Here are 10 things the Dutch do better than Americans.
Number 10. Happiness. According to the World Happiness Report 2013 presented to the United Nations, the Netherlands was awarded the 4th spot. The US landed in 17th place, not entirely bad but not as impressive.
Number 9. Bicycling. While cycling in major US cities presents a number of challenges, in the Netherlands bikes rule the roads. It’s estimated that 70 percent of all 4-mile-and-under treks are taken on two wheels.
Number 8. Wooden Shoes. Clogs have been an on-again, off-again trend in American fashion for decades, but among the Dutch, wooden-soled shoes have been found dating back to the 13th century. Prior to the mid 90’s they were even approved for use as safety footwear, although today it’s mostly field workers and tourists who buy them.
Number 7. Childcare assistance. Those in the Netherlands who have children are given generous sums of money by the government to help meet the high costs of raising kids. Reimbursements for day care are also available.
Number 6. Speed Skating. During the 2014 Winter Olympics held in Sochi, the Dutch team claimed 23 medals for speedskating, and also set a recent record for most gold medals earned in this event.
Number 5. Tulips. They’re grown in a lot of places, but only Holland has earned itself the nickname, the ‘flower shop of the world’. The first bulb was planted in the Netherlands in 1593.
Number 4. Free time. The Dutch put in about 30 percent fewer work hours than Americans do. They make less money, but on average their incomes are only about 18 percent lower. Plus, they don’t spend nearly as much on healthcare.
Number 3. Remember birthdays. They’re a big deal in the Netherlands, so people make sure they know whom to celebrate when. There it’s common to keep a calendar in the one place individuals know they’ll visit every day – the bathroom.
Number 2. Height. Folks in US have stopped growing, a trend that some attribute to questionable diet and lifestyle habits. Conversely, the average Dutch male is now 6-foot-1, and the mean for females is 5-foot-8.
Number 1. Making canals cool. Amsterdam is often called the ‘Venice of the North’ as it has a thriving system of waterways that are used to the full extent of their scenic, recreational, and transportation advantage. Venice, California has a few nice ones too, but they’re not nearly as extensive.
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