ABOUT uS
about us
Amsterdam Exclusive Magazine has been serving leisure and business visitors to the Dutch capital for almost six years. In that time, we have widely become accepted as the city’s top information publication for four and five star hotels in and around Amsterdam, and also at Schiphol Airport. All in all, we can be found in the bedrooms and lobbies of more than 100 of the city’s finest hotels. Amsterdam Exclusive is published quarterly.
contact details
Amsterdam Exclusive Magazine, Postbus 36281, 1020 MG Amsterdam T. 020-2601760, M. 06-46380082 E. info@amsterdam-exclusive.nl, E. amsterdam.exclusive@gmail.com www.amsterdam-exclusive.com
staff
Design: Expression Graphic Studio Contributors: Fergal Lynch, Mark Melia, Johan Strobbe, David Keogh, Peter Driver
advertising
Research shows that Amsterdam Exclusive reaches almost 200.000 foreign visitors and business people every quarter. To ensure that your business is promoted to these people, contact our advertising department at 020-2601760 or send an email to info@amsterdam-exclusive.com.
distribution
Would you like to have Amsterdam Exclusive distributed in your hotel (3-5 star)? If so, send us an email or give us a call and we will arrange the rest.
Amsterdam Exclusive is a registered trade name and publication. Neither the trading name, the format, or the content may be reproduced. All rights reserved.
Amsterdam Exclusive is a registered trade name and publication. Neither the trading name, nor the format or the contect may be reproduced. All rights reserved.
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Summer 2014
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lifestyle people 20 Shopping Spring shopping in the city 07 Golden Concierge Robin Van Kooten on a special guild 46 Health & Wellness Relax & rejuvenate. 34 Amsterdam Artist Feature on local artist Mark Raven 42 Business Useful info for business people. 52 Eating out A guide to some of the best restaurants places 66 Nightlife The hotspots of the city 10 Key Areas A look at Amsterdam’s most popular districts 32 Venice of the North Amsterdam’s amazing canals. events 36 Museums The city’s most popular museums 14 Amsterdam Pride The annual extravaganza 16 Grachtenfestival Music on the Canals. sights 17 Uitmarkt The annual cultural showpiece 26 Seeing & Doing Amsterdam’s best spring attractions. 29 Sparkling Diamonds The beauty of Coster Diamonds facts & info 33 Picture Book Houses The famous canal-side buildings. 08 Essential Info What you need to know 60 Map A useful city map Summer 2014
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FEATURE Welcome
Welcome to Amsterdam
V
enice of the North. City Of Museums. Party Capital Of Europe. Sin City. e list of names is endless and everchanging, but one thing remains constant. is is Amsterdam and this is the absolute best city on the continent. Why call it the best? ere are many reasons, which many of you will no doubt discover during your time here. For us, it’s the diversity, freedom, culture, mentality and good oldfashioned fun that ensures it tops our league of European cities. e strange thing is that it is extremely tiny in comparison to most other capitals. Indeed, you can walk north to south from one end of the city centre to the other end in less than 45 minutes and from east to west of the centre in even less time.
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Weather-wise, it was quite a mild spring, with temperatures often in the 20s, so here’s hoping that trend will continue during the summer season. In recent years the summer weather has been magnificent. Whatever the weather, all the indications are that summer will be hugely enjoyable, thanks to an array of top events and some extra special treats. Inside this issue of Amsterdam Exclusive, we will inform you about the best events you can witness during summer. As usual, we will also bring you all the essential information you require to get the most out of your trip whether your visit is for business or pleasure. With around 2 million visitors per year, it is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and it’s understandable when you consider Summer 2014
attractions such as the art, museums, historical buildings, canals, nightlife and the restaurant scene. And of course, an added bonus is that its inhabitants boast an even better knowledge of the English language than some Brits, Aussies and Yanks. In this publication, we will try to inform you about absolutely all you could ever need to know about Amsterdam. If something inside our magazine assists, surprises, raises an eyebrow, or creates a smile, then our job has been done. So, ladies & gentlemen, without further ado, we welcome you to Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Exclusive staff
FEATURE Golden KeyS In 1957 the Dutch section was officially founded and accepted as a member country; in 1960 they organized the international congress together with Belgium for this international guild. At present and 50 years later we are proud to say that 41 countries are part of this international guild of Hotel Concierges with a network of about 4000 members. To become a member country and also a member of this society, we have created strict rules. Committees are formed to ballot the aspirant members and only after approval by the board can they become members of this guild. As our International President Mr. Roger Bastoni from the Hotel Majestic Barriere in Cannes is saying; “ere are two types of men: free men and….the others. I believe that Hotel Concierges, the real ones - those who are worthy of the title, because it is a title – are the most free of all men.
The Unlocking of the Golden Keys Friendship, Solidarity and Helpfulness. e International Union Of Hotel Concierges, known as “Les Clefs d’Or” (e Golden Keys) plays an essential role in hospitality and tourism sectors throughout Europe. Netherlands President Robin Van Kooten explains a little bit about the origins and functions of this very essential organisation.
“It is not a paradox. It’s better, it’s more: it’s a reality. And here’s why: a Concierge who places himself at the disposal of a client, who appears to depend on him, is in fact the opposite, a man who guides him, serves him (in the most noble sense of the term) He is a little bit his friend, his confidant, In all circumstances, he is the one to whom “the other” refers; and when late at night, both client and Concierge go to bed, the one who can most honestly say. “I earned my living today” is not the Concierge; it’s the client, whereas the Concierge could more accurately say. “I earned my rest today.”
T
To serve and guide our clients which is our profession, we use our network the national and international “Les Clefs d ‘Or.
It rapidly became an international organisation with the help of the airlines Sabena, KLM, and SAS, who at that time started there overnight service “Moon Line.”
To contact our guild you can go to our website www.hotelconcierge.nl which informs you about the persons behind this guild in Holland.
he name stands for a guild which was formed in April 1951 in Rouen, France by Mr. Ferdinand Gillet, with the help of some other hoteliers there.
When that line was inaugurated, Mr. Gillet was able to visit Brussels, Amsterdam and Copenhagen to explain the meaning of the guild to his colleagues in these countries. After that they went to Spain, Italy, Austria, Germany, Switzerland and some other countries and these nations became the first to enter the society.
Summer 2014
In order to do so we use our credo through Friendship, Solidarity and Helpfulness.
Robin van Kooten President of “Les Clefs d’ Or” “De Gouden Sleutels Holland”
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ESSENTIAL INformATIoN
What You Need To Know Essential Amsterdam Information and Useful Tips C A r r E N TA L Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport is not the only place where you can rent a car. Visitors can also avail of an excellent car rental
was one piece of good news recently as a new law was introduced to sanction the end of wheel clamping in the city, so drivers no longer have to worry about this.
Euro was introduced, but they are now starting to get used to the Euro and as a consequence are starting to spend again. PhArMACy Hopefully, this will not be necessary during your stay in Amsterdam, but if your last choice is a pill or a cream, then we recommend that you make your way to the DA shop on Leidsestraat. At the back of the shop, they have a pharmacy which should be able to provide you with the necessary substance to ease the pain. e pharmacy is open from 9am until 9.50pm. AIrPorT Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, is less than 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam Central Station. It is the biggest airport in the Netherlands, the fourth largest in Europe and the tenth largest in the world. It handles about 42 million passengers a year and is one of the most modern airports you will find anywhere.
service in the city, courtesy of DIKS Autoverhuur, a company which offers excellent customer service, quality vehicles and exceptional prices. For more info, check out their website at: www.diks.net. ey can be contacted at the following addresses: Amsterdam – Westpoort: Hexaanweg 1, T: 020-4116114; Amsterdam – Zuid: van Ostadestraat 278 – 280, T: 020-6623366; Amsterdam – West: Willem de Zwijgerlaan 101, T: 020-6183767.
M o NEy As with almost all EU countries, the currency in Holland is the Euro. Before that, the Dutch Guilder was the currency, with two Dutch Guilders coming close to the value of one Euro. e guilder was badly missed by Amsterdammers when the
BANkS Banks are open on weekdays from 9.0am to 5.0pm. Some smaller branches close on Monday mornings while some of the bigger ones stay open later on ursday nights. PoST offICE e main Post Office is located at Singel 250 and is open from 8.30am to 6.0pm and like everything else in the city, it stays open later on ursday nights. Contact 0205563311.
PA r k I N g One of the biggest eye sores in the city. Suffice to say that parking can be a nightmare in Amsterdam and it is also quite expensive. If you are parking along the canals, be sure to pay at one of the nearby meters, because wardens are always on the look-out and are quick to issue fines. ere
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PoLICE e central number for the police is 09008844. Call this number and they will put you in touch with the nearest police station.
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ESSENTIAL INformATIoN Ch A N g I N g M o N E y
ere are several different outlets where you can change money in Amsterdam.
TELEPhoNINg When dialing from abroad, prefix any number you find in our magazine or website with +31 and then 20 for Amsterdam. All public telephones in Amsterdam use a ‘call card’ system and these can be purchased from post offices and almost all newsagents. Reduced rates calling cards are also available in these outlets.
e best rates are usually offered by postoffices and the various GWK offices are also good. Changing money at your hotel is normally more expensive. A M S T E r dA M MErTjES An Amsterdammertje is the typical redbrown steel bollard that is used to separate the sidewalk from the street in Amsterdam. e bollards have the three Saint Andrew's Crosses from the coat of arms of Amsterdam. During the 2000s, the sidewalks in Amsterdam are being slightly elevated from the streets, meaning that the Amsterdammertjes are no longer needed to separate the sidewalk from the street. Yearly, around 2,000 Amsterdammertjes will be removed until they are all gone. New and used Amsterdammertjes are sold online by the city government of Amsterdam. oP E N I N g h o urS Shops are open from 9am until 6pm daily, although many do not open until midday on Sundays and Mondays. ursday is late shopping night with stores staying open until 9pm. However, many will offer late opening on the run up to Christmas.
AmSTErdAm fAcTS & fIgUrES Inhabitants:
739.977
Inhabitants Greater Amsterdam:1.514.050 Nationalities:
173
Mayor:
1
Bicycles:
600.000
Trees:
220.000
Parks:
28
City trams:
232
Ferryboats:
9
Markets:
21
Flower Market:
1
Shops:
10.334
Diamond polishing factories: 24 Canals:
165
Bridges:
1.281
Wooden drawbridges:
8
Houseboats:
2.500
16th, 17th, 18th century
I AMSTErdAM CArd Explore everything Amsterdam has to offer with the I amsterdam City Card. Visit world-class museums, take a cruise through the charming canals and sample the local delicacies. All for free or with a significant discount! On top of being your ticket to Amsterdam's hottest attractions, the I amsterdam City Card also gives you unlimited access to the city's public transportation system. See more, save more and discover the convenience of the I amsterdam City Card - your key to Amsterdam. You can buy your card online, or also purchase your card directly at several shops and newsagents across Amsterdam, or at one of the Amsterdam Tourist Offices. Prices are as follows: 24-hour card = 42 Euro; 48-hour card = 52 Euro; 72-hour card = 62 Euro.
Summer 2014
buildings:
6.800
Statues and sculptures:
302
Windmills:
6
Museums:
51
Art galeries:
141
Wax statues at Madame Tussaud's:
140
Animals at the Artis Zoo:
6.100
eatrical performances per year:
16.000
eatrical performances per day:
40
eaters and concert halls:
55
Cinemas:
61
Cafés and bars:
1.402
Discotheques:
36
Restaurants:
755
Hotelbeds:
37.763
Bednights by foreign
visitors
yearly
7.611.000
Day visitors per year:
15.749.000
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ESSENTIAL INformATIoN
Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport.
service – so go on guys – treat your lady the right way. PhArMACy Hopefully, this will not be necessary during your stay in Amsterdam, but if your last choice is a pill or a cream, then we recommend that you make your way to the DA shop on Leidsestraat. At the back of the shop, they have a pharmacy which should be able to provide you with the necessary substance to ease the pain. e pharmacy is open from 9am until 9.50pm.
