Travel can encourage many things including self-actualization, creative impulse and clarivoyance. My recent trip to visit family and friends in DC and Virginia reset these perspectives. Less than a week after returning I realize three things I appreciate more about the Netherlands.
1) Diversity. Perhaps it relates more to living in the densely populated Randstad, but I am regularly impressed by the high level of Dutch multiculturalism. Each day, I encounter folks from China, Indonesia, Korea, India, Pakistan, Suriname, Morocco and Turkey. All of them speak perfect Dutch and live very Dutch lives. I certainly didn't expect this concentration of diversity and integration, especially coming from the US where we tout our rich multiculturalism (rightly so) as a global ideal. Of course, Europe has it's migrant woes but diversity seems very much alive in the Netherlands.
2) Openness. I'm not referencing Dutch tolerance towards drugs or sex. I'm talking about window curtains and sidewalk smiles. The Dutch are not bashful about showcasing their homes to the street. If you stroll any neighborhood at night, you will encounter many homes exposing decorative ceilings, soft-lit living rooms, bedroom art, beautiful lampshades and historic chandeliers. As for sidewalk smiles. I've had some lovely exchanges, including one which led to a spirited bike race. The Dutch are light-hearted and amicable people to say the least. And in both cases, a sense of community is developed.
3) Arts and Culture. In the Netherlands, no matter the season, climate or even the time, there is always an ethnic celebration or festival on the calendar. And whereas American's tend to remain indoors on cold or rainy days, no weather pattern can deter the Dutch from biking to a social function for a delicious beverage and a chance at cultural inspiration.
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