Please note: the title of this blog post is a blatant rip-off of Stuff White People Like, but the content (hopefully) lacks the sarcastic, know-it-all tone. This may become a semi-regular feature of my blog as I adjust to life in the Netherlands. Stay tuned.

I just rode a bike for the first time in Amsterdam after weeks of walking around. The following are some of my observations regarding the Dutch people’s relationship to bicycling.

1) Everyone in Amsterdam rides a bike. Yes, everyone. Old ladies, old men, little kids, very pregnant women. Parents place young children on the front little seat near the handlebars (you can kind of see it in the picture), or a back seat if there are two children. Some bikes are tricked out with a cargo-carrying portion in front for multiple children. Everyone bikes!

2) No one wears a helmet. Not even babies, the 6-month-olds with soft heads. Luckily I haven’t seen any accidents yet.

3) The Dutch are very proficient bicyclists, which makes sense, since they start in utero. They are quick and efficient when navigating the cobblestone streets, multiple lane traffic, trams, pedestrians, etc. The Dutch are such skilled cyclists that it is common for them to multi-task while riding. Here are some things I’ve seen Dutch people do while riding their bikes: talk on a cell phone, carry a briefcase or purse in one hand, wear high heels, write a text message, listen to an iPod, carry a friend on the back rack, carry a dog in the front crate, hold a leash connected to a happily trotting dog, etc.

4) There are established cycling rules that everyone follows. Many streets have paved bike lanes which cars and pedestrians should not use, stoplights have a special light for bicyclists, people signal with their arms when turning. This is related to the Dutch affinity for rules and order, which may be explored in a later blog post.

5) Amsterdammers exude confidence and assertion when riding. To get anywhere in Amsterdam, it is absolutely necessary to be an assertive cyclist. You must believe that the path you are riding is important and all others will make room for you. Do NOT slow down when tourists hesitantly start stepping into the bike lane — instead, continue at your set pace and they will just have to step back. The same approach should be taken when confronted with other cyclists turning into your lane, and cars anxious to cross in front of you. However, please note that this assertive behavior is most effective when you are aware of your surroundings and can respond quickly to others who aren’t so observant. The use of a bell or calling out “Hello!” can be an effective way to gain attention and avoid collision.

6) Some notes about the bikes themselves. The Dutch typically ride old-fashioned, heavy, single-speed bikes. Most of them are plain and black, but some people paint their bikes really bright colors or attach fake flowers to the frame. Bikes should have at least one good lock, most have two, when not in use; bike theft is very common here.