A Great Blog

An Ode to Amsterdam

2013-03-24T07:04:00.001-07:00

When in Amsterdam...the city is an inspiration to all. The 18-year-old Quirinus has just made a track 'Amsterdam', an ode to our city. The track and the clip show his love and passion for the city of Amsterdam. The beat is produced by Ruben Bertholet and the video was created by Dirk de Graaff.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Getting High in Amsterdam: Open Tower Day 2013

2013-03-14T02:27:00.000-07:00

On Saturday March 9 Amsterdam celebrated the first ever Open Tower Day. Although the Dutch city, much like the rest of the country, is renowned for its flatness, Amsterdam is peppered with several large church towers which offer a rarely seen vantage point over the capital.

When in Amsterdam got the chance to visit the Zuiderkerktoren. Built in 1614, the Zuiderkerk was the first Protestant built church in Amsterdam. Designed by architect Hendrick de Keyser in the renaissance style, the church is situated in the centre of Amsterdam's old Jewish neighbourhood.

Entering the tower through a small side door, we were greeted by a typical narrow and winding Amsterdam staircase. It took 139 steps to reach the top of the tower, but the journey up was broken into small sections as we were explained the various parts of the tower.

The carillon inside the tower normally operates through machinery setting off the bells every 15 minutes. Every Thursday, however, a carillonist performs, treating the surrounding areas to a concert of Mozart, Bach or Handel.

The bells in the tower were designed by the brothers Hemony, famous for making the best bells in Europe. This large central bell, however, is much older than the church itself. It was originally located in the Oudekerk in the Red Light District, however after the reformation this "Catholic bell" was removed from the church as a sign of the Protestant victory and installed in the Zuiderkerk.

Having reached the top, the views were spectacular. Despite the ordinary weather (Amsterdam can still have brutal winter days in March, so pack appropriately!) it was great to see the city from such a unique angle. The Zuiderkerktoren features in so many photographs and even a painting by Claude Monet, so it was a terrific opportunity to take some pictures from the other side!

The best view, however, was looking back towards the city centre. In this picture you can see the Westertoren, the Royal Palace, the New Church, the Beurs van Berlage, the Old Church, the Bushuis, Centraal Station, St. Nicholas Church and even de Waag. Wow!

When in Amsterdam... get high (without going to a coffeeshop) and take some photos!

Restaurant Day Amsterdam #2: best food for winter

2013-02-17T18:33:00.001-08:00

When in Amsterdam...Restaurant Day is starting to take hold. 15 pop-up restaurants set up throughout Amsterdam for the city's second time to participate in the international quarterly food festival.

Restaurant Day started in Helsinki, Finland in May 2011. The concept is to eat together and meet new people. Cooking enthusiasts are encouraged to set up a pop up restaurant at any location and share their passion for food. The limitation is their imagination.

Restaurant Day started with 45 restaurants across 13 cities in 2011. Restaurants have now popped up in an estimated 35 countries and over 130 cities globally.

The second time in Amsterdam, Restaurant Day was held on a wonderfully fine winter's Sunday. We looked at the website and picked a place for a late lunch before watching the Ajax Amsterdam football game. The Trans-Eurasian Journey caught our eye. Situated in the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood in central Amsterdam it promised Italian and Thai food. Amsterdam is known for its diversity so the combination was intriguing

Restaurant Day Amsterdsam: Gnocchi Ragu

We meet a friend on his traditional dutch town bike, though very very noisy and ventured on our afternoon culinary world tour. We were surprisingly greeted by our hosts at the door of their small Amsterdam apartment. We were their first customers of the day.

Restaurant Day Amsterdam: Thai stir fry

The menu was simple, pasta or Thai street stir-fry. We went for one of each and a round of beers. The food was simple but well cooked. The ragu, gnocchi was cooked by a native of Bologna we need not say more. From slow cooking to the fast wok. A debate about the Dutch 'spicy' scale ensued. The Thai stir fry was a great match for the beer. Both meals were just what were needed for a Sunday afternoon. Our hosts were not professional cooks but knew their dishes well. They had a passion for food and adventure

The Trans-Eurasian chefs for a day.

Amsterdam is a small capital city. We enjoyed the experience as we walked away we soon came upon friends. They had never heard of the event so we pointed them in the direction of the one day only pop up restaurant, The Trans-Eurasian Journey. To top things off the the local football team Ajax won. A perfect Sunday. Thank you to our hosts and the Restaurant Day team. See you in three months Restaurant Day.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

For When in Amsterdam's first visit to Amsterdam Restaurant Day click here.

A real King of Amsterdam: Cruijff

2013-02-07T05:52:00.000-08:00

When in Amsterdam...this city makes the King or Queen. Talk has recently turned to the abdication of Queen Beatrix. Amsterdam has always been a republican city state of the Netherlands. Throughout history the city has only supported Kings and Queens when it is in Amsterdam's best interest.

Johan's number has been retired by Ajax Amsterdam

The Amsterdam museum is currently holding an exhibition on Johan Cruijff, a real King of Amsterdam. Born and breed in Amsterdam the exhibition looks at how Amsterdammers and Netherlanders see Cruijff their football idol.Cruiff was a footballer and his name is in the same category as Pele and Maradonna.

Ballon d'Or

Cruijff won 3 European Footballer of the year awards (Ballon d'Or) and was voted best European footballer of the century in 1999. Cruijff was voted second to Pele as best footballer of the century.

