Amsterdam's new garden at Droog Design: Biodiversity and Creativity
Thu, Jun 21 2012 03:04
| Corinne Julhiet Detroyat, when in Amsterdam, Claude Pasquer, things to do, Amsterdam, design, Droog Design, garden
| Permalink
When in Amsterdam…visit Droog Design’s new garden. Droog Design is a Dutch conceptual design company situation in the heart of Amsterdam’s historical canal district.
Droog recently revamped their courtyard into a garden. Designers Corinne Julhiet Detroyat and Claude Pasquer were asked to create an environment that mixed natural and artificial materials. Detroyat and Pasquer took a creative sustainable approach recycling rustic materials such as wire mesh and old watering cans mixed with plants that encourage biodiversity.
The result is a weird wonderful hidden garden. The artificial materials create a fantasy feel. The climbing plants such as wisteria and bignonias bring you back to earth. Detroyat and Pasquer have used contrasting materials, sculpture and their artistic creation to form a natural world that is ascetically enticing yet questions the source of manufactures materials. The realization is that our earth is the source of all the materials in the garden and harmony of manufactured material and nature is possible in one environment.
When in Amsterdam…enjoy!
Droog Design works with independent creative minds to realize products, projects and events.
O My Amsterdam Tours is a small group tour company that visits this garden on their Eco-Tour. Guests of the City Centre Tour, Photo Tour or a Private Bespoke Tourcan request a visit to the garden, except on Mondays.
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Flying Cat at Amsterdam Art Fair
Tue, Jun 5 2012 06:08
| modern, art, when in Amsterdam, Rai Convention Centre, things to do, Amsterdam
| Permalink
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!
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!
Raging Bitch: Beer of the Week at Cafe Batavia 1920
Sat, May 19 2012 02:33
| Red Light District, Raging Bitch, beer, when in Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Indian Pale Ale, Cafe Batavia 1920
| Permalink
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.
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
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| Raging Bitch at Cafe Batavia 1920 |
When in Amsterdam.....drink an Indian Pale Ale.
For more Batavia Beers of the Week:
- Affligem Dubbel
- Maredsous Blonde
- Barbar
- Delirium Nocturnum
- Golden Dragon
Rolling Kitchens Festival at Amsterdam's Westergasfabriek
Thu, May 17 2012 01:12
| Rolling Kitchens, when in Amsterdam, Westerpark, things to do, Amsterdam, Pacific Parc, festivals, Rollende Keukens, food
| Permalink
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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| Rolling Kitchens entrance in Amsterdam |
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| Lemon Fairy at Rolling Kitchens, Amsterdam |
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| Rolling Kitchens at Amsterdam's Westerpark |
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| Bara with Bacaloa at Rolling Kitchens, Amsterdam |
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| Smoking BBQ at Rolling Kitchen's Amsterdam |
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| Smokey Goodness BBQ stall in Amsterdam |
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| BBQ pork roll with Ice Tea |
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!
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Cafe Batavia 1920 Beer of the Week: Affligem Dubbel
Fri, May 11 2012 10:01
| Affligem Dubbel, when in Amsterdam, things to do, Amsterdam, Cafe Batavia 1920
| Permalink
When in Amsterdam....visit Cafe Batavia 1920. The location of Beer of the Week has a list of 42 beers and good honest tasty pub food. We notice sitting at the bar that the last two Beers of the Week have sold out and are to be re-stocked over the weekend. It is heartening that customers of Cafe Batavia 1920 are savvy, exploring beyond the standard Pils/lager.
Beer of the Week is Affligem Dubbel, a Begian brown ale. On pouring there is a large light tan coloured head but the foam quickly disappears forming a simple ring on top of the beer. On smell, the Affligem Dubbel is malty with a hint of fruit.
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| Affligem Dubbel at Cafe Batavia 1920 |
The first taste is lighter than expected. There is not as much body as what was expected. The beer is refreshingly light for a double ale. At first, while the beer is still cold from the fridge, you don't notice but as the beer warms the beer is sweet. There is an interesting taste that cannot simply be described by sweet. Little sip follows little sip trying to place the taste. At times there is citrus overtones, other sips seem to have more plum flavours. Getting towards the end of the beer the secret is in the carbonation or the small little bubbles that spread the taste.