AIrPorT Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, is less than 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam Central Station. It is the biggest airport in the Netherlands, the fourth largest in Europe and the tenth largest in the world. It handles about 42 million passengers a year and is one of the most modern airports you will find anywhere. INTErNET Many of the city’s coffeeshops provide access and you can also get on line at the various tele-communication outlets in the city centre. WiFi is also available at many cafes and bars, while “Hotspot Amsterdam”
allows you to get online at various locations with a wireless enabled laptop. S h o PP INg e shopping possibilities in Amsterdam are endless. e main tourist areas for shopping tend to be Leidsestraat and Kalverstraat which provide all the different outlets you would expect to see in any big city high street as well as some large indoor malls. However, for that special something, the place to go is PC Hooftstraat, Beethovenstraat or Van Baerlestraat where you will find all the latest designer styles. PC Hooftstraat is Amsterdam’s equivalent of Rodeo Drive, but the Dutch version offers much friendlier and more helpful
Expect to see busy shopping streets in Amsterdam.
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Summer 2014
EMBASSIES Australia Carnegielaan 4, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3108200 Canada Sophialaan 7, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3111600 China W. Lodewijklaan 10, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3065060 France Smidsplein 1, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3125800 Germany Gr. Hertoginneln 18-20, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3420600 Great Britain Lange Voorhout 10, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-4270427 Ireland Dr. Kuyperstraat 9, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3630993 Italy Alexanderstraat 12, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3021030 Japan T. Asserlaan 2, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3469544 South Africa Wassenaarsweg 40, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3924501 Spain Lange Voorhout 50, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3024999 Sweden J.W. Frisolaan 3, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-4120200 USA Lange Voorhout 102, Den Haag. Tel.: 070-3102209
ESSENTIAL INformATIoN
g E T T I N g A roUNd Tr A I N Central Station itself is an impressive building which is currently undergoing modernization reconstruction. e service
provided by the Dutch Railway Board is exceptional and all trains will leave at regular intervals on time.
TrAMS Trams are operated by the Dutch Transport Service (e GVB) and operate at regular intervals throughout the entire city center and the outskirts from 6.0am until midnight.
BICyCLES You'll notice almost immediately, that there are an incredible number of bicycles in Amsterdam. Renting a bike is a great way to see the city and the bicycle-taxis also provide a novel way of traveling.
TA x I e Government made a bizarre decision a few years ago to liberalise taxis and this has led to an increased number of drivers on the street who charge to much, don’t speak good English and often do not know where they are going. If possible, always try to take a TCA taxi. ey are the best in the city and can be contacted at 020-7777777.
horSE TAxI is seems to be the latest transport craze in Amsterdam and if you fancy a journey through the city by horse and cart, make your way to Dam Square and jump on one of the many horse taxis.
B I C yC LE TAxI Wielertaxi is the bike taxi service which has become a unique part of the Amsterdam experience. Seven days a week these electrically assisted, eye catching vehicles can be seen all over the city. Both taxi rides and tourist tours through town are possible. ey can be contacted at 06-28247550.
PoLICE e central number for the police is 09008844. Call this number and they will put you in touch with the nearest police station. BANkS Banks are open on weekdays from 9.0am to 5.0pm. Some smaller branches close on Monday mornings while some of the bigger ones stay open later on ursday nights.
U S E f U l N UmbErS & AddrESSES AM S T E r dA M T o u r I S T B oA r d Tel.: 0900-4004040. Known in Amsterdam as the 'VVV', the Tourist Board is hugely efficient and the staff are extremely helpful. eir main office can be found directly opposite Central Station and they also have offices inside Central Station (on platform two), at Leidesplein and in Schipol Airport.
I N T E r NET ACCESS Kinko's copies on Overtoom (No.1 tram) provide a 24-hour internet and copying service. P o S T offICE e main Post Office is located at Singel 250 and is open from 8.30am to 6.0pm and like everything else in the city, it stays open later on ursday nights. Contact 020-5563311.
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EMErgENCy In the UK its 999, in America its 911 and in AMSTERDAM its 112. When you get through, state your location and the kind of help you require (police, ambulance or fire brigade). You will then be transferred to the appropriate department. d oCTorS Cambridge Medical Centre, cares for all needs of the English-speaking community and tourists. Rapenburg 30. Tel. 0204275011. You can also contact the Central Doctor's Service at 020-5923434 or 0900503204. LoST LuggAgE Aeroplane: Aero Ground Services - 0206033222 or KLM Lost Luggage dept. 0800-0226400. On the boat: Dutchport 020-4059400. On the train: 0900-1558. On public transport (trams and busses): 020-4605858. Airport: For flight reservations at Schipol call: Tel.: 0204747747.
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KEY AREAS
Key Areas of The City
A view of the War Memorial and The Royal Palace on Dam Square
DA m S q uARE e Dam covers 17,000 square metres and is the national square of the Netherlands. It is also the oldest part of Amsterdam and almost 1,000 years ago fishermen, shipbuilders and craft workers settled in the area. Visual highlights around the square include the National War Monument and the Royal Palace. e neoclassical Royal Palace served as the city hall from 1655 until its conversion to a royal residence in 1808. e opposite side of the square is dominated by National Monument, a white stone pillar erected in 1956 to memorialize the victims of World War II. Nowadays Dam Square is a hive of activity and entertainment and thousands gather every day to take in the vibrant summer atmosphere.
Almost every area of Amsterdam has a building, attraction or monument to make it special, but its hard to get away from the history, popularity and intrigue which surround the areas of Dam Square, Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, Museumplein and e Jordaan and an extra degree of beauty is added to all of them during springtime, as the fine weather reruns and the trees turn green. century. During the summer months, Leidseplein comes to life and it’s famed outdoor beer gardens offer the perfect opportunity to experience the energy of this unique square.
L E i D S E p LEin Another vibrant nightlife area, which is illuminated by neon lights, while the countless bars, clubs, cafes and restaurants ensure an energetic atmosphere. Venture onto the side streets of the square to find yet more examples of Amsterdam's electric nightlife or take a walk up Leidsestraat to find some of the city's best shopping outlets. Translated into English, Leidseplein means Leiden Square. It owes its name to the Leiden Gate, which stood in the area until the end of the 19th 12
Soaking up the sunshine on the famous Leidseplein terraces. Summer 2014
KEY AREAS Its origins date back to the 13th century. In the 16th and 17th century it was regarded as one of the city’s main shopping streets. e poet Joost van den Vondel sold silk stockings here.Today, the busy Warmoesstraat has a variety of shops, bars, restaurants, cheap hotels, souvenir shops, coffee shops and a few sex boutiques.
The park at Rembrandtplein is the perfect place to unwind.
It will be even busier on April 25th and 26th, as Warmoesstraat is one of the top areas for King’s Day revellers.
muSEumpLEin Visually one of the most beautiful areas of the city. As the name would suggest, Museumplein is the area where you will find most of Amsterdam’s top museums including e Rijksmuseum and e Van Gogh Museum. It is also home to some of the city’s best diamond factories. A huge parkland dominates the area and offers the perfect setting for an afternoon stroll. During sunny days, the space is thronged with people seeking tranquility and relaxation. ere is always a lot going on during summer, so look out for various festivals, concerts, exhibitions and other forms of entertainment which may be taking place during your stay.
R E m b R A n DTpLEin One of the top going-out areas of the city, the famous Rembrandt Square is amass with bars, cafes, clubs restaurants and bright lights and the area has become even more vibrant and popular thanks to some huge refurbishments which led to the construction of a new parkarea in the centre of the square. In the 18th Century, Rembrandtplein was known as De Botermarkt (e Butter Market) and the name only changed when Van Rijn’s statue was erected. As Amsterdam’s canal system improved, Rembrandtplein grew in rank and status. As the square became more popular, entrepreneurs and Government officials realised major Horeca possibilities and after the war, the area received a tonic thanks to the influx of outsiders and the huge amount of American soldiers who came from Germany to Amsterdam.
WA R m o E S STRAAT Warmoesstraat is one of the oldest streets in Amsterdam, running parallel to the river Amstel from Amsterdam Central Station to Dam Square.
Summer 2014
A stroll through Museumplein is thoroughly recommended.
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FEATURE festivals
summer festivals in amsterdam
Amsterdam is famed for it’s magnificent summer festivals. Many of these events are known all over the world, while some may be less read about, but are equally entertaining. In the following pages, we take a look at some of the top festivals which will take place in the city this summer.
G ay P r i de Amsterdam Gay Pride is a huge celebration of devotion towards equality for the gay, lesbian and transgender communities, held from Saturday, 26 July to Sunday, 3 August 2014. Amsterdam's famous liberal-mindedness over the years has encouraged a welcoming and safe environment for gays, lesbians and transgenders to both visit and live in. î “e city's gay rights history, from early-day tolerance to
modern Mayoral celebrants has meant Amsterdam has always been at the world forefront in striving for equality for the gay community. As a result Amsterdam Gay Pride remains one of the biggest and best celebrations of its kind around the globe, drawing more than 350,000 gay and straight participants and visitors to stay and play in Amsterdam
The Gay Pride Festival adds so much colour to the city.
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summer 2014
FEATURE festivals
Musicians take to the waters during Amsterdam’s Grachtenfestival.
aPPelsaP Music festival
G r ac h t e n festival ( c a na l f e stival)
AUGUST 9 AT OOSTERPARK
15 TO 24 AUGUST AT AMSTERDAM CANAL BELT
e historic city centre of Amsterdam, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2010, hosts a ten-day festival of classical music (and beyond) at numerous unique locations around the city’s canals Entering it's 16th year, this highly successful festival is expected to attract over 50,000 visitors from the Netherlands and abroad. Alongside the special locations, productions and programmes, the Grachtenfestival traditionally provides a stage for young talented musicians, giving them every opportunity to take the next step in their musical careers. One of the annual highlights is the Prinsengracht Concert, a spectacular classical extravaganza on the city centre canal held on 23 August.
Appelsap (Apple Juice) represents everything that's fresh. Spend Saturday, 9 August 2014 in Oosterpark's fresh air, with a refreshing drink or two and a host of fresh hip-hop and electro acts, plus crate-loads of fresh DJs! is year, top Dutch and international hip-hop artists will again be hitting the stage alongside the crème de la crème of the electronic, rap and soul scenes. And if you want to keep on partying after the sun sets, there's traditionally an afterparty in town.
d e Pa r a d e theatre festival AUGUST 8-24 AT MARTIN LUTHER KING PARK
is summer, the Parade travelling theatre festival returns to tour the Netherlands with a rich array of artistic surprises in tow. e theatrical circus rolls into Amsterdam's Martin Luther King Park from 8 to 24 August 2014. e majority of the theatre performances are in Dutch, but even for nonDutch speaking visitors, the Parade is an experience that's not to be missed. Tere's a slew of live music performances, plus all the exciting activities, culinary delights and the truly unique atmosphere guarantee a memorable day out no matter what language you speak.
summer 2014
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FEATURE festivals The Westerwarts Festival takes place at Erasmuspark.
W e s t Warts festival
castlefest
FIRST THREE SUNDAYS IN JULY AT ERASMUSPARK
AUGUST 1-3 AT LISSE
Amsterdam’s Erasmuspark will be filled with fun activities on the first three Sundays of July 2014 as it hosts a series of mini festivals. e WESTwaARTS mini festivals offer theatre performances, food, drinks and live music. For those who want to participate rather than just consume, there’ll be a number of workshops, including belly dancing, customising clothes and salsa. And of course, kids will have plenty to do as well, with special theatre performances and workshops. Check the festival website for more information: www.podiummozaiek.nl
Storm the gates at the tenth anniversary edition of this magical, and musical, event. It’s taking over the Keukenhof Castle in Lisse from 1 to 3 August 2014. e line-up features a diverse array of artists, spread over four stages. e opening night begins with a set by Dikanda, a musical outfit with both Asian and Balkan influences. Additional performers include the Berlin-based Transylvanians and the Dutch folk band Scrum. Alongside the music, there’ll be plenty of activities, games and other entertainment! Check out the festival website for details: WWW.castlefest.nl.
