From Windmills To Diamonds:
Travel To Holland by Frank Johnson
Tulips, windmills and wooden
shoes might still be a draw to this Dutch region for some travelers; however,
Holland is a far more versatile locale with an international and maritime
history extending farther back than most of the rest of Europe, including
the establishment of New Amsterdam as a major trading city, which became
New York when the British took over. Holland, particularly Amsterdam, is
also well known for its diamond manufacturing and polishing industry. If
that tickles your fancy, make sure to visit the Amsterdam Diamond Center
located in the center of the city.
| Before you continue with
this informative guide to Holland, make note that although the name "Holland"
is used commonly in everyday language, the country is strictly called The
Netherlands and internationally recognized as such.
Red Lights and Rembrandt
Besides being the capital
city, Amsterdam has enough to offer to fill your entire vacation. The unavoidable
multiculturalism has brought Amsterdam to the forefront of controversial
equality and human rights issues. Muslims, Jews, Dutch and Surinamese all
have a very active role in the life and politics of the city. The Anne
Frank House is an extremely popular sight with a new exhibit at the end
that discusses the modern day conflict between freedom of speech and respect
for cultural and religious diversity. Amsterdam is also home to the Van
Gogh Museum and the newly restored Rembrandt Museum.
The Dutch acquired an extensive
collection of colonies during the 18th and 19th centuries, one of which
was Suriname, located on the northern coast of South America. Suriname
finally gained its independence in 1975 and through an education exchange
program the Surinamese population remains predominant in Amsterdam. The
cultural flair adds richness to the city in the form of contemporary music,
art and exquisite cuisine. Make sure to dine in a Surinamese restaurant
at least once! |
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Amsterdam is also
notorious for its Red Light District and Coffee Shops. Stroll through the
winding streets at night for an incredibly diverse experience and stop
at one of the bustling pubs for delicious locally brewed beer. Also, many
visitors enjoy seeing the city from the water. There are boat tours offered
on an hourly schedule during the summer months that take you through the
picturesque canals and past charming old façades.
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Timeless and Traditional
Even though Amsterdam is
a modern hub in the globalized world, there is still an incredible amount
of tradition and history prevalent throughout The Netherlands. Visit the
nearby town of Alkmaar in the summer to take part in the centuries-old
cheese market and festival. Locals don traditional dress and haul giant
rounds of cheese through the town square for weighing. After your fill
of diary, wander through this seaside town's canals and shops. Travel through
central Holland to the medieval town of Utrecht, established around 47
AD. The 14th century wharves, cathedrals and Roman architecture are sure
to transport any traveler to another place in time.
For international travelers,
Holland exists in a class of its own. Whether you enjoy the bustling urban
experience or the intimate countryside adventure, you will find what you
are looking for in Holland. |
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For accommodation in the
Netherlands, visit All
Europe Accommodation
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