Netherlands
The Netherlands are sometimes mistakenly referred to as Holland. A map of Holland very clearly shows that while it is part of the Netherlands, it is only a province, not the country itself. The Netherlands have of course always been known for their tulips and any Holland map will show various areas germane to the growing of these blooms. Also a trademark of the Netherlands are the wooden shoes which make great mementos, the tasty cheese, and also the every present bicycles which have actually become a marketable item in much of Europe. Bigger than the average bike, these sturdy forms of transportation are said to be safer, and more easily maneuverable than their frail counterparts.

Of course, the Netherlands are also known for their secular progressive stands on the legalization of marijuana in particular and other drugs in general, the positive view on same sex marriage, and also the fact that in the Netherlands euthanasia is legal. Christmas in Holland – and also Christmas in the Netherlands – is a collection of traditions couched in secular trappings, since there are very few religious connotations left to this holiday.

Wagging tongues proclaim that in 2006 the Netherlands’ government fell and in a few decades the country itself will fall. While it is true that there has been political upheaval with the expression of mistrust and the multi-party system choking itself, it will be a long time until the Netherlands flag will fall.

When you visit this country and peruse a map of the Netherlands, you will undoubtedly see many dikes which serve to keep floods to a minimum. Considering the sometimes volatile weather and the fact that a Netherlands map shows that the country is in large part below sea level, this is a vital necessity. If you want to spend Christmas in Netherlands, why not travel to Rotterdam or Utrecht? Of course, if you want to see the poster child liberalism – which in many ways put the Netherlands on the map of secular progressivism – visit Amsterdam and be amazed at the sights and sounds. Historic buildings and customs struggle side by side with modern inventions and customs and both work to meld together so as to present a unified whole. Growing pains in a country that is changing and drawing away from its historic and religious roots is only normal, and as such the Netherlands and Holland are doing a good job at making changes gradually without ripping apart the social fabric.