Posted January 12, 2010 by Joyce Wan
Amsterdam seems to have a slightly sleazy reputation, but a visit to this picturesque city reveals some wonderful surprises. The many parks and museums make the city a perfect place for a family holiday. Amsterdam is also well known for its cutting-edge fashion brands, and the wide range of shops available makes it a fashionista’s dream destination.
Shop
Barrio – Hidden behind the busy Kalverstraat, this interesting little store has a bit of everything. It’s a fashion boutique and a music store, and even has a hairdresser operating in one corner. Step in, and emerge a brand new person – you can have your haircut while browsing through their varied magazine selection, and then get dressed up in new clothes and shoes!
Stay
Blue Wave Houseboat – Amsterdam is famous for its’ many scenic canals, so why not stay on one? This floating home is a much more unique option than staying in one of the numerous chain hotels in the city. The terrace provides a great view of canal life, and the interior has been comfortably renovated. There is a large double bed, a cosy kitchen and dining area, and free Wifi too! Rates are around £140.
Eat
Restaurant Greetje – This modest restaurant near the Rembrandt House combines classic French and Dutch culinary traditions to come up with an interesting, yet unpretentious menu. Put aside any fears of fashionable ‘fusion cuisine’ with miniscule courses – dishes here have a reassuring, home-cooked feel to them. Ambitious diners are encouraged to try the Grote Begin (Big Beginning) – a platter of several hot and cold courses, such as wild boar ham, stingray terrine, and smoked beef.
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(Photo: onlyinholland.com)
Posted June 19, 2009 by Joyce Wan
Head to Amsterdam for a laidback weekend break the next time you need to recharge your batteries. The capital city of the Netherlands abounds with culture, and offers plenty of other attractions besides the infamous Red Light District and cannabis cafes.
Stay
The Dylan - Housed in a 17th-century building that used to be a theatre, The Dylan is all about luxury and opulence. Each of the 41 rooms is individually decorated in sumptuous furnishings and dramatic colours, according to six different themes. For a room with a view, book one of their Loft Rooms, and gaze out across the city while relaxing in a gigantic limestone bathtub. Or if you want to feel like royalty, stay in the one and only Manhattan suite and sleep in the huge four-poster bed under yards of silken bed linens. Prices start at around £280 for a standard single room.
Play
Vondelpark - Rent a bike or simply walk around the Vondelpark, arguably one of city’s most popular parks. There’s also a skate-rental booth in the park if you prefer to travel on skates. Take in free musical or theatrical performances at the open-air theatre, or simply sit down with a picnic and people-watch. The National Film Museum is located within the park, in a 19th-century pavilion, and screens a wide range of films.
Eat
Blue Pepper - A former Dutch colony, Indonesia still makes its presence felt in Amsterdam in the form of numerous restaurants serving Indonesian cuisine. Blue Pepper serves up traditional West Javanese cuisine with a contemporary twist. Order the classic ‘rijsttafel’ menu for a taste of the classic Indonesian banquet that offers up intriguing flavours. Or simply order a la carte from their three tasting menus for an authentic taste of Indonesia. Main courses start from around £20.
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(Photo: worldwebtravel.eu)
Posted May 14, 2009 by Joyce Wan
If you’re thinking of booking a short break soon, why not find cheap flights to Amsterdam? The nominal capital of The Netherlands, Amsterdam has all the advantages of big city life with none of its hassles. There are famous museums, world-class restaurants and excellent nightlife, all within reach of an easy bike ride. And where will you stay while you’re there? We’ve got three choices here for you to consider.
Splurge – InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam
Located on the famous Amstel River, this is a five-star hotel just right for those of you wanting to splurge. This hotel is located downtown, only a short walk away to most of the city’s sights. When you’re feeling peckish, simply head straight to La Rive, the hotel’s very own one Michelin-starred restaurant, for some fine French Mediterranean fare. Unlike some faceless mega hotels, there are only 55 guestrooms and 24 suites in the Amstel, so you can be certain that you’ll enjoy peace and tranquillity while there.
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Midrange – Seven Bridges Hotel
If you’re looking for something different, why not try the Seven Bridges Hotel? This charming hotel is located in a 300-year-old canal house, in the historic heart of Amsterdam. The historical character of the old canal house has been retained, to the extent that there is no elevator to the upper floors! All ten rooms have been individually decorated with stylish antique pieces, and breakfast is served in your room, on fine china from renowned companies such as Wedgwood and Villeroy & Boch. After breakfast, it’s only a hop, skip and short bike ride away to the famous sights.
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Budget – City Hotel Amsterdam
Conveniently located near the city’s Central Station, this hotel is an excellent base to start your sightseeing tour of the city. As it is located within the canal rings, you’ll be able to get most of the sights on foot (or bike) and save plenty of time and money. If you get thirsty after all that exploring, there’s a pub below the hotel where rehydrate with some local brews. And at night, the excitement of the world famous (or infamous?) Red Light District lies only a few minutes away.
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(Photo: wedontspeakthelanguage.com)
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