"Joan en Ik." is a simple one room exhibition that shows Johan's acceptance of his role as an idol. Always willing to stop for an autograph or photo the exhibition shares anicdotes from his career and fans. The exhibition is a worthy accompanyment to the regular Amsterdam city history that the museum displays. You also get your own chance to get a photo with a King of Amsterdam.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Amsterdam Remembers Auschwitz Liberation

2013-01-27T10:48:00.001-08:00

When in Amsterdam....27 January remembers the Liberation of Auschwitz. In cold rain and melting snow Amsterdammers and dignitaries walked in silent procession from the Amsterdam City Hall to the Broken Mirrors Auschwitz Monument. The monument was constructed by Jan Wolders and is located in Wertheim Park.

Relatives, government officials, representatives of foreign governments and others commemorated the millions of Jews, Gypsies, handicapped, homosexuals and others murdered by the Nazis during World War Two.

Amsterdam Mayor, van den Laan made the keynote address. He questioned why had a government's key goal been to dehumanize and murder. He had read and studied much on the topic to find out why the Holocaust had happened; yet still he could not understand. Van den Laan felt responsible as a community leader that it never happens again.

Rabbi Menno ten Brink said the Yizkor and the Kaddish prayer in memory of the dead. There was also music of Roma and Sinti people. Young children also read how they understood the event.

"Never again Auschwitz" Auschwitz monument Amsterdam

An estimated 107,000 Dutch Jews, mostly from Amsterdam, were sent to concentrations camps, mainly Sobibor and Auschwitz. 5,200 Dutch Jews survived these camps and returned.

The liberation of Auschwitz by Russian forces 68 years ago is now an international day that remembers instances of genocide.

Amsterdam is home to the Institute for War, Holocaust and Genocide Studies.

When in Amsterdam....remember!

Holocaust Memorial Day 2013

2013-01-25T08:26:00.000-08:00

When in Amsterdam....27 January is Holocaust Memorial Day. In 2005 then United Nations' Secretary General appointed 27 January a day of remembrance The day remembers the liberation of the Auschwitz Concentration Camp in 1945. This day is a worldwide event and remembers those that suffered from genocide. Not just during the World War II but also in places such as Rawanda, Cambodia and Dafur.

In Amsterdam a remembrance ceremony will be held at the Broken Mirrors Monument in Wertheim Park. Before the ceremony a silent procession starts at Amsterdam City Hall at 11am. The ceremony at Wertheim Park begins at 11:30am.

Newly wed Jewish Amsterdammers who died in the Holocaust

80,000 Jews lived in Amsterdam before Nazi occupation. By the end of WWII only 20% of the Jewish population survived. This was all due to Antisemitism and racism.

If you are unable to make the remembrance ceremony take a monument to think about those who have suffered from racial hatred. Think about how you can do your little bit to stop the emergence of racial hatred, Antisemitism and discrimination. Amsterdam is proudly Anti-discrimination. Without the many nationalities living in Amsterdam this city would not be celebrated Amsterdam of today.

When in Amsterdam....remember.

Australian duo YesYou releases Amsterdam track and music video

2013-01-24T10:47:00.000-08:00

When in Amsterdam....is a picturesque city. Australian Indie music duo YesYou has just released is latest single Amsterdam. The accompany music film shows a speed boat chase through the canals of Amsterdam. Not your normal canal cruise. Enjoy!

Amsterdam's Tulip Day

2013-01-22T02:54:00.000-08:00

When in Amsterdam...Tulip Season has started. The Dutch tulip season officially kicked off as Amsterdam's Dam Square played host to the second annual National Tulip Day. To mark the event, a special tulip garden was set up on the square and everyone was invited to come and pick a bunch of tulips - for free!

Tulip Day Amsterdam's Dam Square

It was a blustery, cold day in Amsterdam, but big crowds braved the elements to join in the fun. Around 200000 tulips were set up in front of the Royal Palace and everyone was welcome to take home up to 20 tulips, including the bulbs.

The Dutch fascination with tulips peaked in the 1630's in an episode known as Tulip Mania. Whilst Amsterdam was at the height of its Golden Century, tulips became the centre of an economic bubble that made and lost fortunes overnight. When the bubble burst in February, 1637, the unfortunate were left with hoards of tulips worth a fraction of the price they had paid for them.

Tulip Man on Amsterdam's Dam Square

The tulip is no longer seen as a way to get rich quick, they still hold a special place in the Dutch psyche. It is estimated that 1.7 billion Dutch tulips are enjoyed every year throughout the world. At the end of the Second World War, the Dutch Royal family sent 100000 tulips to the Canadian government as a thank you for offering them sanctuary during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Ottawa now has the second largest tulip festival in the world.

Music Organ on Dam Square, Amsterdam

The tulip season runs each year in the Netherlands from January until the end of April. During this time of year tulips become ubiquitous throughout Amsterdam in shop windows and gardens. Why fight the crowds in the Keukenhof to see them when they are right here to be seen!

When in Amsterdam... enjoy the spring!.

Amsterdam Photo Tour: Winter Wonder

2013-01-20T04:25:00.000-08:00

When in Amsterdam....a Photo Tour is a great idea. Amsterdam is one of the most picturesque cities in Europe. The wonderful architecture, tree lined canals, boats, and bicycles have amazed people for centuries.

Winter Canals: OMY Amsterdam Photo Tour

Walk the streets with trained and published Photographers from OMY Amsterdam Tours. The best rated small group tour company in Amsterdam by Trip Advisor.

