My first two weeks in Groningen have flown by at an alarming rate. It is surprising how quickly one can simply become part of a new place, and live there as if one always has. At least, it would be surprising. If it were true.

The first difference is that this is not an English country. 'Duh!' may be the immediate reaction that springs to mind. It isn't so obvious though, as you are constantly informed that everyone here speaks English and that you will not have a problem communicating as a foreigner. That much is at least true. On the other hand, everything is in Dutch. Menus, advertisements, conversations. A simple question at the end of a supermarket transaction “wilt jy de bon erbij?” leaves one completely stumped (it means “would you like the receipt?”). Luckily, locals quickly pick up that you are not Dutch and immediately translate into English. That said, it does not mean that it is appreciated that you don't speak Dutch and it is apparent that speaking Dutch is essential to assimilating into this environment. If you have heard that speaking Afrikaans gives you a unique advantage because “it's basically the same language”, think again. If you speak Afrikaans, the Dutch will either not understand you (perhaps that's my strong English accent) or they will think you are “cute, like a child learning to speak”. Neither are flattering, and it's important to start learning Dutch as quickly as possible. Sitting in your apartment conjugating verbs out loud until they make sense is simply the only way to get comfortable.

Secondly, cycling. It's not exercise, it's a way of life. It's astonishing just how many cyclists there are, and how it all JUST WORKS. Like clockwork. Cyclists are considerate, motorists are considerate. Pedestrians gauge their pace and fall into the system. There are bicycle lanes most places, but where there aren't, traffic still flows beautifully and the same measure of respect from all road-users means that it still works. Besides the occasional “godverdomme!” expletive because you have made a poor road decision, people are generally very accommodating. No-one is wearing a helmet (so don't be that douchebag), and people cycle in their daily attire. This means that unless you are training for a 100km race, you get on your bicycle in your tweed jacket and slacks or your stilleto shoes and mini dress, and you ride. You carry your shopping bags on one handle, perhaps a baby on the front of the bike. If you have come from the station, you may be dragging your wheelie bag luggage behind you. Of course, it is a flat as a “pannenkoek” here which makes the whole wheeled transportation that much easier, but at the end of the day, everyone does it. University professors, Mcdonalds employees and nurses at the hospital. Once you get the hang of cycling on the right hand side of the road, there simply is no excuse for not commuting by bicycle.

Groningen: The Cycling City

The third major adjustment is the weather, which is most aptly described as “grey”. Once you accept that it is what it is, you realise that life carries on as normal. Houses, shops and supermarkets all cater for the cold miserable weather, and as soon as you come inside, the central heating kicks in and ensures that your frozen cycling hands quickly warm up. On the other hand, I have arrived just as winter is ending and spring is arriving, which means that I have actually enjoyed a few sunny days and some early blossoms. I have been told, however, that this may not last and that winter may still come back with a vengeance. I'll take my chances on that one...