Netherlands and Belgium

Netherlands

A low-lying land famous for progressive attitudes and tolerance for alternative lifestyles, the Netherlands is a densely packed country full of windmills, tulips, bikes and dykes. Resting below sea level, this beautiful destination is home to a shimmering coastline, lovely lakes and fields of flowers. Its capital city, Amsterdam, is well known for its relaxed policy on drugs and prostitution. However this amazing metropolis also offers scenic canals, incredible art museums and a fascinating history. Along with charming towns like Haarlem and Delft, the Dutch homeland is one that appeals to almost everyone.

Amsterdam

Its splendid canals, bridges and architecture envelop the city with charm and lend to its rich artistic history and culture. Its bars, cafés, galleries and numerous forms of entertainment also make this one of the best party towns.

With a relatively small urban base it is easily explored, especially if you rent a bike and take advantage of the well maintained bike paths to the outskirts of the city. Most attractions, museums and hotspots are within walking distance of Centraal Station.

Belgium

Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Belgium is a multicultural destination packed with bustling cities, medieval villages and even beach resorts. In Belgium, you will encounter several languages as you explore exciting cities like Brussels, known for a magnificent town square and incredible chocolate. Time seems to stand still in Bruges, a lovely medieval hot spot, the canals of Ghent encourage lingering and Antwerp offers a cutting-edge artistic scene. With fun beer tasting events, flat land for bicycling and festivals during the summer, Belgium captivates the traveler with a delicious range of pleasures.

Bruges

Its medieval architecture and character is perfectly preserved and invites many visitors. But don’t let that deter you from exploring its ancient streets, acclaimed museums and tons of fun pubs and cafés. Make sure to stop by the Groeninge Meseum, Markt and Burg squares, and perhaps take a bike tour to take in all the sights.

Brussels

Known for its chocolate, beer and waffles, Brussels is not as picturesque as Bruges or exciting as Amsterdam. But, this thousand year old city is fast becoming a multi-cultural center as people from all over the world have taken up residence here, including a large French speaking African culture. Filled with historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and crowded alehouses, it’s worth a stop over.

Antwerp

Once the premier center of Flemish art and culture, Antwerp today offers her visitors a glance into the golden baroque age of past centuries alongside an artistic haven for cutting edge contemporary culture. When exploring the historic narrow, winding streets take in the great masterpieces of artists such as Rubens and Van Dyke, browse through countless modern galleries and shops and gawk at the world-famous diamond district. When you’re finished, you can turn in any direction to find a friendly pub or alehouse. Take a nap, and then head towards the dizzying and much celebrated club scene.