Posted May 18, 2010 by BookingBuddy
Maastricht is one of the smaller cities in the Netherlands, but it is a very green and pleasant place to have a break in. The picturesque River Maas divides the city in half, and on either side are warrens of cobblestone streets, with a multitude of historic buildings laid out everywhere. Take some time out to visit the Vrijthof square, with the distinctive Gothic church of Sint-Janskerk in one corner, and the Sint-Servaas Basilica in another. For a pleasant day out, explore the Sint-Pietersberg caves, a vast sandstone quarry filled with thousands of man-made tunnels.
Stay
Hotel d’Orangerie – Located between the River Maas and the old Markt, the Hotel d’Orangerie makes a convenient base to start your explorations of this compact city. It takes only a few minutes to get to the Vrijthof, and Maastricht Central Station is just 10 minutes away. The hotel itself is housed in an 18th century building, and has a wonderful, old-fashioned feel. All windows are double-glazed and come with blackout curtains, which help to cut out most of the street noise from outside. Breakfast includes a variety of tasty breads, fresh salmon, and juicy fruit salad. Room rates start from £90.
See
St. Pietersberg Caves – Get hold of a torch and make your way to the south of the city, where you’ll be able to explore the fantastic St. Pietersberg caves. These 250km of tunnels and passageways are all manmade, formed over several centuries as the town dug out its sandstone for use in their buildings. During the Second World War, the caves virtually functioned as a second town to most of the population, and even included a chapel and bakery. These days, you’ll be able to catch glimpses of fossils and paintings preserved on the cave walls.
Eat
Brasserie Bonhomme – Enjoy excellent views over the Maas as well as your food at this casual riverside café. The menu combines Dutch and regional specialties with familiar fare such as toasted ham and cheese sandwiches. Give the local delights a go now that you’re here. If you’re in need of something warm and filling, go for the Maastricht sour meat, or the homemade chicken with tangy Indonesian-influenced Atjar (a kind of pickle). The snacks – croquettes, chicken wings, garlicky squid - are great for sharing, and go well with the beers on offer.
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(Photo: holland.com)
Posted June 19, 2009 by BookingBuddy
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 BookingBuddy
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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