Home Blog Page 751

Summer Holiday the Dutch Way: 11 Affordable Destinations from the Netherlands

Freya Sawbridge
-
0
Summer Holiday the Dutch Way: 11 Affordable Destinations from the Netherlands

You may love the Netherlands in all its bike and stroopwafel glory, but sometimes you just gotta get away – preferably to a place where you can step off the pavement without a bicycle bell deafening your ear.

However, if you’ve internalised all those Dutch characteristics we’re always going on about you’re probably not heading to Monaco to fly with the high rollers. Instead, you’ll be looking to count your pennies and stretch them as far as possible.

Luckily for you, we’re the specialists in being cheap-asses (we admit it!) so we’ve scoured the continent for 11 cheapo holiday ideas that will have you pleasing your inner Dutchie.

#1 Tübingen, Germany

View of from the Neckar bridge. Image: Freya Sawbridge

It is difficult not to be charmed by this quaint town that boasts half-timbered houses amongst sprawling greenery. Affordable food, fantastic bars and a vibrant university town makes it a great summer getaway. There is no beach but the Freibad (outdoor swimming pool) is a nice way to cool off and entrance fee is only €4.30.

Hot tip: Head to Neckarmüller Biergarten and order the Kartoffel mit kräutershmand (baked potato with herbed sour cream). It is a delicious way to mop up authentic German beer.

How to get there: Bus from Amsterdam central station to Tübingen station (who doesn’t love an overnight bus journey?!). It would take 10.5 hours and cost between €30-50. Or, Fly Amsterdam to Stuttgart then take the €7 bus from Stuttgart airport to Tübingen central station.

You could always break up the train journey and stopover in Cologne…


#2 Bari, Italy

Source: Alessandro_Altieri on Pixabay

A port city in Southern Italy that boasts great valued-cuisine and quiet beaches. Spend your days wandering around the coastline, exploring hidden castles and dining on mussel orecchiette (“little ear” pasta).

Hot tip: Make the most of your time and travel inland one hour where you reach the old town of Altamura.

How to get there: Cheap flights from Eindhoven with RyanAir (€79 return)

 

#3 Tallinn, Estonia

View of Tallinn’s Old Town. Image: Freya Sawbridge

Eastern Europe gets far less visitors than Southern and Western Europe during summer, so Tallinn is a great choice if you want to avoid bustling crowds. It’s photogenic, historic and affordable.

Hot Tip: Take the 20min bus journey to Harku Forest on the outskirts of the city. The stillness is beautiful.

How to get there: Fly Amsterdam to Tallinn for €140

Got a bit more time on your hands? Jump on a ferry and cross over the Baltic Sea to Finland

#4 Costa Del Sol, Spain 

Overlooking the city (Source: Rainer_Maiores on Pixabay)

The Costa del Sol stretches over 300km from the Strait of Gibraltar to Granada. The southern coastline is dotted with fancy resort towns that were once modest fishing villages. Sit back and soak up the vitamin D as this is one of the sunniest places in Europe!

How to get there: Eindhoven to Malaga for €69 return


#5 Edinburgh, Scotland

View of Edinburgh from Calton Hill. Image: Freya Sawbridge

A suitable destination for those who want respite from the heat. Scotland is notorious for having only two seasons – June and winter. As a city, Edinburgh has it all – beautiful architecture nestled among rugged cliff faces and only a stone’s throw away from the seaside. It was recently voted as the most beautiful country in the world and as someone who lived here for two years, I can easily see why.

Make the most of your trip and include a feasible and affordable day trip from Edinburgh as well. The Loch Lomond National Park is only 1.45 hours by train or North Berwick, a quaint seaside town, is a short 30 minutes.

Hot tip: Visit the endless charity shops in Edinburgh and snag yourself some bargains. I like Nicolson Street or Stockbridge charity shops and going to Söderberg café for a good Oat Milk Latte.

How to get there: Fly from Amsterdam for €75 return or from Eindhoven for €46 return

 

#6 Mostar, Bosnia

Mostar Old Town. Source: Wikipedia

Mostar is often declared to be the cultural capital of Herzegovina region and is the fifth largest city in the region. Mostar is renowned for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) where an annual diving competition is held each July.

