HISTORY
Of course, the Netherlands, which is also known as Holland, has much to offer. After the country gained its independence from Spain in the 17th century, it became the leading commercial nation and maritime power in the world. The delightful historic streets of Amsterdam and many other cities are reminders of that glorious period, called the Golden Age. Increasing prosperity in the 17th century resulted in a cultural and intellectual boom, the fruits of which are still enjoyed today. Every year, tourists from around the world flock to the Dutch museums to admire paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals and many other old Dutch masters.
STRUGGLE AGAINST THE SEA
Foreigners immediately associate the Netherlands with its age-old struggle against the sea. They simply cannot get over the fact that most half of the country lies below sea level. Much of this low-lying land has been wrested from the sea by a process of land reclamation dating back to the 12th century. The Dutch are generally acknowledged as Masters of Water Management. A visit to the Low Countries offers a unique opportunity to see for yourself how the Dutch have actually pulled it off: from the age-old windmills to the ultramodern sea-defences.
GOVERNMENT
The Kingdom of the Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary form of government. Prince William of Orange, who founded the House of Orange, played a pivotal role in the country’s struggle for independence. The present-day monarch, King Willem-Alexander, is well-loved and respected by the seventeen million Dutch citizens.
STRONG ECONOMY
Despite its small size, the Netherlands has developed into an economic powerhouse over the past decades. The country ranks among the top exporters of agricultural produce. As you would expect, it is even the world’s biggest exporter of flowers and bulbs. The chemical industry, financial services, manufacturing, tourism, transportation (Rotterdam is one of the world’s biggest ports) and trade are also strong pillars of the economy.
HOSPITALITY
The Netherlands’ open and tolerant character is very much evidenced by its hospitality towards foreigners. Throughout the centuries, refugees from other countries have found a new and safe homeland here. Although Dutch is the official language, most people also speak English, German or French. As any visitor to this charming land can attest, the Dutch truly enjoy contact with people from abroad and will make you feel at home in no time at all.
FREE FLOW OF DELEGATES
Entry to the country is guaranteed to all foreign individuals participating in a congress organised in the Netherlands, regardless of their nationality. Delegates must, of course, meet the normal requirements. They must carry travel documents valid for an adequate period of time, have sufficient means of support, and may not considered to be a threat to the public peace, public order or national safety.
CLIMATE
The Netherlands has a typical maritime climate, with cool winters and mild summers, so any time is a good time to visit. Wind rates increase when you get closer to the sea, and generally, the wind comes from the south-west. March is the driest month, with most of the precipitation falling in the middle of the country, during the summer. In June and July, the highest temperatures occur, with an average daily maximum of 18 degrees Celsius in De Bilt. During the period of December to February, the temperatures are at their lowest, with an average daily maximum below freezing.