In South Africa where I live, anywhere that accepts cards accepts Visa and Mastercard. Outside of the "informal business" sector (e.g. tiny "businesses" like a roadside stall), card acceptance is so ubiquitous I don't carry cash anymore and it's very rarely an issue.
Because this is a thing in most of Europe. Most people don't own a creditcard, and those that do use it mostly for online purchases outside of the EU. I don't travel to another continent without looking up how to pay for things when I get there.
I think you wastly exegarate your observations.
> Why would you expect to be able to use a creditcard in a physical shop in the Netherlands?
And then
> Because this is a thing in most of Europe.
Netherlands' anti-credit card stance is quite unique, perhaps only matched by Germany and their obsession with cash.
It’s generally a good idea to learn something about your travel destination and not to assume everything there is the same as where you live. The world is big and diverse.