When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

Tulip Man on Amsterdam's Dam Square

Music Organ on Dam Square, Amsterdam

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!

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.

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!

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!

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!

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.

Museum Night Tickets 2012

Primera shops will be selling Museum Night tickets in 2012.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

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

Photo Credit: Martijn Klijmij

Photo Credit: Betribes

Photo Credit: Emma Pierre

The LoneRaver

Photo credit: Roy Laros

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

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

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!

When in Amsterdam....Enjoy!

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!

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.

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!

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!

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!

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!

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

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!

When in Amsterdam....Gay Pride is one of the biggest weekend's of the year. Amsterdam was the first city in the world to allow gay and lesbian marriage. There is a large gay and lesbian community and once a year they can celebrate in style.

Westerkerk. The largest protestant church in the Netherlands where the Queen married in 1966.

Each year there is a parade along Amsterdam's historic canals. This year 80 boats will take to the water led by Amsterdam's Lord Mayor. The parade finishes at City Hall were civil union ceremonies will take place. The Netherlands does not recognize religious weddings only civil unions.

Amstel near Rembrandtplein.

Music stages will be set up throughout the city. Rembrandtplein, Reguliersdwaarstraat, Westermarkt and Amstelveld will hum with music creating one of the largest street parties of the year. Car parking centers in the city will also have pink tickets for the weekend. http://www.rnw.nl/english/article/parking-goes-pink-amsterdam-pride

Vijzelstraat in Amsterdam hangs the rainbow flag for Gay Pride

For a good vantage point of the canal parade get your position early. Recommended are along the Prinsengracht and the Amstel. If you can't make the parade follow on the internet with English commentary http://avro.nl/gaypride/Artikelen/youtube.aspx?r=1.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy.

When in Amsterdam....Restaurant Week happens twice a year. This is your chance to visit top food establishments for bargain prices. A set 3 course menu is offered for 27.50 euros dinner and 22.50 for lunch!  Restaurants with a Michelin star are allowed to charge an extra 10 euros per star. The price does not include drinks.

If you are visiting Amsterdam during this period book early to get your place in food heaven. http://www.restaurantweek.nl

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam....August is festival month. Every day of August there is something exciting and new.

The first week of August Amsterdam is pink and proud. Amsterdam has always been a city of tolerance and the gay and lesbians are free to be themselves in the city. Once a year this freedom is celebrated. The annual Pride festival culminates in the canal parade. This year on August 4th for the 17th time 80 boats will float through the canals and finish at City Hall. Gain a good vantage point along the Prinsengracht or the Amstel. Music stages are located at the City Hall, Rembrandtplein and also Zeedijk.

Pride Parade 2011 (photo by Anne Vanels)

The Canal Festival (10-19 August) is When in Amsterdam's favorite festival of the year. The historical canals come alive with the sound of classical music. One highlight is the sound of grand pianos floating through the city being played by professional musicians. The Festival culminates in the concert on Prinsengracht in front of the Pulitzer Hotel. Be sure to get early for a good vantage point.


World Cinema Amsterdam (8-19 August) brings international cinema to the outdoors. This year the theme is Brazil. If the weather is good expect energetic post film party.


Uitmarkt (24-26 August) is one of Amsterdam's largest cultural festivals. It is the official opening of the cultural season hundreds of acts are on display. Check out Museumplein for the hottest cultural acts of 2012.


When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam.....there is only one team, Ajax. The most successful football team in the Netherlands, Ajax Amsterdam also has the largest supporter base in the country. Each year the new team outfit is eagerly awaited. The launch of the new shirt is a media moment.

This year Ad Agency Iris Amsterdam created a campaign for Ajax and Ajax's clothing partners Adidas. Adidas's new slogan is 'all in...Adidas'.

To launch the new Ajax shirt for the 2012/13 season fake walls and cameras were built into the changing rooms of the only official fan shop in Amsterdam's city center.

As the fans try on their new season shirt the wall is pulled away and they are surrounded by players from the team.

For many this may seem creepy and lawsuits might ensue but for Amsterdammers and Ajax supporters this goes to the heart of our sense of humor. Watch the youtube clip don't miss the guy who was so scared he ran into the door.



When in Amsterdam.....support Ajax.

Stanley Kubrick: The Exhibition at Amsterdam's EYE

The exhibition exposes the film maker through his work rather than the man itself. 

World of Litter Floated in Amsterdam's het IJ

World of Litter - a reminder of our waste

Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. If we all do our little part we can keep the world free of litter.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

O My Amsterdam Tours conducts an Eco-Tour to educate visitors to the city about Amsterdam's geography and the developments the city and Amsterdammers undertake to reduce carbon emissions. The World of Litter will be included on the O My Eco-Tour until September. On 21 September all O MY Amsterdam Tour Guides and staff will participate in Keep It Clean activities in Amsterdam.

Installation art titled: Artificial Happiness

Tickets are available online at: www.nuitblancheamsterdam.nl

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam...there is plenty of art even a flying cat. After 5 years absence the KunstRai returned to Amsterdam's premiere convention center RAI. The art fair specializes in modern art. This year 70 artists exhibited their work from 31 May to 3 June.

This year the most eye catching art was the cat helicopter. Dutch Artist Bart Jansen showed his 'Orvillecopter'. Bart had a cat Orville. Orville was hit by a car and died. Bart observed a period of mourning and then teamed up with a friend, Arjen Beltman. Arjen has a passion for flying helicopters. The collaboration resulted in Orville, now taxidermy cat with propellers attached to each of his paws.


Bart Jansen is an artist who does installations and 'meaningless machines'. His only criteria is that the art 'works'. The Cat Copter has attracted a range of response some see it as disturbing others as inventive. Jansen in a statement said that Orville loved chasing birds now the dream is realised after life 'to fly with the birds'

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

When in Amsterdam...once a year International Rugby 7s is played. Since 1972 Amsterdam has had a 7s tournament. Amature, proffessional, men, women and children converge on Amsterdam to play the shortened version of rugby over two days.

This year, thanks to IAmsterdam we sent one of our guides and former rugby player to the 7s tournament. They were asked to check out and report back on the famous Amsterdam Rugby 7s tournament from a perspective of someone that knows nothing about Rugby. Here is what they had to say.


Amsterdam is a city of bicycles and canals so a friend and I meet at Central Station and rode our bikes west in search of Rugby fields that we never knew exisited. Amsterdam had put on great weather. The sun was shinning and the temperature hot for Amsterdam. The trip should have taken around 20 minutes but this is Amsterdam. There is always something going on. We briefly stopped twice. Once at a food festival of vehicles that were converted into kitchens and second at an outdoor music party with tunes that were hard to ignore from the bike path. After asking a few locals for directions we finally arrived at what one Amsterdammer described as 'a big happening over there'.

Wales v England Amsterdam 7s 2012

Rugby 7s is a shortened version of the traditional form of Rugby. Instead of 15 players per side there are 7. Instead of two halves of 40 minutes there are two halves of 7 minutes. Two teams of 7 play for two halves of 7 minutes. This is why the game is called 7s rugby. The tournament format and shortness of the game creates a carnival atmosphere.

For people who don't know anything about rugby 7s is perfect. Games are short and exciting. There are many teams so supporting one team is hard. The game is quick and fast passed as there is only 14 players on the field so there is normally more points scored in the 7s format.

We arrived to see the England play Wales on the main field. The standard was high and technically specific. It should not be surprising to see women play rugby to a high standard. Women rugby has come a long over the last decade and it was great to watch. The only problem was Wales lost.

It was then off to the back fields. As a former player the back fields of a 7s tournament are a great place to see people who love rugby. The other good thing about the back fields is you get to see two fields, therefore two games a once. Twice the excitement.

Back field action at Amsterdam rugby 7s

All of a sudden one of the players suffered an injury on the back field. Rugby is a physical sport and injuries happen every now and then. The player from Argentina had sprained his ankle. In no time the tournament organisers were on the spot with the electric car to transport the player to the first aid tent.

