Eindhoven?
- Is the cost of living in Eindhoven high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Eindhoven?
- Why do people move to Eindhoven?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Eindhoven?
If you live in Eindhoven, newcomers to Eindhoven would love to hear your answer to this question.