Tag: Netherlands

Tulip Season in the Netherlands
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Top Spring Events and Festivals Around the Globe

on March 19, 2026

Spring is a season of new beginnings, colors, and celebrations across the world. As winter fades and flowers begin to bloom, many cultures welcome the warmer months with vibrant festivals and unique traditions. From colorful parades to century-old celebrations, spring offers travelers unforgettable experiences that highlight the culture and spirit of destinations around the globe.

Tulip Season in the Netherlands

Each spring, millions of tulips bloom across the countryside of the Netherlands, transforming fields into a stunning patchwork of bright colors. Tulip season in the Netherlands runs from late March to mid-May, with peak blooms usually in mid-April. The best place to see these are at the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse (open March 19-May 10, 2026).

keukenhof Gardens

If interested in seeing this beautiful spectacle in person, Gate 1 has you covered with our 9 Day Tulip Time River Cruise tour. Travelers will embark on a panoramic tour of Amsterdam, next they will visit Willemstad to view the iconic windmills built in the 1700s, and last, they will take a morning tour in the Keukenhof Gardens. Gate 1 also offers this trip with up to seven different variations for travelers to pick from.

Holi Festival: India’s Celebration of Color

The Holi festival typically occurs on March 3-4 every year. Though this date has already passed, we thought it was worth mentioning. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, a night of bonfires symbolizing the destruction of evil. The following day, known as Rangwali Holi or Dhuleti, involves joyfully applying colored powders and water to friends and family.

Holi Festival

The significance of the Holi festival in India commemorates the legend of Prahlad’s devotion to Vishnu and the burning of the demoness Holika. It also celebrates the divine, playful love of Radha and Krishna. The different colors featured in the festival all have individual meanings. Red (love), blue (Krishna), Green (new beginnings), and yellow (turmeric/auspiciousness). Participants often wear white, enjoying traditional foods like gujiya and thandai, and celebrate in the streets with music and drums.

Songkran: Thailand’s Famous Water Festival

Songkran, the Thai New Year and world’s biggest water fight, is celebrated annually in Thailand from April 13-15 as a time of renewal, purification, and family reunion. The purpose of the festival is to celebrate after the rice harvest to mark the sun’s passage into Aries. This represents a spiritual cleaning to welcome the New Year with good fortune.

Songkran Thailand

The festival has evolved into city-wide water battles, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, involving both tourists and locals. If you’re planning on participating in Songkran, tourists must follow these rules. Make sure to wear bright floral shirts (Songkran shirts), use waterproof bags, and bring a small change just in case. Do not pour water on monks, infants, or the elderly.

Cherry Blossom Season in Japan

Hanami is a Japanese tradition of celebrating spring by holding picnics and parties under blooming cherry blossom trees (Sakura). This typically occurs between late March and early April, signifying new beginnings. Locals will gather for food and drinks to enjoy the beautiful scenes, often extending into illuminated night viewing (Yozakura).

Japan Cherry Blossom

This iconic blossom moves from Southern Japan to Northern Japan. The top locations to see this gorgeous view include Hirosaki Park, Maruyama Park, and the Yoshino area. Some tips for travelers visiting the blossom are to get to the spots early, many locals have spots reserved hours in advance. Also, do not pick the blossoms from the trees, it is strictly prohibited.

Las Fallas in Valencia

The Fallas of Valencia, Spain is a UNESCO listed festival held annually from March 15-19 to welcome spring. It features hundreds of giant, satirical, papier-mâché sculptures called fallas and smaller ninots erected throughout the city. The celebration hits its peak with a “La Cremà”, where these artistic monuments are burned, symbolizing purification, renewal, and a fiery start to the new season.

Valencia Las Fallas

This tradition dates to the 18th century, originating from local carpenters burning old wood and remnants on the feast day of their patron saint, Saint Joseph, to welcome spring. Though the main events are from the 15-19, celebrations occur starting on the first day of March. Every day from the 1st to the 19th, synchronized firecracker displays go off at 2 PM in Valencia’s Town Hall Square.

Celebrating Spring Around the World From flower-filled gardens in the Netherlands, to colorful celebrations in India, and lively traditions in Spain, spring festivals bring communities together to celebrate new beginnings. Experiencing these events first-hand offers travelers a deeper understanding of local cultures while celebrating the beauty and energy of the season. If interested in visiting any of these countries mentioned above, click here to see Gate 1’s full itinerary.

Belgium Canals
EuropeGate 1 Connections

A Rich and Unique Blend of European Cultures: Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg

on January 5, 2024

Nestled in Western Europe is a captivating region known as Benelux comprised of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. With a variety of tour options, Gate 1 Travel offers you the opportunity to experience this area’s unique cultural wonders for yourself. With packages such as the 16 Day Tastes of Belgium, Holland & Southern France you’ll get to see the best of the region and beyond. Read some of the highlights below and plan your trip to experience this region’s endearing wonders for yourself.