Amsterdam 7s organizers quick to respond to injured player on back field.

Amsterdam 7s organisers must be applauded for their quick response. Player welfare is the most important aspect of rugby. Even though the player pictured was playing in the furthermost back field the organizers responded promptly. Each field had a Marshall. Once the injury occurred the Field Marshall radioed to first aid and within minutes help was at hand.

Player welfare central at Amsterdam rugby 7s

After a lot of rugby and even more sun it was time to move back to the main stadium. The atmosphere was electric with people drunk with sunshine and rugby. The elite women were playing. On came the national Dutch team. The crowd went wild. They put on a great performance and won the game we watched.

Dutch Women Rugby 7s team

 Rugby is an international game and although the rugby is center stage there was plenty to do including mixing with people from all over the world. We talked with people from Argentina, England, South Africa, Australia, and Fiji.

Amsterdam rugby 7s an international affair

Fijians are famous for their rugby. In this small south Pacific Island country rugby is a national passion. Fiji has a population of some 850 000 people but they gravitate towards rugby even on the other side of the world. There was a whole gang from Tailevu in Fiji. Bula!

Bula vinaka! A gang of Fijians at the Amsterdam rugby 7s

For people who don't know anything about rugby, 7s is a great introduction. You don't have to know the rules of the game as you will be swept up in the game. It is exciting, quick, has carnival atmosphere and friendly people from all over the world. For some the excitement was too much.

End of a long day at Amsterdam rugby 7s

The organizers run a professional world class 7s tournament. As we rode home on our bicycles we knew we had experienced an exceptional day. Thank you IAmsterdam for the tickets and thank you Amsterdam for the wonderful weather. Next year be sure to check out the Amsterdam Rugby 7s.


When in Amsterdam...enjoy!


For our regular readers and transparency we were provided free tickets to the Amsterdam Rugby 7s. This did not impact the opinions written.

When in Amsterdam.... drink a Raging Bitch. Beer of the week at Cafe Batavia 1920 is a Belgian style Indian Pale Ale. On pouring there was a lovely white head. The first sip was immediately full of hops but then changed to flavors of citrus, apples and grapefruit.

Raging Bitch at Cafe Batavia 1920

 For those that like gin and tonics this is a beer for you. The Raging Bitch was easy to drink. After having two Bitchs the evening was kicked off in a great fashion.

When in Amsterdam.....drink an Indian Pale Ale.

For more Batavia Beers of the Week:
- Affligem Dubbel
- Maredsous Blonde
- Barbar
- Delirium Nocturnum 
- Golden Dragon

When in Amsterdam....once a year Kitchens roll into town. Food, music, drinks, food and more food is laid out at Amsterdam's Westergasfabriek. For four days starting Ascension Day  75 vans, caravans, trucks, buses, trailers create a large open air food court on wheels, a food lover's dream.

Rolling Kitchens entrance in Amsterdam

There was so much to choose from we didn't know where to start. The weather was great, the sun came out so we started with a plastic bag of lemon infused water from the lemon fairy.

Lemon Fairy at Rolling Kitchens, Amsterdam

The crowd was large and the lines for food long. We definitively saw what was popular by the length of the line. There was so much food from which to choose: Mexican tacos and ceviche, Thai curry, Moroccan, Vegan, sushi, wood fired pizza, burgers, pig on a spit, Surinam roti, Indian curry, Italian pasta....you see the problem we faced. What a good problem!

Rolling Kitchens at Amsterdam's Westerpark

We started with a Bara stuffed with Bacalao. This is a dish from Suriname. Bacalao is salted fish and it was warmed on the BBQ. The fish was topped with pickled cabbage and curry ketchup. Wow, the Bara was so fresh and crispy. The salted fish wonderful, the pickles spicy.

Bara with Bacaloa at Rolling Kitchens, Amsterdam

 Now we had food in our stomachs time for one of the long lines. There were some serious BBQs around so we went for the line with a big smoking BBQ.

Smoking BBQ at Rolling Kitchen's Amsterdam

Smokey Goodness BBQ stall in Amsterdam

Smoked BBQ pork roll with coleslaw was chosen. Also a home made ice tea was ordered. The smoked pork was lovely, soft and sweet with BBQ sauce. The ice tea was a hit especially to wash away the lingering spice of the Bara. However, the star of the show was the sunshine that warmed the crowd.

BBQ pork roll with Ice Tea

We walked around amazed by the different vehicles made into food dispensers.

































































Hungry again from looking at all the wheels, ravioli with ricotta and lemon was selected. No not a large size just a small size,please.


The sauce was a little salty but tasty. The lemon balanced the ricotta. The people serving were rocking, people eating and dancing at the same time.

Wonderful weather, great tasty food, pumping music, happy. We called it a day even though the outdoor movie was about to start. Thank you Mister Kitchen and Pacific Parc for organizing the event. Rolling home on two wheels with a full stomach was satisfying.

Rolling Kitchens runs from 1300 to 2300hrs, Thursday 17 May to Sunday 20 May at Amsterdam's Westergasfabriek.

On Sunday the last day of Rolling Kitchens coincides with the monthly Neighborfood Market. What a fantastic food weekend.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Affligem Dubbel at Cafe Batavia 1920

Other Beer of the Week entries:

- Maredsous Blonde
- Barbar
- Delirium Nocturnum
- Golden Dragon

When in Amsterdam.....remember Mokum. Amsterdam City Archives remember the Children of the Netherlands who were deported and murdered in the Second World War because they were Jewish, Roma and Sinti. The exhibition titled Memoriam is on display in the foyer and exhibition room of  the Bazel building, Amsterdam City Archive.

The exhibition has three parts and is an extention of the book In Memoriam, de gedeporteerde en vermoorde Joodse, Roma en Sinti kinderen, 1942-1945. One part is a glass panel. The panel lists the names of the 15 000 children who were deported by the Nazi occupying forces of the Netherlands between 1942-45.

Memoriam Exhibition Amsterdam City Archive

The centre piece of the exhibition is a 70 meter board. The board is broken in four and is covered in photos and details of the 2 900 Dutch Jewish children who were transported to Nazi run death camps. Photo, name, address, place of birth and place of death are simply displayed.


The third part of the exhibition is the story of 15 of the children who were deported and murdered under Nazi occupation in Amsterdam.

To bring you to them When In Amsterdam went to the address to see where Dolfje and Leo use to live in Amsterdam.

Prinsengracht 862 Dolfje's old home

Nieuwe Hoogstraat 27-29 - Leo's old home

The Memoriam exhibition is similar to an awareness campaign by Amsterdam's daily newspaper Het Parool for May 4 Remembrance Day activities in 2011. The newspaper sent posters to the addresses of former Jewish residences in Amsterdam. The campaign showed in pre-war Amsterdam it was normal to have a Jewish neighbor.

The exhibition's impact is its simplicity and subjects. History is not normally told by children and the marginalized. War is masculine and winners write the events. Children's stories are not normally central. Memoriam, like the Het Parool campaign, presents humanity front and center through innocent youngsters. Their story though short is important shape constructions of remembrance of human tragedy. The Memoriam exhibition  runs 10 February to 20 May 2012. Click link for more information.

Mokum is a slang word for central Amsterdam. The Yiddish word translates as 'place' or 'safe haven' and is derived from the Hebrew word 'makum' meaning 'place'.

Related post Remembrance Day May 4

When in Amsterdam....respect.

When in Amsterdam...May 4 is Remembrance Day. The day remembers those who experienced war and peace-missions. Men,women, children, and animals who suffered are not forgotten.

The Queen of the Netherlands makes her yearly trip to Amsterdam's Dam Square. Her Highness bring family, students and political dignitaries of city, province and state.


Flowers are laid at the National Monument on the east end of Dam Square. A young student whom represents the country's young, reads a poem of their hand. Two minutes silence is observed by the country.

Lest we forgot.

When in Amsterdam....respect!


