When you're travelling, it's always a challenge to try and get the most out of the time spent in a location, to visit as many monuments as possible, to try as many of the local dishes in the recommended bars and restaurants, and to immerse yourself in the local culture. But however hard you try, there are some experiences that are simply not within reach of the ordinary tourist.
It's said that you never really know a place until you've visited the home of a local resident, but how often do you get the chance to do that when you're on holiday? What better way, then, to get to know a place than to actually have dinner with one of the local families in their own home? And that's exactly what the Dutch Tourist Board offers through its 'Dine with the Dutch' programme.
The evening – which costs 50 euros per adult, with reductions for children under 12 – includes a full three-course meal provided by the host family, including local speciality dishes. And, as well as sampling a real home-cooked meal, you have the chance to hear stories and anecdotes about Dutch culture and the local area. Since the host family are chosen according to your individual preferences, it could even be the start of a beautiful friendship! Most of the specially selected host families are based in Amsterdam, but evenings can be arranged in other locations across Holland.