Ever since unexpectedly, after a very mild December and dreary gray Christmas, Jack Frost decided to pay us an extended visit, there is a buzz of excitement going through the Netherlands. Now that the ice has reached a thickness of about 10 centimeters (4 inches) some even dare whispering "it giet oan". "It giet oan" is Frisian for "it's on" and they are the magical words that announce that the infamous "Elfstedentocht" (Eleven Cities Tour) is on. 

Once the words are officially spoken by the chairman of the Eleven Cities Tour organization it seems all Dutch go mad (even those not really into the event, can't help making comments about it). They collectively pack up some warm clothing and skates and head for the north, to the city of Leeuwarden. Shops manage to get all things orange and Frisian on the shelves within a day and skate sharpeners make over hours.

Now what is this fuzz all about? What is this "Elfstedentocht" that gets a whole country into a frenzy also referred to as "Elfstedenkoorst" (Eleven Cities Fever)?

If there is one thing the Dutch deeply cherish it is freedom of speech. We like to speak our mind and don't worry about being seen as utterly blunt by non-Dutch. It's a right so dear to us that through history we have gone through great lengths to obtain and protect that right. Because freedom of speech is the driving force behind social evolution. The possibility to ponder new thoughts aloud without fear of being burned at the stakes makes it possible to find new and better ways to live our lives. The problem is however, that any new thought is usually is some way insulting because it questions the status quo.