Related Post -Amsterdam City Archive remembers murdered Jewish Children in Exhibition 

When in Amsterdam....drink a Golden Dragon. May begins and temperatures have dropped. Sitting at the corner bar of Cafe Batavia 1920 Beer of the Week is a warming dark triple ale, Gulden Draak (Golden Dragon).

The smell of alcohol immediate is comforted with coffee aroma. The froth of the beer cappuccino. Not a drop drunk and already a coffee.

One sip and taste was full, lingered and finished bitter, refreshed, warm. The glass finished sweating and the beer developed softer subtle sweet and sour flavours.

What a beer! Relaxed and amazed by the Golden Dragon experience an introduction is made to the stranger next, "Haallo, What do you do when in Amsterdam?

Gulden Draak at Cafe Batavia 1920

Previous Beers of the Week:

- Maredsous Blonde
- Barbar
- Delirium Nocturnum

When in Amsterdam....support Ajax. Amsterdam's only premiere football/soccer team, Ajax, claimed its 31st national title. Two titles in two years has put smiles on the many Amsterdammers.

Ajax Amsterdam Supporters in full voice

Half way through the 2011-2012 football season it did not look promising for Ajax who languished in 7th place in the Dutch league. However, with 11 straight victories Amsterdam claim the title with one game still to play.

Ajax Amsterdam Shirt - Photo by Sonia Hermosin

Ajax Amsterdam is the most successful club in Dutch history winning 31 national titles. Eindhoven's PSV is second with 21 titles while Ajax's arch rival from Rotterdam, Feynoord has 14 titles.

Ajax is also world famous for its youth acadamy. Many famous players have come through the ranks of Ajax they include Johan Cruijff, Edwin van der Sar, Dennis Bergkamp, Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart and Nigel de Jong. Exciting new young talent is always in the making keep an eye out in the future for Davy Klaassen and Derk Boerrichter as they are sure to impress football fans.

When in Amsterdam you can learn more about the Ajax at the Ajax Experience. Situated in the city center at Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt Square) the Ajax Experience is for the football enthusiast.  Another option is to venture out to the stadium and take a tour. The Amsterdam Museum also has a great exhibition about the history of the football club in the city.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam...visit the World Press Photo Exhibition at the Old Church. For 55 years this competition has highlighted world events and style in photo journalism. Considered internationally as the premiere competition for photojournalists the World Press Photo Foundation is based in Amsterdam and operates as an independent non-profit organisation. Judging is done over two weeks by a jury who discuss and evaluate anonymous entries.

World Press Photo Exhibition 2012 - Amsterdam

The jury gave prizes in 9 themed categories to 54 photographers.

Photo of the year went to Spanish photographer Samuel Aranda for an image of a veiled woman comforting her wounded son. The photo was taken in a mosque in Jordan. The mosque was temporarily a field hospital during the violent protests in Saana, Jordan, 2012. Aranda was on assignment for the New York Times.

World Press Photo 2012 - Amsterdam

The Press Photo Exhibition always challenges viewers and their sense of self. On viewing we found ourselves moved, shocked and enlightened. The Exhibition runs April to June 17 June.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam....drink a beer that is not pilsner. Happy Queen's Day Weekend everyone. Amsterdam  is set for a long weekend of celebration. Therefore we need a beer that is not to heavy, a beer that is different to earlier weeks. This week's beer is to help you enjoy the freshness and excitement of Spring and the Amsterdam party atmosphere.

With the help of Cafe Batavia 1920 the beer of the week is Maredsous Blonde 6 Ale.


This was the first beer to be produced by the Benedictine Abbey of Maredsous in Denee, Belgium. This Blonde 6 is now brewed by the well renowned Duvel Moortgat Brewery.

On pouring the Maredsous Blonde there was a large sticky head with wheat citrus aroma. The taste is a little tart to start with a dry finish. Citrus, spice, fruit and biscuit flavors burst through and disappear on the palate. The 6 stands for 6% alcohol. This 6 is an easy to drink blonde Belgium beer.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy Queen's Weekend!

When in Amsterdam....enjoy Queen's Day or Koninginnedag (as it's called). The largest street party in the country is held on April 30th throughout the streets of Amsterdam. The annual festival of Orange is a national holiday in the Netherlands. It is a day to celebrate the birthday of the Queen of the Netherlands. 30 April is actually the Queen's mother's birthday but Beatrix, the current Queen, has her birthday in January. Winter is not the time to have a party outside so April 30th is it.



Queens Night (the night before April 30)

The party begins the night before April 30. Many places, bars and clubs have special events for the evening. Many Amsterdammers enjoy Queen's Night with friends and family getting ready for the free market that is held the next day.



2012 Queen's Night will be different

This year Amsterdam's premiere football (soccer) team Ajax may turn national champion on Queen's night. This sernario has not occured in memory and is sure to complicate Queen's night and day celebrations. Regional football rivalry is known to out-weigh national affliction.



Prepare everything Orange

If you are visiting for 30 April bring an orange outfit. Amsterdam an historically republican city of the Netherlands goes Orange for a day. It is a day when the normally reserved Dutch let their hair down and kick up their heels, all in an orange fever.



Amsterdam's Largest Free Market

Not only in Amsterdam but all over the Netherlands Queen's Day provides the opportunity for all to test their inner capitalist and entrepreneur.The walkways of the county are covered with the largest flea or free market. This is the opportunity to get rid of old or new goods and get paid. Many with imagination create games or entertainment to raise funds for further party. Few take the money making seriously. On a day when most things are able to be sold, a fortune or at least a bargain can be found.


Amsterdam Street Dance Party

Each Amsterdam neighborhood will have music stages so that you can dance the evening away. Music will operate on the stages from 1200hrs until 2000hrs. Favorite spots are around Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein and Nieuwmarkt. If you haven't danced enough all of the night clubs will continue to 0300hrs or 0500hrs.




When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

When in Amsterdam...drink a beer that is not pilsner.

The basics of Beer on Friday have been stipulated. Beer of the week is the wonderful Barbar.

Barbar is a honey ale produced by the Brasserie Lefebvre.  This Brewery is situated in a small village south of Brussels and has been a family owned since 1876.

On tasting it is not as sweet as we expected. There is a malty sweetness. Honey and vanilla flavors are present but not over powering. The finish is dry spicy and slightly tart. This is the beer for those who are tempted to move from the safety of pilsner for the first time. With an alcohol content of 8% Barbar should be enjoyed slowly.

The Geelvinck Hinlopen Family

Entrance Geelvink Hinlopen House Museum Amsterdam

The House

Garden - Geelvink Hinlopen House Museum Amsterdam

In the foyer hangs a 400 year old tapestry. Designed by Felmish Michiel Coxie. The tapestry depicts Cyrus the Great of Persia (550 BC) and and Croesus the Rich of Lydia. Despite Cyrus capturing Croesus he did not kill him by rather made him a prinicple minister.





There are four period rooms that are decrorated in late 18th century styles. Rococo and neo classical styles are prominent. From May until June the museum is celebrating 400 years of diplomatic relations between Turkey and the Netherlands. The downstairs area houses the exhibition.
Every Sunday there are chamber concerts in the neighboring downstairs room. Musicians use antique musical instruments that are part of the house collection. For more information regarding the house visit their website

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam....drink beer that is not pilsner.



This week's beer of the week is Delirium Nocturnum. A triple fermented Belgium dark ale.The beer is brewed by the 350 year old family owned Belgian Brouwerij Huyghe.   





When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

When in Amsterdam......visit an Amsterdam Canal House Museum. Set on Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage Canals you step into the existence of the city's merchant elite. With the museum card or IAmsterdam card these museums are great value. These museums are away from the crowds and let you wander the rooms and gardens of valued real estate.

The Van Loon Family

The Van Loon Family is a patrician family of Amsterdam. The family moved to Amsterdam from South Holland in the 17th century. In 1602, Willem Van Loon was one of the founding members of the Dutch East Indies Company (VOC) and Willem's grandson was Lord Mayor of Amsterdam. The Van Loons were raised to the position of peerage in the 1800s. The  the house was bought by the family in 1886 as a wedding present for a younger Van Loon.

