How to Explore the Netherlands

Many people exploring overseas travel options are well-advised to look toward the Netherlands. There is a great deal to see and do. One city within the Netherlands which is popular with tourists is Amsterdam. Within the city there are a number of interesting sights and attractions. One sight that is significant is the Anne Frank House. This is a sight where a historically well-remembered family hid during the time of the Holocaust.

During 1942 (July) Anne's parents and sibling hid in the building where the attraction is located. The street of the hiding place is known as Pmsengracht. In addition to the family there were some other inhabitants. They hid within this location for a period of two years. Eventually they were found out and sent to Aischwitz.

The diary of the young girl made it through the period and has been the subject of a historical book published in over fifty-five languages and made available around the world. The house where the Frank's hid is now a museum. If you search the museums you'll find tourists who went there find the place utterly “moving.”

Many people - especially younger museum-goers - were touched by the way Anne had kept pictures on the wall where she hid; something each individual could easily relate to.

Another spectacular sight worth the visit for most while scouting about Amsterdam is the Van Gogh Museum. The Van Gogh Museum is well-organized and his works are displayed in the order they were created. Significant Van Gogh works are available along with his notebooks, correspondence and drawings. Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, most people seem to agree the Van Gogh Museum is worth a visit.

The Netherlands is famous for its beautiful tulips and there is no shortage of them as they extend as far as the eye can see. It is recommended you rent a bike and view them in their enormity. Another venue is Keukenhof Gardens; here the tulips are presented in all types of ways. You may see this extravaganza of blooms from the middle of March to around the middle of May. The gardens are situated near Lisse which is a short distance from Amsterdam. The fields are absolutely spectacular and mustn't be missed. For many, the gardens are the highlight of their trip.

Certainly while in the Netherlands enjoy some of the cheese. Cheese has been made here for over sixteen hundred years. The area favorites are Leiden, Gouda, and Edam. A cheese market is located in Alkmaar (open April through September on Friday from 10:00 a.m.).

After visiting the Van Gogh Museum, you can travel to the famous Heineken Brewery situated in close proximity to the museum. The brewery offers guided tours for anyone interested for a small fee. Naturally a Heineken beer is offered to all the participants of the guided walk.

Persons who like to hike and get their exercise will find a challenge in walking the mud flats located at Wadden Sea. The mud flats occur when the tide is low. By walking the flats you are able to receive a less intense; however still highly effective source of exercise.