By the end of the second the Affligem Dubbel the mouth is fresh with a clean sweetness and not beer. A thoroughly enjoyable beer.
When in Amsterdam...have a great weekend!
By the end of the second the Affligem Dubbel the mouth is fresh with a clean sweetness and not beer. A thoroughly enjoyable beer.
When in Amsterdam...have a great weekend!
Other Beer of the Week entries:
- Maredsous Blonde
- Barbar
- Delirium Nocturnum
- Golden Dragon
Amsterdam City Archive remembers murdered Jewish Children in Exhibition
Fri, May 4 2012 09:28
| City Archive, WWII, when in Amsterdam, Jewish history, Amsterdam, Memoriam exhibition
| Permalink
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.
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.
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.
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.
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| 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.
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| Prinsengracht 862 Dolfje's old home |
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| 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.
Remembrance Day May 4
Fri, May 4 2012 08:17
| when in Amsterdam, Remembrance Day, Amsterdam, May 4
| Permalink
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
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
Golden Dragon: Beer of the Week at Amsterdam's Cafe Batavia 1920
Fri, May 4 2012 06:21
| beer, when in Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Cafe Batavia 1920, golden dragon
| Permalink
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?
Previous Beers of the Week:
- Maredsous Blonde
- Barbar
- Delirium Nocturnum
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?
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| Gulden Draak at Cafe Batavia 1920 |
Previous Beers of the Week:
- Maredsous Blonde
- Barbar
- Delirium Nocturnum
Ajax Amsterdam Dutch Football Champion 2011-2012
Thu, May 3 2012 05:29
| young, Ajax Experience, when in Amsterdam, football, Ajax, things to do, Amsterdam, soccer
| Permalink
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.
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 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!
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| 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.
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| 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!
Amsterdam: World Press Photo Exhibition 2012
Fri, Apr 27 2012 08:19
| New York Times, Oude Kerk, when in Amsterdam, exhibition, World Press Photo, things to do, Old Church, Aranda, Amsterdam
| Permalink
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.
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.
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!
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| World Press Photo Exhibition 2012 - Amsterdam |
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.
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| 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!
Amsterdam's Cafe Batavia 1920 Beer of the Week: Maredsous Blonde
Thu, Apr 26 2012 08:40
| Red Light District, when in Amsterdam, things to do, Amsterdam, Cafe Batavia 1920, Mardesous, Blonde
| Permalink
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!
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!
Amsterdam Queen's Day 30 April 2012:
Mon, Apr 23 2012 03:52
| Queen's Day, Queen's night, when in Amsterdam, Ajax, things to do, Amsterdam, street party
| Permalink
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!
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!
Friday Beer of the Week: Barbar
Fri, Apr 20 2012 12:45
| Barbar, beer, when in Amsterdam, things to do, Amsterdam, Cafe Batavia 1920
| Permalink
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 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.
With the help of Cafe Batavia 1920 we are slowly working our way through their 42 beers for your reading pleasure. Bar Batavia is named after the former Dutch flagship of the Dutch East India Company which was wreaked on its maiden voyage and the surviving crew mutinied and started killing one another.
When in Amsterdam.....have a great weekend!
Friday Beer of the Week at Amsterdam's Cafe Batavia 1920
Thu, Apr 12 2012 04:54
| beer, when in Amsterdam, things to do, Amsterdam, Cafe Batavia 1920, Delirium, nocturnam
| Permalink
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!
Amsterdam has approximately 1 200 bars for a population of around 780 000 people. Many bars in Amsterdam serve only one tap beer normally a pilsner, which is a type of lager. The most famous Dutch pilsner is Heineken, other brands include Grolsch, Bavaria and Amstel. 90% of the beer sold in the Netherlands is pilsner.
When in Amsterdam is a fan of small. Over the next weeks we bring attention to the small 10% of beer consumed in the Netherlands. We do this with the assistance of Cafe Batavia 1920. Cafe Batavia has 42 beers on its list. Its central location, good pub food, comfortable smoking quarter and private function room make this bar an easy option when near Amsterdam's Centraal Station.
