Being so flat, the Netherlands is ideal for cycling. And the Dutch do that a lot! When on holiday, at the weekend, but especially during the week.
Dutch people go by bike to work, school, the pub, the sports club - you name it. And you’ll generally find them cycling through any kind of weather. Unlike in many other countries, the bicycle is a fully-fledged means of transport here, and there are superb cycle paths in most places. In fact, many city centres are more accessible by bike than by car.
Of course, it is nicer to cycle in the spring sunshine than through the pouring rain. But a heavy downpour doesn’t stop the Dutch (and the expats who have also adopted the habit) from hopping on their bikes.
With a little practice, you can cycle while holding an umbrella (note: it’s not particularly safe), and good rain gear is widely available. Besides that, sometimes all you need to do is wait half an hour or so for the worst of the rain to pass. Anything is better than sitting in your car at the back of a traffic jam.
Of course, as a cyclist, you’re obliged to obey traffic rules. If you’re not fully aware of what you may and may not do as a cyclist in the Netherlands, it’s useful to look it up. Here, we’ve limited ourselves to the three things you really need to know when you get on your bike.
Whether your bike is worth a fortune or a pittance, a bike that’s easy to steal is more likely to be stolen than one that’s properly locked.
Make sure you have good lights on your bike so others can see you well and so you have a good view of the road on dark stretches. Note that the white light goes in front and the red light on the back of your bike.
There are several fines for bicycle offences. The ones for drink-driving, and cycling through a red traffic light or with a phone in your hand are the highest. And for good reason, since countless accidents happen because of these three things.
The traffic rules are often self-explanatory, but there are three road signs that may need some explanation for non-Dutch speakers:
The road sign does not apply to cyclists.
This is a bike lane where cars are also allowed. Cyclists have right of way.
As a cyclist, you may cycle through a red traffic light when turning right.
You know what we’re talking about, right? You want to hop on your bike, but your seat’s soaking wet. What do you do when that happens?
A bicycle seat cover? Yep, many Dutch people have a special cover for their bike seat to keep it dry. That way, they always have a dry place to sit when they get on their bikes. Incidentally, a plastic bag (without holes) also works great as a seat cover.