Holland, with cool summers and severe winters, is known for their beautiful tulips which were actually first brought to Holland from Turkey. Rain can be expected nearly every month of the year. With leather shoes being traditional in many European countries, because of Holland’s wet weather, clogs were worn. These “wooden shoes” have become a trademark of Holland. When many people think of Holland, the first thing they think of is windmills. To help keep rising water at bay, windmills were invented in the middle of the 16th century to help pump the water. When meeting someone for the first time, a handshake is an appropriate greeting. Tipping is not expected in Holland, but is always appreciated. A small gift is usually brought along when visiting a Dutch person in their home. The Dutch dress informally, but dress up to attend parties or go to fancy restaurants.
For those tourists who like to shop, Holland is famous for many things such as its beautiful pottery from Delft, Makkum, and Workum. Those interested in pottery are stressed to visit at least one of these places. Silverware from Schoonhoven is considered to be the best in Europe. Crystal produced in Leerdam is also considered precious. For those interested in delving in some of Holland’s rich culture, some of the most beautifully crafted clogs are produced in Hindeloopen.
Apenheul Primate Park, a mammal-only zoo in Holland, is home to more than thirty species of mammals. The zoo, however, is closed in the winter. Another great site is the De Hoge Veluwe park. With over 5500 hectares of land dedicated to this park, one can best travel by bike. Paleis Het Loo Palace, opening every day (except on public holidays,) is another famous site known for its magnificent gardens.
To get to Holland by air, KLM is the preferred airline as it is one of the world’s largest airlines and it connects to nearly all of Europe’s major cities as well as many cities in North America and Asia. KLM is also Holland’s national airlines. Most travelers will come in at Amsterdam Airport which is located a mere 15 kilometers from the city. KLM provides a bus service every 30 minutes taking passengers to the largest hotels of the area. Public buses as well as taxicabs are other options. There are duty free ships, banks, car hires, business centers, as well as many other things to take up time while tourists wait for transport. Rotterdam and Eindhoven also have airports servicing those areas. There are also buses and transport at those airports waiting to take passengers to their destination. For those interested in reaching Holland by sea, the ports of Hook of Holland, Vlissingen, and Rotterdam have daily ferry services. For those interested in traveling by train, Eurostar connects the area to all major European cities. Road in Holland are in kept in good condition. Car hire is an option in Holland and these companies can generally be found at the airport. Bicycling is a popular method of transport for many Dutch. Those interested in renting a bicycle can do so at airports or in various locations around the country.
Duty free items include 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 cigarillos or 250g of tobacco, 50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette, one liter of liquor or two liters of sparkling wine or liquor wine and two liters of non-sparkling wine, 100g of tea or 40g of tea extract, 500g of coffee or 200g of coffee extract.
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6 Dec