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.
The Delirium Nocturnum (translated from Latin as Night Madness) is made using 3 different yeasts and 5 different malts. This results in a complex taste that changes with age. On drinking we found chocolate smoothness with a long finish that had a hint of spice. An alcohol rating of 8.5% provides plenty of body. With the temperature of Amsterdam spring nights just above freezing this Belgian dark ale will add some warmth to your own Amsterdam night of madness.
When in Amsterdam....enjoy!
Amsterdam Canal House Museums: Van Loon Museum exhibit Michiel van Musscher
Tue, Apr 10 2012 09:31
| Van Loon Museum, canal, when in Amsterdam, things to do, Amsterdam, UNESCO, museum
| Permalink
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
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.
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.
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!
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
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| 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.
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| Van Loon Museum - Amsterdam |
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.
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| 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!
Flower Thursday: Tulips and Daffodils from Amsterdam
Thu, Mar 15 2012 04:19
| bulbs, when in Amsterdam, things to do, shopping, Amsterdam, market, tulips
| Permalink
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.
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!
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.
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| Tulips and Daffodils(we think) |
When in Amsterdam...buy flowers and enjoy!
Amsterdam: narrow, tiny, thin, smallest house
Mon, Mar 12 2012 02:44
| when in Amsterdam, thin house, things to do, Amsterdam, tiny house, smallest house, narrow house
| Permalink
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| 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.
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| Most Narrow house in Amsterdam |
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| Tiny house in Amsterdam |
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| 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!
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| The back of the narrow, tiny, thin, smallest house in Amsterdam |
All-time Top 10 Things to do in Amsterdam: a critical look
Fri, Oct 28 2011 04:41
| Van Gogh, anne frank, Rijksmuseum, canal, things to do in Amsterdam, when in Amsterdam, Amsterdam, heineken, tours and attractions
| Permalink
When in Amsterdam has realised that every website associated with Amsterdam travel has a top list of things to do in this city. Some websites only have Top 5 or 10 lists.
When in Amsterdam could provide our own list but honestly there is no Top 10 list. Waking up in Amsterdam the list would change from day to day because of mood, weather and the place in question.
So we are going to give you the All-time Top 10 list of things to do in Amsterdam.
Our approach is simple:
- · Collation
- · 100 web pages were analyzed.
- · Search Terms were “top things to do in Amsterdam”, ‘top 10 things in Amsterdam’
- · To qualify the page needed to have in its title top things to do in Amsterdam. For Example: Top 5, Top 10, Top 20 things to do in Amsterdam.
We collated the results then ran a critical look at the list to provide you with an alternative.
Counting down from 10 to 1.
The last market in Amsterdam still on the water. A wonderful place for colour and it is central. The Dutch are famous for cut flowers and bulbs. The 1637 stock market meltdown because of speculation on tulip bulbs made the Dutch synonymous with the Turkish flower.
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| Amsterdam's Floating Flower Market |
Critical look:
- · The market has no educational aspect at all.
- The market is not really floating.
- A retail market servicing mostly tourists from Europe. Custom’s regulations restrict other visitors from taking back bulbs to their countries.
Alternative:
· Alsmeer Flower Market: An hour by bus outside Amsterdam it is the World’s largest flower market and the world’s 4th largest building. You can’t help but learn on the self-guided tour.
·
9. Vondel Park
Named after the famous 17 century poet and playwright Vondel it is Amsterdam’s central park. The park was created in 1864 after Victorian England made such gardens popular. It has a Picasso sculpture, wonderful bike paths, the film museum and a theater.
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| Vondel Park, Amsterdam |
Critical look:
- · As is commonly reported Vondel Park receives 10 million visitors a year. On a sunny day finding a quite spot in Vondel Park is not possible.
- The smell in parts also demonstrates the lack of toilet facilities.
- The high numbers of visitors and its central location the park attracts people that want to be noticed. Unsocial behaviour and drunkenness is common.
Alternative:
· Westerpark is central and large like Vondel Park. The east-west layout results in more sunshine hours, if you are lucky to get a sunny day in Amsterdam. Large range of bars, eateries and toilets.
