Dutch provinces - North Holland

As I mentioned in this blog there are 12 provinces in The Netherlands. This entry will briefly cover North Holland (Noord-Holland).

Location of North Holland

Flag of North Holland

North Holland is the province where the country's capital, Amsterdam, is located.

Flag of Amsterdam

I haven't actually seen much of Noord-Holland, having spent the bulk of my time in that province in Amsterdam, which has enough museums and sights to keep one occupied for several days (and let's not forget the Heineken Experience!! But, to be honest, I was feeling really old by the end of that tour). I've visited the Anne Frank house twice so far, with a 3rd visit planned for next month. Fortunately, most of the museums in Amsterdam are included with the Museumkaart and are thus free.

The location that ranks second for amount of time spent would be Schiphol airport. The runways are vast, crossing at least 1 highway. I generally joke that we're in Germany by the time we actually take off. 

I did visit Zaanse Schans when my friend came to visit back in April. It is the more touristy version of Kinderdijk.

There is also the IJsselmeer which is currently a lake (hence "meer") but was once part of the Zuiderzee but was blocked off to create a fresh water lake. Boat trips on the lake are available.

I've heard that Haarlem is a pretty town (home of another Ikea) but I have yet to actually make a stop there.