Pentecost

📣 Traveler notes

The Netherlands is a dense, modern European country in northwestern Europe. Known for its flat, historically reclaimed landscape, the country combines modern urban life with picturesque small towns and is famous for windmills and tulip fields.

• Large sporting events often trigger nationwide celebrations featuring the national color, orange.
• Carnival (pre-Lent) is a major Catholic festivity in the Southern Netherlands, involving parades and local events.
• King's Day (Koningsdag) on April 27th is a national holiday marked by country-wide festivals, with orange attire being customary.
• Cyclists have the right of way; walking on cycle paths may be discouraged if sidewalks are available.
• Formal greetings usually require a handshake, while friends may engage in three alternating cheek-kisses.
• The country is widely regarded as liberal and gay-friendly.
• Dutch culture values directness and honesty. Avoid overt displays of wealth. Treat service staff with respect. Due to the general secularism, maintain tolerance regarding religion and politics, and avoid provocative behavior. Always use the formal name 'The Netherlands' instead of 'Holland.'