Introduction to the Netherlands - a small country with a big personality
The Netherlands is a small but vibrant country located in Western Europe, famous for its picturesque canals, tulip fields, windmills and wooden shoes. It is divided into twelve provinces, with some of the most popular ones being North Holland, South Holland, Utrecht and Gelderland.
Here are some interesting and fun facts about the Netherlands:
- There are over 17 million people living in the Netherlands, making it one of the most densely populated countries in Europe.
- The country is known for its bicycle culture, with over 22,000 miles of dedicated cycle paths.
- The Dutch are famous for their cheese, with Gouda and Edam being two of the most popular varieties.
- The Netherlands is home to the tallest people in the world, with an average height of 6 feet.
Tips for travelling to the Netherlands
Here are some important things to keep in mind when travelling to the Netherlands:
- Airport arrival information - The main airport in the Netherlands is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, which is located 9 miles southwest of Amsterdam. From the airport, you can take a train, bus or taxi to reach your destination.
- Common payment mode - The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro, and credit cards are widely accepted.
- General visa information - If you are from a country within the European Union, you do not need a visa to enter the Netherlands. If you are from outside the EU, you may need a Schengen visa.
- Commonly used languages - Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, but most Dutch people speak English fluently.
- Important traditions to take note - Dutch people are known for their directness and openness, so don't be surprised if they speak their mind.
Popular attractions and tourist spots in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is home to many fascinating attractions and tourist spots that are definitely worth a visit. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Keukenhof Gardens - Known as the Garden of Europe, Keukenhof is one of the world's largest flower gardens.
- Van Gogh Museum - Located in Amsterdam, this museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings in the world.
- Rijksmuseum - This museum is home to over 8,000 works of art and artefacts, including the famous painting "The Night Watch" by Rembrandt.
- Zaanse Schans - This is a living museum that showcases the traditional Dutch way of life, with working windmills, wooden shoes and cheese-making demonstrations.
Weather and best time to visit the Netherlands
The Netherlands has a moderate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The best time to visit the country is during the spring (April and May) when the tulips are in full bloom, or during the summer (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny. Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket or sweater, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Choosing a hotel in the Netherlands
When choosing a hotel in the Netherlands, it's important to consider your needs and preferences. Here are some recommendations based on different requirements:
- Near attractions - If you want to stay close to the popular tourist spots, consider booking a hotel in Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
- Near food places - The Netherlands is known for its tasty food, so look for hotels in cities like Utrecht and The Hague that offer a range of dining options.
- Luxury - If you're looking for a luxurious stay, consider booking a hotel in one of the upscale neighbourhoods in Amsterdam or The Hague.
- Cheap - There are many budget-friendly hotels and hostels in the Netherlands, especially in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
- Near business district - If you're travelling for business, look for hotels in the financial districts of Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
- Airport - If you have an early morning flight, consider booking a hotel near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport for convenience.
- Instagrammable - If you're looking for a hotel that's perfect for your Instagram feed, check out hotels in Amsterdam that offer stunning views of the canals.
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