About Netherlands

Almost half of the territory of Holland (40%) is located at an altitude below sea level, so most of the coastal zone is surrounded by dams and protective fortifications. Those who have ever visited Holland will say that any city is a masterpiece of architecture that combines beautiful castles, old stone houses with unusual architecture, canals and buildings with modern design. The hallmark of Holland, of course, are the flowers that grow everywhere here. When spring comes, most of the country is covered with a beautiful colorful blanket of flowers. Mills are also considered a characteristic feature for Holland, of which there are a lot, and some of them still perform their functions.

Geography of the Netherlands

According to Itypejob, the Netherlands (Holland) lies in the northwestern part of Europe, and borders only two countries (east – Germany, south – Belgium). Since 40% of the country lies below sea level, “polders” are characteristic of coastal areas, which are plots of land near the coast washed up by people. An anthropogenic landscape is located on 70% of the country’s territory, so natural areas are quite rare here, and almost all of them are protected. The capital of the Netherlands is Amsterdam, but the government and parliament are in The Hague.

Capital

Amsterdam

Area

The area of the Netherlands is 41.848 km. sq., occupies the 135th place in the world by area.

Population

16,694,200 people.

Currency

The national currency is the euro (EUR).

Language

The official language is Dutch.

Weather in the Netherlands

The climate in the country is very humid, temperate maritime. In January, the average temperature is +1 +3 C, and in July +15 +17 C. It is characteristic that the annual precipitation (650-800 mm / year) is evenly distributed over all seasons. During the warm months of the year, the temperature can drop sharply due to westerly winds. Spring is the best time to travel to Holland, with numerous flower gardens in full bloom and the weather already warm.

Transport

Public transport in Amsterdam is represented by the subway, buses, trams and several ferries. Travel is paid by zones, on the ticket when boarding, you need to cross out as many stripes as the number of tariff zones you are going to travel plus one more. The fare in one zone is 80 cents. The central part of the city belongs to one tariff zone. Most of the city ferries are free, and a paid ferry ride costs 1 euro. You can order a taxi at special taxi stands or call by phone. The cost of landing is 2 euros, and one kilometer of the way costs 1-1.5 euros.

Currency exchange in the Netherlands

As of September 2011, the national currency rate is 1 USD = 0.71 EUR. The national currency is the euro. Currency exchange is carried out at banks, airports, hotels and train stations, where an additional percentage is charged, which increases at night. There are also special exchange offices, but the rate is not favorable for the exchanger, plus an additional commission is charged. Major global credit cards are accepted almost anywhere, and you can cash them in bank branches. Banking hours: from 08.00 to 16.00 with a lunch break from 12.00 to 13.30. On Friday, many banks close an hour earlier.

Electricity

220V/50Hz (European sockets).

Religion

The main part of the believing population are Christians, of which 38% are Catholics and 30% are Protestants. In addition to Christians, representatives of almost all world religious denominations live in Holland.

Security

By international standards, the Netherlands is a safe country with a very low crime rate. All law enforcement representatives are fluent in English, and if necessary, they can find a free translator. If necessary, you can contact the rescue service at 112, a call to which is free of charge from any phone.

Health

In Holland, paid medicine and you must have insurance. There are no additional health risks for tourists.

About Netherlands