8. Visit the Albert Cuyp Market
With over 220 stalls and situated within the old Latin Quarter of Amsterdam, the Albert Cuyp market is the largest street market in the Netherlands and professes to be one of the largest daily markets in Europe. Named after the 17th century painter the market has operated since 1905.
Critical look:
· It is not the most affordable of Amsterdam street markets.
· Expensive nature means working class Amsterdammers go to other street markets.
Alternative:
· Dappermart: cheaper, more rustic, fewer tourists, rated top 10 shopping streets in the world by National Geographic 2007.
7. Ride a bike
With an estimated 600 000 to 1 million bicycles circulating in Amsterdam, the city is one of the bike capitals of the world. The compact and flat nature of the city makes biking a fast and affordable travel option in Amsterdam.
Critical look:
- Most anger from locals towards visitors is about biking or walking in bike paths.
- Many Amsterdammers believe that visitors should take a test before being allowed to rent or ride a bike in Amsterdam.
- Riding a bike in Amsterdam traffic is not for beginners.
Alternative:
· Travel Amsterdam trams – bike riders don’t mess with trams
The second or third largest beer maker in the world depending with whom you talk started in Amsterdam. The old brewery has a tour called the Heineken Experience.
Critical look:
- · They have not made beer in this brewery since the 1980s.
- The tour concentrates on the advertising and marketing power of this international brand.
- The tour only includes two half pints of Heineken.
Alternative:
· Spending the price of entrance to the Heineken Experience at one of Amsterdam’s three active micro-breweries will result in more beer. Amsterdam’s three micro-breweries : Brouwerij ‘t IJ, Prael, De Bekeerde Zuster (the twisted sister) are well worth visit for beer lovers.
5. Canal Tour
Amsterdam is known as the Venice of the North. Even though the canals do not smell and the canals are not deep like Venice 20% of Amsterdam's surface is water. With over 100 kilometers of canals, around 90 islands and 1500 bridges traveling by water is a great way to see the city.
Critical look:
- · Few Amsterdammers use their canals.
- There are three main canal tour companies in Amsterdam. They run tours that are similar with recorded messages, and their boats have not historic relevance to Amsterdam.
Alternative:
· Find a local Amsterdammer with a boat. This option is hard to find.
Visit Het Grachtenhuis (Canal House Museum) learn how Amsterdam's world heritage listed canals were created
Visit Het Grachtenhuis (Canal House Museum) learn how Amsterdam's world heritage listed canals were created
4. Red Light District
Situated in the oldest part of Amsterdam this area provides an eclectic mix of sex shops, brothels, coffeeshops, hotels, gay bars and around 340 red light windows. Since 2000 Amsterdam legalised sex workers. The Red Light District is the main centre of this industry in Amsterdam.
Critical look:
Situated in the oldest part of Amsterdam this area provides an eclectic mix of sex shops, brothels, coffeeshops, hotels, gay bars and around 340 red light windows. Since 2000 Amsterdam legalised sex workers. The Red Light District is the main centre of this industry in Amsterdam.
Critical look:
- There is more to Amsterdam than the Red Light District. The area is often full of young men peering at the scantly clad women.
- On weekends the neighbourhood can be over loaded with travelling parties of men and women.
Alternative
Take a guided walking tour of the Red Light District. The area is the oldest in town and full of hidden secrets. A little bit of knowledge goes a long way compared to peering into the bewitching red lights.
3. Rijksmuseum
The greatest collection of Dutch art and history in the Netherlands. Normally ranking in the top 20 of museums in the world the Rijks has been under reconstruction. Although most popular masterpieces such as Rembrandt's Night Watch and Vemeer's Kitchen Maid are still on display the renovation could explain the slip to number 3.
Alternative:
Alternative:
Rembrandt House: Comparable there are no crowds and you can see what sort of bed the old master Rembrandt slept in and toilet he used. Also the largest collection of Rembrandt etchings in the world
2. Van Gogh Museum
The expressionist painter was famed for his rough style, sharp colours and considered a trail blazer for modern art. This museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings under one roof and tells the story of the man from child hood to his end at 37 years old.