K Wa K u festival J U LY 1 2 T O AU G U S T 1 0 AT B I L M E R PARK
Amsterdam Zuidoost is a colourful place to be from 12 July to 10 August as the Kwaku Festival (formerly the Kwakoe Festival) returns to the Bijlmerpark for five consecutive weekends of multicultural fun. Kwaku is entering its 38th edition in 2014. It is a traditional multicultural gathering focused on bringing people and cultures together for a vibrant combination of food, drink, dance and sport. Its origins lie in celebrating the abolition of slavery in Suriname and the Dutch Antilles on 1 July 1863, and its name is derived from a statue erected to commemorate the momentous event. e festival traditionally attracts around 300,000 visitors over the course of its five weekends, making it one of the biggest events on the Amsterdam calendar.. More info at: www.kwakufestival.nl. 16
Castlefest is held at the nearby town of Lisse.
summer 2014
FEATURE festivals e Uitmarkt rings in the start of the new cultural season each year, inspiring, entertaining and astounding theatre, music, book and film lovers alike in the last weekend of August. In 2014, that’s 29, 30 & 31 August. Attracting more than 450,000 visitors, the Uitmarkt is one of the country’s most popular cultural events and the traditional opening of the cultural season. e festival features more than 450 performances by some 2,000 artists. From classical to kid-friendly, hip-hop to dance and theatre to jazz – there’s something for everyone. More info at: www.amsterdamsuitburo.nl/uitmarkt.
Amsterdam’s Loveland Festival is famed throughout the world.
aMsterdaM frinGe festival SEPTEMBER 4-14 AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS
lOv e l a n d festival AU G U S T 9 AT S LO T E R PA R K
Dance music and the Netherlands go together like rock 'n' roll and come summer, Amsterdam buzzes with the thud of dance music festivals. And they don’t come much bigger than the annual Loveland Festival, which hits the Sloterpark in the Nieuw-West district of the city on Saturday, 9 August 2014. Amsterdam Loveland Held in beautiful surroundings on a peninsula jutting out into the Sloterplas (lake), the event traditionally features SIX main stages hosting dozens of international stars and the freshest names from the local scene. e relaxED island and art island complete the Loveland grounds, offering festivalgoers the chance to take it easy away from the beats. More info at: www.lovelandfestival.com
Amsterdam is firmly in the grip of stage arts as summer draws to a close each year, as the Dutch eatre Festival and the accompanying Fringe Festival come to town. While the Dutch eatre Festival revisits last season's most successful productions, the Fringe ensures that avant-garde theatre isn't left behind. Look out for Fringe in September 2014. Staging a huge array of productions by cutting-edge homegrown and international producers and artists at over 25 locations across the city, the Amsterdam Fringe Festival turns the entire city into a stage. From theatres to clubs, the streets and even living rooms, the eccentricity that is the Fringe comes alive in bizarre, brooding and brilliant productions including live art, theatre, musical theatre, comedy and dance. More info at: www.amsterdamfringefestival.nl
uitMarKt AU G U S T 2 9 - 3 1 AT VA R I O U S LO C AT I O N S
Uitmarkt is one of the cultural highlights of the year in Amsterdam. summer 2014
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SHOPP ING SCENE
Shop Until You Drop!
With more than 10,000 shops, almost 150 galleries, more than 150 antique shops and 26 markets, Amsterdam could justifiably be described as a shopping heaven. Designer labels, bargains, jewellery, diamonds, books, antiques….You name it and you will most likely find it in Amsterdam. The main pedestrianised shopping streets are Leidsestraat, Kalverstraat and Nieuwendijk where you will find most of the regular high street stores. Amsterdam also plays host to exclusive shopping areas like PC Hooftstraat, Spiegelstraat, Van Baerlestraat and The Nine Streets where you will
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come across countless designer boutiques, interior design shops, art galleries and other specialist shops. Most stores open at around 10am (later on Monday mornings) and close at 6pm (5pm on Saturdays). Thursday is late night shopping in Amsterdam, with most shops staying open until 9pm. Most of the Shopping Malls stay open until 7pm daily (Thursdays 9pm). In the pages which follow, we will offer an in-depth look at exactly what you can buy and where you can buy it in Amsterdam.
Summer 2014
SHOPP ING liStS
magNa Plaza
DE BijENKorf
DE KalvErtorEN
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 182. Tel.: 020-6269199 www.magnaplaza.nl
Dam 1. Tel.: 0900-0919 www.debijenkorf.nl
Singel 457. Tel.: 020-4273901 www.kalvertoren.nl
Housed inside one of Amsterdam’s most stunning buildings, the Magna Plaza Shopping Mall is always popular among tourists and locals alike. In many ways, it’s a shopping experience with a touch of history. e Gothic-style building which is located directly behind the Royal Palace on Dam Square was built in the late 1800s and served at that time as a Post Office. ere are around fifty exclusive shops inside, many of which store the latest and best designer labels. e venue also plays host to some fine eateries and all in all it’s a relaxed and efficient means of shopping.
Translated into English, the name means ‘e Beehive’ and its quite apt as throngs of people gather to this impressive shopping venue, which is probably Amsterdam’s equivalent of London’s Harrods. It’s the biggest and probably the most famous Amsterdam department store in De Bijenkorf, which can be found on Dam Square (adjacent to the War Memorial Statue). De Bijenkorf is a chic and up-market, luxury mall where hours can go by like minutes. A large variety of goods are on offer, including quality clothing by international designer labels, cosmetics, furniture, toys, jewellery, shoes, CDs, books, delicatessen goods, gifts, kitchen appliances and more.
e address is on Singel, but you can also enter De Kalvertoren Department Store from the top end of shopping street Kalverstraat. e department store was honoured in the late 90s when it won a prestigious European Shopping Center award and since then, it has continued to improve and impress. Inside you will find shops dealing in fashion, cosmetics, jewellery, music, stationary and interior decoration. Names like H&M, Replay, Guess, Mango and America Today can be found and there is also a general goods store (HEMA) in the basement. e centre also offers plenty of opportunities to stop for a drink or a bite to eat.
maiSoN DE BoNNEtEriE
v&D
StaDShart amStElvEEN
Kalverstraat 203. Tel.: 020-5313400 www.debonneterie.nl
Rokin 203 Tel.: +31 900 2358363 www.vd.nl
Rembrandtweg 1181 GE Amstelveen Tel.:020 426 5800 www.stadshartamstelveen.nl
De Bonneterie as it’s known, is an oldfashioned luxury department store, which combines the long tradition of good service with the most modern selection of products. It is a wonderful building which combined the look of a luxurious Parisian Store with a chic and classy atmosphere. Many major designers’ brands and labels are represented in a department store which boasts quality goods and clothing for men, women and children. e building also houses an impressive Grand Café and can be found on the large Rokin Street, close to Muntplein. ere is also an entrance at the top end of Kalverstraat (Rembrandtplein end).
e initials stand for Vroom and Dreesman, which is the biggest Dutch chain of department stores, with shops in every important city in e Netherlands. Its official address is on Rokin, but there is also an entrance at the top end of Kalverstraat. e shopping is set over a number of floors and the goods on offer are quite good for men, women and children with many top names available. e venue is also renowned for its excellent sales and you rarely leave Vroom & Dreesman without picking up at least one bargain. La Place Restaurant on the ground floor offers excellent international fresh cuisine.
Due to the lack of large shopping malls in Amsterdam Centre, it is definitely worth mentioning the Stadshart Amstelveen. is is the only 4-star rated shopping center in e Netherlands. It is also the largest shopping mall in the larger Amsterdam Area. All big Dutch department stores such as V&D, HEMA and Bijenkorf have XL stores. Other noteworthy shops are the Bose Experience Center, Rituals Store & City Spa, e English Hatter and all the top Dutch electronics shops. e variety on offer is endless with more than 210 stores. On Friday Stadshart Amstelveen hosts a market. e centre is located at the end station of tram number 5 which runs from Amstelveen to Central Station
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DEPARTMENT STORES mallS
g & g S P E Cial SizES BIG SIZES
Prinsengracht 514. Tel.: 020-6226339 e best things really do come in big pacakages! Getting tired of regular stores which don’t stock sizes which are big enough to fit your needs – en the Amsterdam branch of G&G Special Sizes is the place for you. Located on Prinsengracht, one of the city’s main canals, the staff at G&G Special Sizes realise that appropriate clothing and self-image are important, and they will go out of their way to ensure you get the outfit which best suits your style and your needs whether you are young, old, tall or broad. Established in 1932, G&G have built an excellent reputation throughout the years and the same staff will display all the necessary patience and courtesy to ensure that customers leave with the perfect product. Visitors to the store can choose from renowned brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Paul & Shark, Camel Active, Bugatti, Pierre Cardin, Alberto, Gardeur, M.E.N.S., Dressler and Ferkinghoff. e store is located around the middle of the Prinsengracht Canal which means you can also take a break from the shopping and enjoy some of the best cafes and bars in the city. For more information and to check out whats new in their store, check out the website at: www.ggspecialsizes.com.
roBiN rUth aCCESSoriES/SoUvENirS TRENDY SOUVENIRS
Robin-Ruth was formed in Amsterdam in 1998, when they started selling souvenir ties to stores in the city. Since then, the company has become the largest supplier of souvenir articles and fashion accessories, as they offer products to more than 40 countries. e range of products has been extended and consists of socks, scarves, hats, caps, umbrellas and different models of bags. Robin-Ruth has its own representatives in the USA, the UK, Spain, France, e United Arab Emirates, Dominican Republic, Russia, Portugal and many more. All the products are made with careful consideration to modern color, style, fashion flows and trends. Tourists all over the world appreciate the excellent design and superb quality of the articles, which also underline their individuality. One of the most famous products nowadays is the shopping bag. is bag with the city name written all over is interesting for every tourist. You can collect them during your trip around the world. Show your friends where you have been. Show them your style, your class and your feeling for fashion. In Amsterdam you will find Robin-Ruth wherever you go. Big and small souvenir store have Robin-Ruth products available. If for any reason you can not find the product you wanted or you forgot to buy it, you can always visit their website www.robin-ruth.com and buy your Robin-Ruth item online. 20
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DEPARTMENT STORES mallS
ziSEtY
P LU S - S I Z E S
Singel 465. Tel.: 020-6221436. When it comes to fashion for the big or tall man, Zisety is not just the best store in Amsterdam, but one of the best in Europe. Located on the famous Singel Street, on the other side of the canal from the Floating Flower Market, Zisety (formerly known as Mooxx) stands for his High quality for the Mighty man. eir collections are stunning and the service is as good as you will find anywhere. It doesn’t matter where you come from, but it does matter where you are going – And the people at Zisety will make sure you go in style. An absolute must-go place for Plus-Size men. Open daily (except Sunday) from 9am until 6pm (until 5pm on Saturday; until 9pm on ursday; open from 1pm on Monday; also open from 9am until 5pm on the first Sunday of every month.)
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DEPARTMENT STORES mallS
SENza
g-Star ’
toPSKiNS
Rokin 82. Tel.: 020-5305030
PC Hooftstraat 24-28 Tel.: 020-4711117 www.g-star.com
Kinkerstraat 120. Tel.: 020-6122256
ose who love their genuine brand names at reduced prices will be in for a real treat if they visit the Senza International luxury fashion outlet, which in recent times has moved address to Rokin Street Nr.82. Labels such as Gucci, Prada, Versace, Burberry, Armani, Iceberg and D&G can be found inside. As well as clothing, the outlet also specialises in handbags, belts and other accesories.An added bonus is the friendly service, as staff go out of their way to ensure your every need is catered for. Definitely worth visiting.
Fans of G-Star Raw will be highly impressed with the flagship store on PC Hooftstraat and the corner of Hobbemastraat. e 3-storey store is one of the biggest G-Star mono-stores in the world. e clothing company, which was actually formed in Amsterdam in the late 80s has become hugely popular in recent years and fans of the brand will be intrigued by this new flagship store which includes an enormous denim wall that spreads out all the way from the basement to the mezzanine floor.
Topskins on Kinkerstraat is the place to go for those who are looking for some trendy designer fashion. Brands such as Replay, La Coste, Pall Mall and Cast Iron can be found at extremely competitive prices in the store which is located 5 minutes b y Tram from Dam Square. is is also one of the most customerfriendly stores you will find in Amsterdam, as staff go out of their way to ensure that your every need is catered for. e store is also renowned for its excellent spring sales, so there could be plenty of bargains. Don’t be surprised if you are greeted with a cup of coffee when you visit.