Hot to get there: Rotterdam to Split from €74 then catch a bus to Mostar (€7-13)

#7 Bergen, Norway

Spending the night on Lyderhorn mountain. Source: Freya Sawbridge

Yes, Norway is notoriously expensive. Why have I suggested it then? Well, to save money, I often buy my food before I go. It takes planning and effort but is often worth it. Bergen is known as the city of seven mountains, so don’t forget your hiking boots! They also have a freedom camping policy, so if you want to have a unique night and save on accommodation costs, bring camping gear and spend a night on a mountain overlooking the city (pictured).

Bergen itself is a very quiet city and in summer there 20 hours of light. It feels magical (albeit confusing) to exit a club at 2am to the sun rising and birds chirping.

Hot tip: Pack a delicious picnic and head to Gamlehaugen where you can sprawl out on lush grass and take a dip in the lake.

How to get there: Fly direct to Bergen from Amsterdam Schiphol (€85) or fly to Oslo (€73) and take the 7 hour train journey to Bergen through the stunning Norwegian landscapes.

#8 Ljubljana and Triglav National Park, Slovenia 

Triglav National Park (Source: CosmoShiva on Pixabay)

The capital of Slovenia is compact with easy access to stunning outdoors. Lake Bled is a short 45 minute bus ride from the capital and it well known for its fairytale castle and island church.

Hot tip: If you want to escape the tourist crowds, head to lake Bohinj in the enormous Triglav National Park or perhaps turn the holiday into more of an adventure and head up into the Triglav mountains.

How to get there: Amsterdam Schiphol to Ljubljana with Transavia for €63

 

#9 Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade waterfront (Source: Akos Hajdu on Flikr)

You’ll likely be able to splash out here as the the country uses the Serbian Dinar which is worth a lot less than the Euro. A rich history with a vibrant and diverse party scene that spans everything from orchestras to folk to electronic techno ensures a great night out.

Hot tip: Try the traditional Balkan dish “Ćevapi” which is a kebab stuffed with grilled mince meat served, diced onion and sour cream.

How to get there: Fly from Amsterdam Schiphol to Belgrade from €75

 

#10 Kefalonia, Greece 

Riding around Kefalonia Island (Source: Emily Peilan from https://www.freedomwanderers.com)

Kefalonia is the biggest Ionian Island in western Greece and the sixth largest island in Greece. Towering cliffs over dazzling beaches that lead to emerald waters make it a beautiful getaway.

Hot tip: With most driving licenses, you are allowed to rent a scooter. It is a great and different way to see the island that will give you lots of freedom to stop whenever you desire.

How to get there: Fly Eindhoven to Kefalonia from €45

 

#11 Budapest, Hungary

Chain Bridge in Budapest (Source: Bergadder on Pixabay)

The charm of the Hungarian capital lies in the rich history, entrancing skyline and you can have a banging night out on the cheap. Get lost among the amazing architecture and dine on the many different cuisines the city has to offer.

How to get there: Eindhoven to Budapest from €50

Have you been to any of these places? How did you enjoy them? Let us know in the comments below if you have anymore hot tips!

 

Lego stores are coming to the Netherlands and it’s all we ever wanted as a kid!

Freya Sawbridge
-
0
Lego stores are coming to the Netherlands and it’s all we ever wanted as a kid!

Lego stores will open in Utrecht and Amsterdam later this year! These are the first Dutch cities to have an official LEGO store (what a privilege!) But the location of the stores within the cities has not yet been decided. 

As well as selling all the lego products, the stores plan to host building competitions between hardcore lego fans and customers will also be able to devise their own personal LEGO figures.

The General Manager LEGO Benelux, Mario Capone commented “We are very excited about the arrival of the two LEGO-stores. It shows our commitment to the overall toy market in the Netherlands. But most importantly, it is a key opportunity to offer the best possible LEGO experience.”

History 

The plastic construction toys originated from Denmark in 1932 but were originally made from wood. It quickly became a worldwide phenomenon and during the Christmas season around 28 LEGO sets are purchased every second.

Six Legoland amusement parks have been built by the brand. If you fancy a trip, the closest Legoland to the Netherlands is in Günzburg. 

Rotterdam Summer Carnival is coming up: Rotterdam Unlimited

Veronika Licheva
-
0
Rotterdam Summer Carnival is coming up: Rotterdam Unlimited

It’s time for Rotterdam Summer Carnival once again! So put on your most colorful outfit and get ready to dance the night away. Here is everything you need to know about the best summer party in the Netherlands!

