Netherlands Snapshots, introduction, tourist attractions, and photographs. Hotel reservations

Located in the Western Europe at mouths of three major European rivers - Rhine, Maas and Schelde, bordering the North Sea, between Belgium and Germany, the Netherlands has total land area of 33,889 square kilometers, slightly less than twice the size of New Jersey of the United States.

Based on July 2004 estimate, the Netherlands has 16,318,199 population, including Dutch 91%, Moroccans, Turks, and other 9%. Dutch is the official national language in the Netherlands.

The Netherlands is a modern, industrialized nation with prosperous and open economy. Industrial activity is predominantly in food processing, chemicals, petroleum refining, and electrical machinery. A highly mechanized agricultural sector employs no more than 4% of the labor force but provides large surpluses for the food-processing industry and for exports. The Dutch rank third worldwide in value of agricultural exports, behind the US and France.

The Netherlands successfully addressed the issue of public finances and stagnating job growth long before its European partners. This has helped cushion the economy from a slowdown in the euro area. Strong 3.8% GDP growth in 1998 was followed by an only slightly lower 3.4% expansion in 1999. The outlook remains favorable, with real GDP growth in 2000 projected at 3.25%, along with a small budget surplus. The Dutch were among the first 11 EU countries establishing the euro currency zone on 1 January 1999.

Amsterdam, the Capital City of the Netherlands, is one of Europe's most exciting cities to visit. It has dozens of museums and galleries, including the Van Gogh Museum, 17th century historical buildings, world-class restaurants serving foods from all over the world, beautiful landscapes and stunning waterscapes.

From Dutch countryside to fishing villages, you can find a lot of picturesque sceneries in this charming and prosperous European nation.