Topics of Conversation

I've noticed quite a big difference in the hot topics of conversation in South Africa vs Holland. In South Africa, we seem to talk about the latest and greatest crime stories. A lot. This friend was hijacked, and this person was murdered, so and so's boss's daughter was held up at gun point but is so lucky to be alive etc etc. Newspapers warn about the latest thief ploys--for instance, a red sticker on the gate=hijack, blue=easy break in, green=hijack and robbery. What a crazy world we live in! Anyway, on a lighter note, aren't you keen to know what one of the hottest topics in Holland is? It's no doubt the weather! Well, let's just say that in SA, if the conversation ends up in the weather department, chances are you probably don't know the person very well, so you start with something, anything...the weather. Small talk, it works. Oh, just so our non-South African friends understand what I'm harping on about, the weather in SA is a pretty constant 17 deg C and above all year round. Why on earth would anyone worry about the weather when planning a braai (BBQ) or picnic, because it's ALWAYS lovely outside. Here in the Netherlands things differ slightly--firstly, the crime is extremely low in comparison (petty crime makes headlines), and secondly, we're just so desperate to have a decent summer every year and to not freeze our tooshies off in the winter, that it becomes a highly spoken about topic (just so we can brace ourselves for what's coming. Most times it's not good news). I am however, pleased to announce that this is next week's forecast: (subject to change. Come on Mr Weatherman, we're counting on ya, honey).
Saturday (19degC)
Sunday (17degC)
Monday (17degC)
Tuesday (25degC)
Wednesday (30degC)
We'll be taking advantage of the sunshine next week for sure. The people here act and look so different when the sun makes an appearance! Truly, we get smiled at, greeted and even get drawn into nonsensical conversation while queuing to pay for groceries.