Netherlands

Strung out like a pearl necklace, the West Frisian islands in the Wadden Sea protect the Dutch coast... from the ravages of the ocean. The largest and best known of these is Texel, a diversified island with rolling dunes and lovely beaches, which attracts many tourists throughout the year. More than 300 bird species nest in the large nature conservation area. The EcoMare sanctuary looks after sick seals and also provides information about the history of the island. Terschelling is also a nature paradise, but with its pubs and clubs it is a favourite summer destination for young people. Schiermonnikoog, on the other hand, which is just 14 km long and 4 km wide at its widest point, seems small and isolated in comparison. But if you are looking for peace and relaxation this car-free island is the one for you. more

Probably the most significant museum in the city, with excellent collections of classic and modern art.... Old and new masters can be found side by side under one roof. Walking around the rooms of the museum is like a taking a time trip through the history of art and provides a comprehensive overview of European art. It ranges from the darkness of the Middle Ages to the present day. Exhibits in the old gallery include works by Pieter Brueghel the Elder ("De Toren van Babel“), Rembrandt ("Titus") and Hieronymus Bosch. Impressionism and Surrealism are represented by Paul Cézanne, Salvador Dalí, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, René Magritte and Piet Mondriaan. There are also numerous works by fine artists, designers and graphic artists. Temporary exhibitions offer contemporary (inter)national artists a platform for a wide range of art. more

Rockröhre Tina Turner hat sich hier verewig, auch Carlos Santana hinterließ schon einen Abdruck seiner... berühmten Gitarrenfinger auf dem Straßenpflaster. Seit der niederländische Boxer Bep van Klavereen am 5. Mai 1990 als erster seine Faust in den feuchten Beton auf dem Schiedamsedijk drückte, entwickelte sich der Rotterdamer Starboulevard langsam, aber sicher zum Europäischen Gegenstück des amerikanischen Originals. Mehr als 220 nationale und internationale Stars haben sich inzwischen hier verewigt. Während in Hollywood vor allem Schauspieler ihre Hand- und Fußabdrücke auf dem Walk of Fame hinterlassen, findet man auf dem Straßenstück zwischen Maritiemmuseum und Buitenmuseum überwiegend international bekannte Musiker, von John Bon Jovi und UB 40 bis zu Iwan Rebroff und Rex Gildo. Hossa. more