Netherlands Travel and Tourism Guide

The Netherlands is a small constitutional monarchy in West Europe which is home to over 16 million people.

Although the North Sea endangers 1/2 of the landmass the Dutch have managed to make this risk profitable. The port of Rotterdam, the second biggest port of the world, is very important for the Netherlands\\\' economy. The Netherlands are also known for their tolerance (towards homosexuals, drugs and minorities), their folklore (tulips, mills and wooden shoes) and their painters (Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Vermeer).

The Netherlands is divided in 12 different provinces and all of them have some own local traditions and customs. The currency used in the Netherlands is the euro.

Amsterdam, its capital city, is famous for its old center with canals, redlight district and many coffee shops. Remember that most dutch people do not use (soft)drugs and that the coffeeshops are mostly visited by attracted tourists.

The seat of government is Den Haag, officially 's-Gravenhage or The Hague in English. Holland’s Royal City has a rich history and tradition. It never fails to impress visitors with its elegant atmosphere, broad tree lined avenues, boutiques, castles and of course the Dutch Parliament.

When visiting the Netherlands, remember that there\\\'s more than just Amsterdam! Modern Rotterdam (port, architecture), historical Utrecht, the skilful Delta works and the beautiful countrysides of the Northern and Eastern parts are also very worth a visit.