Scheveningen Beach: The Jewel of the Dutch Coastline

• HelloHoi
  [hoi]
• GoodbyeTot ziens
  [tot ziyens]
• YesJa
  [ya]
• NoNee
  [nee]
• Please/You're welcomeAlsjeblieft
  [als-ye-bleeft]
• Thank youDank je wel
  [dank yeh vel]
• Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [sore-ee]
• How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [hoo gat het]
• Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [hoot. en met yow]
• Do you speak English?Spreek je Engels?
  [sprek yeh engels]
• I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik buh-grayp het neet]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag de menukaart willen zien, alsjeblieft
  [ik zow khraag duh menoo-kart vil-en zien, als-ye-bleeft]
• I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik ate khayn flays]
• Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alsjeblieft
  [ik vil khraag buh-talen, als-ye-bleeft]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Ga weg!
  [ga vekh]
• Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel duh po-lee-see]
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  [bel ayn dok-ter]
• I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben fer-dwaald]
• I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ik ben zik]

• I'd like to buy...Ik wil graag kopen...
  [ik vil khraag koh-pen]
• I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [ik kayk al-ayne mar]
• How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hoo-vel kost het]
• That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [dat is tuh doo-r]
• Can you lower the price?Kun je de prijs verlagen?
  [kun yeh duh prays ver-lah-gen]

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  [hoo laht is het]
• It's one o'clockHet is een uur
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• Half past (10)Half elf
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• MorningOchtend
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• AfternoonMiddag
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• EveningAvond
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• YesterdayGisteren
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• TodayVandaag
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• TomorrowMorgen
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• 1Eén
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• 2Twee
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• 3Drie
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• 4Vier
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• 7Zeven
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• 8Acht
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• 9Negen
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• 10Tien
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• Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [var is ayn/de]
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  [vat is het a-dres]
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• When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [ven-ner is de vol-hende (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ....)
  [ayn kart-yeh (nar)]

Scheveningen’s history dates back to the 13th century, when it was first mentioned in historical records. Originally a small fishing village, Scheveningen’s name is believed to derive from 'Sceveninghe', an old Dutch term for 'shaving' or 'cutting', likely referring to its coastline. The village's primary livelihood revolved around fishing, with herring being a crucial part of the economy.

One of the most significant historical events associated with Scheveningen is the Battle of Scheveningen, fought on August 10, 1653. This naval clash was the final battle of the First Anglo-Dutch War between the English and the Dutch. The battle took place off the coast of Scheveningen and ended inconclusively, but it marked the end of the war, leading to the signing of the Treaty of Westminster in 1654.

In the 19th century, Scheveningen transformed from a humble fishing village into a fashionable seaside resort. The construction of the Kurhaus in 1885 played a pivotal role in this transformation. The Kurhaus, a grand hotel and concert hall, attracted wealthy visitors from across Europe, bolstering Scheveningen’s reputation as a premier vacation destination.

During World War II, Scheveningen Beach was significantly impacted by the German occupation. The Germans constructed part of the Atlantic Wall, a series of coastal defense fortifications, along Scheveningen’s coastline. Many local buildings were demolished to make way for these defenses, altering the landscape. Today, remnants of the bunkers can still be seen, serving as a poignant reminder of the war.

After World War II, Scheveningen underwent extensive reconstruction. The beach and its surroundings were restored and modernized, attracting tourists once again. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Scheveningen saw further development with the addition of attractions like the Pier, Sea Life Scheveningen, and various cultural festivals that celebrate its maritime heritage.

Scheveningen is not only a beach destination but also a cultural hub. The annual Vlaggetjesdag, or 'Flag Day', is a particularly notable event, celebrating the arrival of the first herring catch of the season. Other important cultural events include the International Fireworks Festival and the North Sea Regatta, which attract visitors from around the world.

Scheveningen Beach is located in The Hague, Netherlands. The nearest international airport is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, approximately 45 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a direct train to The Hague Central Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From The Hague Central Station, you can reach Scheveningen Beach by tram (Line 1 or Line 9) or bus (Line 22), with a journey time of around 15-20 minutes. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.

Public transport in Scheveningen is efficient and reliable. The beach and surrounding areas are well-served by trams and buses. Purchasing an OV-chipkaart, a rechargeable smart card, is recommended for easy travel on public transport. For those who prefer cycling, bike rentals are widely available and the area is very bike-friendly. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are also accessible. Walking is a pleasant option as many attractions are close to each other.

The official currency in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments. ATMs are plentiful, especially in tourist areas like Scheveningen. It is advisable to carry some cash, particularly for small purchases at local markets and smaller establishments.

Scheveningen Beach is generally safe for tourists. However, as in any tourist destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Avoid isolated areas at night and always keep an eye on your belongings. The beach area and the main streets are well-patrolled and safe, but it's best to avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The Hague has several hospitals, with the nearest being HMC Bronovo, which is well-equipped to handle emergencies. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual wear is acceptable, but avoid beachwear in restaurants and shops. Religion: Do respect local customs and places of worship. Although the Netherlands is quite secular, it's polite to be respectful when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and quiet on public transport. Don't forget to check in and out with your OV-chipkaart. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedendag.' A handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and Dutch specialties like herring. Don't forget to tip in restaurants; 5-10% is appreciated but not mandatory.

To experience Scheveningen Beach like a local, visit the local fish market and try the fresh catch of the day. Enjoy a bike ride along the coast or through the nearby dunes. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Ferris wheel on the pier, offering stunning views of the coastline. Engage with locals at beachside cafes and join in on beach volleyball games. Don't miss the spectacular sunset views from the beach.