Holland, or the Netherlands as it is now known, is supremely famous for flower bulbs and dikes. However, this country, often overrun throughout history, has a spirit and culture which should be experienced.

      From Amsterdam, with its many canals and its avant garde approach to life and responsibility, to Delft, a quintessential Dutch town, known for its pottery, this country should be sampled and savored.

      Fortunately, we arrived here in the spring when the various bulbs were in full bloom (this is obviously the best time to visit). We thoroughly enjoyed strolling through Keukenhof Gardens, perhaps the premier garden of its type in the world.

Keukenhof Gardens

     Strolling through the flower-bedecked trails was extremely pleasant and relaxing.

Keukenhof Gardens

    When in Amsterdam be sure to take a canal cruise to get a true flavor for the ambience and the architecture of the city.

Amsterdam Canal House

      Dutch architecture is fascinating and very distinctive. Bicycles are a favorite method of transportation since the country is so flat.

Typical Dutch Architecture

     The Rijksmuseum is famous for its collection of Rembrandts. It is certainly worth a morning or afternoon.

Rembrandt's Night Watch

   The best place to see windmills, characteristically Dutch structures, is at Kinderdijk, a World Heritage Site.

Kinderdijk Windmills

     The quintessentially Dutch town of Delft is a wonderful place to spend a day. The compact town is ideal for walking or bicycling.

Main Square, Delft

       The Oude Kerk (Old Church) contains the interesting tomb of William the Silent.

William the Silent Tomb