The Netherlands, often referred to as Holland, is a country located mainly in Northwestern Europe. It shares borders with Germany to the east, Belgium to the south, and the North Sea to the northwest.
As of 2021, the Netherlands has a population of approximately 17.5 million people. Its capital is Amsterdam, and the official language is Dutch. The government operates as a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with King Willem-Alexander serving as the current monarch.
The Netherlands is known for its flat landscape, which is characterized by canals, tulip fields, windmills, and cycling routes. Despite being a small country, it boasts a high standard of living and a well-developed economy. It's also known for its liberal policies on issues like drugs and prostitution.
The Netherlands played a significant role in the age of exploration and established a global trading network. The Dutch Golden Age was a period of great wealth and cultural achievement.
In terms of economy, it’s the world's second-largest exporter of goods after Germany. The Netherlands is noted for its innovative sectors like agriculture and food, life sciences and health, creative industries, and more. It's home to several global corporations like Unilever, Heineken, Royal Dutch Shell, Philips, and ING.
Additionally, it’s one of the top countries in the world for environmental quality, offering high living standards, health, well-being, and excellent infrastructure. The Netherlands has also been recognized for its highly effective educational system.
The Dutch people are known as being very direct, open-minded, and with a strong emphasis on individualism and egalitarianism.
