Netherlands

The Netherlands boasts one of the world’s most efficient public transport networks, making it a dream for travelers who prefer trains over planes. The national rail service, NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), connects major hubs like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht with high-frequency intervals. To travel like a local, you no longer need a physical transport card; you can simply use OVpay by tapping your contactless debit or credit card at the yellow gates. For navigating intricate bus routes or checking live train platforms, staying connected is vital. Activating a Hello eSIM before you land at Schiphol Airport ensures you have immediate data to use the 9292 app, the gold standard for door-to-door transit directions in the country.

Of course, you cannot visit the Netherlands without hopping on a bicycle. In cities like Utrecht or The Hague, bikes often outnumber people. You can rent a 'stadsfiets' (city bike) for roughly €10 to €15 ($11 to $16.50) per day. Use the Hello app’s trip planning feature to map out scenic routes through the Jordaan district or the tulip fields of Lisse. Just remember: always stay in the designated red bike lanes and never stop abruptly—Dutch cyclists are efficient and expect you to be the same.

Dutch food culture is centered around the concept of gezelligheid—a word that translates roughly to 'coziness' or 'social connection.' To experience this, head to a traditional 'brown café' for a borrel, the Dutch equivalent of happy hour. Order a plate of bitterballen (deep-fried gravy croquettes) served with sharp mustard. If you are traveling with friends, the Hello app’s expense splitting feature is perfect for managing the bill after a few rounds of local craft beers or a Jenever (Dutch gin).

For those with a sweet tooth, a visit to the Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam is essential for a fresh, warm stroopwafel. Expect to pay about €2.50 ($2.75) for a standard one, or slightly more for a chocolate-dipped version. If you are feeling brave, try the Hollandse Nieuwe (raw herring) from a street stall; the traditional way to eat it is by holding it by the tail and sliding it into your mouth, garnished with onions and pickles. Because these markets can be hectic, having your Hello eSIM active allows you to quickly look up the best-rated stalls or translate Dutch menu boards on the fly without worrying about expensive roaming fees.

The Netherlands is rapidly becoming a cashless society. Many boutiques, cafes, and even some grocery stores like Albert Heijn carry 'PIN only' signs, meaning they do not accept cash at all. While Visa and Mastercard are now widely accepted, it is always wise to carry a backup card. To keep your finances in check, use the Hello app’s budget tracking feature to record your spending in Euros. This is particularly helpful when visiting world-class institutions like the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum, where adult tickets typically cost around €22 ($24).

If you plan on visiting more than five museums, consider the Museumkaart, which offers unlimited entry to over 400 museums for a year, though temporary visitors might prefer the I amsterdam City Card for shorter stays. Beyond the capital, use your data from Hello eSIM to find hidden gems like the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Hoge Veluwe National Park. By tracking your daily costs in the local currency within the app, you can ensure your budget stretches far enough to include that extra slice of appeltaart with slagroom (whipped cream) at a canal-side terrace.