When to Go: While Amsterdam is a year-round city, the tourist season is mainly between the months of April and September. Expect a more hectic scene during these heavier tourist months.

What to Pack: The weather can be quite unpredictable all year round. Be sure to pack a raincoat and an umbrella in your luggage.

Passports and Visas: A valid national passport is required for stays of up to 3 months in The Netherlands. Visitors from the EC, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa. Citizens from other countries should obtain visas from their nearest Dutch Consulate or Embassy.

Electricity: The standard voltage throughout the Netherlands is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs have two round pins.

Health Information: Holland boasts a high standard of health and there is little need to worry about becoming ill on vacation. However, rabies is present in the Netherlands so it is suggested that anybody at high risk should consider vaccinations before departure.

Calling Amsterdam from outside The Netherlands: To call Holland, the country code is “31”. The city code for Amsterdam is "020", but if you are calling from outside the Netherlands you need to drop the initial "0".

Clothing: The Dutch are generally informal dressers and casual clothing is the norm, with the possible exception of the more exclusive restaurants which may stipulate a jacket and tie.

Opening Hours:
Banks: Business hours differ between banks. Most banks are open from 9:00am to 4:00pm Tuesday-Friday. On Mondays, business hours start mainly at 1:00pm. On Saturdays and Sundays, banks are closed. GWK offices are open 7 days a week.

Post Offices: Regular post offices are open from 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday-Friday. Bigger ones are also open on Saturdays between 9:00am and 12:00 noon/12:30pm.

Pharmacies: Regular business hours are Monday to Friday between 8:00am/9:00am and 5:30pm/6:00pm. On nights and weekends, pharmacies are open on a rotation schedule.

Shops: Most shops are open from Tuesday to Friday between 9:00am and 6:00pm, and on Saturdays between 9:00am and 5:00pm. On Monday, many shops are closed in the mornings and open between 11:00am and 1:00pm and close at 6:00pm. Most cities have late-night shopping (until 9:00pm) on Thursdays or Fridays. In the main cities, many shops are open on Sunday from 12:00 noon to 5:00pm. In most holiday and tourist resorts, many shops are open at night as well. For business hours on Sundays or late night shopping, please call a local tourist information office in the city of your destination.

Local Cuisine: It is worth noting that the Dutch usually eat dinner between 6 and 7pm so you may find that some restaurants close at 10pm, taking last orders at 9.

Something to Drink: The Dutch are mainly beer drinkers and portions are smaller than in some other countries. If you ask for just "a beer", you will more than likely be given a half-pint glass with a frothy head so it's worthwhile being specific about your order.

Local Climate: The weather in the Netherlands features warm summers and cold winters, and rainfall is possible no matter what the season.

Emergency Numbers: For police, ambulance and fire, dial "112". If you are not in an emergency situation, but you wish to contact the police, call (31) (0)900 88 44. Please note that this is not a free call.

Medical Care: The doctors, dentists and hospitals are among the best in the world.

Safety Information: Amsterdam is generally a very safe place. However, like in most cities, petty crime can be a problem and it is worthwhile being extra cautious, in the red-light district especially.

Exchange Information: The best rates of exchange are generally found at banks, as hotels typically charge high commissions.

Credit Card Information: Most major credit cards, such as Access/Mastercard, American Express and Visa, are widely accepted.

Tipping: Service charge is generally included in all meals, taxi fares and the like, however you may wish to tip a small amount if the level of service warrants it.