Amsterdam Tourist Boat winter: OMY Amsterdam Photo Tour

Make the most of your limited time in Amsterdam. The best way to find your way around the small alley ways to the most beautiful locations is with a guide.

Frozen Amsterdam Bike: OMY Amsterdam Photo Tour

If you are a beginner with a passion for photography OMY Amsterdam Guide's give you tips and techniques on how to capture the best photos with your camera. Along the way learn and talk in a relaxed personal manner about Amsterdam, the city built on water.

Amsterdam peaceful courtyard: OMY Amsterdam Photo Tour

If you are an experienced photographer enjoy personalized service to the best locations.

Beginner or experienced OMY Guides are flexible to your needs and tours are customized for you. To Book click here.

On the Amstel: OMY Amsterdam Photo Tour

For more photos by OMY Amsterdam Photo Tour Guides click here to see our blog on Amsterdam small houses.

Most important. When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Amsterdam Museum: The Golden Age Exhibition: gateway to our modern world

2013-01-16T08:01:00.003-08:00

When in Amsterdam.... the city was the wealthiest in Europe at the beginning of the 1600s. The Amsterdam Museum is currently holding an exhibition of the Dutch Golden Age, the seventeenth century. This exhibition explores a period of history when the Netherlands influenced the world. This influence still shapes the country and how the world sees the Netherlands today.

The period was an age of economic, social, religious and engineering development. Names such as the Dutch East India Company, Rembrandt, Spinoza rose to fame. These names are still household names today. The exhibition does well to delve into a period rich with content.

The curators have used traditional and contemporary techniques. Paintings and artifacts transport guests back to an age of enormous wealth in Amsterdam. These elements are enhanced by documentary segments hosted on television screens. Interactive touch screens enable guests to explore details of paintings and maps of the Netherlands and Amsterdam. In a year when Amsterdam celebrates the 400th anniversary of the city's world heritage listed canals this exhibition brings to life the period.

The limitations of the exhibition is that Amsterdam as a focus is often lost. The display is almost worthy of a Holland exhibition of the period belonging in the national museum. Everyday life in Amsterdam during the period is segued and focuses on the elite, the riches and the celebrated achievements. How people went about their daily lives such as getting water, disposing of waste, schooling and education for all segments of Amsterdam is the depth missing from the exhibition. There is often a feeling there is no new Amsterdam insights, old displays rearranged and slightly expanded. Limitations aside there is much to learn and appreciate.

The most appreciated part of the exhibition is the recognition of a small country glorifying a Golden Age long past. The 17th Century was a period of war and slavery. The Dutch often encouraged and stimulated violence to enhance financial benefit, the VOC mentality. For centuries this period of influence and power was glorified and taught as the Dutch in their finest hour. This is recognized in the final room of the exhibition.

Another positive to the exhibition is the links of the Golden Age to the present day Netherlands. Female independence and childhood education today are connected to Golden Age developments. Land reclamation projects of the Golden Age surrounding Amsterdam also demonstrate the period's influence on today's geography.

For those interested in more depth the book(of the same name) published in associated with the exhibition is very well done. Normally, exhibition books are a catalog of artifacts and the small descriptions guests have just experienced. The book adds to the exhibition in a way few exhibitions do.

The Amsterdam Museum's Golden Age Exhibition is a wonderful mix of riches of the period mixed with documentary insights when Amsterdam was the centre of European development. It is well worth a visit in a year when much is celebrated in Amsterdam.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

The Golden Age Exhibition runs until the end of August 2013. Admission is 10 euro and 5 euro for children.

Amsterdam canal cruise with a difference: Hot Tug

2012-12-13T06:08:00.000-08:00

When in Amsterdam...a canal cruise is always a great idea. The best way to explore Amsterdam, the city built on water is with a local on a small boat. However, boating is seasonal with many Amsterdammers storing their boats away for the cold months.

Hot Tug in front of Hotel d'Europe

The Hot Tug is a boat that enables you to enjoy Amsterdam in all weather. Simply the boat is a hot tub. A new concept boat, the Hot Tug was launched at the Amsterdam Boat Show in September 2012. Fueled by a wood fired heater the water can be warmed to 38 degrees Celsius. The designer of the boat wanted people to become part of their environment. In the Hot Tug in Amsterdam you become part of Amsterdam with only a small separation between you and the water.

Hot Tug in East of Amsterdam

The Hot Tug is a design of Frank de Bruijn owner of Supergoed. Frank's background is in sculpture. He attended the illustrious Willem de Kooning Academy in Rotterdam. De Bruijn also has a passion for physics and engineering. His furniture has been exhibited in many of the country's museums.

Hot Tug in Red Light District (De Wallen)

Currently the makers of Hot Tug are working hard to allow the boat available to Amsterdammers and our guests. Keep posted to see where, when and how much it would cost to hire this Amsterdam canal cruise with a difference.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Amsterdam's Cannabis Cup: 25th edition

2012-11-23T07:57:00.001-08:00

When in Amsterdam....you can access and use small amounts of soft drugs, cannabis and hashish in licensed businesses. Once a year the industry holds a week long event to share ideas and network. People from all over the world travel to Amsterdam for the event, which culminates in the Cannabis Cup awards on Thanksgiving Day. This year the event was held surprisingly close to Amsterdam's centre at Roest.

Participants of the Amsterdam Cannabis Cup vote on categories such as best seeds, hash, and cannabis products. This year the main Coffeeshop prizes were all taken by the GreenHouse, with GreenPlace and Grey Area filling the minor rankings.

