4 minute read
Go Dutch this Summer
A country of wonder, innovation and historical charm. From the flowing canals of Amsterdam to the political hub of Den Haag (The Hague), with castles and windmills, Holland packs a punch when it comes to activities and sightseeing.
As European countries become more accessible, the Netherlands is another destination to feel confident travelling to regardless of accessibility needs. Amsterdam is also one of the easiest European cities to travel to from the UK with ferry lines, train connections and, of course, by air.
Once you’ve landed, Accessible Travel Netherlands is on hand to welcome you to Holland with open arms.
ACCESSIBILITY Founded almost ten years ago, Accessible Travel Netherlands provides package holidays for travellers across the country after Veroniek Maat decided to remedy the distinct lack of information about disability and accessibility.
“I noticed that there were a lot of people and travel agents looking for accessibility information about the Netherlands. There was very little on pages like Holland.com or iamsterdam.com; it was very limited and not
always correct,” she explains. “I started to collect information on accessibility in the Netherlands in 2010 and eventually began organising everything for our customers.”
Hosting an eclectic mixture of modern life intertwining with the history of the country, many cities across Holland are more accessible than ever before. Veroniek says: “The cities have been working on improving their accessibility, such as Rotterdam, Breda (a city in the south of the Netherlands) and The Hague is also good when it comes to accessibility and it has a very nice city centre.” With an growing awareness of accessibility needs, it’s not just the cities becoming disability friendly – there is a lot to see and do when you hit the Netherlands.
ACTIVITIES In times gone by, Freddie Mercury just wanted to ride his bicycle – when in Holland it would be rude not to get involved. In a country that loves nothing more than cycling from A to B there is one thing that is for certain, no matter your holiday destination – Holland is as flat as they come.
With a plethora of accessible bike tours, make sure to get on your bike and see the quirky architecture, pass along canals and quaint cafés, drink in the mesmerising street art before stopping off at one of the many museums dotted around the country.
In the romantic corners of Amsterdam where you will find locals relaxing, to the bright lights of the centre where the city never sleeps, Accessible Travel Netherlands provides tours for travellers looking to see a side to Holland that many will miss.
“We offer a variety of guided tours in Amsterdam; we have a general history tour of Amsterdam, but we also offer a Jewish history tour, an art gallery tour and secret courtyard tour. There are options for those who have been to Amsterdam before and want to learn a little more about the city,” explains Veroniek.
HISTORY Towering above Amsterdam city centre is one of the most iconic art galleries in the world: the Rijksmuseum. Playing host to work from Van Gogh, Rembrandt and many more, this is an art lovers’ haven: the museum is spellbinding and aweinspiring. Added bonus: a guaranteed photo opportunity sits outside Rijksmuseum: the famous I Amsterdam sign.
Pre-booking the museum is advised as it’s certainly a hotspot for tourists. From the morning to early afternoon there is a high footfall due to the close proximity of other must-visit landmarks; including the breathtakingly picturesque Vondelpark. For nature lovers looking for colour and a burst of sensory experiences then Vondelpark is the place to go. A colour chart of green encloses the once private park for a relaxing afternoon stroll, picnic or to join locals as they skate, dance, and get merry. Looking to pack more nature into your break? Get to Keukenhof.
OUTSIDE THE CITY “In high season it is definitely worth visiting the flower fields of Keukenhof for all the beautiful colours. You can go to the park or just enjoy a driving tour through the countryside and see some flowers in the fields,” adds Veroniek. A sea of red, yellow, pink, blue and orange, the rainbow literally comes to life at Keukenhof.
Similarly, let the intrigue of windmills and towering futuristic architecture entice you away from Amsterdam. As Europe’s most popular port, Rotterdam elegantly mixes canals, boats, and trading with almost robotic and alien architectural buildings that loom over the city in a statuesque manner. From the cube house to the bustling inner dome of Markthal Rotterdam, the city is improving accessibility for all travellers.
With accessible and efficient transportation links, no matter where you stay during your Dutch break, you’re never far away from excitement. A stop at the country’s capital, The Hague is also a must. Spend the day walking around the royal houses and the parliament before going down to the beach.
Under two hours from many major UK cities, Amsterdam is the gateway city to the Netherlands. Every corner of the country has a surprise waiting to be unwrapped by eager travellers. As the country continues to improve accessibility and showcase its forward thinking inclusive culture, it’s time to pack your bags to visit our dear orange clad neighbours.
MORE INFO
Holland is calling with Accessible Travel Netherlands. Book your next trip at www.accessibletravelnl.com or call +31 (0)202 612 6967. Visit Holland’s Tourist Board for more information www.holland.com