What is Rotterdam Unlimited?

The Rotterdam Summer Carnival celebrates cultural diversity. The festival is dedicated to the 174 different cultures that reside in the city. Rotterdam Unlimited showcases how cultural influences and interactions are an important part of Dutch culture. This Carribean-style summer carnival is the perfect tropical experience within the Netherlands.

Rotterdam Unlimited consists of a diverse program. Music battles, live music, dance, theater and much more. The Rotterdam Summer Carnival is also attended by numerous famous artists, so this might be your chance to enjoy a performance by a well-known singer. However, the best part of Rotterdam Unlimited is definitely the parade show. You will feel as if you’re at the carnival in Brazil (if the Dutch weather allows it).

Where does Rotterdam Unlimited take place?

This colorful summer event takes place in Rotterdam’s inner city and is a tropical party that lasts for five days. In 2019 Rotterdam Unlimited is scheduled from the 23rd to the 27th of July. It is one of the best free events in July. So grab your most colorful clothing and head over to Rotterdam for any of the five days (or all of them). All of Rotterdam’s streets are booming with music and colors, so it’s hard to miss it. Just keep in mind that most of the city’s main streets are closed for the event, so it’s best to come to the party via public transport. And if you’re from another city, just jump on the first train to Rotterdam. As soon as you exit Rotterdam Central Station you will already be in the heart of the party.

You definitely do not want to miss out on the Rotterdam summer carnival! Don’t believe us? Here is a little video to get you extra pumped for Rotterdam Unlimited:

Are you going to the Rotterdam Summer Carnival this July? Or have you already been before? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below!

Dutch Islamic Party Offers to Pay Fines After ‘Burka Ban’ Comes Into Effect

Samantha Dixon 🇦🇺
-
6
Dutch Islamic Party Offers to Pay Fines After ‘Burka Ban’ Comes Into Effect

The Dutch Islamic political party NIDA has announced a plan to pay for all fines received by wearers of the burka and niqab when a new law comes into effect next month. 

The law passed Parliaments upper chamber earlier this week after ten years of similar attempts. It is being hailed as a major victory by far-right politician Geert Wilders Freedom Party in the party’s plan to ‘de-Islamise’ the Netherlands.

What does the ban involve?

While the law passed is supposedly ‘religion-neutral,’ wearers of burkas and niqabs are thought to be the most heavily affected.

The law also bans any clothing which covers the face and makes someone unrecognisable. Full-face motorcycle helmets and ski masks are also covered under this classification.

The ban only applies to public spaces including hospitals, schools, public transport or government buildings. It does not extend to public streets, although law enforcement can require wearers to remove the headdress for identification purposes.

Religious headdress that does not cover the full-face, such as the hijab, is currently still permitted.

What will happen if offenders break the law?

From August 1, any wearer of the restricted items will be asked to remove the offending piece, or leave the location. Police can be called to enforce the law and issue the fine.

The fine is currently €150, but could increase if the offender refuses to leave or causes a public disruption.

Geert Wilders originally campaigned for the fine to be more than 22 times higher.

What is the reaction from the Islamic community?

Islamic party NIDA has publicised that they will pay the fine for any woman punished for wearing a burka or niqab. Cemil Yilmaz, of the party, has said the law is no more than ‘bullying’ and ‘symbolic politics’.

Yilmaz says the decision to pay the fines from party funds was widely supported by other members. Additionally, members of the community have also come forward to find details on how to donate to the fund.

It is thought that around 150 women in the Netherlands wear a burka or niqab and will be impacted by the ban.

What is the criticism of the law?

The law has been criticised on the grounds that it could further alienate members of society who must wear the niqab or burka for religious reasons. Left parties are concerned that members of the public who would otherwise wear the religious clothing will end up not leaving their house, leaving Muslim women very little space.

Green Party senator Ruard Ganzevoort said the law would force many Muslim women to stay at home more. “They will not have an opportunity to go to school. They will not have an opportunity to go to learn to swim, and all those things.”

What have other countries done about religious headdress?

The ban implemented in the Netherlands is not quite as extreme as neighbouring countries. The United Nations Human Rights committee slammed France last year after the country fined two women who were wearing a full face veil.

