Which Country Speaks Dutch? A Global Look (And How to Speak It Anywhere)
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Wondering “what country speaks Dutch” or “where do people speak Dutch” beyond the Netherlands? You’re not alone. Dutch actually pops up in several corners of the globe—some might surprise you. In this post, we’ll explore top Dutch-speaking spots, plus how you can start speaking Dutch no matter your location. Because at Define Dutch, we believe you don’t have to move abroad to speak a new language—you just need the right approach.
(Spoiler: The Netherlands isn’t the only official Dutch hub!)
1. The Netherlands: Dutch Central
It’s no shock that the Netherlands is Dutch’s main stage. Locals say “Nederlands,” with that famous guttural “g.” Visit Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague, and you’ll hear Dutch daily—though many Dutchies also speak stellar English. Still, a friendly “Hoi!” or “Goedemorgen!” can instantly warm up interactions and give you a real taste of the language.
Pro Tip: Don’t be shy if they switch to English! Politely ask if you can keep speaking Dutch. You’ll gain quick confidence that way.
2. Belgium (Flanders): A “Flemish” Twist
Belgium also has a Dutch-speaking region: Flanders, in the north. Often referred to as “Flemish,” it’s essentially Dutch with some local flair. Stroll around Antwerp or Ghent, and you’ll see (and hear) Dutch signs everywhere, albeit with slightly different accents and vocabulary. Think of it like American vs. British English—recognizably the same language, with a few unique quirks.
(Yes, if you ask “which country speaks Dutch” beyond the Netherlands, Belgium definitely tops the list—at least in its northern half!)
3. Suriname & Caribbean Islands: Dutch Goes Tropical
Dutch also extends beyond Europe to Suriname in South America. A former Dutch colony, Suriname still uses Dutch for government, media, and everyday life. Plus, some Caribbean islands—like Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten—recognize Dutch in official contexts (though local languages like Papiamento dominate socially). If you’re itching for a tropical getaway while practicing Dutch, these islands can be a fascinating option.
Planning a trip to Suriname or the Dutch Caribbean?
Check out Lonely Planet: Caribbean Islands for on-the-ground tips and cultural insights.If you purchase via this link, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you—but it’s a resource we genuinely recommend for travel prep!
(Hence, Dutch is more global than many realize—24 million speak it as a first language, plus millions more as a second!)
4. Speak Dutch from Anywhere: Our “Speak-First” Method
At Define Dutch, we merge personal tutoring with immersive coaching so you can fit Dutch into your life, not the other way around. Whether you’re based in Tokyo, Toronto, or Timbuktu, short conversation sessions plus minimal grammar explanations keep you talking daily. You only memorize what you actively use.
Key Tips:
- Mini-Missions: Greet a colleague in Dutch or watch a Dutch YouTube channel for 5 minutes a day.
- Consistency: A few minutes every day beats one 2-hour session a week.
- Ignore Perfection: Sure, you might butcher the “g” sound initially, but the best
- way to improve is to open your mouth and try.
Conclusion: Dutch Is Out There—Now Make It Yours
So who speaks Dutch? More people than you’d guess, in places like the Netherlands, Flanders, Suriname, and even select Caribbean islands. But wherever you are, you can start picking up Dutch right now, forging daily speaking habits that go beyond textbook memorization.
Want a nudge in the right direction? Whether you choose our Solo Kit for a do-it-yourself approach or jump into 1:1 coaching with immersive missions, the main takeaway is clear: speaking Dutch comes from small, consistent practice. Not sure? Book a free plan or trial lesson—time to see how global (and fun) Dutch can be.
