We’ve published over 200 columns and features on DutchNews.nl this year, covering sport, economics, society, culture and life in the Netherlands. Here is a list of the biggest reads.

1 Following in Van Gogh’s footsteps: 10 places where he lived
We followed Van Gogh from Zundert where he was born, to Auvers-sur-Oise where he died.

2 10 Dutch ideas we wish we had thought of first
The Dutch have always been an inventive lot: take the one-night tent, the storm umbrella and the lonely funeral, for example.

3 10 things you need to know about the end of WWII in the Netherlands
The Netherlands celebrated 70 years since the end of World War II on May 5. But, of course, the war did not end in a day.

4 Six Dutch words and one gesture which are impossible to translate
Not everyone agreed with our selection.

5 Ready for action: campaigning for the rights of Dutch nationals abroad
Eelco Keij launches a platform to fight for Dutch expats’ rights, to ensure treatment that is fair and equal and in line with today’s globalised world.

6 Dutch words every foreigner uses even if they don’t speak the language
There are some Dutch words which just sneak into the conversation, either because we use them so much or because there is no equivalent in our own tongues.

7 That time an American had to convince her Dutch doctor she wasn’t a sex worker
The Dutch have very distinctive ideas about sexual health, as Molly Quell found out.

8 10 things you should know about Dutch windmills
Some facts and figures about the Netherlands’ most enduring industrial monuments.

9 11 things Dutch shopkeepers will say to you
You thought going shopping was a great way to practise your Dutch on the natives? Indeed it is. But here are a few key phrases you really do need to watch out for.

10 10 traditional Dutch recipes, not all of which involve potato
It would be very easy to be snotty about Dutch food and talk about snack bars, chicken with apple puree and the ubiquitous ‘ovenschotel’, but we won’t. These are our favourite dishes.