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A colorful nature and environment reflecting the richness of the country and people’s history, heritage, culture, and society; the original Dutch land, Netherlands. Amidst its low lying place in continental Europe, Netherlands stood high as one of the early forerunner kingdoms that has successfully assimilated and reclaimed several territories. When it comes to the abundance of lush green playing fields, extensive network of rivers and other bodies of water, boats, sailboats, windmill, flowers, antique bridges, rich flora and fauna, Netherlands is the perfect place to be.

Geography and climate

Would you do it under a waterfall? A myriad of waterfalls, lush nature, transparent rivers... We must be somewhere in South America or Oceania? Right? - Wrong! We are, in fact, in the heart of Europe, a few miles away from Italy and Greece. See video below: The Plitvice National Park is an absolute delight, worth the trip from wherever you are in the world. For birdwatching, be equipped with a good pair of binoculars and a powerful tele-lens. And who knows? - Maybe you'll spot some interesting mammals too?! See video below: There are a few hotels in the area but, whilst we are talking Communion with Nature, go camping with your tent! Have you ever had a shower under a waterfall? - It is said to be a must-do of all your travels before you die. See video below: This is the ultimate survival experience. The jungle waterfall shower will propel you to the rank of a famous adventurer like Bear Grylls.The camping extremists like him would probably say that its not really camping if you don't hunt and kill your own food. See video below: So if you manage to get your rabbit, cook it well, and eat without forks and knives, like in the Prehistoric Times. Then, as you nap and consider the next steps of your travel adventure, remember how you got here in the first place: Bear Grylls survival clothing for your extreme travels to all corners of our wildest world:

Netherlands is located on the Western part of continental Europe. It is one of the countries that comprise the historic and economically powerful trio countries, Benelux (with Belgium and Luxembourg). Compared to its neighboring European countries, Netherlands is not that large containing a total area of 41,526 square kilometers. It is bordered on the north to northwest by the North Sea, Germany on the east and Belgium on the south.

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Due to its proximity in the North Sea, Netherlands enjoy that oceanic or maritime climate. It is located in the northern hemisphere making its summer season relatively cold and mild winters come with ice or snow by December to February.

History and Politics

Netherland’s (commonly referred to as Holland) significant record in history can be traced back during the Roman Empire. It is one of the Empire’s early provinces just like the neighboring countries of Belgium and Luxembourg, Germany, and some parts of France. The Roman Empire slowly disintegrated but Netherlands stayed under the control of the Spanish Kingdom until the United Dutch provinces revolted against Spain and declared independence in 1579.

The 17th century was considered the golden era of the Republic of the United Netherlands. It’s maritime and sailing expertise have greatly aided in its success of discovering and colonizing vast territories in and out of Europe. After its defeat in a war with France by the next century, Netherlands shortly became a French colony. During this time, the Kingdom of Netherlands was formed. When the First World War broke out, Netherlands remain neutral, but by the next World War, it was occupied by Germany. The country joined the economic power trio Benelux in 1944, NATO in 1949, the European Community in 1957, and adopted the Euro Currency in 1999. Its current monarch head is Queen Beatrix.

Economy

Netherlands has been synonymous with a strong economy. One of its economic boosters is its international trade and shipping expertise, mainly due to its best network of waterways. In fact, its largest port, the Rotterdam, is considered the world’s busiest and largest because it is one of the gateways of produce in and out of continental Europe.

Culture, people, and the arts

Netherlands is the original Dutch land. Based on the latest survey, 80.7% of the population is pure Dutch, and the rest is a mixture of other European and non-European races. Netherlands is a relatively secular country with only 39 % of the population is considered religious or is religiously affiliated.

When it comes to culture and the arts, Netherlands is the home of some of the famous persons like Rembrandt, Vermer, Hals, and intellectual prows like painting, architecture, sailing, windmills, etc.

Places of interest

Netherland’s capital city Amsterdam is a melting pot of not only European but the rest of international tourists and visitors. The great balance of nature and architecture, plus the bonus coffee shops and lovely canal networks is but some of the simple reasons why people flock to the area. In Delft, one can find the living proof of a rich and unspoiled historical town. Utrecht is the historic and antique center. Rotterdam boosts it modern architecture and excellent nightlife experience, etc.