Netherlands: Known for its dykes, mills and polders, the Netherlands is the land of wind, sea... and cannabis. This kingdom, which attracts tourists from all over the world, offers a wide choice of cultural activities.

The best souvenirs to bring back from the Netherlands: Cheese, diamonds and earthenware

Earthenware (including the famous Delft blues), traditional costumes and clogs are among the truly typical souvenirs, sometimes a little kitsch. Gourmets can take home some old Gouda, which is rather rare in France, and Amsterdam has been one of the world's leading diamond centres since the 16th century. Prices are not necessarily cheaper than elsewhere, but the cutting technique is beyond reproach. Food, flower and flea markets are very common. Shops are open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., except in the big cities, where they are open 7 days a week, sometimes until 10 p.m.

The Dutch culinary tradition of fish and cabbage

In the north of the country and around Amsterdam, Alkmaar cabbage soup and cheese soup are traditionally served as starters. For the main course, try Dutch sauerkraut and smoked eel. Stamppot is mashed potatoes with cabbage or chicory, served with smoked sausages or strips of pork. Surrounded by the sea, the Northern Province serves a wide range of fish: raw herring, fried mackerel, turbot or sole are all common dishes. Mussels, a very popular dish, are cooked in white wine with onions and leeks and traditionally served with chips. The Dutch eat a hearty breakfast and a frugal lunch, nibbling on fresh herring or broodje, a small sandwich of fresh meat and vegetables.

The Netherlands at Christmas: a magical journey

Christmas in the Netherlands is a magical time of year, when the streets are decked out in twinkling lights and the Christmas markets offer a warm and festive atmosphere. The Amsterdam Christmas market, for example, is famous for its stalls selling Dutch culinary specialities, handcrafted Christmas decorations and unique gifts. Many countries celebrate St Nicholas Day on 6 December, but the Netherlands is the only nation to start the festivities as early as November with a re-enactment of the bishop's arrival by boat, all broadcast on TV. On the afternoon of 5 December, the country comes to a standstill as everyone goes home to celebrate the saint and give presents. In January, when the days are cold and dark, everyone starts skating on the frozen canals. The Elfstedentocht, a marathon, involves skating through eleven towns in Friesland. On New Year's Eve, the tradition is to burn firecrackers in the streets, and the Dutch have a field day. The next day, the streets are covered in red paper, proving that the party was in full swing.

Getting around the Netherlands

Visitors can take advantage of the Holland Travel Ticket, a single ticket that allows travellers to use all types of public transport in the Netherlands for just €48. These tickets can be purchased from vending machines at all stations in the country, as well as from 'Service counters'. This card allows foreign visitors to visit all the country's cities, making it easier to get to museums outside Amsterdam and thus make the most of the country's cultural and architectural diversity.Beware of trams in Amsterdam, they always arrive where you least expect them and, unlike in Paris, don't have their own track.Otherwise, a boat trip along the canals as a first approach to the city is a good way of understanding the layout of this city where you quickly get lost.

A country you can explore by bike

After China, the Netherlands is the second country with the most bicycles. There are around 14 million bicycles for almost 16 million inhabitants! It's second nature to the population and a very common means of getting around. Cycle paths have been laid out everywhere and there are plenty of cycle hire shops, but beware: the Dutch are merciless with pedestrians on cycle paths.

Amsterdam's coffeeshops

If you're coming to Amsterdam to smoke cannabis, it's forbidden to smoke in the street, let alone roll a joint. Travellers are reminded that tipping is de rigueur, even in coffeeshops. The tip is approximately 10% of the bill.

Tourist offices in the Netherlands

There are many tourist offices, designated by the letters VVV (initials of Société pour la circulation des étrangers, in Dutch), but they offer brochures (maps, good addresses) and services (reservations) for a fee.