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Amsterdam Netherlands

INTRODUCTION

Amsterdam, though relatively small, is bursting with history and culture and is a city unlike any other in Europe, let alone the world. While not only being the capital of the Netherlands, as well as boasting the National Monument, Amsterdam has become a haven for thrill seekers around the globe. One major reason for this is the legalization of organized prostitution and the decriminalization of marijuana, along with a few other controlled substances that can be found in one of the city's many "coffee shops" in and around the Red Light District.

Recreational drug use aside, Amsterdam's gorgeous canals are one of the major draws for tourism in this unique neck of the world. Spreading throughout the city in concentric rings, Amsterdam's canals add to the sightseeing aspect of the city and make for a pleasant day of wandering aimlessly until you find a point of interest. Be sure to check out the unique "houseboats" as you walk along the canals. Beyond the modern tourism surge in Amsterdam, for hundreds of years the city has been home to painters, poets, and artists of all media. Van Gogh lived here and the city still maintains a museum in his honor. Other places of note include the Heineken Brewery and the Anne Frank House?, where you should plan on spending a considerable amount of time standing in line should you decide to take the tour.

Debaucherous romps and decadent behavior abound in this unique and liberal city. The decriminalization of marijuana and government regulated prostitution are major draws for tourism in Amsterdam. But don't think it's all sex, drugs, and rock ’n roll here. Lots of museums, such as the Anne Frank house, and serene canals around every corner make for a wonderful day of sightseeing.

ATTRACTIONS

Amsterdam Tulip Museum: Who hasn't wanted to see the Tulips of Holland? At this wonderful museum, located on the Prinsengracht near the Anne Frank house, you can learn about how Holland became one of the world's best growers of the ever popular tulip. You can make a day of visiting both the museum and Anne Frank's house.

Anne Frank Huis: Visit this amazing little house and see exactly how Anne Frank lived during the war. Walk through the rooms in the attic. Some of her original furnishings are still in tact. In Anne's room there are still remnants of the clippings she decorated her wall with.

Bijbels museum: Have you ever wondered about the origins of the Bible? This museum will show you the origins of the bible, its background, and influence on the community.

Glazen Huis: You won't believe it till you see it. This house is made of glass.

Museum van Loon: This museum was built in 1672 and is what's known as a double canal house. On the inside you will find it has been decorated with rich paneling, stucco, mirrors, and fireplaces.

Van Gogh Museum: Features the largest collection of art by this Dutch post-impressionists, including many famous self-portraits.

Rijksmuseum: Located near the Van Gogh Museum, these two museums alone will take up several hours of your time. Holland’s Golden Age is the highlight of the Rijksmuseum.

Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum: This museum focuses on the history of marijuana and the different uses of hemp. It also has a little growing room and on some days visitors can try some of the marijuana.

Artis Zoo

Heineken Brewery

ACTIVITIES

Walk the famous 9 streets to pick up cutting edge fashion and eclectic wares. These are the streets that connect the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, and Herengracht. They are cute and have some nice stores.

Rent bikes at night instead of the day, when Amsterdam is most romantic, and bike across the dimly lit bridges or pub.

Don't miss out on the canal cruises or pedalos. Though it is rather stereotypical, it is a must when visiting Amsterdam. You will not experience a better view of the houses, house boats, and bridges. On a sunny day you can enjoy the warm rays while sipping on a glass of wine.

Concertgebouw: If you enjoy classical music and the ticket price is doable, go to a concert. The concert hall itself is stunning. If you can't afford that, there are free afternoon concerts ("lunch concert") in the Concertgebouw on Wednesday afternoons.

RESTAURANTS

Café Batavia: Found along the Zaan.

Herberg Hooghoudt: Their specialities are Dutch dishes with alternating season dishes and plats du jour. You wouldn't believe it but this place actually started as a gin bodega.

Aeon Plaza Hotel Artemis Amsterdam: A great place to catch up for an informal lunch or a romantic dinner.

Golden Temple: If you want atmosphere, great vegetarian food, and really friendly people, this is the place to visit in Amsterdam.

The Pancake Bakery: Located just down the street from the Anne Frank house. Serves delicious and unique pancakes that will fill you up for a reasonable price. The Pancake Bakery gives you a taste of genuine Dutch cuisine, since the Dutch invented pancakes in the 17th century.

LODGING

Hotel Pulitzer: Overlooking two of the city's most picturesque canals, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht, Hotel Pulitzer is ideally located in the middle of the old city center of Amsterdam. Each one of their distinctive rooms represent a small piece of Dutch history and culture.

St. Christopher's: Close to the heart of Amsterdam lies St Christopher's at the Winston. This unique art hotel and budget hostel is located between Dam Square and the Red Light District, and it's only a 5 minute walk to the heart of the city and the central train station. All rooms have been decorated by local artists.

Hotelboat Ideaal: A private house boat in the heart of Amsterdam, this unique accommodation blends a streak of adventure with trusted comforts, creating an unforgettable experience. This floating home is situated in the popular quarter De Pijp, near many of Amsterdam’s main attractions and surrounded by a wealth of international restaurants and bars. Its privileged location, near the famous Amstel river, allows guests to admire the picturesque setting from their doorstep.