World Of Wanderlust

Canal View from the Streets of Amsterdam

With the decline of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism is buzzing back to life, and the Netherlands is emerging as a top travel destination. It’s no wonder why! The country perfectly blends historic World War-era buildings and classic Dutch art with modern public transportation and contemporary architecture.

Basic Information:
– Languages: English & Dutch
– Currency: Euro
– Plug Type: 230V supply, types C and F

4 Things to Know Before You Travel:

1. What to Pack:
The weather in the Netherlands is quite unpredictable, so be prepared for all four seasons in a single day. Essential items include a light rain jacket, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella. Always carry a warm jacket, as the weather can change rapidly. Comfortable walking or running shoes are also a must, given the amount of walking you’ll do.
_Tip_: Pack a lock and key to secure your belongings, especially if staying in hostels with open cubbies.

2. Currency Exchange:
Although the Netherlands is moving towards cashless payments, you should still carry some cash. Use ATMs like ABN AMRO or ING for withdrawals. For currency exchange, opt for reputable offices like Pott Change or GWK Travelex. Avoid local Dutch banks as they do not offer this service to non-customers. Damrak Avenue in Amsterdam has several exchange offices. Note that credit cards are not widely accepted, so consider using Visa or Maestro debit cards.

3. Overall Cost of Trip:
Traveling in the Netherlands can be budget-friendly if you know where to save. Staying in hostels, cooking your meals, and using public transportation can significantly cut costs. In 2022, the average daily cost is around €65-€70 per person, including food, travel, and accommodation. A week’s stay can range from €500 on a student budget to €800 on a mid-range budget and €1200 or more for a luxurious vacation.

4. How to Reach:
You can enter the Netherlands via Amsterdam by flight, train, or bus. Always check your visa and other travel requirements before departing.
– By Flight: Affordable options can be found on Kayak, Momondo, and Expedia. Direct flights to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport from the US are available with KLM and Delta Airlines. From the UK, low-cost carriers like Easyjet, Ryanair, and Flybe offer flights.
– By Train: If you’re already in Europe, trains can bring you to Amsterdam within hours. Eurostar and Thalys are reliable options for international travel. Once in Amsterdam, local trains and buses can take you to cities like Delft, Rotterdam, or The Hague within two hours.

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Travel Tips from Locals:

1. Use Public Transport:
The Netherlands has an excellent public transport system, including trams, trains, buses, and metros. Tourists can buy one-day to multi-day travel tickets covering unlimited travel within each city, costing between €8.50 to €25.50. Day travel tickets for intercity travel range from €15-€25. These can generally be purchased at NS ticket machines at Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam Central Station. Consider getting an OV Chipkaart, a prepaid card usable by multiple people, for convenience.

_Extra Tip_: Always validate your card both when entering and exiting public transport. Additionally, ferries are a unique mode of transport in Amsterdam; you can experience a free ferry ride for stunning skyline views near the Amsterdam Central Station.

2. Save on Accommodation:
Since you’ll likely spend little time in your room, consider staying at hostels, which offer small but clean accommodations for €25-€30 in Amsterdam and even less in other cities. Location near train stations or the airport can ease your commute. For a more adventurous stay, look into couch-sharing options.

3. Cook for Yourself:
While not known globally for its cuisine, the Netherlands offers fully functional shared kitchens in most hostels where you can prepare meals. Alternatively, you can buy ready-made sandwiches, pasta, and salads from supermarkets like Albert Heijn, Lidl, Aldi, and Dirk.

4. Tulip Season:
The famous tulips bloom from mid-April to the end of May. Outside of this season, you can visit FloraHolland, the world’s largest flower warehouse, or the Bloemenmarkt in Amsterdam.

5. Marijuana Laws:
Despite popular belief, Cannabis is not legal but decriminalized in the Netherlands. You can carry up to 5 grams. Smoking in public spaces is not allowed; it is only permitted in coffee shops. Some shops outside Amsterdam don’t sell Cannabis to foreigners, so check beforehand.

COVID-19 Restrictions and Requirements:

Unexpectedly, the Netherlands has lifted almost all COVID-19 restrictions as of September 17, 2022. Masks are not required in most places, except on public transport or in crowded museums. Proof of vaccination is not needed to enter the country, though WHO advises being fully vaccinated for safety. Always check entry requirements for your home country before returning.

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10 Must-See Places in the Netherlands:

1. De Haar Castle, Utrecht:
This 14th-century castle, the largest fortress in the Netherlands, is located near Utrecht and boasts impressive gardens and moats. Book tickets in advance and visit the park and castle by the specified hours, except on Mondays.

2. Canals of Amsterdam:
Amsterdam’s 100 kilometers of canals interlinked with over 150 bridges offer a picturesque view, best explored via canal cruise or water taxi. Booking in advance is recommended.

3. Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House, Amsterdam:
The Rijksmuseum houses over 5,000 paintings and is open daily. The Anne Frank House offers an emotional glimpse into World War II’s horrific events. Both require pre-booked tickets due to high demand.

4. De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Apeldoorn:
This vast 13,800-acre national park features extensive bike paths and scenic picnic spots. Tickets should be booked well in advance.

5. Royal Delftware Factory, Delft:
Known for its blue and white porcelain, this factory has been operational since the 17th century. Visitors can observe the production process and purchase authentic souvenirs.

6. Windmills of Kinderdijk, Rotterdam:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these iconic windmills can be best visited from April to October through a walk along the River Noord.

7. Hilltop Castle of Valkenburg, Maastricht:
The only hilltop castle in the Netherlands, Valkenburg is famous for its historical significance. From Maastricht, it offers a peaceful day trip with beautiful views of Limburg.

8. Waterways of Giethoorn:
Known as the Venice of Holland, this village has no roads, only waterways. A day trip from Amsterdam takes 1.5 hours by car, with boat rides costing around €50 each way.

9. Cheese Markets of Alkmaar:
Located 40 kilometers from Amsterdam, Alkmaar hosts traditional cheese markets every Friday from April to September. Visitors can indulge in various cheese types.

10. Streets of Haarlem, Amsterdam:
Haarlem offers a quieter alternative to Amsterdam with less tourist crowding. It is known for its beer and music festivals and highlights like the Jopenkerk, a cathedral-turned-brewery.

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Traveling with JoinMyTrip offers a chance to explore the Netherlands with a group of like-minded travelers. Guided tours by knowledgeable Trip Leaders promise an informative and unforgettable journey, perfect for making lasting friendships across the globe. Pack your bags and get ready for a trip filled with history, art, and culture, courtesy of the Dutch!