Netherlands: Useful Information

-The Netherlands uses the Euro as its currency and issues its own Euro coins and notes. You can use Euro notes and coins issued in any of the participating Euro states in the Netherlands.

-Credits cards are widely accepted using Chipknip (chip and pin) transactions. Some shops may add on a 5% charge for credit card transactions.

- ATM machines are common outside banks, in railway stations and in other public places. ATMs are often the cheapest way of exchanging money.

- Banks will charge a commission for changing your travellers cheques in the Netherlands.

- The cheapest way of using your own mobile 'phone in the Netherlands is to buy a Dutch pre-paid SIM card and insert it in your own 'phone. In this way, you will be charged the Dutch rates for mobile 'phone calls.

- Voltage supply is 230 volts and 50 Hertz AC. There are three types of sockets and plugs all of which are with two round pins, round plug with earth side connectors, round plug without earth and a slim flat plug without earth.

- Internet Access can be found in various cafes, and in many Dutch libraries.

- Most recreational drugs are illegal. You will not be prosecuted for for carrying up to 5 grammes of cannabis, but you will be prosecuted for possessing more, or other illegal drugs. Strict drink driving laws also apply.

- Most UK newspapers are available on the same day as publication in the Netherlands.

- Many national UK Radio broadcasts can be picked up in the Netherlands on long and medium wave. Most hotels with cable TV will have several BBC and other English language channels.

- The Netherlands is on Central European Time, which means that it is always an hour ahead of the time in the UK.

- Mains water is perfectly safe to drink and is of a very high quality.

- The Netherlands, like the UK, is a Christian country, although 40% of Dutch people say they have no religious affiliation. Churches from most denominations can be found.

- Dutch shops open between 9.30am and 6pm weekdays and until 4.30pm at weekends. In the Hague, shops usually open at 11am on Mondays. Most shops stay open late for one night per week, which is usually Thursday. Sunday shopping is becoming more popular in cities like Rotterdam.