Early last year, Austria implemented a ban against headdress in primary schools. Denmark and Belgium are other Western European countries that have also taken measures against the wearing of headdress in public.

What do you think of the burka ban? Is it a valuable attempt towards state security? Or an oppression of the Islamic faith with far-reaching consequences for the women affected? Let us know in the comments below!

Main Image: Jusch on Pixabay.

Two Dutch parents are battling over whether to vaccinate a two-year-old or not

Freya Sawbridge
-
0
Two Dutch parents are battling over whether to vaccinate a two-year-old or not

Two divorced parents have entered a court battle as to whether their two-year-old daughter should be vaccinated or not, RTL comments. 

Different parental views 

The father wants to to vaccinate his child and the mother does not. The mother argues her child is healthy already and does not need to be vaccinated. She expresses deep concerns about the side effects of vaccinations. The father strongly disagrees and filed an application for court to pressure his ex partner. 

The Verdict

In August 2018, the Den Bosch court ruled the child should be vaccinated by stating it was in her best interests.

Source: kfuhlert on pixabay

Mother has still not taken action 

Despite this ruling, the mother still refuses to vaccinate the girl and so the father has begun another legal battle. The father wants the court to give his wife a financial penalty for everyday she goes without vaccinating their daughter. But given the complicated divorce and financial pressures that exist already, the court will not impose such a penalty. 

The daughter can actually receive vaccinations under the National Vaccine Program with permission from just one parent but the problem arises because the father does not have unsupervised contact so cannot take his daughter himself.

The court in Den Bosch is now investigating how to resolve the matter appropriately.

5 Most Important Notes from Yesterday’s Trump – Rutte Meeting

Samantha Dixon 🇦🇺
-
2
5 Most Important Notes from Yesterday’s Trump – Rutte Meeting

Netherlands’ Prime Minister Rutte and US President Donald Trump have announced their friendship to the world in a press conference at the White House. The two appeared briefly in front of a crowd of reporters, before retiring to the Oval Office to continue talks. 

The meet-up was much awaited after Rutte made headlines last year when he interrupted Trump with a firm “No,” contradicting a statement from Trump that it was a good thing that there was no positive solution for the trade-dispute between the EU and the US, a topic that was raising plenty of eyebrows last year.

So did the Netherlands and the US combine nations into a giant Holl-erica? Did they make plans to meet each other in an underground boxing ring for a fight to the death later? Well, not quite. But here are four things that happened at yesterday’s Trump-Rutte meeting.

#1 Trump and Rutte announced they were best buddies

Well, maybe not in those exact words. But they were a bit cute when describing their friendship. “We’ve become friends over the last couple of years. We’ve had a lot of good conversations.  We’re dealing on trade, we’re dealing on military, we’re dealing on intelligence.  And the relationship has never been better.” said Trump, will Rutte bobbed his head and said “Absolutely.”

We’re a bit disappointed that a slumber party wasn’t announced between these two, but maybe we’ll see some goofy photo-booth pictures coming up, or some tags on Instagram? This is a bromance we could totally get behind.

#2 Jobs were a real task to talk about

Rutte’s visit with Trump coincided with a trade mission to Boston, making the discussion of jobs a priority. Trump enthusiastically proclaimed that soon over a million jobs in the United States will directly or indirectly have to do with the Netherlands.

Rutte followed up this statement by saying only 200,000 Dutch jobs have to do with the U.S. It could have been an awkward moment, but these two are bro’s, remember? Instead they shared a laugh and a chuckle, while Trump promised to increase this number. The gentle ribbing between these two makes you feel a bit warm inside. Cute, right?

#3 There was a lot of talk about defense

Coming on the heels of the news that the US shot down an Iranian drone in the Strait of Hormuz. This comes only a week after the Dutch cabinet announced they may consider sending a frigate to the same area in case of Iranian threat.

Our countries stand shoulder to shoulder when times are tough – Trump

According to NOS, Ruttle said that Trump asked again about the frigate and also about the deployment of Dutch soldiers in Syria. However, yesterday the Netherlands still refused to make a commitment to the same issue.

“I said we take those requests seriously,” Rutte told NOS.

