Dutch is the official language. English is widely spoken. Fries (as well as Dutch) is spoken by the people of Friesland province.
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The Euro (EUR) is the official currency of the Netherlands, and it is divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted. Foreign currency or travelers checks can be changed at banks, post offices or bureau de change (usually indicated by the letters GWK). Banks are closed on weekends. ATMs are widely distributed and most are open 24 hours a day.
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The international access code for the Netherlands is +31. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the US). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)20 for Amsterdam. Five local mobile phone operators have the Netherlands extremely well covered with GSM 900 and 1800 networks. Internet cafes are widely available.
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Service charges are included in hotel rates, restaurant bills and taxi fares, usually at 15 percent. Tips for good service are always appreciated but not necessary. It is customary to tip taxi drivers and waiters 10 percent.
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Travel in Holland is fairly safe. Travelers should, however, always exercise caution in empty streets at night and be aware of pickpockets, particularly in central Amsterdam and at Central Station.
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There are no health risks associated with travel to The Netherlands and no inoculations are required. It is safe to drink tap water. The standard of health care in The Netherlands is very high, but the necessary health insurance provisions must be made before traveling.
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Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Two-pin round European-style plugs are used.
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