Netherlands Study Abroad

The Netherlands – also known as Holland – is a country which is a member of the European Union. As in other EU nations, the euro is used for currency. People of the Netherlands are called Dutch and speak, fittingly, Dutch. Throughout the Netherlands the language barrier is not an issue for English speakers, the majority of the Dutch speak great English. The Netherlands are historically famous for their numerous ports (in particular Rotterdam) and are renowned for the beauty of their canals. Other famous icons of the Netherlands include wooden clogs and fields of tulips. Today, the Netherlands, and in particular its capital city of Amsterdam, are known for liberal drug policy, despite the stricter regulations that have come into effect over the last few years.

Geography and Climate

I amsterdam (near the VonGogh Museum)

The Dutch are famous for having carved their country out of the sea, by building canals and dikes. Thus, the topography of the Netherlands is incredibly flat. In fact, 20% of its area lies below water level. These facts are humorously portrayed by calling speed bumps, “Dutch Mountains”. The climate is mild, with warmer winters and cooler summers.

Food

The Netherlands are not especially renowned for their food, but are known for the export of seafood and cheeses. For a young person’s take on Dutch cuisine, former study abroad students recommend croquettes and stroop waffles. Croquettes are small bites of fried dough, filled with your choice of meat or cheese. Stroop Waffles are thin, wafer-like cookies filled with a small amount of syrup – a delicious treat for desert!

International Relations

While Amsterdam is the capital city, the Hague is the seat of government. The Hague is also famous for the role it plays in the United Nations. The judicial branch of the UN finds its home there, including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. Visitors enjoy a walk around the “Plein”, in English “the square” for shopping and outdoor cafes.

Great Cities

Author by a canal in Amsterdam

Amsterdam

Life in Amsterdam is fast paced and exciting. Along beautiful cobblestone roads lining the canals of this city, you’ll pass more bridges and bike racks than parking lots on your way to Amsterdam’s numerous attractions. Arrive early to get a good spot in line to visit the Anne Frank House and museum. The Van Gogh museum is beautifully arranged, with a floor dedicated entirely to the artist’s work, his influences and those he influenced. A walk through Vondelpark is beautiful no matter what the season, and is located near the Rijksmuseum. This National Museum is home to much Dutch history, especially the arts.

The Amsterdam known by casual tourists is usually limited to the center. The city center is made up of four neighborhoods: the Old Center,  Jordaan, Grachtengordel, and Plantage. This area is busy with daytime shoppers and nighttime partygoers. However, the center is surrounded by five districts: Bijlmer, North, South, East and West. With the exception of the South, these districts tend to be more residential, and house most of the population of Amsterdam. The South district is the Museum Quarter, and where Vondelpark is found.

Utrecht

Dom Tower in Utrecht

Utrecht is a popular city for young people, as it is home to two universities, with quite similar sounding names. Utrecht University is primarily a Dutch school but offers some classes in English. Utrecht University is far larger than Utrecht College University, which is an International School and Honors College, with all classes taught in English.

Attractions in Utrect include the Dom Tower, pronounced like the English dome, which is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. In 1674, severe storms split the tower from the main part of the cathedral, and the connection has never been rebuilt, leaving the area between the two open. Today, dark stones mark where the original walls once stood between the two structures. For night life, students enjoy a taste of UK pub life at the Irish Pub named Florin. Tivoli is a popular Dutch night club for students, known for its weekly student night on Thursdays.

Transportation in and around Utrecht is accessible and easy. Both bus and train systems are well kept and efficient. As Utrecht holds a central geographic location within the Netherlands, the local train station is an excellent hub for travel throughout the country.

Groningen

Groningen, is located in the north of Holland, near the German border. With a majority of the population under age of 35, it is the youngest city in the Netherlands. The city is a great academic center and home to the University of Groningen, one of the oldest universities in Europe. It is a truly diverse and international university, where students and professors all come together from around the world. There are 60 different BA programs offered, making Groningen a great destination for study abroad students of all disciplines.

The Groningen Museum is a great place to visit for a taste of modern and contemporary art. For the nautically inclined, visit the Noordelijk Scheepvaart museum to explore the rich history of ship building in the Netherlands.

Biking is the best means of transportation around this city, which has done much to keep vehicle traffic down. It’s also a great way to tour the city, and bike tours are reasonable and fun.

Final Words

Holland is a beautiful country, with so much to be explored and discovered. No matter what region, city or town you decide to explore, don’t hesitate to take a turn off the map and make some of your own discoveries. Keep safety in mind; take precautions with calculated risks. Each trip is unique, as is each traveler! Bon Voyage!

Posted by Stephanie Murdock. Stephanie holds a BA in French from SUNY Geneseo.