CrEam
Pro 020
PrECiNCt 5
Leidsestraat 56 Tel.: 020-4203094
Kalverstraat 43. Tel.: 020-6387830 www.pro-shoes.nl
Singel 459. Tel.: 020-3301270 www.precinct -five.com
A hidden treasure for all the young ladies who like to keep up with the times and be seen at big club nights or festivals in the latest designs. Creations from the likes of Ed Hardy, Phard, Indian Rose and many more can be found in this gem of a store. e Cream boutique can be found in the heart of the city on the shopping thoroughfare of Leidsestraat, just a few minutes walk from the famous Leidseplein. e store is also renowned for its great sales and there are always some stunning bargains to be found.
e recently opened PRO 020 store at Kalverstraat is proving to be a huge hit and is a must-go venue for those who love trendy sneakers. e PRO concept has grown rapidly in Holland in recent times and the Amsterdam outlet really impresses. ey stock a fab choice of sneakers from makers such as Adidas, Nike, Vans and Converse. With striking graffiti designs by Lucky Dubz and Leyp on the walls, the PROstore really does deliver everything that lovers of urban art and fashion require. Friendly staff will ensure you get what you are looking for.
In December 2009, the doors to the old police station on Singel 459 opened for a never-before-seen concept. Precinct 5, located in this classic Amsterdam canal house, is where the Stussy and Enplus shops found their new home. e concept of the shop came from a unique collaboration of leaders and trendsetters of Amsterdam’s fashion- and musicindustry. Under the management of the well-known DJ Mr. Wix, Precinct 5 carries sophisticated and premium clothing originating from pure street culture. Brands such as Nike, Converse and Reebok as well as many others can be purchased.
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IN DEmaND
Tod’s Touch e creation of Tod's products is a unique process in which Tod's artisans, specialists that perpetuate a unique tradition, use the best quality leathers, which they cut, work, and sew by hand. Every single object becomes a unique piece, a masterpiece of handcrafted leather that is recognized and loved around the world. Available at Tod’s PC Hooftstraat, 74.
Hello Summer!! e latest Escada collection takes us to the city of Marrakesh with it’s earthy colours and Moorish charm. Rustic rooftop terraces and dusty alleyways are the perfect contrast for this sophisticated yet relaxed collection. Gorgeous oversized prints and bold colours are key in creating that effortlessly chic look. Available at Escada PC Hooftstraat, 43.
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Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli and Diamonds In 1956, Jean Schlumberger joined Tiffany & Co. Immediately, his designs were coveted and collected by the world´s most fashionable women, including Jacqueline Kennedy and legendary Vogue editor Diana Vreeland. Today, they continue to worn by women of unimpeachable taste. Available at Tiffany & Co PC Hooftstraat 86-88.
IN DEmaND
Radiant Reflection At the heart of Chopard traditions, the Happy Sport Tourbillon Joaillerie watch showcases the vast array of exceptional skills cultivated within the Manufacture in Geneva. Haute Horlogerie and Haute Joaillerie thus combine to give birth to an entirely diamond-studded watch providing a precious backdrop for an L.U.C tourbillon movement. Available at Chopard PC Hooftstraat 53
Don’t Miss This Summer It´s virtually impossible not to make an impression with the Infinit Bracelet. Dramatically designed in vibrant colors and attractive metal detailing, beautiful Imprimé leather is its crowning touch.。 Available at Louis Vuitton PC Hooftstraat 65-67
Distinctive Design Developing its charm, the Bulgari-Bulgari collection protects its signature features characteristic for this legendary collection already for two decades. Eclectic rings and bracelets are born to be combined offering various color combinations and thus provide an individual style at every occassion. Available at Bulgari PC Hooftstraat 73
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W
ith so much to see and do, visitors to Amsterdam should never have an excuse for boredom. We have highlighted the superb museums, the electric nightlife, the wonderful restaurants and much more in other sections of the magazine. However, the action does not stop there as the city also plays host to a number of exciting and enjoyable attractions. In this section we explore the best attractions on oer this spring, including the dazzling Coster Diamond Factory, The Diamant Museum, the wonderful theatre scene, classic windmills, colourful tulips and many of the other attractions which help to make this great city what it is.
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amsterdam theatres All year round, every night of the week, you can find quality, Englishlanguage performances and productions in Amsterdam. e easiest way is to drop by the theatres' box offices, where you can browse programmes, ticket prices and availability. An alternative is to visit the Uitburo on the corner of Leidseplein where you can purchase tickets for almost all performances. e Uitburo can be reached at 0900-0191 or you can check out their website at www.aub.nl. RoyA l T H E AT R E C A R R E Amstel 115-125. Tel.: 020-5249452 More than a century ago, in 1887, circus master Oscar Carré opened his circus theatre on the banks of the Amstel River. e family Carré first performed in the Netherlands in September 1863 and their circus-theatre was a big hit from the beginning. Slowly the theatre changed from circus to variety shows and it was renamed ‘Royal eatre Carre’ following its 100th anniversary. After this, the theatre began to concentrate on musical, cabaret, stage plays, international performances and other spectacles. Check out the website at www.theatercarre.nl. H E T M U z I E k T H E AT E R / opERA HoUsE Waterlooplein 22. Tel.: 020-5518117 Het Muziektheater (e Music eatre) is the theatre of residence for e Netherlands Opera and the Dutch National Ballet and also home to the Holland Symphony Orchestra. Since its opening in September
1986, it has attracted crowds from Amsterdam and beyond in their droves and all agree it is among the best of its type in the world. e venue hosts top class productions of some of the world’s most famous operas and ballets and musicals, so check out their website at www.hetmuziektheater.nl. s TA D s sCHoUWbURg Leidseplein 26. Tel.: 020-6242311 As well as being one of the top venues for drama and theatre productions, the Stadsschouwburg also lays claim to being one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful buildings. e theatre frequently shows English language theatre productions and dance performances and most of the acts are outstanding. Information about what’s on can be gained via their website at www.stadsschouwburgamsterdam.nl.
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THE AMsTERDAM ConCERTgEboUW Concertgebouwplein 2-6. Tel.: 020-6718345 Constructed in the late 1800s to accommodate the need for a top concert venue in Amsterdam, e Concertgebouw is internationally renowned for its fabulous acoustics and as home of the famous Concertgebouw Orchestra. e Concertgebouw Foundation now organises around 400 concerts per year in the Main Hall and the Recital Hall, consisting of an alternating programme involving both Dutch and international musicians. Before the ‘Sunday Morning Concert’ starts, you can take ‘a peek behind the scenes, as they offer guided tours, which begin at 9.30am and have to be reserved separately. Tickets for concerts which are due to be held within the next three months can be purchased online (www.concertgebouw.nl), at the box office, by telephone. MUzIEkgEboUW Piet Heinkade 1. Tel.: 020-7882010 e opening of the Muziekgebouw close to the IJ Tunnel marked a special moment in Dutch music history. e venue offers composers and makers of music and theatre with their own work place. Festivals, thematic projects and multimedia concerts are held regularly. For more information, check out their website at www.muziekgebouw.nl.
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cruising the canals
Land of Windmills
ere’s no better way to discover Amsterdam than by boat and the cruises offered by the Blue Boat Company provide the ideal way to see the city from the many wonderful canals. eir deluxe boats will give you a remarkable opportunity to experience and see the beautiful traditional merchant houses, the numerous bridges, the typical houseboats and to feel the unique vibe of Amsterdam. All the boats are equipped with a computerised audio system, informing you on all of the highlights you pass on the way. is information can be listened to in no less than 13 languages. Blue Boat Company owns 9 party vessels with flexible interiors in several different sizes. ey have also created several complete package deals which take much of the stress away from those who are trying to organise the perfect day on the canals. ese packages range from a sailing bar package to a complete dinner on board and Blue Boat Company is certain to have at least one package which will cater to your needs. For more information or help with organizing a special event, do not hesitate to contact them by phone at: +31 (20) 6791370 or by email to: info@blueboat.nl. You can also check out their website at: www.blueboat.nl.
T
he tulip has come to be a loved symbol of e Netherlands and many tourists visit the country just to see the bright coloured flower and the astonishing view over the bulb fields. In the beginning of the 17th century, the tulip gained major popularity as a trading product, especially in Holland. e interest in the flower was huge and bulbs sold for unbelievably high prices. During late 1636 and early 1637, there was a complete “Tulipmania” in the Netherlands and some varieties could cost more than an Amsterdam house at that time. All this marked the start of Holland’s affiliation with tulips and flowers in general and the country is by far the Number One tulip exporter in the world. DE oTTER Gillis van Ledenberchstraat 78 Windmill 'de Otter' is a hidden treasure which is located in the city centre just west of the Jordaan area. It can be visited on weekdays and on Friday’s the miller often operates the mill. s lo T E n W I n D M I l l Akersluis 10. Tel.: 020-6690412 Located on the outskirts of the city, the Molen van Sloten mill is still in use to keep the surrounding polderland dry. It is a 19th century polder draining mill accessible to the public daily between 10am and 4pm
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Amsterdam City of diamonds Amsterdam has been home to the world’s most distinguished and celebrated diamond factory for almost 175 years. Listed on the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, the craft of diamond cutting has been an important part of Dutch heritage since Sephardic Jews introduced the industry in the late 16th century. Today, Amsterdam’s reputation as ‘diamond city’ is unparalleled; it even has its own cut; the brilliant or Amsterdam cut. When Moses Elias Coster established the first diamond factory, he was already one of the most respected and celebrated craftsmen in the world. His eye for detail and unmatched skill made him and Coster Diamonds the biggest name in the industry and was trusted to work on some of the world’s most spectac-
Coster Diamonds 1852
ular diamonds, such as the Koh-I-Nohr diamond, as commissioned by Queen Victoria of England.
the secret of the four ‘C’s’ by which the value of a diamond is determined: carat, color, clarity and cut.
Today Coster Diamonds is located in four stately premises, with free entrance and beautifully situated on the city’s famous Museum Square. The attached diamond museum houses some of the most desired pieces in history, such as the Glass Katana encrusted with diamonds and of course, the diamond ape skull.
And of course you get a chance to purchase an item at the end of your tour, because who doesn’t want a sparkling souvenir?
A visit to one of the world’s most respected and trusted diamond factory is a chance to learn all about the fascinating history of diamond cutting, to see the master craftsmen at work and to discover Coster Diamonds, Paulus Potterstraat 2-6, 1071 CZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands Tel. +31 (0)20 305 5555, info@costerdiamonds.com, www.costerdiamonds.com Opening hours: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm, 7 days a week
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PedaL PUShing
Miscellaneous attractions a n i M a L inStinct
A R T I s A M s T E R DA M z o o Plantage Kerklaan 38-40. Tel.: 020-5233400 When you look at how space is such a premium in Amsterdam, it’s hard to believe that there is enough room for a top zoo, but there is and it’s provided by Artis Zoo at Plantage Kerklaan. Said to be the oldest zoo on the continent, Artis was founded in 1838 to promote the knowledge of natural history and is an oasis of peace and quiet amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. e zoo which was founded in 1838 is set in an area of 14 hectares and with 700 species of animals to see, it provides a magnificent overview of the entire animal kingdom of Amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds, mammals and insects. Around the zoo you'll find many more Dutch and European animal and plant species, as well as more exotic ones. You can
also quench your thirst for knowledge at the zoo’s Planetarium, or by visiting its many museums and smaller exhibitions. e concept of Artis is split into five elements: 1. Artis as a Zoo and Aquarium; 2. As a Botanical Gardens; 3. As a Zoological Museum;4. As a Geological Museum; 5. As a Planetarium. is unique combination meets Artis's primary objective of offering educational material to broad segments of the population. e zoo is open every day of the year from 9am until 5pm and its central location makes it easy to reach by all forms of public transport.
sEE IT All by bICyClE First time visitors will probably be amazed at the amount of bicycles on the city’s streets. It’s quite simply the most popular way for locals to commute and it’s also an ideal way to see the city. If you fancy renting a bike, the best service is offered by Dutch Bike Amsterdam. ey can be found close to Leidseplein at Overtoom 45 (0206833369) and they rent top quality bicycles and also accommodate those who prefer a bicycle with a bit more quality and a bit more class. ey also sell a huge range of bicycles, many of which you would not be able to find in your own country.
the aMSterdaM ( Voc ShiP) Kattenburgerplein 1. Tel.: 020-5232222
Under orderS!
