{"id":4061,"date":"2024-09-17T16:26:19","date_gmt":"2024-09-17T16:26:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/?p=4061"},"modified":"2024-09-17T16:50:07","modified_gmt":"2024-09-17T16:50:07","slug":"netherlands-travel-hacks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/netherlands-travel-hacks\/","title":{"rendered":"The Netherlands Travel Hacks: Explore like a Local"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>From incredibly notable historical monuments and memorials to art galleries like \u201cThe Van Gogh Museum\u201d, The Netherlands is one of the most sought after European destinations for international travelers. To make the most of your trip, consider some essential Netherlands travel hacks. Especially considering it\u2019s most well known season \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.holland.com\/global\/tourism\/get-inspired\/dutch-icons\/tulip-season-in-the-netherlands#:~:text=Travel%20to%20The%20Netherlands%20in,at%20the%20Keukenhof%20in%20Lisse.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cThe Tulip Season\u201d<\/a> \u2013 many travelers will make the international trek just to bask in the country\u2019s beauty for a few days. Don\u2019t forget to indulge in some of Amsterdam\u2019s special shops or ride a bike down the Amstel River \u2013 you\u2019ll be sure to <a href=\"https:\/\/neoreach.com\/top-lists\/top-travel-influencers\/top-travel-within-usa-influencers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">feel like the main character<\/a> of any great film.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While most international travelers, including Americans, don\u2019t need a special Visa to travel to The Netherlands, they do need to be in alignment with the <a href=\"https:\/\/travel-europe.europa.eu\/etias_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ETIAS safety and health regulations<\/a> upon their arrival. These regulations include traveling with a valid passport, email address, and credit or debit card \u2013 something that most international travelers are more than comfortable with. If you\u2019re planning on staying for more than three months, or embarking on a trip for longer-term work or school, The Netherlands does require a more formal application for a Visa to stay, work, or go to school in the country \u2013 similar to most other European destinations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well maintained, riddled with beautiful landscapes and scenery, and easy to travel to from neighboring countries and abroad, The Netherlands boasts incredible cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague \u2013 all places where tourists can get a variety of diverse experiences from nature to historical views. As for language, the official one of The Netherlands is Dutch, but <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hz.nl\/en\/10-things-you-should-know-about-the-netherlands#:~:text=Although%20the%20official%20language%20is,those%20coming%20from%20another%20country.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">over 95% of citizens speak English<\/a> \u2013 making it a little bit more accessible for American tourists wary of linguistic disconnects.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Netherlands-Travel-Hacks-Canal-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4066\" srcset=\"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Netherlands-Travel-Hacks-Canal-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Netherlands-Travel-Hacks-Canal-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Netherlands-Travel-Hacks-Canal-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Netherlands-Travel-Hacks-Canal.png 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vecteezy.com\/photo\/32492432-colorful-tulips-and-windmill-in-zaanse-schans-netherlands-landscape-with-tulips-in-zaanse-schans-netherlands-europe-ai-generated\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vecteezy<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>International Travel Hacks For The Netherlands<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Get comfortable with your biking skills.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.government.nl\/topics\/bicycles#:~:text=The%20Netherlands%20is%20the%20number,public%20transport%20and%20passenger%20cars.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">number one country in the world for cycling<\/a>, one essential Netherlands travel hack is that you\u2019ll have to start practicing your bike riding skills now. From the comfort of your own home, gym, or neighborhood, invest some time into riding a bike \u2013 it\u2019ll save you walking time, money from public transit, or the hassle of getting a taxi once you arrive.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t forget to use the \u201ccycling only\u201d lane once you arrive, if you choose to get around via bikes. Of course, also make note of your surroundings when you\u2019re cycling, as many locals are used to riding fast to get to work or make their evening commute shorter \u2013 don\u2019t block the path by taking pictures or goofing off. Be respectful of their bike lanes in the same way you would driving a car in a different country \u2013 safety is most important.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXcJjrvrPUzjH2eA1eJ4j_d4wmGGIjA3kt5JaM9uszxuJ9349oX1edw5u6HUYMhnLNpJ3NXjbVuS0r6MUOieFMRtjROd5WyIbweBuX7of6qIyiKysW7QOYE6_WWqArFgcXm3va6uFpqt7JAgCW7JdTaGSjo?key=O_wCWdRv97kmk26Fb7OySg\" alt=\"\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXcJjrvrPUzjH2eA1eJ4j_d4wmGGIjA3kt5JaM9uszxuJ9349oX1edw5u6HUYMhnLNpJ3NXjbVuS0r6MUOieFMRtjROd5WyIbweBuX7of6qIyiKysW7QOYE6_WWqArFgcXm3va6uFpqt7JAgCW7JdTaGSjo?key=O_wCWdRv97kmk26Fb7OySg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vecteezy.com\/photo\/24033994-night-scene-with-amazing-architecture-and-boats-in-canal-at-amsterdam-city-netherlands\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vecteezy<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>H3: 2. Book all your activities or tourist destinations in advance.