We are all aware of the predictable Dutch stereotypes.  It is fun arriving here as a naive foreigner and seeing that they really do exist: bikes as a primary means of transport, really tall people and people making disgusting, throaty noises as they speak.  If you actually venture out of Amsterdam, you may even be lucky enough to see a man riding a bike while wearing those typical yellow clogs.  This happens to me every so often in the town where I live. 

There are some other things that the average tourist probably never gets to see, which struck me right away when arriving here: 

-Dutch people take their front windows seriously.  They are considered places where you should display pretty things and it is also perfectly normal to have the curtains open here so you can check out what's walking by and people can look in your window too.  This feels very strange as a North American, because I would normally never look into someone's window!  But generally the distance from sidewalk to window here is less and when they're all dressed up inviting you to look, it's hard not to!  In more modern houses, the trend seems to be to have pairs of things in a window (i.e. two matching candlesticks, two plants in matching pots etc.)  It is so pervasive that after only living here for two years, I am considering what pairs of things I should buy for my new house when we move.  

-Windows are so important that people here wash them quite regularly.  I must admit that not everyone does this, but there are actually people who will do this on a weekly basis.  I am also not only referring to the inside windows, but also the outside windows.  Ridiculous!  

-Dutch people are also known for their directness.  I actually think this is awesome.  They will ask you questions which sometimes seem very personal.  It is considered quite normal to indicate on your resume if you are married, how old you are, how many children you have etc.  I found this kinda weird, but it makes sense, because if you don't give the information, your employer will likely ask.  In my job, I am regularly asked by clients if I like it here, if I don't miss my family too much etc, etc...  I've come to actually really appreciate the Dutch directness because you always know where you stand with people.