H o RsE & CART is seems to be the latest transport craze in Amsterdam and if you fancy a journey through the city by horse and cart, make your way to the front of the Royal Palace and you will find one of the many chaufferdriven horse and carts.
‘e Amsterdam’ was an 18th-century VOC (Dutch East India Company) vessel which was used as a cargo ship. e Amsterdam has been moored next tothe Scheepvaartmuseum (Maritime Museum) since 1991. is boat is actually a replica the original was wrecked during a violent storm on its way to the Far East in 1749. You can visit the beautiful vessel by purchasing a ticket for Amsterdam with a ticket for the National Maritime Museum ( Het Scheepvaartmuseum).
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More attractions d r i n K S ac adeMY
HoUsE oF bols Paulus Potterstraat 14 One of the city’s newest attractions, e House Of Bols Cocktail & Genever Experience is a must-see place where visitors can discover everything about the world’s oldest distilled spirit brand Bols, in
new concept, the venue also offers visitors the opportunity to try out as a model or popstar.
BULBS on Water
F loAT Ing FloWER MARkET e floating flower market is the only one of its kind in the world and is also one of
Beer tiMe
THE HEInEkEn ExpERIEnCE Stadhouderskade 78. Tel.: 020-5239666 One of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions, e Heineken Experience closed for renovations last October, but it is set to open again this summer and things will be bigger and better than before, as new attractions such as a mini brewery, a Tasting Bar and a tour of the Shire horses stables have been added to the many other attractions which include experiencing the speed of a bottling line as an actual bottle of Heineken. Of course no trip to the brewery is complete without a bit of personal testing. e former Heineken brewery is a National Monument and is listed as an anchor point along the European Route of Industrial Heritage. It is definitely worth a visit and those who have been before should return to check out the new attractions.
aMSterdaM arena Amsterdam since 1575. e House Of Bols offer visitors a chance to experience a spectacular adventure in taste, smell, image and sound and also learn more about the glamorous side of Bartending and cocktailmaking. Learn about the rich history of Lucas Bols, visit the e Hall of Taste for a surprising taste experiment as you taste with your eyes, hands and even your nose!
the most colorful and fragrant places of interest in Amsterdam at any time of year. It is unique in that the merchandise is displayed on floating barges. Located on the famous Singel Canal, the market was first held in 1862 and has since developed into the best-known flower market in Holland. Its along the same street that you can also find the world famous Amsterdam Christmas shop.
W o n d e r S of Wax
M A DA M E T U s s AU D s Dam Square 20. Tel.: 020-5221010 Rub shoulders with stars from the world of music, cinema, politics, sport and art. OK, they don't breathe and talk back to you, but the likeness is incredible as the wax workers at Madame Tussauds continue to excel and baffle with their uncannily realistic wax figures. e Madame Tussauds gallery is situated on one of the corners of Dam Square. e visit starts with a recreation of scenes from Holland's Golden Age before advancing to more present times. Madonna, Bono, Michael Jackson, Bill Clinton, Mel Gibson, they are all there, so why not take a snapshot alongside your favourite star. Sports lovers will enjoy visiting the top floor where many of the world's top sports-stars are on display and at present there is also a very enjoyable Pirates of e Caribbean exhibition. In a
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THE WoRlD oF AjAx ArenA Boulevard 3. Tel.: 020-3111336 Sampling e World Of Ajax exhibition and stadium tour is an absolute must for football lovers. e exhibition charts the history of Holland's most famous club. Tour the Stadium, visit the official Ajax fan shop and be mesmerised at the magnificent Ajax Museum. All in all, a real treat for those who follow the beautiful game. Also take a look in our Sports & Leisure section for further information and to find out if Ajax are in action during your stay in Amsterdam.
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because there is so much to do, sometimes it’s easy to miss the fact that Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one of the biggest reasons for this are the majestic canals which separate Amsterdam from so many other capital cities. Thus the nickname – Venice of The north.
Venice of the north
T
he city is famed the world over for its ‘grachten’ (Dutch for canals) and the seventeenth century girdle of canals make for breathtaking viewing and are also an early example of excellent town planning. During the course of the 17th century the famous crescent shape of the Amsterdam’s city centre was designed and resulted in the unique ring of canals, which are the location for approx. 2,200 buildings, 1,550 of which are listed as historic buildings. e three main city center canals are Prinsengracht, Herengracht and Keizersgracht, although e Singel Canal is also up there with the big boys. In total, the city consists of approx. 90 islands, separated by some 100 kilometres of canals which are linked by about 400 stone bridges. e Herengracht (Lord’s Canal) is the first of the three major canals in the city centre of Amsterdam. Alongside the canal are several monumental buildings which are worth a look, so be sure to bring your camera. e Keizersgracht (Emperor's Canal) is the second of the three major canals in the city centre of Amsterdam.
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It is sandwiched between the Herengracht and the Prinsengracht and there are also several wonderful sites alongside it. e Prinsengracht (Prince's Canal) is the third of the major canals. Most of the canal houses along it were built during the Dutch Golden Age and interesting sights along the Prinsengracht include the Noorderkerk (Northern Church), the Noordermarkt (Northern Market), the Anne Frank House and the Westerkerk (Western Church, Amsterdam's tallest church). If you fancy a more up-close-and-personal view, why not take a canal tour. We at Amsterdam Exclusive recommend that you take advantage of the many wonderful tours operated by the Canal Company. For more details on what they offer, check out or Attractions section or see their advertisement on Page 1.
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picture book houses
Amsterdam’s much-admired canal-side houses.
A
mong the most eye-catching and appealing architectural features of Amsterdam are the old and extremely beautiful canal houses, which can make the city centre look akin to a children’s pop-up picture book. At one stage, it was actually rumoured that the beauty of the houses had persuaded the powers that be to make the entire city centre of Amsterdam a world heritage site. e city has one of the largest historic city centres in Europe, dating largely from the 17th century. At that time, a series of concentric, semi-circular canals (grachten) were dug around the old city centre. Along the canals, houses and warehouses were built. Many of the houses were built as residences for wealthy citizens and most beautiful ones can be found alongside the major canals of Prinsengracht, Herengracht and Keizersgracht, where most wealthy Amsterdammers lived and where many still live. e buildings are characterised by narrow, relatively tall facades, often crowned by richly ornamented gable tops. e reason behind the characteristic
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shape of the Amsterdam facades is that the plots were narrow and deep with the narrow side facing the canal. As such, the ridges of the saddle roofs were at right angles to the facades and the ornamental gable tops were introduced as way to hide the saddle roofs from view and make the houses more attractive. Another thing to bear in mind is that some of the narrow brick houses are gradually sinking and if you look closely, you will also see that many of them are slanting. is is because they are built on wooden piles to cope with the marshy subsoil. Amsterdam’s houses come in different shapes and sizes.
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Artist Mark Raven’s Reflections On His Home Town’s Atmosphere Amsterdam’s impressive history and typical atmosphere have always exerted a great attraction on artists, and over the past centuries many of them have attempted to capture the city’s beauty in their work.
the city in a simple, suggestive lines. As it has always been his aim to make his work more visible and accessible, Mark presents his work not only as original prints, but also produced on t-shirts, posters and postcards, which are available for purchase at the two above-mentioned shops.
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he same holds true for the Amsterdam artist Mark Raven. On two of the city’s most pretty locations, behind the Royal Palace in the heart of the city, and between the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, Mark succeeds in attracting a growing audience with his striking modern impressions of Amsterdam. Over the past twenty years, he has developed a style by which he depicts the city in a refreshingly unusual way. “My passion for this city is obviously related to the fact that I was born here. But the city’s atmosphere with its canals, its decorative gables and its culture also contributes to its inspirational character”, Stated Mark. In his work Mark complements traditional graphic techniques, such as etching, with the possibilities of digital image manipulation, thus balancing the contrast between traditional and modern. By translating the characteristics of the Dutch capital into almost calligraphic symbols, he is able to capture
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Amsterdam changes every moment of the day.’ When asked whether he has now finally found his own style, he answers laughingly: ´I am not sure. e basic style and technique are there, but within this style things are still changing all the time. More and more I am beginning to find out that it is just as important what you leave out.´ Unfortunately for Mark, the growth of his businesses mean he has less and less time for painting and by his own admission he wants and needs to find a way to sketch and paint more. Winter is always a special time for an artist and particularly an Amsterdam artist as the cold season offers opportunities to view the city’s canals when they are frozen and also to get a different perspective on the buildings and bridges when they are covered with a coat of snow or draped with icicles. No doubt Mark will have his hands full running the shops and creating the masterpieces! TWO LOCATIONS
Mark Raven’s work can be seen in his shop at the Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 174, just behind the Royal Palace, in his kiosk on the Museumplein or on his website www.markraven.nl. Both venues are definitely worth a visit and offer visitors the chance to take something extra special home from their trip to the Dutch capital.
UN I V E R S A L L A N G UAG E
After having studied journalism at the beginning of the 1980s Mark decided to turn to the more universal language of the image. He started out making detailed figurative drawings in black and white, selling these works on the streets of his hometown. Eager to get in touch with other cultures, Mark then began travelling around the world to broaden his vision, supporting himself by selling his impressions of the cities he visited. During these journeys he learned to present his work his own way, not solely depending on the art gallery circuit. DE V E LO P M E N T It was from his detailed, figurative style that Mark later
developed the unique play of lines, by which he not only evokes an immediately recognizable Amsterdam, but also captures the city’s typical movement, light and atmosphere. Signature elements are, of course, the bridges and canal houses, but also for example bicycles, or one of the famous towers. Speaking about Amsterdam, Mark states: ‘e city is different from day to day. e light, the movement, its entire coloration.
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City of Museums
D i s c over the enchantment, charm & Fascination
When you measure per square metre, Amsterdam boasts more museums than any other city in the world. The Dutch capital is home to more than 40 museums, with most of them situated close together on the
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area known as ‘Museumplein’. This area is close to Leidseplein and is easily accessible. Have a look at our What’s On section to check out what events and exhibitions are taking place during your stay.
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mUseUm CLASSIFIEDS
RIjkSMuSEuM
vAn GOGH MuSEuM
AMSTERDAM MuSEuM
Jan Luijkenstraat 1. Tel.: 020-6747000 www.rijksmuseum.nl
Paulus Potterstraat 7. Tel.: 020-5705243 www.vangoghmuseum.nl
Kalverstraat 92. Tel.: 020-5231822 www.amsterdammuseum.nl.
e long awaited reopening of one of the world’s most famous museums, Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum finally occurred during springtime and it was well worth the wait. Only parts of the museum have been opened to the public in the past years, as major reconstruction was taking place and the changes have proved to be hugely successful and will ensure that Rijksmuseum retakes its place as one of Europe’s leading tourist attractions. e museum now boasts a new layout, a fully renovated building, new public facilities, a newly landscaped garden, and Rembrandt’s ‘e Night Watch’ returning to its original gallery. Overall, 80 halls will display 8,000 pieces of art and history.
One of Amsterdam’s most popular museums, e Van Gogh Museum holds the largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh in the world. Nowhere else can you see so many of Van Gogh's paintings in one place. Here, you can follow the development of the artist's work through all its stages and compare it with pictures by other 19th-century painters in the collection. In addition, the museum offers a wide variety of temporary exhibitions on a large number of subjects from the history of 19thcentury art. e building which houses the Museum is easy to find as it stands out among the others due to its modern look and resemblance to some kind of space craft. Check out their website for details of the stunning exhibitions which are currently taking place.
is museum was formerly known as the Amsterdam Historic Museum, but the name changed a couple fo years ago and it is now simply known as the Amsterdam Museum. It tells the compelling story of the growth and heyday of Amsterdam. Discover seven centuries of the city's history, through the intimate rooms and courtyards of this former Civic Orphanage, where Amsterdam’s orphans once lived. A lively, international city like Amsterdam deserves an exciting museum, so the most modern forms of multimedia are used as visitors are invited to discover the surprising objects that make the past seem real. Guided tours are available, as are quicktours for those with limited time.