Many coffeeshops were absent from the event this year. (Note: Coffeeshop is a term in Amsterdam for a licensed business where you can buy small amounts of soft drugs). At the exhibition hall no Coffeeshops had stalls. This was a major departure from previous years.

In 2011, police raided the event that was held just outside Amsterdam to check stall holders and participants were adhering to strict amounts allowed to be carried; 5 grams per person and 500 grams per stall. This was the first time in 25 years the event had been raided by the police.

No major incidents were reported this year and the event ran smoothly. The biggest problem When in Amsterdam saw was security having to remind event participants that they could not smoke in the wonderfully industrial Roest bar and restaurant.

Many are critical of the The Cannabis Cup which is now in its 25th year. From an industry perspective some believe the judging model is influenced by the large Coffeeshops who invest in the event. All participants are judges and determining which is the best product can be hard due to the influence these soft drugs have on your body and mind.

People not involved in the Cannabis Cup believe it is just a marketing exercise by the small number of financially interested parties involved. This argument surrounds all award competitions even the Oscars.

When in Amsterdam's favorite booth was the hemp clothing. A plant the world has not used widely since the creation of synthetic fibers in the early 20th century. On a cold Fall Amsterdam day they were a well made natural product.

Despite the criticisms Amsterdam is the real star of the event. Amsterdam, its people and authorities, have allowed a space that is safe and free for industry people of soft drugs to discuss their passion and business in the open. Few other cities in the world demonstrate such maturity and tolerance as Amsterdam.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Amsterdam Museum Night 2012: diary

2012-11-05T04:41:00.000-08:00

When in Amsterdam....Museum Night is when 50 museums are open to 2am. After a good home cooked dinner with friends we mounted our bikes and headed off to experience Amsterdam museums by night. Here is is our diary of the night.

Museumnacht Amsterdam 2012 Day After Movie from Stichting n8 on Vimeo.

Het Grachtenhuis (The Canal House): Message in a bottle.

The Canal house is a private funded museum located in the heart of Amsterdam's world heritage listed canals. The museum has a small exhibition on how the grand canals of Amsterdam were built. This year it was also the location to sign up for the Museumnacht canal cruise.

We skipped the long line and decided to write a message to the Mayor in a bottle. Our suggestion was that Amsterdam city bring back the large free concerts on the Dam Square.

Message in a bottle to the Mayor of Amsterdam

Arti et Amicitiae is an closed Amsterdam art-society founded in 1839.

The society created an art in the dark exhibition. Visitors were given a simple bike light to view art. Dancing robots, photography and installations were brought alive with small lights. The large black ball in a small room was a highlight. Visitors could push the ball around like a reverse jumping castle. Fun. In the wonderful bar of the 19th century building we listened to poetry readings and enjoyed a beer.

Black fun ball in a black room. Art in the Dark at Arti et Amicitiae

Oudekerk (Amsterdam's Old Church) presents Rocket Cinema

The Gothic style church hosted old black and white Gothic movies from the late 1920s and 30s. The church, located in the middle of the Red Light District was filled with a Hunchback of Notre Dame soundtrack composed by a local artist. The organ concert was chilling. A wonderful little mobile cinema was also parked inside. The piccolo cinema had room enough for two.

Oudekerk Museumnacht 2012

Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder (Amsterdam's Our Lord in the Attic)

Amsterdam's oldest museum is a hidden Catholic church in a 17 century canal house.There was no special exhibition but to spend time in the hidden church while the rain came and went outside was a religious experience.

Hidden Catholic church Museumnacht 2012

De Apple Arts Centre

The Apple is a internationally orientated arts centre. Since 1975 it has been a place to research, explore and present contemporary art.

Museum night was the end of the Apple Centre's "Vote Back" exhibition.

The political exhibition highlights were the Geert Wilders Webshop and political Karaoke. We had great fun being Martin Luther King, Obama and Margret Thatcher. One of our group was considered the best Thatcher of the night and walked away with a free t-shirt with political patterns.

Politic Karaoke, Apple Arts Centre

Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum)

Amsterdam's Resistance Museum sometimes sits in the shadow of the Anne Frank House but it is the premiere World War II museum.

For museum night a special exhibition of WWII propaganda cartoons called "(Anti) Hero: Captain America". Comics and cartoons were dusted off and brought to the museum hall.

The old Donald Duck cartoons of the famous duck taking on the Nazis was a rare insight into the war years of the 1940s. The rock band was also great with people jigging and jiving the night away.

WWII American Jeep with the Museumnacht light

On the way home we finished with the Portuguese Synagogue for a moment of peace underneath the 700 natural candles.

As always the event was a great local night. A big hearty thank you and thumbs up to all those involved in organizing Amsterdam's Museumnacht 2012. See you next year.

Amsterdam Museumnacht 2012 gets a big thumbs up.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Museum Night Amsterdam 2012

2012-11-02T02:14:00.000-07:00

When in Amsterdam...Museumnacht is once a year. Museum Night is an event when 50 museums throughout Amsterdam are open until 2am. Museum's fill with Djs, bands and special events. One big cultural party is held all over Amsterdam. In 2012 Museumnacht is November 3. The first weekend of November always experiences cold and possibly wet weather.

Have a read of what When in Amsterdam got up to on Museum Night 2011.