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether it&#8217;s booking a train seat, purchasing a museum ticket, or penciling in a day of pure relaxation while indulging in a special Amsterdam caf\u00e9, using some Netherlands travel hacks can save you the hassle of worrying about all your plans once you\u2019re on vacation. Booking ahead of time is key\u2014when you pre-book activities and tickets, everything feels essentially free (or at least already paid for) once you&#8217;re there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sites like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=l&amp;ai=DChcSEwj_3LLcpY6GAxX8TkcBHTgnCKUYABAIGgJxdQ&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwl4yyBhAgEiwADSEjeBjD98KG4FcESACLzkUZc1LmlFEk7RyP_BeSWS18m_Vn1yEA1lHmbhoC5fYQAvD_BwE&amp;sig=AOD64_1keqE0eqy9igtzedIWKs3Of31jAQ&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwir8qrcpY6GAxUQlIkEHVqmCLYQ0Qx6BAgDEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Get Your Guide<\/a> can provide accessible day-trips and hour-long excursions that are easy to book if you\u2019re looking for a historical guide, a transportation-included trip to a new city, or a last-minute activity to fill your time. Complete with information about language barriers, all-inclusive costs, and specific time intervals \u2013 they can be an easier alternative to planning a day full of excursions by yourself.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, don\u2019t forget \u2013 it\u2019s essential to enjoy a couple days to yourself. Whether it\u2019s simply wandering around the streets of Amsterdam or booking time to view some of the incredible art the country has to offer, it\u2019s your vacation to define!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Get an eSim or physical SIM card prior to departing.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The last thing that you want to worry about when you touch down on vacation is the lacking signal on your phone \u2013 preventing you from ordering a taxi from the airport, renting a bike, or even posting that Instagram picture online. What\u2019s even worse than that? Coming to terms with your international plan phone bill when you get home. Whether it\u2019s a $10 per day travel plan or sneaky incurrent charges racking up behind the scenes \u2013 you\u2019ll definitely want to ensure you find a more cost-effective way to browse internationally before you leave.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re already daydreaming about smelling tulips or simply just booked plane tickets \u2013 consider your phone situation now, with an easier, more cost-effective route to fast browsing: an eSim. With <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usims.com\/\">free apps like USIMS<\/a>, you can easily get an eSim, international plan, and immediate browsing for when you\u2019re traveling abroad.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Navigate neighborhoods like the Red Light District respectfully.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While exploring new towns, cultures, and excursions is the most fun part of any trip abroad, there\u2019s certain informal regulations and etiquette expectations many locals preach to tourists \u2013 especially when it comes to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amsterdam.info\/red-light-district\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Amsterdam\u2019s infamous Red Light District<\/a>. While there\u2019s technically several \u201cred light districts\u201d in the city, the most notable of them all is the city center district \u2013 posted with brothels that exemplify a sensual nature, to say the least.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Locals urge tourist to explore the district as they please, but not during any sort of guided tour \u2013 respect both workers, shopkeepers, and locals as much as possible. Like any other city or neighborhood, treat it with respect, and you\u2019ll be fine!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. You don\u2019t need to tip in cafes or restaurants.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A difficult concept for many Americans to wrap their heads around, not many European countries accept tips or have a tipping culture for service workers. Especially in The Netherlands, were many service workers boast a living wage \u2013 unlike many in the U.S. \u2013 tips aren\u2019t ever expected. Locals remind tourists of the \u201claid back\u201d culture The Netherlands boasts, one that infiltrates into shops, cafes, and restaurants. So sit back, relax and enjoy some food and beverages, chatting with servers where appropriate \u2013 there\u2019s no need to fight and worry about tips.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, no matter how you choose to spend your time in The Netherlands, you&#8217;ll surely enjoy your visit\u2014there&#8217;s something for everyone. Whether you&#8217;re exploring a museum, dining at a restaurant, or photographing the tulips, remember these Netherlands travel hacks to enhance your experience. Be respectful of local customs and spaces. While fitting in as a tourist, from embracing Dutch fashion to appreciating luxurious accents, it&#8217;s crucial to balance admiration with respect for the local culture.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>No matter how you choose to spend your time in The Netherlands, you&#8217;ll surely enjoy your visit\u2014there&#8217;s something for everyone. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4063,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rank_math_lock_modified_date":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4061"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4061"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4061\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4068,"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4061\/revisions\/4068"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4063"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4061"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4061"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usims.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4061"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}