The Netherlands, also known as Holland, has a population of more than 16 million. Its small geographical size of 41,000 km2 may well have been the driving force for the country to develop into an internationally oriented country with a high industrial and cultural status.

The Netherlands manages to combine history and tradition with innovation and modernity. The country has one of the largest seaports in the world and Schiphol is one of Europe’s major airports. The Dutch are used to dealing, working and studying with foreigners and for many of them English is a second language.

The Netherlands has a long tradition of the arts. Dutch architecture, visual art, fashion and design are currently attracting a great deal of international attention.

The website of the Dutch Tourism board is a good starting point to orientate yourself.