Belgium: Decadent Chocolate and Rich History

Belgium is well-known for its chocolate, beer, waffles, and other culinary delights, and its history is just as rich as its flavors. See the impressive 7th century St. Bavo’s Cathedral and Gravensteen Castle during a tour of Ghent. Visit a chocolatier in Bruges to learn about the confectionary history and traditions and, of course, indulge in some sweet samples. During a tour of the capital city of Brussels you’ll get to take in panoramic views of the Royal Palace, explore the Museum district, and stroll through the city center taking in all the sights and sounds.

The Netherlands: Art, Technology, and Nature

The Netherlands, famous for its windmills and tulips, is a haven for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In Amsterdam visit the world-famous Rijksmuseum with its vast collection of works from great artists including the Dutch masters Vermeer and Rembrandt. See authentic, quaint windmills standing tall amongst stunning landscapes, and float down historic canals. Travelers on our 12 Day Benelux: Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, France & Germany Discovery Small Group Tour will get an up-close look at one of the most impressive modern technological innovations in the world: The Delta Works. Taking 30 years to complete, this nearly six-mile-long storm flood barrier stands as the final defense in the battle against the water. The Netherlands’ unique blend of old and new, modern structures and natural landscapes, offer an experience you won’t forget.  

Luxembourg: A Multicultural Melting Pot

Although Luxembourg is one of the smallest countries in the world, it’s also one of the most charming. At the heart of the region, its enchanting fairytale-like castles and distinctive multilingual identity bring cultural and historic diversity to the region. Luxembourgish, French, and German languages blend seamlessly in this multicultural melting pot. As you wander through the medieval streets of Luxembourg City, you’ll be immersed in a heritage shaped by centuries of cross-cultural influences. During your tour you’ll also get to stop at the entrance to the city to visit the U.S. Military Cemetery from WWII where over 5,000 American soldiers and General Patton are laid to rest.

What makes Benelux truly special is the harmonious coexistence of these distinct cultures. In addition to deeply rooted historic traditions these three countries are also at the forefront of modern trends. This dynamic blend makes the region a cultural hub within Europe that shouldn’t be missed. Browse all our packages to the area and book your trip today!

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Canals of Amsterdam, Netherlands

on December 13, 2019

The incredible canals of Amsterdam could be considered highly underrated even in all their popularity. The canals were added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2010 and surpass the amount of canals in Venice, Italy. Perhaps this is why Amsterdam is sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the North.” Amsterdam contains about 90 islands that are connected by 1500+ bridges. Numerous historical buildings line the banks of these incredible canals.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user Scott Anna using the hashtag #gate1travel. This stunning view was captured in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Belgium & Holland trips here! 

Did you know: In the olden days, living on a houseboat in the canals was a symbol of poverty but now they are extremely popular and some are even located near the city center!

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Tulip Time in Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands

on June 21, 2019

Welcome to one of the most beautiful and largest garden in the entire world, the Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands. Millions of flowers are planted yearly in this massive 79-acre garden. A variety of sub-gardens are offered here depending on style including the Historical Garden, Nature Garden, Japanese Garden and more. Make sure to have your cameras ready and charged up because you will find colorful and impressive sights at every turn.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @strayingmountain using the hashtag #gate1travel. This colorful picture was taken in Lisse, Netherlands on a Tulip Time River Cruise. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Tulip Time River Cruise trips here! 

Top 10 Things to do in Benelux
EuropeTravel Tips

Top 10 Things to do in Benelux

on April 9, 2018

Welcome to the region of Northwestern Europe known as Benelux, named for the union of three neighboring states; Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg. This area of world is known for its landscapes, Dutch culture, medieval towns and, of course, tulips in the spring! The areas prime languages are Dutch in the Netherlands and French in Brussels-Flower_Carpet-ContrastBelgium and Luxembourg. In Benelux you will find famous towns and cities that have a history that is centuries older than that of the United States. History buffs, travel junkies and thrill seekers alike will love this part of Europe thanks to its diversity in culture, foods and activities. We have complied the can’t miss cities, towns and foods of Benelux for your next trip to the area!

10. Grand Place, Brussels

We will get to the city where the Grand Place is located later in the list, but we wanted to highlight one of the spots that you cannot miss while traveling to Brussels, Belgium. The Grand Place or Grote Markt is the picturesque, ornately decorated central square in Brussels. The square is made up of guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’ House that contains the Museum of the City of Brussels. This square is truly unforgettable and will be one of your favorite spots to photograph on your whole trip. We suggest going at night, in addition to daylight, to see it all lit up and with people strolling around the square.

