The Hague: The Royal City by the Sea

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeTot ziens
  [tot zeens]
• YesJa
  [ya]
• NoNee
  [nee]
• Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [ahl-stu-bleeft]
• Thank youDank je
  [dank ye]
• Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [soh-ree]
• How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [hoo gat het]
• Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [hut. en met yow]
• Do you speak English?Spreekt u Engels?
  [spreekt oo en-gels]
• I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik buh-greyp het neet]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMag ik de menukaart zien, alstublieft
  [mag ik de menu-kart seen, ahl-stu-bleeft]
• I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik ayt kheyn vlays]
• Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alstublieft
  [ik vil khrahg buh-tah-len, ahl-stu-bleeft]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Ga weg!
  [ga vekh]
• Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel de poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel ayn dohk-ter]
• I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben fer-dwahlt]
• I'm illIk ben ziek
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• I'd like to buy...Ik wil graag kopen...
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• I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar even rond
  [ik kike ayl-uhn mahr ay-ven ront]
• How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hu-vel kost het]
• That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [dat is tuh dur]
• Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [kunt oo de prise vuh-rah-ghen]

• What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hoo laht is het]
• It's one o'clockHet is een uur
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• Half past (10)Half elf
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• MorningOchtend
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• AfternoonMiddag
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• EveningAvond
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• YesterdayGisteren
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• TodayVandaag
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• TomorrowMorgen
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• 1Een
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• 10Tien
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• Where's a/the...?Waar is de...
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• What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vat is het ah-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u mij laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [kunt oo may la-ten seen (op de kart)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [ven-ehr is de vol-hen-duh (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ....)
  [ayn kart-yuh (nar)]

The Hague, known as 's-Gravenhage or Den Haag in Dutch, was founded in 1230 by Count Floris IV of Holland. Originally a hunting residence, it evolved into a governmental center as the Counts of Holland established their administrative seat there. The village grew around the Binnenhof, a complex of buildings that still serves as the Dutch parliament's seat.

The Binnenhof is a historic complex that has been the heart of Dutch politics for centuries. The Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights), built in the 13th century, is the most iconic building within the Binnenhof. It hosts the annual Prinsjesdag, where the monarch delivers the 'Speech from the Throne,' outlining the government's agenda for the coming year.

The Hague played a pivotal role during the Eighty Years' War (1568–1648), a revolt against Spanish rule. As the conflict progressed, the city became a refuge for Protestant leaders and served as a central hub for the rebellion. In 1581, the States General of the Netherlands declared independence from Spain in the Act of Abjuration, marking the birth of the Dutch Republic.

The Peace Palace, completed in 1913, is one of The Hague's most significant landmarks. Funded by Andrew Carnegie, it houses the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and the Hague Academy of International Law. The Peace Palace symbolizes The Hague's long-standing reputation as the 'City of Peace and Justice.'

During World War II, The Hague was occupied by Nazi Germany. The city suffered significant damage, particularly in the notorious 'Bombardment of Bezuidenhout' in 1945, which aimed to destroy V-2 rocket launch sites but instead devastated a residential area. Post-war reconstruction efforts restored much of the city's historical architecture.

Established in 2002, the International Criminal Court (ICC) is another testament to The Hague's role in global justice. The ICC prosecutes individuals for crimes of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The court's presence reinforces The Hague's status as an international hub for legal and humanitarian efforts.

The Mauritshuis, an art museum housed in a 17th-century mansion, is renowned for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Hals. Escher in Het Paleis, dedicated to the works of M.C. Escher, showcases the artist's mathematically inspired prints and drawings, highlighting The Hague's rich cultural heritage.

In recent decades, The Hague has continued to evolve as a modern city while preserving its historical roots. It hosts numerous international organizations, including Europol and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The city's blend of historical landmarks and modern infrastructure underscores its dynamic and multifaceted character.

The Hague is well-connected both domestically and internationally. The nearest major airport is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), located about 45 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a direct train to The Hague Central Station (Den Haag Centraal), which takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is another option, located approximately 20 kilometers from the city. From Rotterdam The Hague Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to The Hague. For those traveling by train within Europe, The Hague is accessible via high-speed trains such as Thalys and Eurostar.

The Hague has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains operated by HTM and NS. The OV-chipkaart is a convenient way to pay for public transport. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, with plenty of rental options and dedicated bike lanes. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available but can be more expensive. For exploring nearby cities, trains run frequently between The Hague and other major Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht.

The official currency in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in places where cards are not accepted. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and contactless payments are commonly used. Keep in mind that some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards, so having cash is always a good backup.

The Hague is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s always wise to remain vigilant. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Areas such as the Schilderswijk neighborhood have higher crime rates compared to other parts of the city. It’s best to avoid these areas, especially at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire services, or medical help. The Hague has several hospitals and clinics, including HMC Westeinde and Bronovo Hospital. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For lost or stolen items, report to the local police station.

Fashion: Do dress smart-casual when dining out or attending events. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale settings. Religion: Do respect local religious sites and practices. Avoid disruptive behavior in places of worship. Public Transport: Do validate your OV-chipkaart before boarding. Don’t occupy priority seats meant for the elderly or disabled. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and make eye contact. A simple 'hallo' or 'goedendag' is polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like herring and stroopwafels. Don’t leave a tip unless the service was exceptional, as tipping is not obligatory but appreciated.

To experience The Hague like a local, visit the Haagse Markt, one of the largest outdoor markets in Europe, for fresh produce and a variety of goods. Take a stroll through the city’s parks, such as the Haagse Bos or Westbroekpark. Don’t miss the seaside resort Scheveningen, where you can enjoy the beach and local seafood. Engage with locals in cafes and bars, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city.