This year highlights will include:

Portuguese Synagogue with a jazz trio naturally lit

The Applesap people are holding a music extravaganza in the Tropenmuseum.
Amsterdam's new film museum, Eye, will hold a zombie party.
A midnight Yoga session will be held in the New church surrounded by Andy Warhol art work.
The Portuguese synagogue will be lit with hundreds of candles. If like last year a tasty falafel can be pickup up. Men have to wear a yarmulke (skull cap) which is supplied.

Ticket can be bought online at the N8 website or at Primera newsagents through out Amsterdam. There are only 27 500 tickets. Do not leave to the last minute as this event is always sold out.

Museum Night Tickets 2012

Primera shops will be selling Museum Night tickets in 2012.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

No Dutch Weed Pass for Amsterdam Cannabis Coffee Shops

2012-10-29T11:38:00.001-07:00

When in Amsterdam....there will be no weed pass to enter Amsterdam Cannabis Coffeeshops. Politicians announce that the controversial weed pass will not be implemented in Amsterdam or other major Dutch cities.

Amsterdam Cannabis Coffeeshop. Photo OMy Amsterdam Tours

The weed pass was a new measure by the old coalition government that collapsed earlier this year in April. From May 2012 a pilot phase of the weed pass was introduced into towns in some land border provinces of the Netherlands.

The weed pass meant that you had to register to be a member of a Cannabis Coffeeshop to enter. To be a member you had to be a Dutch resident.

The result was that:

Dutch people did not want to sign up for a Cannabis Coffeeshop membership.
Cannabis Coffeeshops closed out of protest.
Street dealing increased in weed pass areas.
Many street dealers were underage children.
Dutch police had place resources on an issue that they had not dealt with on such a scale in decades.
The Dutch justice systems had to address and allocate time to issues that had not been before the courts in some time.
Public safety decreased because of street dealing.
Local jobs were lost to the closure of the Cannabis Coffeeshops.
Government lost revenue because cannabis coffeeshops were closed.
The Netherlands government was accused of discrimination by interests groups.
The Netherlands was laughed at by members and organisations of the international community.
The policy did not address the issue organised crime's involvement in the market.

Dutch joints

The new measures to be introduced in a phase-in-period mean:

You will need a Dutch passport or Dutch ID to enter coffeeshops

There are no details yet on when the new policy will be begin in Amsterdam.

There are still no infringement for a non-Dutch resident to carry less than 5 grams of Cannabis or hash.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Overview of Amsterdam Dance Event 2012 by The LoneRaver

2012-10-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

When in Amsterdam....in late October, every year the Amsterdam Dance Event, the world's leading electronic music conference takes place for 5 days. This makes Amsterdam the center of the electronic music world to party and talk business in October. This topic deserves When in Amsterdam to invite a specialist. We warmly welcome our first guest blogger The LoneRaver to share insight on this global event.

Right then my fellow Raver's this is the week we've been waiting for, the time to start getting overly excited about ADE has arrived. If electronic music is your thing then your probably well aware of the ensuing madness that is about to take over this fine city of ours but if you are an outsider looking in then you may be wondering what all the fuss is about and why there is so many yellow and black flags fluttering away in the rain. So for those wondering I'll let you in on a little secret, come closer, it's the world's biggest club festival for electronic music.

Every year the festival seams to get bigger and better with more innovative venues being utilized, a wider range of styles represented and a growing number of international visitors streaming into the arrival lounge's of Schipol and Centraal station. It's now a can't miss opportunity for some of the worlds greatest parties to display the creativity and vision that makes them such a hit in their respective homelands with showcase's from Secretsundaze, Awakenings, Ministry of Sound and what appear's at first glance to be an after hours a day from Electric Deluxe.

Photo Credit: Martijn Klijmij

The whole shebang officially kicks off on the Wednesday but that won't stop the sneaky folk at Studio 80 from getting in there first with a tuesday night "Saved" special featuring NIcFanciulli, Robert Dietz and Subb-An, However the starters gun officially fires on Wednesday and I'll be heading out for early drinks and beats at the Cue Bar for the Sleepwalkers showcase before making the short bike ride to Trouw for, in my opinion, the venues highlight night of ADE. Seth Troxler and Makam are guest's in the main room with Sandrien inviting Ben Klock to deliver the techno downstairs in De Verdieping. Other highlights include Carl Craig, Paul Woolford and Nina Kravitz at MC Theater and Josh Wink and Steve Bug at Chicago Social Club.

Thursday brings the ADE debut of "The Amsterdam Convention Factory" as a venue, this vast former Stork factory should prove the perfect place for Ame, Extrawelt and Oliver Koletzki to perform live deep house music in a suitably industrial venue. Elsewhere On and On go for a 10 hour special at the Transformatorhuis in Westerparc with special guest Shifted while Amsterdam Drum and Bass institute Cheeky Monday's throw a party to launch their new label of the same name with special guest Nicky Blackmarket amply supported by mainstays Sinistah and Insom to name a few.

One of the first thing's I noticed when perusing the program was that the afterhour parties that have been notable in their absence in previous years are well represented from the friday morning through to monday giving it a truly 24 hour vibe that the event has previously lacked and the first of these we will take in is when newly opened Club Lite invites Berlin's Frucht Records for a special all day session starting from 6am till mid afternoon. Later in the day the Click crew put together a 12 hour special at the Westerunie complex with The Advent, Slam, Monika Kruse and local legend Steve Rachmad the pick of the bunch. Staying in the west, Elastic Artist's present's a UK special with Julio Bashmore, Joy Orbison and Lone taking to the controls in the MC Theater.