#4 A 75-year-old flag was handed back to the US

One of the highlights of the meeting was the donation of a US flag used in the original D-Day invasion back to the United States. The flag was purchased at a 2016 auction in Dallas by collector Bert Kreuk, who always intended to return the flag back the Netherlands.

A US Flag used on D-Day is handed over to Dutch art collecter Kreuk in 2016.
U.S. Embassy The Hague on Flickr. Public Domain.

“I cannot keep it myself. It needs to go to the right institution. I need to give it back,” Kreuk told Reuters prior to the ceremony.

Considering the flag cost Kreuk a cool near half-million euros, we still don’t quite understand why he’s gifting it back to the US. Surely he could get more for it on eBay, after all.

Regardless, the US appeared to appreciate the donation and will hang it in the Smithsonian museum. “It is my honour to welcome this great American flag back home where it belongs,” said Trump, also calling it a “a symbol of the close bond between the U.S. and the Netherlands. Our countries stand shoulder to shoulder when times are tough.”

#5 The media didn’t seem to care about Rutte

As the surrounding reporters at the meeting were given a brief few minutes to throw some questions at the pair, they all focused on uniquely American issues. Rutte, quite simply, wasn’t on their radar.

Questions regarding Turkey, the recent congresswomen debacle, and the chant to “go back where she came from” all ranked higher instead. Um, hello? We’re here too!

What do you think of the Trump – Rutte relationship? All for the cameras, or a true bro moment? And how involved should the Netherlands be in US defense? Let us know your thoughts in the comment below!

Feature Image: President Donald J. Trump welcomes the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte Thursday, July 18, 2019, to the West Wing Lobby entrance of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)

A Heatwave is On Its Way: Will the Netherlands Finally See More Summer?

Samantha Dixon 🇦🇺
-
1
A Heatwave is On Its Way: Will the Netherlands Finally See More Summer?

We know that the recent lack of sunshine has left a tear rolling down your cheek – or was that another raindrop? But never fear our brave Netherlands-inhabitants. A ray of sunshine is forecast on the horizon!

We’ve already had a taste over the past two days with the sun breaking through the clouds and giving us hope of an actual tan this summer. Weather reports from earlier this week were predicting a potential heatwave next week. It’s widely welcomed after a much colder than usual start to July.

While we’re still seeing some clouds over the weekend, the Netherlands Meteorology Institute has released a forecast for next week which is predicting some skyrocketing temperatures from Tuesday onwards.Throw away that self-tan bottle, because the mercury could be heading as high as 35°C by next Wednesday.

Weather that could melt a stroopwafel – we’re a fan (and we might need one!). Is the Dutch summer finally on its way?

Do you prefer ijs-cream or ijs on the ground? Are you prepared for a Dutch summer? Let us know in the comments!

Main Image: Pexels

Round two of Rutte’s visit to Trump: what can we expect from their second meeting today?

Kavana Desai
-
1
Round two of Rutte’s visit to Trump: what can we expect from their second meeting today?

Prime Minister Mark Rutte is visiting the US again to meet with President Donald Trump to discuss various things. This will be the second time he will be meeting with the president in the last year. They discussed the global economy the last time, but what are they going to talk about this time?

Two requests from the US to the Dutch Government

The US government has requested the Dutch government to send in Dutch frigates to the Strait of Hormuz, and Dutch troops to Northern Syria. According to NU.nl, Rutte said on Friday that though these are important topics, they are not on the agenda of this present meeting with the president. But it might be inevitable that they do discuss it. The government is yet to make a decision and release a statement about both these requests.

Dutch frigates to Strait of Hormuz

Tensions have been rising between Iran and the US as a result of the US leaving the nuclear treaty. Because of this, the Strait of Hormuz has become a dangerous territory for ships to pass through to reach the Persian Gulf between Iran and Saudi Arabia. This is hindering world trade as they are home to important oil and gas ports. According to RTLNieuws, the US wants to work on an “international coalition” to make sure the ships can pass through safely.

Dutch troops for Northern Syria

After Trump announced the withdrawal of US military troops last year, monitoring of the shaky stability of the region fell on the shoulders of the NATO allies. Therefore, America has requested The Netherlands for greater involvement and contribution for a military mission in Northern Syria to keep the fight against IS going (and shield the our Kurdish allies against our Turkish allies)

Need a lowdown of what happened the last time? Know Greg Shapiro? The guy who made the “The Netherlands Second” video that went viral? He has another one just for you!

