The Netherlands is located below sea level and much of its land has been reclaimed from the sea through building dikes and polders. The country has flat lands in the west and north that are protected from the sea. Families in the Netherlands tend to be small, with an emphasis on appearances, discipline, and thrift. Dutch is the dominant language, though Frisian is spoken in Friesland. Handshakes are used for greetings, with a short grasp, and it is considered impolite not to introduce oneself in social settings.