Photo Credit: Betribes

Friday's highlight comes in the form of the "Next Mondays Hangover's" ADE special. Known for picking unusual venues and locations for their parties the NMH crew do not disappoint on this front again as "Het Sieraad" is chosen to host a Mobilee special. While living a mere 200 meter's away I had no idea this place had the potential to be used for a rave up but upon closer inspection it almost shout's out party and with Pan-Pot, Anja Schneider, Sebo K and a live set from Rodriguez JR this will be one to remember.

Saturday is the traditional big night in clubland and with no fewer than 70 different events taking place all over the city this serves as proof of that and its gonna be very hard to choose where to dance the night away. So to continue the loose theme of unusual venues that appears to have developed in this piece we start the night off in the former squat bar Cafe't Schuim for Delicious Grooves meets Cosmic Disco before heading east to get down at Roest, a former gasworks building, for the Weerloos Label night were Santa Ballistol offer something very different from the usual with a live performance of jazz infused techno with live poetry providing the vocals for this experimental live ensemble. Staying east Studio K host's VBX goes Berlin Underground with Margaret Dygas, Vera and Carlos Valdes.

Later on we head back into the city to take in Schmeck Pony's ADE special at Club Home as they attempt a 16 hour marathon starting at 11pm and taking us nicely into Sunday with a genuine international line up including Christian Smith, Mauro Picotto, Dosem and Amsterdam's very own Bart Sklls.

Photo Credit: Emma Pierre

So Sunday is upon us and as we try to shake of the dreaded feeling that the fun is almost over the festival continues to throw up some huge names with Detroit Legend Jeff Mills taking his familiar position behind the decks and R-909 at OT301 for a 6 hour set, Speedy J and Sandwell District performing at the Melkweg followed by Soul Clap taking on Wolf and Lamb later in the day. However the final destination for us on this journey through ADE is back to Studio 80 for secretsundaze first full blown ADE Party. After occupying Studio 80's back room last year the London main stay takes over the whole place this time round and invites Motor City Drum Ensemble, Delano Smith, Brawther and Patrice Scott to join mainstays Giles Smith and James Priestly for one final blow out that promise's to be up there with very best of the last few days.

So that rounds up my take on this years ADE but I can't get across the scale of the event in 1000 woods so head to www.amsterdam-dance-event.nl for full listings and details about ticket's times etc.

Have a good one and if I have one top tip it's book your tickets in advance, especially for the after hours

The LoneRaver

Photo credit: Roy Laros

Part of this article was published in Amsterdo's October edition.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Amsterdam's Old Church attacked by Robots in Tears of Steel

2012-09-29T01:04:00.001-07:00

When in Amsterdam....understand Amsterdam has a thriving IT industry. The Blender Foundation is a Non-Profit Organization that spreads the word of Blender. Blender is a 3-D open source modelling program created by Foundation Chair Ton Roosendaal.

Established in 2002 the Blender Foundation has been supported by entrepreneurs, Netherlands Film Fund and companies. The Foundation brings together talent to work on projects. The Blender Foundation also organizes an annual conference to support and share experiences and developments in the 3-D arena. The latest product is Tears of Steel.

Tears of Steel is the fourth project the Blender Foundation has produced. Watch as the iconic Old Church of Amsterdam in the middle of the Red Light District is overtaken by Robots. When in Amsterdam...Enjoy!

IPhone 5 hits Amsterdam streets

2012-09-22T00:12:00.002-07:00

When in Amsterdam...look out for product launches. Amsterdam as a diverse and international city is always a test case for new products.

Many have been gripped this week with the release of the IPhone 5. People have linned up for days and the pre-orders have topped 2 million for the new phone. The phone's ticket price is around 600 euros. Pranksters from Amsterdam's Apple shop decided to glue a new phones to Leidseplein, one the main squares in town. They sat back and enjoyed the site of passing people trying to pick up the phone. See the results.

When in Amsterdam....Enjoy!

Art in Amsterdam's Red Light District

2012-09-20T03:42:00.001-07:00

When in Amsterdam....the Red Light District hosts an Art Fair once a year. AIR (Art in the Red Light) is now in its 8th year. Contemporary Art, Photography and Jewelry go on display in the Old Church of Amsterdam.

AIR has been at the forefront to diversify Amsterdam's notorious Red Light District. The exhibition is displayed in the Gothic church in the middle of the district. This year the exhibition extends to the windows of the Church's outbuildings.

Installation by Jompet Kuswidanato

59 local and international Artists are on display. Local artists include product designer Marjan van Aubel, landscape photographer and Amsterdam resident Wouter van Buuren and jeweler to the celebrities Otazu. International guests include acclaimed Indonesian visual artist Jompet Kuswidanato, Icelander and instillation artist Thorvaldur Thorsteinsson, and video, performance London artist Alexis Milne winner of the Start Point Prize.

Installation by Razia Barsatie

By Midas Zwaan

Printed Glass by Deborah Roffel

Paintings by Thorvaldur Thorsteinsson

By Tjalling Visser

In addition that all the art pieces are for sale each Artist provides a piece for auction. This auction is held towards the end of the exhibition. Part of the proceeds go to charity. AIR is supports Orange Babies, an organization that assist those suffering AIDS in Africa.

The AIR exhibition runs 20 -23 September at the Old Church in Amsterdam.

The exhibition is free with admission. Those with an IAmsterdam Card or a Museum Card entrance is free.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

WW II Hero Honored with Amsterdam Bridge Name

2012-09-06T03:53:00.003-07:00

When in Amsterdam....look at the names on our bridges. Amsterdam has over 2000 bridges. Many have been named after prominent people from Amsterdam.

