From our blog
News, developments and articles from Regina Coeli
‘Lekker’ is not just about food: how to use this Dutch word
You probably know the Dutch word lekker from conversations about food. A delicious sandwich, a good cup of coffee or a tasty piece of cake. But listen to Dutch people around you and you will soon notice that they use lekker in all kinds of other situations.
Sinterklaas in the Netherlands: Traditions Explained
Why are Dutch children putting shoes by the fireplace? Who is the man arriving by steamboat from Spain? And why is everyone talking about pepernoten? If you're new to the Netherlands, the Sinterklaas season can be rather confusing. Here's your guide to one of the country's most beloved traditions.
Let's speak Dutch! Join our Praat Nederlands Café
Regina Coeli is hosting a Praat Nederlands Café at the High Tech Campus on 26 November. Learning Dutch is one thing. Actually speaking it is another! And the best way to become more confident is to practise in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Small talk in Spanish: how to start a business conversation well
You have a meeting with a Spanish-speaking client or colleague. After the initial greeting, you do not want to jump straight into the first slide or the agenda. You want to make some personal contact first. But what do you talk about? And how do you avoid getting stuck for words when small talk is supposed to be the easy part of the meeting?
How to start a conversation in Dutch
Your Dutch is pretty good. But starting a conversation can still feel difficult. At the coffee machine with a colleague. In the street with your neighbour. At the school gate with another parent. At your sports club or at a networking event. What do you say after Hoi?
Why Dutch people plan everything weeks in advance
You meet a Dutch colleague and say: “We should have a drink sometime.” “Good idea,” they say. “Let me check my agenda.” A few minutes later, you have a date. It is three weeks from now. For many internationals, this can feel strange. Why plan a simple coffee so far in advance? Why not just send a message on Friday and meet that evening? Welcome to Dutch agenda culture.