The Van Loon Museum is still owned by the family today.

The House

Van Loon Museum - Amsterdam

Built in 1672, its first resident was Ferdinand Bol, pupil of Rembandt, and master artist in his own name. The house next door was owned by Jeremias van Raey, a Flemish merchant who made his money by selling weapons and grain. Van Raey rented the yet to be named Van Loon House to Bol. The architect of the house was Adriaen Dortsman who also designed the Dome Lutheran Church in Amsterdam, the now named Descartes House and the fortifications at Naarden, just outside of Amsterdam.

Van Loon Museum - Amsterdam

The Van Loon Museum is a chance to step behind the facade of a grand canal house in Amsterdam's heritage listed canals. The house is like stepping back in time. Bread is still on the kitchen table. The beds are dressed in linen. The house looks like the 17th century owners have just stepped out.

At the back of the house is wonderful garden and a coach house. The garden is beautiful and a moment of peace away from the noise of Amsterdam's streets. The newly renovated coach house is currently housing an exhibition by painter Michiel van Musscher.

Van Loon Museum Garden and Coach House - Amsterdam

Coach House Exhibition of Michiel van Musscher

In the Coach House is the first exhibition of Michiel van Musscher (1645 - 1705)  who painted during the time of Rembrandt. Van Musscher was born into a Mennonite family and was first commissioned by the Van Loon family in 1679. He was one of the most successful portrait painters in Amsterdam at the end of the 1600s. His most famous subject is Tsar Peter the Great.

Michiel showed talent for painting early in life and excelled after a few months of training.  Van Musscher's special talent was detail especially tapestry, oriental carpets and fine fabrics. His ability to paint realistically is what made the elite of Amsterdam commission him for paintings.

Our favorite painting of the exhibition was that of the painter's family. The skill of detail was evident. What was more amazing was that the painting was done months after the death of van Musscher's first wife. The painting was a memory. The artist also added a peacock, that symbolizes immortality, and a finch that symbolised resurrection.

For those who enjoy Dutch Golden Age art the Michiel van Musscher exhibition is well worth a visit. The exhibition runs from March until June. For more information regarding entrance prices and times visit the museum website.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam....visit Foam. One of Amsterdam's premiere Photography Muesum, Foam is currently showing photos from the last 15 years of the 30 year old NY Times Magazine in an exhibition titled The New York Times Magazine - Photographs.

Foam - Amsterdam

The exhibition places photography as an important part of storytelling. Compiled into 11 projects that range in topic from politics to Hollywood celebrities and positioning photographs differently. Portraiture, reportage and fine art photographs demonstrate the diversity of photographs in print.

Photos from Gilles Peress taken in Iran in 1979 and 1980 position politics as timeless. The project of Sebastiao Salgado, 'Kuwait Inferno, 1991' show oil wells on fire during the first Gulf War. Anticipation of being in the right place at the right moment must be weighed against danger. Salgado, a Brazilian, is considered to be by some one of the most important photographers of the early 21st century. Salgado described the Kuwait assignment as the difference between danger and devastation. The photos have a depth that goes beyond fear.

The New York Times Magazine - Photographs provides layers to interest all. The photography enthusiast will marvel at amazing shots of portraits and war zones. The historian will appreciate the role of images in documenting an historic moment. The fashionable learn about trends and images of style constructions. There is something for all.

NY Times Magazine exhibition- Foam, Amsterdam

The exhibition is compiled under the guidance of Kathy Ryan, award winning Director of Photography at the New York Times Magazine and Lesley A. Martin, publisher of the Aperture Foundation's book program. The exhibition runs 23 March to 30 May 2012. Click on the Foam link for open time and admission prices.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Else Berg Self Portrait 1917

Mommie Schwarz Self Portrait 1917

Woman in Red Pinafore- Berg 1913

Majorca - Else Berg 1914

Sardine Fishers - Schwarz 1923

Belagebrug - Schwarz 1936

As Amsterdam became occupied by the Nazi-Germans the couple sent many of their paintings to friends. They returned to Amsterdam in 1942 for an unknown reason and continued painting. Schwarz would paint the view of Sephati Park from their studio window. Painting in dark colours depicting the mood of the time. Berg on the other hand painted children playing care free in the park.

View of Sarphati Park - Berg 1942

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Flowers on Thursday: Tulips

When in Amsterdam...visit the Keukenhof Gardens. It is Spring everyone! Yesterday marked the official beginning of the new season. Today the gates have been flung open of the Keukenhof Gardens.

The Keukenhof Garden is a 32 hectare park filled with tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and other spring bulbs. 7 million bulbs are hand planted at the park every year. The Park is open from March 22 until May 20 every year.

Located at Lisse, which is in between Amsterdam and The Hague. This area is famous for its bulbs. During spring the tulip fields flower creating field after field of colour. Yellow tulips have already sprung up and now the others are slowly popping up with the warmer and longer days.

When in Amsterdam...visit to the Keukenhof 2011

The Keukenhof Gardens is something that you must do at least once in your life if in the Netherlands. The photos never do justice to the wonderful display of colour. The best way to get there is on public transport. Go to the Keukenhof website and buy a combo-ticket. This ticket includes park entrance and also return bus from Amsterdam airport to the Gardens. From Amsterdam Airport you can catch a train straight to Amsterdam Centraal Station. Don't take expensive bus and day trip tours to the Keukenhof Gardens from Amsterdam. There is no need and you will probably end up in a traffic jam.

Our Number One Tip is to go early. The Keukenhof Gardens is the largest tourist attraction in the Netherlands. Over the 60 year history of the gardens more than 44 million people have visited. There are normally many traffic jams around lunch time onwards as buses and  cars try to reach the park along the narrow roads of normally quiet, rural Holland. CNN Travel, the American News Station has listed Keukenhof as one of the world's top attractions to see in 2012.

Keukenhof Gardens Holland

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam visit a market. Today we visited the Neighbourfood Market at the Westergasterrein.

Neighbourfood Market Amsterdam

We arrived around 10am. The bad weather meant many stalls were still setting up so we walked to the nearby Bakkerswinkle for a cup of tea and a fresh juice.

The Neighbourfood Market is a new market in Amsterdam. The market is held on the third Sunday of every month in the Westergasterrein in the Westerpark complex. The market runs from 10am to 4pm.

Cooks, growers, bakers, and food lovers unite at this fantastic market. Many of the stalls hold organic produce. There was so much to try. The setting is wonderful. Full of light and warmth, world's away from the cold and wet that was outside.

Neighbourfood Market Amsterdam

Our pick of the market was the following:

Dolmas (Dolmades) from de Groene Griek (the Green Greek). This stall sold organic olive oil but it was the dolmades that caught my attention. Dolmades are grape vine leaves that are wrapped around a morsel of normally rice, pine nuts and fresh herbs.These were no tasteless tinned rolls that normally get around northern Europe. These were fantastic little morsels of flavour.

De Groene Greek Stall at the Neighbourfood Market Amsterdam

Tapas from Pintxo. This stall had a great selection of Northern Spanish Tapas. Pintxo does catering events. The sausage was a definitive stand out but all that we tried were wonderful.

Pintxo stall at Neighbourfood Market Amsterdam

There was so much to try. Cupcakes, freshly made cakes, English meat pies, gourmet toasted sandwiches fresh produce the list goes on. Thanks to the organizers. After a bit of exercise we look forward to next month's edition.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam....buy flowers. Amsterdam is famous for tulips and bulbs. There is even a song Tulips are from Amsterdam. The Keukenhof Gardens are about to open (22 March) and Floriade a once in 10 year flower event is in on in the south of the Netherlands, Venlo this year.

During Spring we are going to bring you Flower Thursday. This is a day to show one of the great things about living in Amsterdam, affordable flowers.

This week we thought we might start off with the famous tulip and the daffodil. Spring is here and the bulbs are popping up. At least the Netherlands does not have the Ground Hog and Mole problems that England and many eastern states of the US have, as When in Amsterdam learned on the tours this week.

