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RIPE 51 Practical Information

	Money Matters Currency Exchange The Dutch currency is the Euro (pl. euros). You can change money in most banks. The GWK Exchange bureau at Central Station offers a better exchange rate. Changing your money at hotels and some other foreign exchange shops is more expensive. Online Currency Converter You can find a currency converter at:http://www.xe.com/ucc/ Banks Banks are open on weekdays between 09:00 - 17:00. Some banks are also open on Saturday between 10:00 - 16:00, and Thursday evening between 17:00 - 20:00. Credit Cards All major credit cards are accepted widely, but not everywhere. If in doubt, ask in advance. Cash-on-card services are available from selected American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa Card addresses. These cards are also accepted by all GWK currency exchange outlets and change express offices. You will find the GWK offices at Central Station and Schiphol airport.
	Business Hours Normal business hours are 09:00 - 18:00, Monday to Friday. Thursday is late night shopping in Amsterdam. Banks close earlier (see above). Saturday opening hours are generally from 09:00 - 17:00. Sunday most shops in the Amsterdam city center are open from 12:00 - 17:00.
	Car Rental Most major companies have branches in the Netherlands with desks in the arrivals hall at Schiphol airport. Budget Rent-a-Car Diks Autoverhuur Bedrijf
	Electricity EU standard: Netherlands 220V 50 Hz - round two pin plugs.
	Weather You can find a local weather forecast at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/
	Public Transport The public transport system is well developed with buses, trams and an underground system (Metro). If you want to use a tram, it is cheaper to buy a 15 strip ticket from a news agent, supermarket or tobacconist. When you enter a tram (usually through the rear door), tell the conductor where you want to go and they will stamp the ticket. Most travel within the centre of Amsterdam is within one zone and you will need to stamp two strips. When stamped you can change trams as often as you like for up to one hour. More information available form the Amsterdam Public Transport website.
	General Information Dutch is the national language of the Netherlands. Most Dutch people have a basic command of the English language. In addition, many Dutch people speak German and French.
	Emergency Telephone Numbers Police/Fire/Ambulance: 112 Police (non-emergency): 559-9111 Free legal advice: 548-2611 or 626-4477 Doctor Services: 664-2111 Dental Emergencies: 686-1109