On September 2, 2012, Bridge 234 was named the Pieter Meerburg Bridge. This bridge is located on the Nieuwe Keizesgracht near the Portuguese Synagogue and the Jewish Historic Museum.

Pieter Meerburg

Pieter Meerburg is credited with saving the lives of 350 Amsterdam children during the Nazi occupation. Meerburg was a student in Amsterdam during the Second World War. He organized Amsterdam Jewish children to be smuggled to safety and adopt a new identity.

The organization Pieter led was called the Amsterdam Student Group. Composed entirely of volunteers, the students, men and women, would pretend the Jewish babies were their own. They were assisted by an Amsterdam pediatrician Dr. Fiedeldij Dop. The doctor would cycle around to families whom were close to deportation and ask them entrust their infants to Meerburg.

When demand exceeded the number of safe houses Meerburg talked local business owners into providing sanctuary for the young Amsterdammers.

Bridge 234 now the Meerburg Bridge

Meerburg was titled "Righteous Among Nations" by the Israel association for Holocaust Remembrance in 1974. Pieter Meeburg died in 2010.

When in Amsterdam....look at our bridge names. There is a story at every bridge.

Amsterdam Monument Day

2012-09-05T04:38:00.000-07:00

When in Amsterdam....in beginning of September Amsterdam opens monuments for the public. Amsterdam Monument Day allow people to access areas not normally open to the public. Best of all the event is Free!

This year 65 monuments are open on 8 and 9 September. The theme for 2012 is Going Green. The theme looks to green considerations in city planning, building and expansion in Amsterdam. Click here for a map of the locations.

The weekend is not just open monuments. There is a full program of events, walking and bike tours, and workshops. There is something for all ages. A children's program has also been developed for the youngsters.

Most of the information is in Dutch but there is a substantial English program.

A few of the buildings can only accommodate limited number of guests and reserved tickets are needed. At the moment of writing all were taken. Reserved tickets that are not claimed can be asked for at the main information center. Provided the days' popularity do prepare for lines for these tickets.The main information center for the weekend is the Amsterdam City Archives. Locally known as the Bazel Building.

Great weather is forecast for the event so get out an enjoy cultural Amsterdam.

The OMY Amsterdam Tours' City Centre Tour will incorporate the event in the tour on September 8 and 9. Tour group size is limited to 8 people. Limited space is available. Book here.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Amsterdam's International Students: a few tips

2012-09-05T00:59:00.000-07:00

When in Amsterdam...every year in August international students come to live in our beautiful city. OMY Amsterdam Tours and other independent tour operators come together to introduce Amsterdam to our new international students.

Amsterdam has always recognized the importance of international relations. Visiting students become an important part of our community and ambassadors of the city for life.

Welcome new International Students of Amsterdam

However, arriving in Amsterdam to live or visit is daunting. The body's senses overload with new sounds, sights and smells. Bicycles wizz past with little respect for pedestrians and the streets are like a Daedalus Labyrinth.

For our new international students we have these tips:

Culture:

Get a Museum Card.

For just under 50 euros this card is worth every cent. You will have access to most of the museums in the city and hundreds throughout the country. The card allows unlimited access from the time of purchase for 365 days. On the rainy days before class pop into a museum for 10 -15 minutes and learn the history of beautiful Amsterdam.

Put Museum Night in your diary NOW. You will have to buy a ticket but this will be the best night of your semester in Amsterdam. Amsterdam museums open until 2am for one night of the year. Our cultural guardian museums fill with bands, DJs, special exhibitions targeting people 18-35 years old. Most major cities have such a night. Every year this event is sold out. In Amsterdam in 2012 it is November 3. Tickets go on sale October 3. Put it on your calender NOW. You can thank us later.

Transport

Get a bike

You won't be able to beat the all mighty bicycle in Amsterdam over six months so you may as well join us. If you are uneasy on a bike go to one of our open, quiet, squares or parks and practice. Do what the young childeren do when they start, go around and around in circles at different speeds. The cheapest legal bike you can buy is with ASVA. They meet once a week at the Student Information Centrum to sell bikes for around 55 euros.

Invest in good locks

Thousands of bikes are stolen each year in Amsterdam. You don't want to loose bike if you can help it. A two lock system is mandatory.

Learn to lock you bike

Never step away from your bike unlocked. Amsterdammers will attest to this. Always lock to something sturdy so you bike cannot be carried away or tossed into the canals. Always lock the front wheel to the frame. There is nothing worse then wheeling you bike home with one wheel.

Your bicycle will become you best friend in Amsterdam. Many students have fallen in love with their two wheel steeds. At the end of their stay they often ship their old Dutch bike home despite the cost.

Public Transport

Instead of bike you may need to use the public transport network. Get a discount card. For around 50 euros a year you get a 40% discount on public transport. If the website is too much go to the Centraal Station to speak to the people at GVB for advice.

Shopping

Learn your local street market. Every neighborhood has one. The produce, in many instances is cheaper than the supermarket. The marketers are true hardy Amsterdammers. They stand out no matter what the weather. They are small business owners. Entrepreneurial spirit is at the heart of Amsterdam. Support them and Amsterdam becomes stronger.

Buy Flowers at your local market. Amsterdam street markets have access to the largest flower in the market in the world down the road. You can pick up flowers all year around for the price of a pint of beer. You will live in no other place in the western world and buy flowers so affordable.