9. Bruges

Bruges is a fairy-tale town in Belgium that borders the North Sea. Bruges is a must visit with beautiful canals, medieval architecture and cobbled streets. Things to do while in normal (1)the city include the Markt, or town center, the Belfry of Bruges, which provides you with an excellent view of the city, and Chocolate Shops, you will find some great chocolate in this town so buy some here! This town is very walk-able and is excellent for a stroll at nighttime after dinner. You will see all these beautiful medieval buildings lit up while the safe cobbled streets of Bruges line your way.

8. Vollendam – Cheese and Clogs

Vollendam is a small town just outside of Amsterdam that has great things for tourists and taste buds alike! This fishing village is your gateway to many of the things that you think of when you hear the word “Dutch”. Cheese, windmills, bonnets and clogs can all be bought here and you may even see some locals that still wear this attire everyday. If you are a cheese lover this is the perfect place to sample some of the countries most famous cheeses and even try something different. You might also want to purchase cheese here either to eat the rest of the tour or to bring home. If you are bringing the cheese home, be sure to put it in your checked luggage.

7. Chocolates

Chocolates are something the entire world enjoys and there is no better place to buy some then in the Benelux region. The best places to buy chocolate on your trip are in Brussels and Bruges. In Brussels you will find four delicious shops right in its main square, the Grand Place, on its north side. Godiva, Neuhaus, Galler and Leonidas can all be found here. If you aren’t sure what to buy here, purchase a six-piece 100-gram mix of these delicious delights to get your taste buds going. Bruges also has an array of places to buy tasty Chocolates; Dumon, The Chocolate Line, BbyB and Confiserie de Clerck, to name a few. Enjoy your treats on your tour and make sure to bring some home to your friends.

6. Bastogne – Battle of the Bulge

Welcome to one of the most important battlefields of WWII; Bastogne, Belgium, where the Battle of the Bulge took place. This battle is where U.S. forces fought against retreating Germans and was the bloodiest fought by the U.S. in all of WWII. In Bastogne you will find the War Museum which covers WWII in its entirety and the somber resting place of hundreds of thousands of soldiers from both the Allied and German sides. Make sure to view the Mardasson Memorial, a memorial honoring the American soldiers wounded or killed during this battle.

5. Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is located in a city further down on our list, but it is worth its own spot because of its historical importance and message. The museum is in the actual house that the Franks lived in while their family was Classical Amsterdam viewforced to go into hiding from the Nazis. The home still has the bookcase through which the annex where they hid is located. Throughout the house are excerpts from Anne’s diary, information about the war and the details of the persecution the Jewish people went through leading up to and during World War II. The museum is a harrowing experience to say the least but it is so well-done that every tourist and local should make the visit.

4. Luxembourg

Welcome to the “Grand Duchy” of Luxembourg, meaning that the territory is ruled by a grand duke or duchess, the last of its kind in the entire world! This country is one of the smallest in the world but don’t let the size fool you, it is the richest country in all of Europe. Stop in this tiny little country and visit the U.S. Military Cemetery from WWII and pay your respects to those who died for our country in the bloodiest war ever fought.

3. French Fries

French Fries are always a good idea and people from Belgium will let you know that they are in fact a Belgian dish! Some of the best french fries you will find will be in Brussels. This city is known for this delicious fare and it is the perfect excuse to make a meal out of this snack. Some of the best places to find fries in Belgium include Fritland, Frit Flagey, Maison Antoine, Friterie du Miroir and many others. Have your fries with the perfect sauce and a cold Belgian beer and you will be in culinary heaven.

2. Brussels

Brussels is a primarily French-speaking city loaded with history, architecture, art and culture. While here it is very important to enjoy some local delights that you may already know that you enjoy; chocolates, french fries, waffles, beers and mussels. While in Brussels, make sure to visit some of the famous landmarks and sites including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Grand Place, Manneken Pis Statue, the Atomium and Mini-Europe. Discover one of the most underrated cities in the world and enjoy all Brussels has to offer.

1. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most exciting cities in the world. It has everything; culture, food, beer, shopping, art, friendly people and even picturesque canals around the city. The city has great transportation and you can travel freely around the city using buses, Amsterdam Holland_1111_dt_5651561trams and metros. Some of the best things to do in Amsterdam include a canal cruise, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Red Light District and the Flower Market. One of the best parts of travel is food, so while in Amsterdam you must try street waffles, bitterballen, beer, raw herring, Dutch licorice and Indonesian Rijstaffel, which is an array of small Indonesian dishes that were first invented to let colonials sample traditional dishes. Most importantly, have a great time in one of my personal favorite cities in the world!

#G1PhotoFriday

The Canals of Amsterdam

on February 16, 2018

The Amstel River flows through the canals of Amsterdam and creates beautiful views like the one seen here. There are three main canals in Amsterdam including the Herengracht, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht, which have truly shaped the city! The city is linked by over ninety islands and over 1,4000 bridges to create a truly unique city built atop the water.

 

amsterdam

 

This week’s #g1photofriday was submitted by user @andreatindal using the hashtag #gate1travel. This riverside view was taken in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Holland trips here!