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Dutch Traditions on the Costa del Sol

BY ANDARA VILLAS
Andara Villas Eric and Paula

Many Dutch Europeans decide to purchase a luxury property in Marbella as a result of the wonderful climate and the wonderful beaches (which seem more tempting each year). Let’s not forget the wonderful gastronomy and fantastic nightlife as further distinguishing factors in their decision to come on holiday or to live in Southern Spain. The Brits may have all gone, but the number of EU citizens looking for their dream home on the Costa del Sol continues to increase every year. The highest rise has been amongst Dutch visitors, who have increased their overnight stays by 55 percent.

Excellent travel links

Why the increase in Dutch visitors to Málaga? Apart from the obvious attractions mentioned earlier, one reason is the excellent flight connections from the Netherlands (Amsterdam, Eindhoven & Rotterdam) to Málaga international airport. Within a couple of hours flight time and a short drive along the coast road you can be soaking up the sunshine in one of the many stunning mansions in Marbella!

Feels like home

There are many Dutch organisations and initiatives to make the Dutch feel welcome on the Costa del Sol. The Marbella Dutch Business Club, which has been active since 2003, was established by Dutch business owners who own property on the Costa del Sol. Their idea was to bring all Dutch speakers together through activities and events.

Haringfeest

One such event organized by the Marbella Dutch Business Club is an annual Haringfeest (herring party). Hosted at the Puente Romano Beach Resort on Marbella’s famous Golden Mile, this is one of the most anticipated and popular events. At the last event, herrings, fresh oysters and eels were served to around 225 guests, who enjoyed entertainment by musician Paul Maxwell.

Kings’ Day

The celebration of the konigsdag did not go unnoticed on the Costa del Sol. On the 27th April, Torremolinos Town Hall’s Cultural Department organized the Dutch king’s day for the third consecutive year. Residents and visitors from the Netherlands wearing bizarre orange clothes gathered to enjoy a day filled with live entertainment provided by bands and Dutch DJs. Revellers were treated to mouth-watering Dutch cuisine served with a variety of craft beers brewed in the Netherlands.

Stepping it up a notch to honor the Dutch, Nikki Beach is one of many world-renowned beach clubs in Marbella, also celebrated the iconic King’s Day with top live performances from Dutch celebrities.

A taste of tradition

Anyone who wants a taste of home can head to Willem van Beek, proud of his family’s history as a supplier of quality meats and homemade Dutch delicacies, he has opened as the Dutch butcher in Benahavís on the Costa del Sol. You are welcome to browse the premium cuts of beef whist enjoying a cold beer.

In case you are homesick and missing Jumbo, Albert Heijn or your favourite Dutch supermarket products, don’t worry. There are several Dutch supermarkets in locations on the Costa del Sol, including San Pedro and Fuengirola, where you can find your favourite foods and order on demand.

If you are considering purchasing or investing in a luxury property in Marbella, get in touch with Eric and Paula from Andara Villas for Dutch high end real estate agent service on the Golden Mile. They have been here for over 25 years. 

Image by Nikki Beach https://marbella.nikibeach.com/ – Dutch Party

 

Yours sincerely,
Eric & Paula