Do you want to integrate deeper into your local Dutch community? Do you wish to buy your exotic veg at the Albertcuypstraat using the native tongue? But are you unemployed? Working a low paid job? A student? Broke?

Try language exchange, a free service you give and receive! I like to meet in a cafe, and just spend an hour taking turns learning catch phrases, the alphabet, and key words to start communicating quickly 'on the street'. You must be dedicated, as these language partner relationships can fall out quickly (due in part to the freedom inherent in a free service- i.e. money equals commitment).

What does 'gezellig' mean? What is 'Koninginnedag'? How do you pronounce 'goedemorgen'? All good questions.

To find a suitable language partner, I recommend looking at the UvA (University of Amsterdam) posterboards at locations across the city (look for the UvA sign). As well, you can try some of these online websites listing people looking for language partners:

Expatriates.com
Intercambio website
Justlanded website
Student Language Exchange

You will also find many other languages on offer (probably for your English or Dutch), including Turkish, Spanish, or Russian.