If you are visiting Amsterdam for more than one day. Go to the nearest street market or the Floating Flower Market here in Amsterdam and put them in your hotel room. A wonderful thing to see when you wake up.

Tulips and Daffodils(we think)

The flowers we bought that are picture above cost €3.50. Less than a pint of beer,or a Starbucks coffee, or a packet of cigarettes.

When in Amsterdam...buy flowers and enjoy!

When in Amsterdam... has heard about the Hollywood Actress Angelina Jolie's visit to Amsterdam today. Jolie was in Amsterdam to visit the the Hauge to go to the International Criminal Court. Local television network AT5 was on the spot to catch her non-court activities. A private canal boat tour with her children was the order of the day. AT5's footage shows Angelina in a beautiful Saloon Boat.

Not a bad day to visit Amsterdam but a bit cool for a boat. That is unless you have access to a covered boat.

Looks like she was staying at the Hotel Amstel.This is where royalty of blood or popularity stay when they are in Amsterdam. Queen Elizabeth II, King Carlos of Spain, Orson Welles, The Rolling Stones are some of it guest list.

14 Caret gold taps and baths that fill in two minutes are part of the Hotel Amstel's features.


When in Amsterdam... enjoy!

When in Amsterdam John Fogerty is coming to Amsterdam in 2012. Mojo the concert promoter announced today that Fogerty will play a concert in Amsterdam on July 13 2012. Pre-sale tickets for the Forgerty concert go on sale March 24 2012. The concert is to take place in the Ziggo Dome where Madonna and Pearl Jam will also play this summer. It must be noted that this venue has still not been completed. We will see.

Fogerty is famous for his membership in the Creedence Clearwater Revival the famous American roots rock band. Fogerty has had a solo career since the mid 1970s with his best known hit Centerfield an anthem to the All American Baseball spirit.

Last year Fogerty started to play Creedence songs at his concerts so he may perform these rock classics in Amsterdam this year.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Thin house in Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam…on a walking tour be careful when the tour guide talks about the small, tiny, thinnest, narrowest house in Amsterdam. Have a look at what we found on a beautiful Spring Day.

Most Narrow house in Amsterdam

Tiny house in Amsterdam

The Smallest House in Amsterdam

You have now seen a four small, tiny, narrow, thin houses. One of these houses has a rear, back entrance that is below. Have a guess which house and remember, When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

The back of the narrow, tiny, thin, smallest house in Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam remember the Lion is the national symbol. Recently a Dutch family was touring the Amsterdam Zoo, the Artis. With family camcorder in hand and in front of the Lion pavilion they viewed the hunter instinct of the King of the Jungle.

                                                                     warning: violence

The Netherlands is a delta country at the end of three of Europe's big rivers, the Rhine, the Meuse and the Scheldt. The Dutch landscape is a paradise for birds. Migratory birds spend their winter in Africa and then breed in the woods of the Netherlands with the bountiful number of insects in the wetlands.

Zoo staff say that Lion's killing birds happens a lot because their are so many birds in the Netherlands(AT5). The below youtube clip is from 2008 when another bird was taken by Amsterdam's lion pride and filmed.


Amsterdam Zoo is the 6th oldest in Europe opening in 1838. It was nick-named Noah's Arc as it had hundreds of species on a small amount of land. This sounds tormenting now but in the 1800's this was a sceptical.

In other Amsterdam zoo related news staff announced a gorilla was born over the weekend.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

When in Amsterdam has always marvelled at the number of book shops walking and touring around Amsterdam. In a time of digital media with print media and information delivery changing it is comforting to see the book shops still open and smelling of old and new books.


Recently the website Flavorwire released their '20 Most Beautiful Bookshops of the world'. Amsterdam was represented with the American Book Center, or ABC as it is commonly  referred to by locals. Favorwire is run by Flavopill an organisation that 'covers cultural events, arts, books, music and world news'. For many English speakers ABC is a home away from home.

Ground Floor of ABC photo taken from Favorwire.com

The American Book Center is only one of many independent bookshops in Amsterdam. Established in 1972 by two Americans it is today one of the largest independent book shops in the Netherlands. They are family owned and fiercely independent.The owner compares the book shop to a piece of bamboo, strong but flexible.

In a time when bookshops are closing due to the digital age ABC is well worth a visit for any book lover on a trip to Amsterdam.


Many people see Amsterdam's Coffeeshops (places to buy hash and marijana) as a symbol of the city's liberalism. There are more bookshops in Amsterdam than Coffeeshops and it the books that really demonstrate Amsterdam's and the Netherlands' liberal history.

During the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th Century Amsterdam and Holland were a beacon of free thinking. The lack of censorship allowed books to be published in the country that others thought inappropriate for their own countries. Many of the Enlightenment Philosophers such as Descartes and Rousseau visited Amsterdam many times. Amsterdam too produced Spinoza who was famous for his work on Ethics and how to find happiness.

In the 1930s many German writers that the Nazis had exiled came to Amsterdam to write and or publish their books. Bertolt Brecht, the play write, is the most famous.

In 2008 Amsterdam was recognised for it's history of literature and was the World Book Capital. Announced by the United Nations cultural organ UNESCO. 2012 World Book capital is is Yerevan, Armenia.



When in Amsterdam...marvel at the bookshops as a sign of free thinking and liberalism!

When in Amsterdam was surprised to find Facebook has an office in Amsterdam. We took a walking tour of Amsterdam to visit the building at 282 Herengracht and found there was no one there. Nor a listing at reception.

282 Herengracht (photo taken from wikipedia)

Reports by De Pers suggest that the post box listing is to reduce tax payments. There is a law in the Netherlands that allows companies to bring money into the country if it is from royalties, interest or dividends for minimal tax. Rock band such as U2 and the Rolling Stones have used this law also the National Radio reports.

An account in England's Sunday Times describe a web of companies established in low taxing countries all over the world. With Facebook due to go public on the stock exchange billions of dollars are expected to fill the Facebook accounts.

The founder of Facebook March Zuckerberg has always said that his social media enterprise was not about making money but to helping people. The nasty side effect, money, now needs to be addressed... and pay as little tax as possible.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

When in Amsterdam is quietly nervous ahead of tonight's game Ajax Amsterdam versus Manchester United.

picture taken from corollaforum.nl

When in Amsterdam was surprised by the amount of attention our blog on Madonna's 2012 world tour received.

Her Amsterdam concert went on sale over the weekend and was an immediate sell out. Madonna's shows in Berlin, Amsterdam and New York were the first to sell out.

Due to the high demand the Material Girl has announced another concert in Amsterdam. July 8 2012 will be the second concert. Tickets for this event go on sale Friday 17 February. Be sure to get in fast. For details on where to get your tickets and where the concert is to be held visit our previous blog on the issue.


When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

When in Amsterdam was on the way to the airport to pick up transiting customers who had booked a private tour of Amsterdam when Europe's 4th largest Airport was closed for a few hours on Monday. Two terminals were evacuation while military police and bomb detection units moved through the airport.


It is being reported that a 40 year old man, a Russian citizen has been detained. He was found locked in the toilets shouting that he had an explosive device. After being detained no bomb was found and he posed no further problems for authorities.

The bomb scare at Amsterdam's Schiphol caused delays to hundreds of flights.Amsterdam airport is one of the largest in Europe and a major transportation hub. Some argue that the 700euro fine for causing such a disturbance is not large enough to be a deterrence.

Security had been improved since 2009 after the underwear bomber incident on a flight between Amsterdam and Detroit. Nigerian student Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab smuggled liquid explosives in his underwear on a flight to America. He has pleaded guilty to trying to blow up the Northwest flight and now faces a sentence of life imprisonment.

photo taken from washingtontimes.com

Umar's sentence is to be handed down on Thursday. He will be the last terror suspect to go through a  civilian justice process as all new terror suspects will be placed before a military tribunal after President Obama signed the new law late 2011. No link has been found between the underwear bomber and toilet bomb threat.

