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Extensive travel and tourism guide for Holland, Europe

Holland Tourist Information

The Kingdom of the Netherlands was formed in 1815. In 1830 Belgium seceded and formed a separate kingdom. The Netherlands remained neutral in World War I, but suffered invasion and occupation by Germany in World War II. A modern, industrialized nation, the Netherlands is also a large exporter of agricultural products. The country was a founding member of NATO and the EC (now the EU), and participated in the introduction of the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) in 1999.

And thank you for your interest in one of the world's most engaging countries.

Whether you are drawn by fascinating old cities, the beautiful countryside, rich traditions, architectural marvels, or enjoy art, shopping and gourmet dining, Holland offers all of this and more. Centrally located in the heart of Europe, Holland is an affordable compact and progressive country where everyone speaks English.

The capital, Amsterdam, has Europe's largest and best-preserved historic center. It is truly one of the world's most alluring cities with hundreds of 17th-century houses, canals and museums where masters such as van Gogh and Rembrandt are on permanent display. Experience Amsterdam's unrivaled nightlife and shopping, and get around on bicycles or waterbikes.

The tiny towns and villages just outside Amsterdam offer a rich tradition with locals wearing traditional garb and wooden shoes. Marvel over typical Dutch landscape with millions of blooming tulips, windmills and dikes. More than half of Holland lies below sea level and is kept from flooding by an ingenious system of canals, mills, lochs and dams.

Discover the royal city of The Hague, the home of Queen Beatrix and seat of the government. And travel back in time to the Roman city of Maastricht founded more than 2,000 years ago.

There is so much more in Holland to discover. These information pages are a mere introduction with impressions, tips and practical advice.

Once again, thank you for your interest in Holland and have a great trip.

What's New in Europe!

Events & Festivals

London events highlights: Japanese crafts, ‘Pop Art’ and gardening all feature in London’s cultural events calendar this summer and beyond.

Royal wedding dress at Buckingham Palace: A special exhibition at Buckingham Palace this summer will recreate the day in 1947 when Princess Elizabeth - now Queen Elizabeth II - married the Duke of Edinburgh in a glittering ceremony at London’s Westminster Abbey.

Attractions

Shrewsbury recreates its summer season: Performances by Jools Holland, George Melly and Beverly Knight are among the 370 cultural and artistic events over 100 days at the 'Shrewsbury Summer Season' this year (May 19-Sept. 9).

Scotland’s oldest house marks 900 years: The longest continually inhabited house in Scotland is 900 years old. Once a hunting lodge for the kings and queens of Scotland (it hosted 27 monarchs over the years), the Stuarts of Traquair House supported Mary, Queen of Scots and the doomed Jacobite cause.

News

Ceramics Festival in The Potteries: Designers, studio potters, experts and collectors will be making their way to The Potteries this autumn for the Stoke-on-Trent Ceramics Festival 2007 (Oct.5-7).

Macdonald Hotels transforms Cheshire golf venue: Three championship golf courses and the largest indoor golf academy in Europe at The Portal Golf Club venue are to be part of the new four star Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf and Spa in Cheshire when it opens in July.


More information on Holland