AnnE FRAnk HOuSE
HET SCHEEpvAARTMuSEuM
REMbRAnDT HOuSE MuSEuM
Prinsengracht 267. Tel.: 020-5567105 www.annefrank.org
Kattenburgerplein 1. Tel.: 020-5232222 www.hetscheepvaartmuseum.nl
Jodenbreestraat 4. Tel.: 020-5200400 www.rembrandthuis.nl
It’s quite normal for hairs to stand on your neck as you visit the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her diary during the Second World War. For more than two years, she lived secretly with family members and friends in the back part of her father's office building at No. 263 Prinsengracht. e Secret Annex has been preserved in its authentic state. Quotations from the diary, photographs, films and original objects - belonging to the people in hiding and those who helped them - all serve to illustrate the events that occurred at this location. Anne's original diary is on display in the museum along with some of her other notebooks.
After four years of closure, Het Scheepvaartmuseum (e Netherlands Maritime Museum) re-opened its doors to the public in October 2011. e museum houses one of the world's biggest collections of nautical art and artefacts, including globes, paintings, ship models, and more. e museum is a true Amsterdam landmark. It stands in one of the city’s biggest 17th century buildings, a storehouse for the Dutch war fleet dating from 1656. e collection is the backbone of fascinating exhibitions about the Netherlands and the country's elemental connection with the sea. Visitors can experience the sea stories of yesterday and today. e museum also offers special exhibits for parents and children.
Rembrandt's own 17th century house where he lived between 1639 and 1658 has been restored to reflect his life and times. Visitors to the Rembrandt House are invited to find out what Rembrandt's life was like and where he painted and etched his masterpieces. e Rembrandt House Museum welcomes visitors who would like to feel his presence in it's recently restored seventeenth-century rooms. e Museum owns an almost complete collection of Rembrandt's worldfamous etchings. A changing selection is on permanent display in the museum. ere are also regular special exhibitions devoted to Rembrandt and to past and present artists who have been inspired by Rembrandt.
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HERMITAGE AMSTERDAM
nEMO
STEDELIjk MuSEuM
Amstel 51. Tel.: 020-5308755 www.hermitage.nl
Oosterdok 2. Tel.: 020-5313233 www.e-nemo.nl
Paulus Potterstraat 13 Tel.: 020-5732911 www.stedelijk.nl
In the early 1990s Professor Mikhail Piotrovsky, director of the State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg was considering the possibility of having satellites of the museum in the West and he choose as Amsterdam as the destination. Housed in a beautiful building on Herengracht, e Hermitage Amsterdam Museum organises exhibitions on one selected theme, giving usually two showings each year. All the exhibited art objects are transported from the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg. After the exhibitions, all art objects have to travel back to Russia. e current exhibition on display is ‘Peter the Great’, and all the reviews suggest it is a must-see exhibition.
Science center NEMO is the biggest science centre in e Netherlands. Here you can discover the wonderful world of science and technology in a playful and entertaining way. e Amsterdam-based NEMO covers a wide range of scientific and technological subjects and is hugely enjoyable for both adults and kids. After a visit, you will return home with a feeling of satisfaction and you will most likely hold an even greater fascination for science and technology. Nemo achieves this by creating interactive exhibitions which fire the imagination, by developing educational products, projects and games, and by making programmes such as lectures, demo's, workshops and science theatre.
After a few years of housing temporary exhibitions at various different locations, the new Stedelijk Museum at Paulus Potterstraat opened its doors to the public on Sunday 23 September 2012. e museum’s permanent collection is on display in the beautifully restored historical building, with fixed spots for highlights like the paintings by Malevich, e Beanery by Edward Kienholz and works by Willem de Kooning and Andy Warhol. Half of the ground floor is reserved for the best pieces from the design collection, to demonstrate the Stedelijk’s importance in the design realm. e new addition by Benthem Crouwel Architekten offers plenty of space for exhibitions.
jEWISH HISTORICAL MuSEuM
pRESS MuSEuM AMSTERDAM
DIAMOnD MuSEuM
Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1 Tel.: 020-5310310 www.jhmomc.org
Zeeburgerkade 10. Tel.: 020-6928810 www.persmuseum.nl
Paulus Potterstraat 8 Tel.: 020-3055300 www.diamantmuseumamsterdam.nl
e Joods Historisch Museum (Jewish Historical Museum), part of the Jewish Cultural Quarter, is a museum in Amsterdam dedicated to Jewish history, culture and religion, in the Netherlands and worldwide. A seven-year renovation of the museum was completed in 2007. e museum was recognized in 1989 when it received the Council of Europe Museum Prize, awarded for a combination of the presentation of the collection and the outward appearance of the buildings. It has permanent exhibitions as well as regularly changing temporary exhibitions, all of which are educational and entertaining.
A small museum specialized in the history of the newspaper and magazine publishing in the Netherlands. e Press Museum’s permanent exhibit under the title “Roll the presses” shows the history of the press in the Netherlands. Press photographs as well as publicity materials, publicity posters, models of old printing presses, first photo cameras and a preWorld War II editor’s desk help to recreate the atmosphere of how newspapers and other forms of media were created in the past. A big part of the museum features temporary exhibitions about the different aspects of the Dutch publishing – for example about the press in the former Dutch colony of Suriname.
e Diamond Museum Amsterdam takes you on a journey that began three billion years ago, 200 kilometres under the surface of the earth, and which ends in the ring on your finger or in the pendant around your neck. Along the way you will penetrate as far as the carbon atom, meet the specialists who transform a rough stone into a sparkling jewel, be surrounded by many famous glittering diamonds and see the smallest brilliant diamond in the world. You can learn about Amsterdam’s diamonds history, distinguish between a real and an imitation diamond for yourself an finally, enter the largest diamond in which stars from around the world encircle you.
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mUseUm CLASSIFIEDS
DE nIEuWE kERk
THE OLD CHuRCH ‘OuDE kERk’
ALLARD pIERSOn MuSEuM
Dam Square. Tel.: 020-6386909 www.nieuwekerk.nl
Oudekerksplein 23. Tel.: 020-6258284 www.oudekerk.nl
Oude Turfmarkt 127. Tel.: 020-5252556 www.allardpiersonmuseum.nl
De Nieuwe Kerk (e New Church) is a late Gothic building where art exhibitions and organ concerts are held. It can be found on the corner of Dam Square, beside the famous Royal Palace. It is also the place where Dutch monarchs are officially inaugurated. In 1980, Queen Beatrix was officially inaugurated in De Nieuwe Kerk. On 2 February 2002 the wedding between the Prince of Orange and Princess Máxima took place and last April, the new King was crowned there. e much talked-about exhibitions attract thousands of visitors every year. In fact, the church is one of the most attended exhibition locations in the Netherlands. e large-scale exhibitions feature treasures from other countries, cultures and religions and are fascinating.
As the name would suggest, this is Amsterdam’s oldest church and is now a centre of cultural activity in the heart of the old town centre. e beautiful light through the high windows, the medieval church furnishings, gravestones (such as Rembrandt’s first wife - Saskia van Uylenburgh) and the magnificent painted wooden vaults, create a unique atmosphere and reveal the buildings' unique history. e Old Church has been built in different phases and ages and has a total area of 4000 square meters. ere are two organs: a transept organ (1658) and the well-known Vater-Müller organ (1724/1738). Nowadays both are used for concerts. e Church is also open to visitors and well worth a look.
Allard Pierson Museum is the archaeological museum of the University of Amsterdam. e ancient civilisations of ancient Egypt, the Near East, the Greek World, Etruria and the Roman Empire are revived in this museum. Art-objects and utensils, dating from 4000 B.C. till 500 A.D. give a good impression of everyday-life, mythology and religion in Antiquity. e Museum shows the significance of ancient civilizations to contemporary European culture in a topical and challenging way. ey do this on the basis of an archaeological and top collection in collaboration with talented students and outstanding researchers. An absolute must-go place for those with an interest in earlier life.
FOAM FOTOGRAFIEMuSEuM
MuSEuM OF bAGS & puRSES
DuTCH RESISTAnCE MuSEuM
Keizersgracht 609. Tel.: 020-5516500 www.foam.org
Herengracht 573 Tel.: 020-5246452 www.tassenmuseum.nl
Plantage Kerklaan 61. Tel.: 020-6202535 www.verzetsmuseum.org
Foam Photography Museum is a museum with an international allure and is the place for photography in all forms such as independent, documentary, applied, historical and contemporary. Along with the large exhibitions of renowned world famous photographers, Foam also exhibits emerging young talent in smaller short term shows. Foam also holds lively discussions about photography, while providing an opportunity for concentration and study. e museum rotates its shows on a regular basis (every 2-4 months). In this uppermost gallery visitors will find a small library filled with books on photography and related subjects. An absolute must for anybody with even a slight interest in photography.
Enjoy 500 years of history of the Western ladies bag in a beautiful, historic canal house located in the centre of Amsterdam. e museum began as the private collection of Hendrikje Ivo, who collected bags for 35 years. She opened the doors of her home in Amstelveen in 1996 to allow the public to admire her spectacular collection of bags. After 10 years, the location became too small, so with the help of an anonymous donor the move was made possible in 2007 to the Herengracht. Today, her daughter Sigrid Ivo is curator and director of the Museum which has grown into the largest bag museum in the world.
e Plancius Building, in which the museum is located, was built in 1876 as the social club for a Jewish choir. Since 1999 it houses the Dutch Resistance Museum. Its permanent exposition shows Holland as it was shortly before, during and after the Second World War. From 10 May 1940 to 5 May 1945, the Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany. e exhibition at the Dutch Resistance Museum covers all forms of resistance including strikes, forging of documents, helping people to go into hiding, underground newspapers, escape routes, armed resistance and espionage. e model streets and walls full of photos that make up the décor help evoke the climate of the war years.
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bIbLICAL MuSEuM
AMSTELkRInG MuSEuM
TROpEnMuSEuM
Herengracht 366-368. Tel.: 020-6242436 www.bijbelsmuseum.nl
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40. Tel.: 020-6246604 www.opsolder.nl
Linnaeusstraat 2. Tel.: 020-5688200 www.tropenmuseum.nl
Amsterdam’s Museum about the bible can be found in the heart of the old city centre along the Hernegracht Canal. e museum shows life in Egypt and Palestine at the time of Bible creation through a collection of artifacts and archaeological objects as well as the especially built models of temples. e collection of old bibles on display also includes the oldest bible in the Netherlands which was printed in 1477, as well as a first Dutch authorised translation of the Bible (1637). e struggle to publish the Bible in Dutch is intertwined with the history of Dutch independence as well as the history of the usage of Dutch as the language of religion..
Our Lord in the Attic is one of the oldest and most remarkable museums in Amsterdam. Behind the characteristic facade of the house by the canal lies a largely original 17thcentury home and a complete hidden church. is hidden church 'in the attic' was built during the Reformation, when Catholics were forbidden to hold public services. Today, the church and the house form the backdrop to a succession of striking exhibitions highlighting religion and contemporary art. Museum Our Lord is one of the most cherished museums in Amsterdam with a special atmosphere that surprises every visitor. e museum is open daily, except on Sundays.
In the Tropenmuseum you can take a trip through the world and through time. ousands of stories, splendid works of art and amazing objects bring a wide variety of cultures to life. e Tropenmuseum is one of Europe’s leading ethnographic museums, renowned for its collection. e permanent and temporary exhibitions display art objects, photographs and music and film from nonwestern cultures. e beautiful and historic building provides space for eight permanent exhibitions and an ongoing series of temporary exhibitions, including both modern and traditional visual arts and photographic work. e permanent exhibitions are Southeast Asia, Oceania, Western Asia and North Africa, Africa, Latin America, Man and Environment and Music, Dance and eatre.