Unfortunately we had to cancel the tour for the transiting customers.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Madonna 1984 'Like a virgin'. Image taken from insidethecostumebox.blogspot.com

When in Amsterdam has by popular request, from one staff member in particular, is letting everyone know about  Madonna's Amsterdam visit in 2012.

For those of you that saw the Super Bowl half time show the Diva seems to have lost none of her performance punch. According to some it seems that experience and time have increased Madonna's abilities. She is currently 54 years old.

The World Tour dates were announced earlier this week. Madonna is visiting Amsterdam on 7 July as part of her 26 cities European leg of her World Tour.

The Venue is to be the Ziggo Dome that is located near the home of the famous Ajax football team, the Areana.

The interesting thing about he Ziggo Dome is that the multi-purpose stadium has not even been built. It is due to open latter this year to host music concerts and sporting events. The Ziggo Dome is anticipated to have a capacity of 15,600. Pear Jam, the American rock band, is also due to play there is July for two shows on their European Tour.

Tickets for Madonna's concert in Amsterdam go on sale Saturday 11 February. Viagogo has been named as the official secondary ticket seller for the European leg of the tour.

When In Amsterdam....Enjoy!

When in Amsterdam has finally got the extra winter gear out.

This week Amsterdam and most of Europe was covered in a thick layer of snow. Record low temperatures were experienced.

The bad thing about the recent cold snap has been delays in transport. Trains from The Hague to Amsterdam were delayed by 4 hours or cancelled on Friday. Many flights were also delayed or cancelled out of Amsterdam Airport.

The good thing about the big chill is that the canals in Amsterdam have frozen over. A rare event over the last decade in the nation's capital. Omy Amsterdam Walking tours have managed to take a route rarely travelled, on frozen water! Our guide took this wonderful photo below of people enjoying the frozen canals.



The Dutch cultural tradition of ice skating has finally been practised. People of all ages have taken to the ice in this most Dutch of winter past times.

The Dutch have always excelled at skating and especially long distance ice skating.

The famous 11 city ice skating marathon is being considered. Conducted over a maze of canals in the northern Province of Friesland this 200 kilometre event attracts tens of thousands of participants. The event was last held in 1997 and before that in 1986. The race committee announced that if the east wind and cold temperatures continue through the week it could be held over the weekend or next week if mother nature agrees. Watch a documentary done in Dutch by the National Radio of the 1985 race.




Private walking tours have still continued, a testament to our enthusiastic guides who will take people out no matter what the weather.

Get out and enjoy the winter weather.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

When in Amsterdam welcomes 2012. A year of opportunity, fun and excitement. Also a year of doomsday philosophy and bleak economic predictions for Europe. Amsterdam has weathered many an international storm during its history so I don't think 2012 is going to be any different.

So what to look forward to in 2012.

2012 Queens Day is on a Monday!
In the middle of winter the April 30 festival is the light at the end of the tunnel. Often referred to as the largest street party in the world, in 2012 Queensday (Koninginnedag) will be on a Monday. This means a long weekend of parties.

If you haven't already organised your stay in Amsterdam for this not to be missed event get to it now. Many of Amsterdam's hotels, and tour guides are heavily if not fully booked for this weekend. So get organised so as not to be disappointed.



European Football (Soccer) Championships. Euro 2012 dates for Amsterdam
Hosted in Ukraine and Poland and running from 8 June - 1 July, the Netherlands has drawn, again, a pool of death. Expect Amsterdam to be full 9/14/17 June with their pool matches. 14 June is another date not to be missed when the Dutch go head to head with their arch-rivals the Germans. Amsterdam is certain to be full of nervous tension for this much anticipated event.

If the Dutch are to survive the pool stage and reach the semi final stage, expect Amsterdam to be in the grip of football fever for the semi-final on 27 and 28 June. With the Final to be held on 1 July if anybody remembers the South African World Cup Holland v Brazil game, Amsterdam knows how to celebrate. Watch the youtube clip of what happened in Amsterdam in 1988 when the Dutch won. House boats sank under the weight of celebration!

                                     



Olympic Fever
The 2012 Summer Olympic will be held in London a stones throw from Amsterdam. 27 - 12 August are the dates for the Olympics and then 29 August to 9 September is the Paralympics. With International guests descending on this part of the world many are certain to visit Amsterdam pre and post games.

For people planning to fly into Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport book your tickets early. Schiphol Airport is one of the largest and easiest to use in Western Europe so expect flight to be heavily booked from Olympic run-off.

For a full list of Amsterdam festivals see the IAmsterdam website

When in Amsterdam... Enjoy!

This is a blog for all the bloggers who are visiting Amsterdam for New Year's Eve. Mynameismatt.com asked how to go about New Years Eve in Amsterdam?


This is not an easy question and after experiencing half a dozen of these wonderful nights in Amsterdam I am still learning new and wonderful spots. We at Omy Amsterdam Tours are always looking to help and teach people about Amsterdam, a city we love.

Yesterday we covered fireworks so you know where to get them from.

Looking at the recommendations for your visit on your blog Matthew, these are the normal through-a-fare. For you Matthew and your family we have something different, something special. We have valuable survival advice so you can have your own fantastic experience with your family.Why? Because we belong to the blogger's community and no one ever told us the below points when we first came to Amsterdam. We learnt them the hard way.

In the Dutch tradition we will start honest and finish honest.

First a few words of warning.

The city is full and I mean FULL.
Hotels are full, restaurants are full, clubs are full and the streets are full. If you haven't booked a nice restaurant or a club by now you are not going to get in unless you know the manager or the owner. There is no real place to hide, especially in the inner historic centre of Amsterdam.

No Transport.
Due to the overwhelming surge in the city's population at New Year's Eve public transport grinds to a halt. Finding taxis is difficult and Amsterdam's taxies are not known for being forgiving on visiting folk in the best of times.

Watch your backs.
The city is invaded by young men armed with small explosives. They are not afraid to use these explosives and throwing a banger into a crowd is commonplace. If I was young teen again I probably would be doing the same thing so please don't get cross at their excitement. Just see them coming before they frighten the socks off you.

Telephone Gridlock.
The city is jammed packed with people and everyone is sending text messages. On New Year's Eve in Amsterdam the mobile phone network is overloaded. On this one night it is back to the days before mobile phones. Set up meeting points at certain times in case your group gets separated is a must. If you want to meet someone set time and place before the sun sets. Then set up back up places an hour or two latter in case the first meet up fails.

These tips will be of more use to you than knowing where are the coolest hip and happing parties.

Now for the positive tips.

Arm yourself with Supermarket beer/wine
I learnt this off the Amsterdammers a long time ago. During the day visit the national supermarket institution known as Albert Hein is a must. With an eight pack of Amstel beer costing 5 euro you and your wallet will thank me when you recover in the New Year. If you buy something that is discounted you are going to need a discount card. Just ask any dutch person in the checkout line for those. The Dutch understand the value of a discount and won't begrudge anyone a few euro off their bill.

Please buy tins of beer and plastic glasses for your wine. NO GLASS BOTTLES. I have told over 10,000 tourists this line. "Bikes and glass do not go together." By law you are not allowed to drink on the street. The  Dutch are famous for their tolerance and New Year's Eve in Amsterdam is one of the nights you get to let your hair down and kick up your heels.

Nieuwmarket (New Market) Is the Place to Be.
On the edge of the Red Light District this is my favourite place central location. Dam Square and Museumplein (Museum Square) are good but full of people not from Amsterdam.  Nieumarkt is at the end of China Town. The Chinese invented fireworks. Need I say more?

                            Youtube clip of New Year's Eve in Amsterdam thanks to Amsterdam1971

Visit the Library with your Boy
This may sound like a weird tip but I have left the best to last. The Amsterdam Central Library is the largest public library on the continent of Europe. It is open until 10pm. Take your son and wife to the top after dark and enjoy what will be the best view of your trip to Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is flat. Hence the name the Netherlands and any elevation on this evening is an experience you won't soon forget. No matter how many coffee shops you visit.

