Five Most Famous Dutch Attractions

Claire — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 07:59:36 +0000

You’ve decided on visiting The Netherlands. You have your luggage and camera ready, your passport is good to go, your packing to-do list is set. But you’re not quite sure what to see once you arrive. Let’s take a look at five of the most famous cities in this country to find the best attractions.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by penwin

1) Keukenhof

First, have you ever seen photos of fields of flowers — that look more like bold, dramatic stripes that go on forever? Well, you were probably looking at images from Keukenhof; it’s the largest flower garden in the world, and is known as “The Garden of Europe.” From March to May, you’ll see long rows of blooms in hues such as purple, yellow and red. About seven million flower bulbs are planted each year. It really is a spectacle not to be missed. You’ll find dining and accommodations at fine establishments such as Restaurant-Hotel Savelberg and NH Zandvoort.

2) Rotterdam

Next, travel over to Rotterdam, the second biggest city in this country. Here you’ll find the largest shipping port in Europe — and because of its vast commerce network, Rotterdam is known as “The Gateway to Europe.” Home of Erasmus University, this city was almost completely destroyed by bombing during World War II. It now, however, is a thriving metropolitan area that hosts several cultural festivals each year, such as for film and music. For meals, step inside Izakaya or Restaurant Ivy, and stay overnight at Hotel van Walsum or Hotel New York.

3) Delft

Another must-see, especially for pottery lovers and history buffs, is Delft. The old city of Delft holds much history — including tales about William of Orange — and is home to the famous blue pottery, which several factories there make. But take a tour at the Royal Dutch Delftware Factory to see just exactly how it’s made. For staying overnight, try Van Der Dussen or Matties. Restaurants worth trying include Hampshire Hotel and Bridges House Hotel.

4) Amsterdam

No trip to the Netherlands would be complete without stopping by Amsterdam — home of the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House. You might like to rent an apartment for the duration of your stay, and if so, renting one of the many Amsterdam apartments might even be less expensive than hotel rooms. Some Amsterdam accommodations include those in the heart of the city and on the outskirts. If being on your own and experiencing this city by blending in with the locals is for you, then renting your own apartment for the holiday. Check out the local cuisine too, such as found at De Kas and the Pancake Bakery.

5) Alkmaar

Finally, stop by Alkmaar. There you’ll discover the Cheese Museum. If you’re a fan of the culinary arts, you won’t want to miss this tour. Also, grab a bite to eat at Hof van Alkmaar or Portofino. If you stay overnight, try the Grand Hotel Alkmaar or the Golden Tulip.
With these top-five cities on your itinerary, you’ll store up a lifetime of memories, and your entire trip will be packed full of excitement. Do your research before you go, and you’ll have an appreciation of the Netherlands that will forever stay with you.

Robin Sharman is a travel blogger who writes about places to visit all over Europe. A keen traveller, Robin also recommends renting apartments in Rome, Paris and London instead of always going to hotels.

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Gardens and Castle at Kroměříž in Czech republic

Claire — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:58:17 +0000

Kroměříž Castle and Gardens are located in the same-name town of Kroměříž in Czech Republic. Archbishop’s castle and gardens are among the most important monuments of Moravia. They were built in the 17th century, after Thirty Years’ War. However at this place, there was the castle already before the Thirty Years’ War, but the castle was destroyed by Swedish people. The history of the castle has been linked with the Olomouc archbishop who built it as his summer residence. The castle has its Chateau garden which was after the Thirty Years’ War transformed from the original fruit and vegetable gardens into the Baroque garden. Later it became a park with many rare trees, lakes and beautiful places. There is the Flower Garden with antique statues and a central roundel. Since 1995, Castle and Gardens in Kroměříž are classified as a national monument and in 1998 were registered on the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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