TuLIp MuSEuM
vAn LOOn MuSEuM
MuLTATuLI MuSEuM’
Prinsengracht 112. Tel.: 020-4210095 www.amsterdamtulipmuseum.com
Keizersgracht 672. Tel.: 020-6245255 www.museumvanloon.nl
Korsjespoortsteeg 20. Tel.: 020-6381938 www.multatuli-museum.nl
Visitors are invited to learn the story of the world’s most dangerous flower at the Amsterdam Tulip Museum on Prinsengracht. In days gone by, the tulip drove the rich and the poor to ecstasy and bankruptcy. Founded in 2004, the museum seeks to fill a void in the history of the tulip. e exhibits include several interactive video displays that trace tulip bulbs from their ancient origins to modern 21st century cultivation. is is a friendly, small museum and is a must for people interested in gardening, flowers and of course history of the tulip mania in the Netherlands. e museum also features a special gift shop.
Museum Van Loon is situated at Keizersgracht 672 and the double-sized canal house dates from 1672. e first resident was the painter Ferdinand Bol, one of Rembrandt's most famous pupils. In the nineteenth century, the Van Loon family came to live in the house and in the years the followed several of them held high positions in Amsterdam. roughout time, the interior and exterior have remained practically intact. Today they form a fascinating historical monument which is definitely worth seeing. Particular attention to be paid to the magnificent garden which is exceptionally maintained and has to be one of the most photographed sites in the city.
e birthplace of world-famous writer, Eduard Douwes-Dekker (1829-1887), better known as Multatuli serves as the Multatuli museum in Amsterdam. Multatuli was a man of humble origins, who had a career as a civil servant in the Dutch East Indies.. e museum also houses a study centre and an exhibition on the life and work of this talented writer. e Multatuli museum's mission is to organise exhibitions that throw more light on the life of the author and on aspects of his work. On display are Multatuli's writing desk, his library, the chaise longue in which he died, and books and pictures from the rich museum collection. Definbitely one of the city’s hidden gems.
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mUseUm CLASSIFIEDS
COFFEE & TEA MuSEuM
SEx MuSEuM
MuSEuM THEO THIjSSEn
Warmoesstraat 67. Tel.: 020-6240683
Damrak 18. Tel.: 020-6228376 www.sexmuseumamsterdam.nl
Eerste Leliedwarsstraat 16. Tel.: 020-2907119 www.theothijssenmuseum.nl
Situated on the famous Warmoesstraat Street, close to the Red Light District, e Coffee & Tea Museum showcases coffee trade machinery, roasters, mills, grinders, pots, packaging, old tins, cups and various other objects. For five generations the Geels family have traded in coffee and tea. e museum is housed in the vast attic overlooking their shop on Warmoesstraat which has been previously used for an owner’s office. Upon entering, you will be taken aback by the rich coffee aroma and when you have visited taking in the intrigue of the museum, we recommend that you also venture into the shop and try some of the Geel’s concoctions.
e world's first and oldest sex museum, the "Venustempel" (Temple Of Venus) in Amsterdam. A leading museum on the theme of sensual love with an extensive collection of erotic pictures, paintings, objects, recordings, photographs and even attractions. All of the exhibits have been gathered together personally by the owners and can be viewed in their 17th century property on the Damrak. Once you get inside, you realise that the Sex Museum tries to combine their rich collection of artifacts with the elements of an attraction park. ere are several humorous displays, but also some highly educational displays which are both interesting and intriguing. Bring your camera!
A small, but well organised and informative museum about the popular Dutch writer and educator eo ijssen, who lived from18791943. e museum offers a look at some of his famous works and also transmits an atmosphere of how Amsterdam was a century ago. e exhibits can be found in two rooms of the house, which is a modern reconstruction of the one, in which eo ijssen was born. A museum with a real local flavour and it’s a must for those who want to witness how Amsterdam was in years gone by. e exhibit is written in Dutch language, but English speaking staff will provide you with all the necessary explanations.
MuSEuM OF SpECTACLES
HOuSEbOAT MuSEuM AMSTERDAM
pIAnOLA MuSEuM ’
Gastuismolensteeg 7. Tel.: 020-4212414
Prinsengracht opposite no. 296 Tel.: 020-4270750 www.houseboatmuseum.nl
e National Museum of Spectacles (Het Nationaal Brilmuseum) is located above an old fashioned optician’s shop, which feels itself like a museum. Two floors are full of interesting objects which exhibit 700 hundred years of the history of spectacles. ere are also examples of more recently designed spectacles which came to prominence after been worn by renowned stars from music and film. is small museum is a consequence of passion of members of one family, which passed on their collection through four generations. As well as items from the far past, the museum also features exhibits from the recent past and particularly, the glasses of people like Buddy Holly, John Lennon, Elton John and Elvis Costell
e Houseboat Museum gives you the unique chance to experience the life on board a real houseboat and it is in fact the only museum of its kind in the world. Visitors can see how the authentic barge was converted to a comfortable houseboat, which includes a captain’s quarters, a sleeping bunk, a sizable living-room, kitchen and bathroom. e original vessel was engaged in transporting sand, gravel and coal until the 1960s. e vessel has actually been lived in for about twenty years. Even though it is now no longer lived in, it seems though as if the residents just popped out to do the shopping. A descriptive booklet (printed in 13 languages) will help you find your way around the boat.
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Westerstraat 106. Tel.: 020-6279624 www.pianola.nl
e Pianola Museum can be found in the Jordaan district and is a small museum of pianolas - automatic pianos which were invented in the USA in 1894. e Museum has several original instruments, among them a Steinway grand piano, adapted to be a mechanical instrument. ere are also thousands of pianola paper music rolls and several other interesting memorabilia. e intrigue of a visit to this special museum is increased thanks to the old furniture and dimmed light. An absolute must for those who are interested in music and its history. e museum is open from 2pm to 5pm on Sundays. Appointments must be made for other days. A unique, beginning of the 20th century atmosphere.
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FEATURE BuSineSS
A
msterdam’s historical charm is just one face of this dynamic modern city. Because amidst the splendour of the canals and picturesque buildings breathes a sophisticated business environment. These are troubled times for the business sector with the current global economic problems digging holes into economies all over the world, but as of yet, the virus has not spread so dramatically into the Netherlands as it has to other countries. In the following pages we take a brief look at doing business in Amsterdam.
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Summer 2014
FEATURE BuSin eSS
Business in Amsterdam
A
msterdam remains almost as as bustling and economically productive as it was during its golden age when its ships sailed to all corners of the Dutch Empire. e Dutch capital lies at the heart of Europe, as its location gives easy access to a number of major European markets. Indeed, the Dutch capital has been recognized by many as one of the top five business locations in Europe. e Dutch economy is noted for stable industrial relations, moderate unemployment and inflation, a sizable current account surplus, and an important role as a European transportation hub. Perhaps it’s Holland’s self sustainability which protects it from the current crisis. Germany is the Netherlands' biggest trading partner, with 25% of import and export trade, while other major players include Belgium, Luxembourg, France and the UK. On average, approximately 70-100 foreign companies set up in the Netherlands every year. ey are attracted by Amsterdam's prime position within Europe, with excellent international connections from the ever-expanding Schiphol airport and Amsterdam port, a strong infrastructure, a multilingual workforce, a stable political and economic climate and business-friendly policies. Major companies in Amsterdam include ABN Amro Bank, Philips and Shell, while IBM, Sony and Canon all having their European headquarters in the city. It is fitting in a city that was home to the world's first ever public stock exchange that finance is a major part of the business world, with the financial sector employing approximately 8% of Amsterdam's workforce and some 70 banks having a presence in the city. After finance, fashion and flowers are key sectors. Of all Amsterdam's exports, tulips are probably the most famous. In terms of exports, fresh flowers are a large market and Heineken is the largest export brewery in the world, with sales to 150
countries. Over the last 20 years, Amsterdam has also emerged as a strong base in advanced technological industries, computing, telecommunications and biotechnology. e facilities provided for businesses in Amsterdam are extensive. e Amsterdam RAI International Exhibition Center is one of the country's largest and one of the world's leading convention centres. As with all major cities, Amsterdam's business hours vary from one industry and sector to another but in general, most office environments operate between 09:00 and 17:30, Monday to Friday. e majority of banks are open between 09:00 and 16:00, Monday to Friday. Some of the larger banks will probably also be open on Saturday mornings. e Amsterdam Stock Exchange e Amsterdam Stock Exchange is considered the oldest in the world. It was established in 1602 by the Dutch East India Company (Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie, or "VOC") for dealings in its printed stocks and bonds. It was subsequently renamed the Amsterdam Bourse and was the first to formally begin trading in securities. e European Option Exchange (EOE) was founded in 1978 in Amsterdam as a futures and options exchange. In 1983 it started a stock market index, called the EOE index,
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consisting of the 25 largest companies that trade on the stock exchange. It merged on September 22, 2000 with the Brussels Stock Exchange and the Paris Stock Exchange to form Euronext, and is now known as Euronext Amsterdam. e former Stock Exchange building was the Beurs van Berlage. e Amsterdam Stock Exchange e Amsterdam Stock Exchange is considered the oldest in the world. It was established in 1602 by the Dutch East India Company (Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie, or "VOC") for dealings in its printed stocks and bonds. It was subsequently renamed the Amsterdam Bourse and was the first to formally begin trading in securities. e European Option Exchange (EOE) was founded in 1978 in Amsterdam as a futures and options exchange. In 1983 it started a stock market index, called the EOE index, consisting of the 25 largest companies that trade on the stock exchange. It merged on September 22, 2000 with the Brussels Stock Exchange and the Paris Stock Exchange to form Euronext, and is now known as Euronext Amsterdam. e former Stock Exchange building was the Beurs van Berlage.
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FEATURE BuSineSS
Business info
uSeFuL C O n TAC TS & nuMBeRS AC C O u n TinG AnD TA X S e R ViCeS
AdAms mANAgEmENT sERvIcE Kabelweg 42a. Tel.: 020-6262535 O R A N g E TA x s E R v I c E Keizersgracht 62-64. Tel.: 020-5539665
BAnKS
ABN AmRO In the Netherlands, call 0900 00 24 for more information. Choose option ‘4’ for an English-language menu. From outside the Netherlands, call 0031-10-2411720 INg BANk Tel.: 0800-7011, from 7.30 to 21.00 on weekdays and from 9am until 5 pm on Saturday. FORTIs Tel.: 0900-8172 RABOBANk Tel.: 020-7778899
B u S i n e S S MeeTinGS & C O n G R e SSeS
A m s T E R dA m R A I Europaplein 2-22. Tel.: 020-5491212 Further details about Amsterdam RAI can be found in a separate story in our business section. Website: www.rai.nl.
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BuSineSS SeRViCeS
E U RO BUsINEss cENTER Keizersgracht 62-64. Tel.: 020-5207500 Taking care of your business and your office, they offer full service office rental with all facilities, secretarial services, meetings facilities, translations and much more. Website: www.eurobc.nl.
BuSineS DeVeLOPMenT H E AdsTART Bv Droogbak 6a. Tel.: 020-6383734 For European business support. Website: www.euroheadstart.com
sITEs FOR dUTcH NEws IN ENglIsH
http://www.nisnews.nl. & www.bignewsnetwork.com c H AmBER OF cOmmERcE Known in Dutch as the Kamer Van Koophandel. De Ruyterkade 5. Tel.: 020-5314000 c U s TOms INFO Tel.: 0900-0143 d U TcH NEws sITEs www.nisnews.nl www.bignewsnetwork.nl
eMPLOYMenT AGenCieS U N dUTcHABlEs Singel 80. Tel.: 020-6231300
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eSTATe AGenTS
PERFEcT HOUsINg Bv Prins Hendrikade 139. Tel.: 020-5251100
LAnGuAGe SCHOO L S ElycIO Entrada 151. Tel.: 020-4160788
lANgUAgE sOlUTION Vinkenstraat 79. Tel.: 020-4223122
LAWYeRS
vAN APP IA & vAN dER lEE Overtoom 323. Tel.:020-5312999. www.vanappiavanderlee.nl
ReMOVALS ATlAs INTERNATIONAl mOvERs B.v
Bennebroekerweg 281 Rijsenhout, Amsterdam-Airport. Tel.: 020-6530202
TRAVeL AGenTS
AcO TRAvEl Bv Rynstraat 186. Tel.: 020-6612557
FACTS & FiGuReS Telephones: Main lines in use: approx 7.7 million Mobile/cellular: approx 16,000 Television broadcast stations: 21 Internet country code: .nl Internet hosts: Approx 7 million. Internet users: Aprox 11 million.