The library is also close to Nieuwmarkt, only a twenty minute stroll in a full Amsterdam. There is also a cafe (eating cafe not smoking) at the top so if you haven't been able to snare a dinner reservation you should be able to get something from the food hall. Best of all, entrance to the library is free.

Ok, blogging community and Matthew Happy New Year.

 If your popping through Amsterdam come and visit us at Omy Amsterdam Tours we will show you around and give you more helpful advice like the above.


What is most important is that,


When in Amsterdam...... Enjoy!

Enjoy Amsterdam over the New Year period but please be safe.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

On 16 December 1983 the famous sex theatre, which had opened in 1969, the Casa Rosso burned down. The theatre is famous for showing live sex acts performed on stage. The fire was started by a disgruntled former employee Joseph Lan at the former location of 92-100 Oudezids Achterburgwal. He poured petrol through the building and then reportedly lite it with gun. Lan was eventually arrested and sentenced to 12 years imprisonment. Click on the link to see the crowds watch the fire be put out.

ANP Historisch Archief

The owner of the Casa Rosso, Zwarte Jopie (original name Maurits De Vries)  wanted to leave the business and Amsterdam after the fire. The City authorities thought drug dealers from the nearby Zeedijk would take over the place. Jopie was encouraged to rebuild and moved the location of the theatre to its current spot 50 metres up the canal.




A memorial was built to remember the victims of the fire and stand there to this day.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Once a year for the last 3 years Amsterdam has been visited by rare old pre-war auto mobiles. Yes, the city of bicycles and canals will host the 100 Miles of Amsterdam. This weird and wonderful event pits man and machine against the winter elements of Amsterdam in the dead of night in a race against time.

This event was established by rally and vintage car enthusiasts, specifically pre-1940 cars. This year it will take place on the night 18 December and be completed on 19 December.

This year around 50 pre-war cars will take to the streets in this all night rally test. The rally starts at Huize Frankendael in Amsterdam East. Contestants will drive through the city. Dam Square and the 9 Streets, especially Reestraat will be great vantage points. They head to the centre of Utrecht where they stop before returning to the banks of the River Ij in Amsterdam.

The Amsterdam Watch Company in Amsterdam's famous shopping districts De 9 Straatjes (9 Streets) is proud to sponsor the event and has designed the wonderful poster below.

On their website The 100 Miles Amsterdam event organisers justify the event citing, apart from good old fun, sustainability and innovation. They believe that today products have a short life and that people are not building products that last. Rallying old cars is supposed to show how men and women can make things that go on for decades instead of being replaced every 3-5 years and placing burden on the environment.




Below is a link from The Telegraaf. They made a short clip about last years event.

http://www.telegraaf.nl/autovisie/video_autovisie/8732464/__100_Miles_of_Amsterdam__.html

Everyone has pictures of bikes in Amsterdam and my town bike is one of my prized possessions but their is something classic and cool about old cars racing around Amsterdam. Rug up, get out and see these crazy, mostly,  men and their magnificent flying machines. Send us photos too.

When in Amsterdam.....enjoy!

When in Amsterdam has realised it's that time of the year again. Sinterklaas (Dutch Santa), when the Dutch celebrate the eve of his birthday on 5 December.

When I first visited Holland. I was amazed by this tradition and totally shocked by the 'Black Petes' running around handing out candy. Black Petes are Sinterklaas's helpers.



Seeing grown European men and women blacken their faces, slap on red lipstick, and jump around helping an old white man took me back to the images of theatre in America in the 19th century making fun of black slaves.

This year I realised I am becoming more Dutch. The Black Petes didn't worry me at all. I saw a small boy dressed in an harlequin outfit with a blacken face. The tourists saw him, took lots of photos and caused a commotion on the bike path. I didn't look twice. This year I didn't get stirred up about the racial undertones of this family holiday. Instead I looked at the happiness in the eyes and on the faces of small children.

The race issue is still heavley debated here in the Netherlands and in Dutch communities around the world. This year 5 people were arrested in Amsterdam for interrupting the arrival parade of Sinterklass. They wore t-shirts that said 'Black Pete is racism'. http://www.rnw.nl/africa/article/%E2%80%9Cget-lost-you-black-pete%E2%80%9D-0

In Canada too there was controversy this year regarding the festival.
  New Westminster Sinterklaas event cancelled due to Black Pete Concerns

Most blogs in English, or any language other than Dutch, about Amsterdam or the Netherlands cover this issue at least once. They more or less describe the same main points. Lets cover these points quickly.

Who is Sinterklaas?
St Nicholas - A Greek/Turk who spent his life giving away his objects and helping children in need. The patron Saint of Children, fishermen and sailors.


Where is Sinterklaas from? 
Turkey, the old Greek part but he retired to Spain.


What is Sinterklaas doing in the Netherlands?
He arrives two weeks before his birthday and comes to  reward the boys and girls of the Netherlands if they have been good.


Who are Sinterklaas helpers?
Zwarte Piet (Black Pete) there are many of them. They are black with curly dark hair and wear red lipstick. The Zwarte Piets tell St Nick if a child has been good or bad and help carry the old Saint's bag of goodies for good children and beat and put in a sack bad children to take them back to Spain.


What happens on 5 December?
Families meet for lunch or dinner. Simple presents are left by Sint sometimes sarcastic poems are attached to the gifts.

This year I sat down to Sinterklaas dinner. It was a table of 12 people that spanned three generations. I realised that I was the only non-Dutch person at the table. Instead of debating the racist over(under) tones I simply asked them what they liked about Sinterklaas?

Here is what they said about the Sinterklaas festival:
'presents, poems and fun'
'spending time with siblings and parents'
'celebrating with 25 cousins'
'a surprise party for family and friends with lots of food and presents'
' Dutch national day'
'a nice tradition'
'pepernoten, marcipan and other candy that is not good for you'
'as a child we would leave our shoes at the door for three weeks.In the shoe we would put a carrot or an apple or turnip. If we were lucky we would get something in return.'

No matter your standpoint on this Dutch festival it is hard to escape the political debate. What I do know is that children love this holiday. Furthermore, when it comes to dressing up the children always want to dress up as Black Pete rather than Sinterklaas. Black Pete has all the candy and is a mischievous character. Right or wrong you can see why the children love him.

The final word on this topic is left to the gang from the famous Amsterdam comedy house, Boom Chicago.



When in Amsterdam... Enjoy

When in Amsterdam and the east wind blows in winter the city gets cold, very cold. It is that time of the year again, Winter. There are many good things about winter in Amsterdam. The city is not so busy, you can go ice skating and walking along the canals reveals the architecture of this great northern European capital.

Through shared struggle comes identity. Winter in Amsterdam at times can be a struggle and food brings people together and creates an identity, Dutch Cuisine. In Winter Dutch Food comes into its own.

photo taken from La buena vida a food store in the Hague

The Dutch are not known for their cuisine, something that their southern cousins in Belgium consistently remind them.

If you are in Amsterdam during winter don't lament the cold, embrace it. Food will be your savior. There is no better time of the year to enjoy good old fashioned Dutch food.

1. Stampot (stamp in a pot)

This is a winter classic. Everything is stamped/mashed together in a pot - makes sense, yes? Normally mashed vegetables with gravy and a boiled sausage.

There are many versions of this of Stamppot:
- Hutspot has onions, carrots and potatoes mashed together.
- Boerenkool, translated as farmers cabbage, but in English Kale. This is mixed into the mashed potato at the end of the cooking and mashing process.
- Zuurkool Mashed potato with sauerkraut
- Andivie stampot: the same as Boerenkool but instead of using Kale, endive is used.

Bacon bits are a popular addition but the dish is limited only by your imagination.

photo of Zuurkool by blog Kattebelletje

Karin Engelbrecht from About.com Dutch Food made an Asian inspired Stamppot with bok choi (an Asian cabbage), cashew nuts and shitake mushrooms.

The secret is always in the sauce. Plenty of sauce is needed.