What else could Rutte and Trump discuss?

They will for sure discuss the world trade, as they touched upon it the last time as well. The concerns that might be raised would be the import tariffs that Trump has imposed, and the Netherlands was not happy about this, to say the least.

They may even touch upon freedom of religion, as there is also a summit being organized by the US Department of Foreign Affairs. Miniter Blok of the Dutch Foreign Affairs, who is accompanying Rutte on this visit to the US, will be speaking at this summit and will later join the conversation with the prime minister and president.

Rutte is also seeking possible American support for the backing of the nomination of former minister Dijsselbloem to lead the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

So do you think Rutte will say ‘no’ again to what Trump will say this time? What else do you think is on the agenda for the meeting? Let us know in the comments below!

 

Five things to do during the Dutch summer when it (inevitably) rains 

Freya Sawbridge
-
0
Five things to do during the Dutch summer when it (inevitably) rains 

When you come from New Zealand, you have a tendency to blithely sweep all European countries under the term “Europe” with no real regard to the different climates. Since the Netherlands is in Europe and it is summer, surely this will mean it will be tropical? Not the case. It is July something and I am in my bed writing this with three blankets and a hot water bottle. Un-bloody-believable.

The climate in the Netherlands is influenced by the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean meaning the summers are moderate in comparison to other places. The weather is exceptionally changeable and it is not uncommon for rain, sleet, hail, sun, and wind to all occur in the same day.

So what can you do when it is raining in the Netherlands? You could sit inside and gen up on everything Dutch by reading DutchReview? or alternatively, check out these five tips.. 

#1 Visit museums

Many cities in the Netherlands have a fantastic range of museums. Here is a breakdown of some of the best museums across the country

1. National Museum of Antiquities in Leiden: This museum contains numerous treasures from old and rich cultures such as the famous collection of Egyptian mummies and mummy sarcophagi.

2. De Pont in Tilburg: De Pont museum is a hub of contemporary art all housed in a former will-spinning mill.

3. Maastricht underground caves. Okay it’s not technically a museum but it is impressive nonetheless. These subterranean passageways and halls were built over several centuries, forming a huge network of tunnels.

4. The Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam: The National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden) contains countless treasures from old, rich cultures. The famous collection of Egyptian mummies and mummy sarcophagi is world-class.

#2 Have some online fun

What’s better than some good old procrastination on your laptop or phone when it’s pouring outside? So let’s get you some tips.

Firstly, check buienradar to see if that rain is going to stop anytime soon.

Second, there are many interesting websites out there that have some merits. How about these awesome charts and maps from visualcapitalist? Or learn Dutch by watching entertaining video’s about learning Dutch?

Third, plunder this awesome website called DutchReview for tips on travel, buying a house or just look at pretty pictures of the Netherlands. Yeah, epic website, I know…

#3 Watch Dutch movies on Netflix

The most effective way to learn another language is through brain-soaking. This is the process of drown your brain in the language you are learning – through speaking, listening and reading. A clever way of doing this is watching Dutch films. Here are a couple of recommendations:

  1. Bankier van het Verzet (The Resistance Banker): A second world-war film about the Dutch resistance.
  2. Those who feel the Fire Burning: A documentary about refugees fleeing oppression in their war-torn countries

Want to go the extra mile? Download Language Learning With Netflix (LLN) which is an app that allows viewers to watch foreign language shows in both the original language and English.

#4 Eat out

Dutch cuisine isn’t hailed around the world as spectacular. The traditional dishes focus around stewed seasonal vegetables with meat – simple and straightforward. But there are some well-established and up and coming cafes and restaurants that are worth checking out. Try the most typically Dutch food or check out the latest food court that has opened up in Amsterdam.

Bitterballen – a traditional meat-based Dutch snack served with mustard

 

#5 Why not go swimming in an indoor pool?

There are many swimming pools all over the Netherlands and the rain is the perfect excuse to rejuvenate indoors. Just to name a few:

1. Oostelijk Zwembad in Rotterdam: Its architecture mirrors a nostalgic atmosphere, but you still have the pleasure of enjoying their modern facilities.
2. Sportfondsenbad Amsterdam-Oost: A place to enjoy, relax, or even train – they have Turkish steam baths, jacuzzi, and other recreational activities. According to their website, they are the oldest swimming pool in the Netherlands, where they will be turning 90 years old in June!
3. De Houtzagerij Zwembad: right in the centre of the city, they offer lessons for all age groups, where they have extra heating on the weekends.

