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The Netherlands
Flying Dutchman's Page - The name Netherlands is derived from the Dutch word neder , meaning "low," referring to the fact that much of this country is below sea level. A system of dikes and canals has allowed the Netherlands to reclaim land and use it for farming and other purposes. According to this page, "Approximately a third of the entire country lies below sea level at high tide. Another 25% is so low-lying that it would be subject to [flooding] if it were not for the surrounding dunes and dikes and the regular pumping of excess water. The lowest point is 6.7 m (22 ft.) below mean sea level, immediately to the northeast of Rotterdam." This page has lots of general interest information on the Netherlands and its people and culture.
Gouda: A Six-Star City - Yes, it's like the cheese. But Gouda is also the name of a medieval Dutch city. A stop at this site on the virtual Netherlands tour is rich with different things to do and see. Learn about the unique role that water has played in the life of Holland and the city of Gouda in particular. Read the illustrated stories of some of the more bizarre goings-on over the years. Take a look at the products of the region: cheese (of course), clay pipes, candles, and more. The beautiful, original photography will give you a feel for the Dutch way of life as you stroll Gouda's virtual streets.
Teylers Museum - Teylers Museum is the oldest museum in Holland. It has the traditional stuff you'd expect from a great gallery. In addition to its excellent permanent exhibits, it also has rotating exhibits that feature the coolest new stuff. This site has lots of graphics, whose clever design is to carry you from one great find to the next. If you can't make it to the Netherlands this year, do the next best thing and take a leisurely tour of the anything-but-boring Teylers Museum.
Welcome to Holland - Windmills? Wooden shoes? Tulips? Distinctive women's headgear? Yes, you've got all those in Holland (also known as the Netherlands), but did you know about Van Gogh's connection to the "low country"? Did you know about the castles (over 300 of them) or extensive cycling opportunities? See it all, with lots of great color photos, as you easily navigate this attractive and informative site from the official Board of Tourism. From how to get there to how to get around once you're there, this is the place to go to glimpse the historic past and the future of this beautiful land. And with the 20 questions and answers for the "Holland uninitiated," you might just get by without the locals seeing "tourist" written all over your face.
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