2. Erwtensoep (pea soup)

Similar to the English pea and ham soup the Dutch have been at lengths to explain the difference. First a traditional Erwtensoup must be cooked slowly over night on a very low heat. Vegetarian versions can be found but normally there is pork hock and sausage in this thick soup. It is perfect after ice skating.

3. Gehaktbal (meat ball)

 A good Dutch meatball will quickly make you forget the cold. Normally served with potatoes and gravy you can also have a sandwich of meatball. If your into meat, this is a show stopper. Dutch meatball is 5 times the size of a Swedish meatball normally around 100grams. Every house has its own recipe but normally there is mixed spice and a toasted bread mixed into the ball.Wednesday is traditionally meatball day. Yes, that's right a whole day attributed to a meatball.

Picture taken from an Australian Food Blog

4.Oliebollen (oil balls)

It doesn't sound healthy and it isn't. The Oliebollen is a Dutch donut without the hole. Amsterdam's squares and train stations are filled with Oliebollen stands during winter. If your waiting for the train or tram because it is to cold to bike this is a perfect treat. Freshly cooked and sprinkled with icing sugar a perfect snack to ward off the east wind.

These also come in many varieties some are stuffed with currents (krentenbollen) or apple.

5. Chocomelk (chocolate milk)

A warm cup of chocomelk goes a long way in winter. The famous brand chocomel originating out of Friesland, a northern province of the Netherlands, is distributed widely in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. This Dutch favourite is served in almost every business from Cannabis Coffeeshop to high end restaurant.

photo taken from blog: Almost barefoot farm girls

5. Mullwijn (mull wine)

Similar to the German and Scandinavian versions. Although a Swedish friend said the Dutch version was nothing like the 'great' Swedish winter wine. Warmed red wine with herbs, warms you to your very toes. Rembrandtplein, the Dam and Leidseplein are popular places to grab a warm red wine.

Here is a list of highly recommended Authentic Dutch restaurants in Amsterdam to enjoy. Click on the links to their websites.

• Restaurant Greetje
•  Bij Ons,
• De Keuken van 1870.  (website under construction at time of writing)
• Kop van Jut,
• Moeders

When In Amsterdam....rug up and enjoy!

When in Amsterdam and it comes to music the Dutch surprise many. Today they are known for their DJs and electronic music. Over the last few years DJ Magazine Top 10 list has been dominated by Dutch names such as DJ Tiesto. The music is not limited to electronic. With Amsterdam as the center for culture and music many but not all of the artists listed started their careers in Amsterdam's music halls. Provided is a list for different tastes.


Enjoy the list of Dutch music and if you have any additions let us know.


A classic one hit wonder to start things.


Putting on the Ritz - Taco 1980s


One from the old colonies. Indonesian born and growing up in the Netherlands Taco's one hit wonder is hard to get out of your head.




If it's classic rock you want then Golden Earring is the most famous Dutch export.
Although not from Amsterdam but rather from the Hague, people are always amazed this group is Dutch. Formed in 1961 they are still going today. Their biggest hit was the rock classic Radar Love.




Maybe something harder? Also not from Amsterdam but they did a track called Amsterdam.

Van halen - Eddie and Alex are from Nijmegen




Not a rock lover but want to pop away your day? You won't be able to get this Dutch track out of your head.
Venga Boys formed in Amsterdam in 1997 and sold 15 million albums worldwide. One of the most influential Eurodance pop groups of the 20th century. 


Maybe some harder dutch pop with some Belgian producers. The Rapper, Ray Slijngaard, is born and breed Amsterdammer.


2 Unlimited


If rap is your thing Amsterdam has no shortage of rappers and budding MCs. 
Osdorp Posse
One of the first to start recording rap in Dutch. It's hard to get more Amsterdam than this group.


Are you a fan of Punk?
The Ex
Founded in 1979 and lasting 30 years the Ex pushed the punk music to the extremes developing post punk experimental music before disbanding in 2009.


Reggae/ska
Mr. Review
Formed in 1983 in Amsterdam this Ska revival band dissolved in 1998 but reformed three years later and is still ska-ing today. 


Happy Hardcore (Gabber)
Party Animals - hava naquila
Established in 1995 they were the first dutch group to see their first three hits go straight to number 1. Height of their success was in 2000 when their hit Atomic hit number one in Hong Kong of all places.






For all those pysodelic trance music lovers...
1200 micrograms
This is what happens when you combine an Australian, an American, Dutch and a lot of drugs.


Last but not least Amsterdam Folk.
Andre Hazes, known for his hard drinking and smoking lifestyle he is possibly the Elvis of the Netherlands and of course Amsterdammer.








When In Amsterdam....enjoy!

A traveller's worst nightmare on entering a hotel maybe finding filthy bedding, no heating, air conditioning or incessant noise. Almost everyone has had an experience where the room booked just didn't look like the pictures.  When in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, this city takes this to a new level. The city of canals and bikes had four of the 2011 top ten dirtiest hotels in Europe as listed by Tripadvisor.

One hotel that did not make the list and pride's itself on being the world's worst hotel, yes you read it correctly is the Hans Brinker Budget Hotel. This small hotel located in the middle of the the city's famed Red Light District has turned the worst hotel in the world into their byline.

It maybe the Dutch straight forwardness or their brutal honesty but this hotel has been advertising that it is the Worst Hotel in the World for decades. So effective has the advertising campaign been that they made an entire book out of their approach.

The "Worst Hotel in the World" campaign was launched in the 1990s and was geared toward keeping complaints to a minimum. The campaign seems to have worked looking at the media coverage and the subsequent travellers' comments:

"Not as bad as I expected"
"Can't think of anything positive"
"Basic, cheap, does what is says on the Tin"
"You get what you pay for"
"So bad its great!"

Yesterday the Hans Brinker launched the latest episode in the Worst Hotel in the World campaign.




A blind cleaner details the benefits of the Hotel. Search Youtube for other Brinker classics or just check out their website for a laugh.

It is a shame that the World's Worst Hotel no longer makes the list of the world's worst. The power of advertising is finally revealed.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy.

As I put my head down to sleep images from the night swirled in my head: Jazz, tattoos, ships, tropical rainforest, fashion, canal houses, art, music and my trusty bike. Thank you Amsterdam.


photo link of national newspaper

Alternative:
Avoid the long lines and buy on line. Go late in the evening or early before it opens and the school groups arrive. Resistance museum provides you with a greater snap shot of World War II in Amsterdam and the Netherlands. Rated one of the best museums in the Netherlands don't expect long lines here maybe just a school group now and then.

Overview of Amsterdam's Top 10 Things to Do


The 'Big 3' as we call them in Amsterdam fill out the top three. Sex, alcohol and boats are four, five and six. Bikes, markets, parks and flowers round out the list. Quite a range for a small city of less than 1 million people. Do you agree with the list? What is missing in the all time Top Ten? What do you think about the alternative list? Let us know what you enjoyed in Amsterdam.


When in Amsterdam.....enjoy!

• Dutch cultivated opium in their colonies for centuries ending in 1915. Opium production accounted for 10% of income from Dutch colonies. Most income came from selling slaves.
• In 1900 Dutch open Cocaine producing factory. 14 000 kg of cocaine produced per year until WWI. During WWI 30 000 kg were produced per year. The Netherlands was the leading world producer of cocaine in the 1920s and 1930s.

Queen on a bike

Football King on a bike

Crown Prince and family on bikes

1.  Not too many high points or land marks. The country is topographically flat. Hence the name, the Netherlands. Most cities have hills, mountains, a coast, a river or a visible business district with tall skyscrapers that can serve as a reference point.
2. The old city center has been designed on a semi-circle layout. No modern city grid system for Amsterdam the streets don’t run north-south, east-west, instead streets are circular and radial.
3. The city has many street names that are longer than the ally or street they name. Also, street names can change suddenly at an intersection or a canal.

Amsterdam towers

1. 1.       Know your north point

1. 2.      Mark your map

1. 3.       Know the main canals

1. 4.       Know your tram lines

1. 5.       Ask somebody

1. 6.       Go in, before you go out