Critical look:
The expressionist painter was famed for his rough style, sharp colours and considered a trail blazer for modern art. This museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings under one roof and tells the story of the man from child hood to his end at 37 years old.
Critical look:
- Van Gogh did not spend a lot of his life in the Netherlands.
- His fame has only come about through Van Gogh's influence on 20th century art.
- Expect large lines as the renovation of the nearby Rijksmuseum has catapulted this attraction to number 2.
- Closed for refurbishment until April 25 2013. Part of the collection is on display at Amsterdam's Hermitage Museum
Alternative:
Pre-purchase your tickets at the tourist information centre at the front of Central Station. Go late to avoid the crowds. On Friday night the museum is open to 10pm with a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
1. Anne Frank Museum
The location of the Jewish Frank family hiding place during WWII. Teenage Anne documented her experience from the annex of this Amsterdam house during Nazi occupation. The book has become one of the world's most widely read. This popularity accounts for approximately 1 million visitors a year to this museum.
Critical Look:
For a small museum there are a lot of people at certain times. The museum has a difficult job balancing the broader context of the period.
Alternative:The location of the Jewish Frank family hiding place during WWII. Teenage Anne documented her experience from the annex of this Amsterdam house during Nazi occupation. The book has become one of the world's most widely read. This popularity accounts for approximately 1 million visitors a year to this museum.
Critical Look:
For a small museum there are a lot of people at certain times. The museum has a difficult job balancing the broader context of the period.
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!
Comments (2)
Can I Smoke Cannabis in Amsterdam? Update Oct. 2011
Wed, Oct 12 2011 07:24
| cannabis, when in Amsterdam, hash, Amsterdam, drugs, what to do in Amsterdam, tours and attractions, Coffee shops
| Permalink
Dutch Cannabis Coffeeshops have been in the news recently. Headlines like ‘No Tourists in Netherland’s Coffeeshops’ and ‘Dutch to ban foreigners from Cannabis Coffeeshops’ have dotted the news for the last year.
When In Amsterdam has received many questions from prospective visitors asking if they will be able go to Amsterdam’s famous Cannabis Coffeeshops when visiting the city in the forthcoming months. The simple answer is, Yes.
For a November 2012 update click here.
For a November 2012 update click here.
Why all the attention?
Feb. 2010: National Government critics Amsterdam for not enforcing the 2008 agreement of Local Councils of a 250 meter exclusion zone of Cannabis Coffeeshops near schools.
May 2011: National Government announces plans to introduce a ‘Weed Pass’ that would limit entrance to Cannabis Coffeeshops to residents of the Netherlands.
Oct. 2011: National Government says it will move to ban strong strains of Cannabis.
The political attention of Cannabis Coffeeshops has been led by the Christian Democrats (CDA). The CDA is conservative political party that has been in power, as part of a coalition, at national level since 2001.
Today, the CDA has a strict policy on drugs. Since 2008 the CDA policy stance on drugs is that ‘the Dutch policy of tolerance towards drugs should be abolished and that all Coffeeshops should be closed’. It should be noted that it was the CDA that created the policy of drug tolerance in the early 1970s that eventually allowed Coffeeshops to become licensed businesses.
Simply put nothing has changed in Amsterdam over the last few years. Cannabis Coffeeshops that have closed have so because they have broken the strict rules of their license.
If you are visiting Amsterdam you are free to visit a Coffeeshop as long as you have ID that stipulates you are over 18 years of age.
Enjoy the liberties Amsterdam has to offer but please don’t take it too far. Amsterdam cannabis is strong and many a visitor has over estimated its potency and this has detracted from their visit.
When in Amsterdam…enjoy!
Fun facts:
- 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.
What is a Coffeeshop?
A licensed business that sells small amounts of soft drugs: cannabis and hashish. They are called Coffeeshops because they do not possess an alcohol serving license and they do serve coffee.