Albert Heijn

The major supermarket chain in the Netherlands. Not always the most affordable AH is normally the most accessible Make sure you get a bonus card. What discounts are on offer can only be afforded with a Bonus Card.

Alternative Supermarkets

Dirk van den Broek is cheaper from Albert Hein by around 30% but no fish or meat.

Lidl is another affordable option.

C1000 is positioned in outer Amsterdam

Cheap Eats

The old city center does not offer to many cheap student meals. A few good places are located around the University of Amsterdam buildings.

T'Pakhuis - simple sturdy pub meals at good prices. Perfect for that night when you want to eat out. Prepare for a wait as the place is always busy.

Broodje Bert - (Single 321) A sandwich that resembles a mountain. This sandwich can not be eaten with your hands it is so big.

Walking Tours:

OMY Amsterdam Tours encourages our international students to learn about Amsterdam. If you have friends or family members visiting bring them on our City Centre, Red Light or Neighborhood Tours.

A 2-4-1 offer on demonstration of your University of Amsterdam student card will be offered until June 1 2013. Mention your student card in booking and bring it to the tour. Maximum of two student cards per tour.

If you have a group of international students and want to take one of our tours we will provide you a competitive price. All OMY tour guides were students. Check out our reviews.

Add to the knowledge

If you have a tips or advice to add please share. This way next year we can pass on your tips to the next international students in Amsterdam.

Most importantly when in Amsterdam ....ENJOY!

Restaurant Day Amsterdam off to Steaming Start

2012-08-21T10:19:00.003-07:00

When in Amsterdam....joined the 1st Restaurant Day in Amsterdam. A culurary festival that encourages pop up restaurants all around the world. Amsterdam had a steaming start with 8 pop up eateries and bars springing into action. Amsterdam also decided to heat things up with the weather reaching a sweltering 34 degrees.

We had plans to head to a couple locations. We had downloaded the app from the website and jumped on our bikes. We headed down to Vondel Park for a brunch of a Lemon meringue tart and a Serrano ham, rocket and tomato sandwich. Both were great but the location was ideal. Nestled in the shade of Vondel Park's trees we escaped the abnormal warmth. After digesting we jumped on our bikes with the best of intentions but the heat got the best of us.

The next Restaurant Day is scheduled for 17 November. We have already penciled into the calendar. If you love to cook and have some space join the movement and sign up for the day at their website.

Amsterdam has a history of underground restaurants battling the local Municipality's Food Authority. Amsterdammers also have a history of rebelling against the authorities. We shall see what develops but what could be better than to stand up for weird and wonderful food creations.

Restaurant Day started in Finland in 2011. In Finland it is turning into a well attended quarterly event. This last edition 710 location were in Finland, with over half of these in Helsinki.

The concept has spread quickly. The sixth edition on the third weekend of August spread across 17 countries. Over six hundred pop ups from Australia to Scandinavia.

Now Amsterdam is added to that number. If you are a Facebooker then join the local RD Amsterdam page to keep up with late changes and up to date locations.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Heart Day (Hartjesdag) 2012 on Amsterdam's Zeedijk

2012-08-19T13:28:00.001-07:00

When in Amsterdam....the third weekend of August is the Hartjesdag Festival on Amsterdam's Zeedijk. The modern festival began in 1997 to show the wonders of one of Amsterdam's oldest streets.

Amsterdam's Zeedijk Hartjesdag 2012

Hartjesdag was originally Hertjesday (Deer Day) and dates back to the Middle Ages when hunting deer was allowed by normal people. Somewhere along the way it turned into a cross dressing festival.

Hartjesdag Zeedijk. Painter Johan Braakensiek (1858-1940)

During World War 2 the festival was banned by the occupying Nazi Germans. Nevertheless, Zeedijk became a refuge for those persecuted by the Nazis. Officers of the occupying forces were not allowed to frequent the street as it was seen as beneath them.

Strolling the promenade. Zeedijk Amsterdam 2012

Today, Zeedijk, Amsterdam's medieval sea wall, is a diverse street that includes Amsterdam's Chinatown and oldest Gay bar. The street also contains one of the only wooden facade buildings in the city.

Hartjesday is a weird and wonderful festival that reminds people Amsterdam is a livable city of many small neighborhoods. Highlights of the Festival are always the cross dressing competition, choirs and the opera.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Amsterdam Canal Festival (Grachtenfestival) 2012 Begins

2012-08-11T06:03:00.001-07:00

When in Amsterdam....the Canal (Grachten) Festival is held for one week in August. The festival celebrates Amsterdam as the cultural capital of the Netherlands. 15 years ago the original aim was to create a 3 day platform for young classical musicians and incorporate cultural activities into the landscape of Amsterdam.

This year the festival is 10 days of classical music, dance and theatrical performance. There are both paid and free performances during the event. The festival is concentrated around the Klovinersburgwal but events are spread throughout the city.

Today we caught violinist Lonneke van Straalen and cellist Jan-Bastiaan Neven play a suite by Stravinsky.

Violinist Lonneke van Straalen and cellist Jan-Bastiaan Neven

We also saw clarinetist Sergio Hamersla play a selection of music by Fuchs.

Clarinetist Sergio Hamerslag

The Canal Festival culminates in a grand concert on the World Heritage listed Prinsengracht with the Westerkerk as a backdrop. The below Youtube clip shows the concluding concert to the 2011 Canal festival.

Keep posted for more highlights.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!