Do the Dutch Call It Holland or the Netherlands?
Many people get confused about what to call the country in northwestern Europe. Is it Holland or the Netherlands? Let's clarify this.
The Land of Windmills and Tulips
You might have heard of the windmills and tulips that represent Dutch culture. The correct term is the Netherlands.
What About Holland?
Holland refers to a region within the Netherlands. It includes two provinces: North Holland and South Holland. These provinces host famous cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, which have significantly influenced Dutch history, trade, and culture.
The Misconception
Many people mistakenly use "Holland" to refer to the entire country. While it’s not entirely incorrect, it is misleading. The Netherlands consists of twelve provinces, with Holland being just a small part.
The Dutch Perspective
Locally, the Dutch prefer the term "the Netherlands." They take pride in their diverse country and appreciate when others use its full name.
To avoid confusion, refer to the country as the Netherlands. If discussing the cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague, you can mention that they are in the Holland region. Next time you discuss this beautiful country, remember it's the Netherlands, not just Holland.