The Tulips of Dutch country

A rich red and crystal pink pallet stretch for miles across the dutch countryside and is quite a sight at this time of year. In 1637, when the Dutch tulip bulb market collapsed the locals lost everything they had. So when the flowers bloom in the land today, the country’s people take time to celebrate this special flower’s meaning. “We have these very dark, wet winters,” says Ms. Hoogland, “so when the tulips start blooming, it’s emotional.”

Flying into Shiphol Airport you’ll pass over the sandy soil behind Netherlands’ coastal dunes. From Haarlem to the Haque the bright fields below are breath taking. Gregory Dickum of the New York Post had the chance to experience Bollenstreek, the largest of many flower parades held across the country held in Haarlem.

“Children danced under the influence of salty Dutch licorice as dozens of floral-psychedelic floats cruised by, each sculptured from countless blossoms. A vast Pippi Longstocking, a huge purple beer barrel and succulent-looking fruits as big as garden sheds scented the air for precise marching bands.”

Dickum goes on to share that his recommended bicycle trip he rode over quaint brides covering waterways filled with swans. The sweet smell of hyacinth was occasionaly interrupted by a whiff of agricultural chemicals. “The acres and acres of tulips in bloom are dazzling,” says Amy Stewart, author of the best-selling “Flower Confidential,” “but it’s also a factory: Holland is one of the few places people can get a glimpse of how the modern flower industry operates.”

Dickum preaches only to buy the fresh cut flowers if you do visit since the same bulbs from the same region are available at home. “For the Dutch, flowers are an everyday necessity: you’ll see fresh bouquets everywhere, from homes to herring stands. You should follow their lead,” says Dickum.

By, Melissa Vitti