Living Life Large in the Netherlands, Canals, Culture, and Sinterklaas Magic

We lived in the Netherlands for nine unforgettable years on Meerkoeteiland in Voorschoten, tucked along a peaceful canal where mornings smelled faintly of coffee and fresh rain, and evenings were for slow boat rides and laughter echoing across the water. Our sloep, LLAMEDOS, was our floating escape, cruising through the Vlietland waterways that connect The Hague to Amsterdam, winding past willows, bridges, and centuries-old windmills.

Our son had a Zodiac, full of energy and adventure, while our daughter glided gracefully in her large canoe, often with friends in tow. We’d all meet up at Vlietland, a sprawling recreational paradise filled with lakes, beaches, picnic spots, and winding walking trails. It was a place for swimming, paddling, and soaking up long Dutch summer days. Those moments, boats, laughter, and calm reflections on the canal, truly defined our time in the Netherlands.

Quiet evenings on Vlietland, Tim and I would slowly cruise under a sky full of stars. The moon reflected on the calm water as we enjoyed pâté, cheese, fresh bread, and grapes. He sipped wine, I held a steaming cup of tea, steering LLAMEDOS gently through the canals.

Not a soul in sight, just a few meerkoets gliding silently past. The world felt still, perfect, and completely ours. A moment of pure serenity, connection, and magic. 

The Hague is Where History and Modern Life Intertwine

Just a short boat ride or drive away, The Hague (Den Haag) became another home for us. Known as the political heart of the Netherlands, it’s where the Dutch Parliament (Binnenhof) sits, surrounded by cobblestone streets, serene lakes, and elegant embassies. It’s also home to the Royal Family’s working palace and a wealth of museums like the Mauritshuis, where Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring gazes at you from centuries past.

Walking around The Hague always felt like a perfect balance of old and new historic architecture blended seamlessly with coastal energy, as the city stretches out to the seaside at Scheveningen. We often spent weekends walking that long, windswept beach, enjoying a warm drink at one of the beachfront cafés, or simply watching kite surfers dance across the waves.

Amsterdam. Art, Canals & Endless Inspiration

No chapter of our Dutch life would be complete without Amsterdam, a city that feels like a living masterpiece. We spent countless days wandering along its iconic canals, each bridge offering a postcard moment. Amsterdam has a spirit that balances history with creativity, tradition with innovation.

We loved visiting the Rijksmuseum, standing in awe before the Dutch Masters, Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.   Creative artists who shaped the world with their brushstrokes. The Anne Frank House was always a deeply moving experience, reminding us of the resilience and courage woven through Dutch history.

And then there’s the energy of the city itself: cozy cafés along the water, vibrant neighborhoods like Jordaan, beautiful flower stalls overflowing with tulips, and cyclists effortlessly flowing through narrow streets. Amsterdam is a city that invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and fall a little more in love with the Netherlands each time you visit.

Dutch Memories

One of the most extraordinary experiences I had during our years in the Netherlands was working with Miss Netherlands World and Miss Netherlands Universe. It was a wonderful way to dive deeper into Dutch culture, meeting remarkable women from all over the country, learning about their traditions, stories, and goals.

Twice a year, we travelled to Turkey with the contestants for international pageant events,  a time filled with creativity, connection, and cultural exchange. We even filmed a reality show called Miss Verkiezing, capturing the excitement, challenges, and elegance of the journey. It was an unforgettable chapter,  a blend of glamour, teamwork, and cultural discovery that added another layer to my Dutch adventure.

On top of that, I also worked on a Dutch film called Doodeinde, doing voiceovers while both our children appeared in the film. It was such a joy collaborating with a talented Dutch film producer and director. These experiences gave our family an intimate look into Dutch creative life and culture, from pageantry to film, creating memories we still cherish.

Dutch Delights,  Food, Festivals & Family Traditions

• Pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes): Thin, enormous, and deliciously versatile. Whether savoury or sweet, they’re the perfect comfort food after a day on the water.
  
  
• King’s Day (Koningsdag): When the entire country turns orange in celebration, canals fill with boats, markets bloom with colour, and everyone joins in the festive chaos.
  
  
• Sinterklaas (December 6): Still one of our favourite traditions, shoes by the fire, little gifts and sweets, and the warmth of community spirit
  

• Amsterdam: Canals, bicycles, the Rijksmuseum, and the Van Gogh Museum are timeless and inspiring.
  
  
• The Hague (Den Haag): Visit the Binnenhof, Mauritshuis, and nearby Scheveningen Beach. A perfect blend of history, art, and seaside calm.
  
  
• Vlietland & Voorschoten: Ideal for boating, swimming, and picnicking.  A peaceful slice of local life.
  
  
• Keukenhof & Tulip Fields: In spring, the countryside erupts into colour. A photographer’s dream!
  
  
• Zaanse Schans: Traditional windmills and Dutch crafts come to life here. A must for culture lovers.

• Best Time to Visit: April for tulips, summer for boating and beaches, and December for festive charm.
  
  
• Getting Around: Trains and bikes are your best friends. Everything runs on time,  just like the Dutch prefer it!
  
  
• What to Pack: Layers, a rain jacket, and a sense of adventure.
  
  
• Family-Friendly: From interactive museums to endless cycling trails, kids and adults alike will love it.
  

 Thanks for wandering with us.

Until next time, keep Living Life Large and loving every mile.

Love

Kimberley & Tim