The Netherlands

Supply

The Netherlands has the largest supply in the Benelux and the most developed agencies. The gap between the Randstad and the rest of the country is wide. Most companions are registered in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht, and a request two days ahead is usually filled.

Groningen, Friesland, Drenthe, Zeeland and the eastern countryside work differently. The same few names come up repeatedly and a week ahead is more realistic. Flexibility on dates makes a large difference there.

Rates

Amounts run between five hundred and six hundred and fifty euro for the first two hours, averaging around five hundred and forty, with roughly one hundred and fifty euro per additional hour. Dutch agencies normally quote that with VAT included and as an all in figure.

Travel costs are the item that varies most. Distances inside the Randstad are short, but a drive from Rotterdam to Emmen costs hours in both directions and is charged on.

Rules and practice

Dutch agencies present themselves as mediators in time and company rather than providers of the service itself. That distinction appears in nearly every disclaimer and is a legal boundary.

Companions almost always work self employed. They set their own rate, the agency lists it on the profile and arranges the introduction.

Where appointments happen

Hotels are the most common choice, followed by home visits. In the larger cities the balance tips heavily towards hotels; in smaller municipalities home visits are more common because fewer neutral hotels are available.

For a home visit an agency asks for a real address and phone number, which exists for the safety of both sides.