 

Four ways to have never-ending family fun in the Netherlands

Abuzer van Leeuwen 🇳🇱
-
0
Four ways to have never-ending family fun in the Netherlands

Planning a vacation for the whole family can be daunting. It’s not easy to plan activities that simultaneously please kids, teens, and adults but fear not, we have comprised a few suggestions for good old family fun in the Netherlands.

The Netherlands is a family-friendly destination that appeals to all ages. Amsterdam alone holds over 300 festivals. Many of these are family events good for young children, and several are held year-round.

It is easier to travel in summer as endless green spaces, parks, windmills and canals provide easy entertainment and relaxation for families. However, during the winter, these spaces transform into different forms of entertainment such as ice-skating rinks and carnivals that pop up in many Dutch cities and towns. 

To make the trip memorable for everyone in your family, planning ahead is critical. You could even research a cruise to Europe in 2020 on your way to the Netherlands to see more destinations along the way.

Definitely-not-boring museum visits

The Netherlands is well-known for its many museums, and most of them offer children’s tours. In Amsterdam alone, there are already a handful of museums your kids can enjoy.

The Rijksmuseum offers daily kids tours that let children explore the museum’s treasures. It houses over 7500 masterpieces, holding art pieces from local maestros like Van Gogh and Vermeer.

What kid doesn’t love dinosaurs? The Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden is dedicated to keeping a record of all natural life on Earth. They want to preserve the knowledge of biodiversity and nature for everyone to enjoy. After you’re done, wander over to the De Valk Windmill Museum which is one of the last remaining windmills from the 19th century and provides gorgeous views over the city.

Visit NEMO, a 5-story science museum that is bound to provide hours of entertainment and knowledge. It boasts a wide variety of interactive exhibits that will entertain young and old, all while teaching valuable lessons about science, technology, and their importance in everyday life. Or, for some jaw-dropping art designed to expire, head over to Moco Museum.

nemo museum
NEMO Museum (Source: Pixabay)

While you’re in the area, you can also discover the Tropenmuseum and Amsterdam Tulip Museum respectively.

Turn the pages of history

For a bit of Dutch history, visit the historic Zaanse Schans. This small neighbourhood north of Amsterdam is home to heritage museums and historic houses. Your kids will also be amazed to discover ancient windmills still in operation today.

Zaanse Schans (Source: Zairon for Wikipedia)

You can also go to Delft and be transported back to the 17th century. It’s as if time stopped for this place, giving visitors the same atmosphere as when Vermeer himself lived and worked there.

Nature trips and camping trails

Aquatic theme parks, beach camping sites, wild safari adventures—there are so many things for nature lovers. With over 180 miles of coastline, the Netherlands has a lot of sandy beaches and pristine waters to enjoy.

Texel_Hiking_Netherlands_Myths
Texel – Image: Carmen Monge

It’s also home to Europe’s largest marine mammal theme park: the Dolfinarium. Other places where you can view marine life include Natuurcentrum Ameland and Fort Kijkduin.

If you’re going in spring, go for a scenic bike tour with self-guided routes going to the tulip fields. Most bike rental shops have kid-sized bikes and trailers for younger children. If camping is your thing, you can also check out the Frisian Islands.

Other Sights to See

Some vacations won’t be complete without a trip to a theme park, and the Efteling Theme Park in Kaatsheuvel is a great choice. Its fairytale vibe will enchant children, while older ones will have the time of their lives riding crazy rollercoasters. Two other attractions also show the Netherlands entirely in miniature: outdoors at Madurodam and indoors at Miniworld Rotterdam. To let the kids run off some excess energy, a trip to Play-In Utrecht will give them memories to remember!

The Netherlands is an all-year-round affair so you’ll never run out of things to do with your family in The Netherlands. Be sure to pack light for a hassle-free vacation and take advantage of the many attractions tailored to or specifically designed for younger visitors.

Any activities we have missed that are perfect for family fun? Let us know in the comment section! 

1...750751752...757Page 751 of 757