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5 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Netherlands

Netherlands is a wonderful country in northwestern Europe that is famous for its tulips, windmills, and flat landscape of canals. Even so, this country remains to be a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by more tourists around the globe.

Unlike the western countries, Netherlands has seemed to preserve its natural beauty away from pollution caused by traffic and smoking factories. So if you are planning to visit this city, you have made the right choice. However, before you head off to your trip to the lowlands, here are some things you should know.

  1.   There is no need for you to worry about the language barrier.   English is the second language in Netherlands, so expect most Dutch to be fluent in the English language. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions and approach locals to take a picture of you. But if you really want to learn Dutch, the good news is that it has been labelled as the easiest language for native speakers.
  2.   Book in advance. The best time to visit Netherlands is between June and August when the weather is in average. However, take note that this is also a peak season. So make sure that you book your hotel in advance for a smooth-going vacation.
  3.   Coffee shops are different from cafes. If you want to relax and drink a hot latte while watching the sunset or other tourist roam around the city, you go to the café. However, if you want something unique and probably a little wild, you go to the coffee shop. Coffee shops in Netherlands do not just offer coffee and relaxation spots where you can chit-chat with friends. As far as their laws are concerned, cannabis is legal in Netherlands. And you might find some has brownies or muffins with some cannabis ingredients in them. Don’t be silly though. Make sure to take extra precaution when you try something you have never tried before.
  4.   Rent a bike and lock it twice if you during your stopover. The best way to tour around Netherlands is to ride a bike.  Just make sure you double-lock it as you leave behind to walk into some tourist spots.

5.   Don’t forget to take a picture of the great Amsterdam sign. The Amsterdam sign is very iconic and any trip to the Netherlands is not complete without it. Thereafter, you can take a trip to nearby cities and villages like Volendam, Utrecht, Maastricht, or Giethoorn.