Salt and Pepper: Amsterdam and bicycles (part 1. The 1800s)
Mon, Oct 10 2011 05:46
| amsterdam bicycle, when in Amsterdam, amsterdam hotels, Amsterdam, what to in amsterdam, Dutch bike, where is amsterdam, tours and attractions
| Permalink
Everyone who has visited Amsterdam has a story about bicycles. The city is synonymous with the two wheel, pedal powered machines. Every travel blog and travel website mentions bikes. Some are immediately enamoured others feel threatened, telling stories of the inability to safely negotiate Amsterdam’s streets. No photo album of the city is without a photo of a bike, some have more than 100 photos just of bikes! When you first enter the city by train, plane or automobile you are confronted with thousands of the two wheel transporters. This is a topic from which, When In Amsterdam can’t get away.
Instead of trying to compile a Top 5 list, compressing information into one posting. The approach to bicycles in Amsterdam is going to be gradual, leisurely and interactive. We are going to start at the beginning and provide you time to digest and allow feedback. If you have a bicycle experience or a story to do with the Dutch or Amsterdam join the conversation. Let us start the exploration of this phenomenon where not many do, at the beginning.
Early History of bicycles
Bikes burst onto the European stage in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Historians argue as to who should be credited with placing two wheels beneath a human being. Irregardless, the first bikes were made of wood with no pedals. Such a machine was brought to the Paris exposition in 1818 by a German whom described his contraption as a running machine. Historians do agree that the first modern bicycle with pedals and a crank was patented in 1861 by Ernest Michaux, a Frenchman who owned a coach making company.
The design soon came to the United States through an employee of Michaux, Pierre Lallement. Pierre patented the model known as the ‘Boneshaker’ in the States. During the 1870s and 1880s metal work improved and models like the Penny Farthing became popular among the rich of Europe and the US.
The design soon came to the United States through an employee of Michaux, Pierre Lallement. Pierre patented the model known as the ‘Boneshaker’ in the States. During the 1870s and 1880s metal work improved and models like the Penny Farthing became popular among the rich of Europe and the US.
Early bicycle history Amsterdam
In Amsterdam the first pioneer to establish a bike shop was J.T. Scholte who was also the agent for Timmer. Timmer set up the first bike rental company in Amsterdam and would conduct learn to ride activities. Scholte was a metal worker and sold a Boneshaker model through Timmer to another metal worker Henricus Burgers who started to make his own bikes. These men are celebrated as the pioneers of bicycles in the Netherlands.
In 1883, the General Dutch Cyclists Union (ANWB) was established. Today this is also the national automotive association. The ANWB is credited with positioning the bike within the national identity. During the late 1800s the Netherlands was struggling with industrialisation, the economy was slow. Mass emigration to the US was taking place and the population were creating its own pillars of support. Catholics, Protestants and Socialists are examples of groups that were looking after their own communities. The poor economy also meant that the rich, poor disparity was great.
The ANWB through a country wide advertising campaign used cycling to unite the Dutch. Values of independence, discipline and consistency were identified as national characteristics. These values needed to be preserved during a period of uncertainty. In 1896 they launched the ‘Everyone on a bike’ campaign.
Bicycles were the answer to change and modernity. Touring the country was a way to reconnect with one’s country and reinforce the national identity. The car was about speed. The bike was about getting in touch with the landscape and its people. The bike was positioned as a symbol of the people for the people. See the pictures of Dutch and Amsterdam royalty on bikes.
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| Queen on a bike |
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| Football King on a bike |
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| Crown Prince and family on bikes |
Entering the 1900s demand for bicycles was high. Farmers, postmen and even the army gave up their horses and jumped on bikes. The Dutch army had a battalion of bicycles that were mounted with machine guns.
The combination of a flat country, weak economy, diverging social identity and the industrial revolution meant that the Netherlands needed a symbol of unity. The answer was the bicycle.
Join the conversation. How have bicycles changed your life? Do you have any interesting stories of the Dutch, Amsterdam and bicycles?
Stay posted for Part 2 Salt and Pepper: Amsterdam and bikes: first half of the 20th Century
To see bike related pictures of the Dutch in the 1800s have a look at the following link:
Other useful links found were:
Cycling in Amsterdam: Policies and Development
Ebert, Anne-Katrin. Cycling Towards a Nation: the use of bicycle in Germany and the Netherlands 1880-1940.
Blog on History of Burgers
Wikipedia- Amsterdam
Global Rankings web site