Netherlands flights and travel guide

Language

Dutch is the official language. English is widely spoken. Fries (as well as Dutch) is spoken by the people of Friesland province.

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Money

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency of the Netherlands, and it is divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted. Foreign currency or travellers cheques can be changed at banks, post offices or bureaux de change (usually indicated by the letters GWK). Banks are closed on weekends. ATMs are widely distributed and most are open 24 hours a day.

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Communications

The international access code for the Netherlands is +31. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)20 for Amsterdam. Five local mobile phone operators have the Netherlands extremely well covered with GSM 900 and 1800 networks. Internet cafes are widely available.

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Tipping

Service charges are included in hotel rates, restaurant bills and taxi fares, usually at 15 per cent. Tips for good service are always appreciated but not necessary. It is customary to tip taxi drivers and waiters 10 per cent.

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Safety

Travel in Holland is fairly safe. Travellers should, however, always exercise caution in empty streets at night and be aware of pickpockets, particularly in central Amsterdam and at Central Station.

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Health

There are no health risks associated with travel to The Netherlands and no innoculations are required. It is safe to drink tap water. The standard of health care in The Netherlands is very high, but the necessary health insurance provisions must be made before travelling. A reciprocal agreement exists with other EU countries, which entitles nationals to free emergency medical treatment. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is necessary for this purpose.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Two-pin round European-style plugs are used.

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