FEATURE BuSin eSS
Travel in Style With Wheels unlimited
T
ime and creativity are two essential skills for those who operate efficiently in the business market, but too often, these skills are wasted due to the loss of valuable time worrying about transportation. ankfully, visitors to Amsterdam or any other part of Holland have a ready-made-solution thanks to the service offered by the Wheels Unlimited Company. Wheels Unlimited provide impeccable services for companies and their clients, courtesy of their high standards of professionalism and their knowledge in their chosen field.
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Included among their services are airport transfers, road shows, private guided tours, business tours/transfers and chauffeur driven services. Anyone who wishes for another form of private and classy transportation should contact them, as they are always willing to meet customers’ demands. Comfort is also an essential ingredient of their service and clients will be more than content with their fleet of Mercedes SClass and V-Class vehicles. Wheels Unlimited distinguish themselves by offering customized and flawless services at affordable rates and their highly experienced drivers will go out of their way to make sure your day is a successful one. For more information, you can contact them at: +31(0)297-36-35-69 or +31(0)654-76-24-16 and for more information you can check out their website at www.wheels-unlimited.com.
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HEALTH WELLNESS
Health & Wellness
concierge or receptionist for more details if you need to lose your aches and pains.
Amsterdam’s Shopping Scene
e city also offers various health spas where can guests can comfort themselves with jacuzzi-whirlpools, steam rooms, saunas and various other devices.
W
It’s also a city which is big on fitness. Dozens of gyms opened since the turn of the Millennium. However, many cater for only long term members and it can be difficult to get access if you are here for a short-term stay. If your hotel does not have fitness facilities, then ask at reception for gyms which are tourist-friendly.
ith so much to see and do, and so many routes to walk, Amsterdam is a city that can be draining both physically and mentally, so its fitting that the Dutch capital has an excellent health and wellness scene. e health and wellness industry has boomed during the past decade, as more and more people place added importance on the way they look and feel, and it’s no different in Amsterdam, where you can expect to see all the latest equipment and mod-cons. You will no doubt notice the huge number of Massage parlours in the city centre. Most of them are operated by professionals and everything from a head or foot massage to a complete ai Massage can be found. Most of the bigger hotels also offer excellent massage swervices, so ask your
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e ladies may also be interested in manicures and pedicures. Unfortunately, with this branch of health and wellness, quantity does not always equaly quality. However, one of the best you will find in this city or any other city is the Senses Studio which can be found on Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal (See the next page). For those eager to top up their tan, Amsterdam has no shortage of solariums. ere is a large number of Sundays outlets scattered throughout the city. Check their website for addresses and contact details. Summer 2014
FeATure KIDS
Amsterdam For Kids
Many people don’t realise it, but Amsterdam can also be a fun and entertaining city for children. There are so many attractions to keep the kids amused, but more importantly, many of these attractions will stimulate their minds as well as their bodies. Having fun while gaining education at the same time – what could be better for the children? Many of the attractions which are suitable for the children have been mentioned in the previous pages of our attractions section. Here are some more.
TunFun plAygrounD
D o l p H i nA riuM
Strandboulevard Oost 1, Harderwijk. Tel.: 0341-467467 Experience the Dolfinarium during the winter! From 21 December to 5 January, the park is warmly dressed in winter atmosphere. Enjoy crackling fire pits, music and extra activities for the kids. But don’t forget the dolphins, walruses, seals and sea lions! Come and see Europe's largest dolphin show Aqua Bella. e dolphins take you on a world tour. In a story about the world, their world. Also go on a journey into the Roggenrif, where you can taste and smell the sea.
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Mr. Visserplein 7. Tel.: 020-6894300 TunFun is an indoor playground for children from 1-12 years old. Children have fun in a sportive, active and creative way in a former traffic underpass in the centre of Amsterdam. TunFun offers plenty of opportunities to climb, creep and crawl and the venue also boasts a children’s disco, slides, ball pools, an inflatable bouncy castle, trampolines, an indoor soccer ground and much more. While the children play, adults can sit and relax in the TunFun Café where all kinds of snacks and drinks are provided. TunFun is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
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neMo Science & TecHnology MuSeu M Oosterdok 2. Tel.: 020-5313233 You can't miss the distinctive building on the Amsterdam waterfront, and once inside, prepare for your kids to charge right in. e exhibits are multilingual and some are topical to the Netherlands, technology with a cultural slant. ere are things to do for toddlers (bubble fun, magnetic games, large piece dominos) as well as a full-fledged chemistry lab for older kids.
FeATure KIDS ArTiS AMSTerDAM Zoo
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40. Tel.: 020-5233400 When you look at how space is such a premium in Amsterdam, its hard to believe that there is enough room for a top zoo, but there is and its provided by Artis Zoo at Plantage Kerklaan. e complex includes an excellent kid's playground area with a sandbox, climbing structures and various other playground equipment. cineMA
See Ronaldo at Madame Tussauds. M A DA M e T u S S Au D ' S
Dam Square 20 Tel.: 020-5221010 No doubt the children will love getting up close and personal with some of the pop stars and movie stars at Madame Tussauds. ey will also enjoy the various new promotions such as Pirates Of e Caribbean. M i D g e T g o l F A M S T e l pA r k
Amstelpark 2-b. Tel.: 020-4044209 A wonderful mini gold course which can be found in the Amstel Park. e kids can spend hours plotting their way around the attractive and fun-filled course. Please call beforehand to make sure the course is open as they have limited opening hours during winter. cA nA l c r u i S e S
Stadhouderskade opposite Hard Rock Café. Tel.: 020-6760551 For the kids, the excitement of the canal cruise is all about getting on the boat and seeing Holland from a unique angle.
As with most other movie productions, all animations and children’s movies can be enjoyed in English language. However, be careful when booking your tickets for the big animation movies as they are also available in Dutch language, so make sure you choose the right one. e best places to watch the movies are the Pathe Cinemas on Munt Square, Leidseplein and also the wonderful Tuschinski Cinemas close to Rembrandtplein. SeA liFe
Strandweg 13, Scheveningen Tel.: 0515-231341 A real Dutch treat for fish fans. Sea Life in the seaside resort of Scheveningen (close to the city of e Hague) has been attracting Amsterdam visitors for many years. You can start your visit by checking out the various different species of shark, conger eals, sea horses and crabs as well as a wonderful array of exotic tropical fish. Visitors can also explore the world of Amazonia where they can learn first hand about the Amazon and it’s surrounding rain forest.
Sea Life in Scheveningen is a treat for the kids.
Vo n D e l pA r k
Built in 1850, Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s most famous public park and offers the perfect opportunity to escape from the frantic activity of the city and is a delight for the kids on sunny days. e park comes to life during summer and hosts various concerts, shows and exhibitions all of which are extremely professional and can be a treat for the kids. e closest entrance to the city centre can be found close to Leidseplein and directly across from Holland Casino.
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FeATure reStAurAntS
Sum m e r D i n i n g I n Amsterdam THe FlAVourS oF SeASon
By The Food guru
Many would say that Amsterdam isn't the first name that springs to mind when you think about culinary excellence. However, the Dutch capital attracts crowds of food lovers with the unique quality of local cuisine and the fact that portions are larger and 50
cheaper than almost anywhere else in northern europe. regardless of whether you're on holiday or a business trip, many Amsterdam's restaurants are certain to tantalise your taste buds and invoke a genuine flavour of the city.
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ontemporary Dutch cuisine has been shaped by the Netherlands' cultural and agricultural history. Interestingly, it's based primarily on vegetables, with various types of meat serving only as an occasional addition. e Dutch cooking tradition might not be as diverse and sophisticated as other nations, but it's certainly healthy. e exclusive use of organic products and a wide range of
exotic spices makes the final result well worth trying.Dutch classics include hutspot, which is a vegetable and potato mash garnished with fried chops or sausage and served with gravy. Excellent Dutch cheese and fresh fish from the North Sea also make up the core of the country's cuisine. No doubt, you will notice the large number of herring kiosks which are scattered throughout the city and serving
raw herring with onion and pickle, either unaccompanied or as a sandwich. It’s an acquired taste, but should be tried while you are in Amsterdam.However, it is not just about “Going Dutch” in Amsterdam, because the vast number of cultures and nationalities of the city have ensured a wide range of international restaurants with quality eating establishments from all over the world. ere are countless eateries specialising in specific international cuisines and all clearly mark their presence on the culinary scene of the city, which boasts over 1,000 venues. As you’d expect from a city high in tourism, there are more bad restaurants than there are good ones, but the good ones tend to be very very good. SuMMer One of the biggest advantages of dining during the summer in Amsterdam is that you can avail of the numerous restaurants which offer outdoor seating and service. ere’s nothing quite like dining by the canals or at one of the city’s vibrant squares. In the pages that follow, we will take you on a journey through the restaurants and cuisines which we recommend you try during your stay.
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LA BocA Paleisstraat 15. Tel.: 020-4235200 ere are countless Argentinean steakhouses throughout the city, but unfortunately quantity does not equal quality and many fall short of what a steakhouse actually should be. One exception is Restaurant La Boca, which can be found close to the Royal Palace on Paleisstraat. La Boca offer their customers an excellent range of freshly grilled Argentinean meats from the charcoal grill. e spare ribs and the fillet steak have tickled our taste buds on many occasions and they will do so again in the near future, and the same can be said for the grilled chicken. As well as the wonderful meaty treats, La Boca also offers some excellent fish dishes and their tapas courses are also a delight. Add in an excellent dessert menu and a great wine list and you have all you could hope for from a traditional steakhouse. e service inside the restaurant is also top class as the friendly staff go out of their way to make sure your every need is catered for. e Latin music adds that South-American touch to the place and they have also been known to hold some Karaoke sessions when the eating is finished and the party is getting started. La Boca opens daily from midday to midnight and is a definite must for steak-lovers. Prices are also extremely competitive compared to many other places. Definitely worth trying for lunch or dinner.
De KAS Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3 Tel.: 020-4624562 www.restaurantdekas.nl At the start of the 21st century, top chef Gert Jan Hageman, who had earned a Michelin star in Dutch haute cuisine, found a new direction for his own career and a new purpose for the old greenhouse that belonged to Amsterdam's Municipal Nursery, which dated from 1926, and was due to be demolished. With a lot of luck and help from the municipality and his family and friends, Hageman succeeded in converting the unique 8-metre high glass building into a restaurant and nursery. Situated in Frankendael Park, between the Rembrandt Tower and the 19th century facades of Watergraafsmeer, De Kas is an oasis of calm for the fifty-thousand guests who dine there each year; either in the breathtaking dining room designed by Piet Boon, or - if weather permits - outside in the herb garden. A truly unique and memorable dining experience which is certain to have you coming back for more.
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L A VAc A orbeckeplein 11-13. Tel.: 020-6253999 One of the most recent additions to the Amsterdam restaurant scene, La Vaca has been gaining rave reviews from locals and tourists alike, and the management’s policy of never resting on their laurels, ensures it continues to go from strength to strength. Located on orbeckeplein, a small square which is adjoined to the famous Rembrandt Square, La Vaca is the only Argentinean restaurant in the area and meat-lovers won’t be disappointed by what’s on offer. ey use only the freshest ingredients and the finest meat to create a menu which is extremely varied and is certain to offer something to please your taste buds. e management also put a huge effort into the interior of the restaurant and their work has proven to be worthwhile, as the combination of brand new materials and a vibrant colour scheme ensure La Vaca is both stylish and comfortable and exudes the perfect atmosphere. e service is also professional and friendly, as the staff will go out of their way to make sure your experience is a pleasant one. Show the ad on the next page of the magazine and you can receive a 10% discount on your bill. No doubt La Vaca will be a popular place to dine during the summer season, as it boasts one of the city’s biggest and best outdoor terraces, ensuring great views onto orbeckeplein and the adjoining Rembrandtplein.
FeATure reStAurAntS
I S o L A B e L LA orbeckeplein 7. Tel.: 020-6269582 For many years, Isola Bella Italian Restaurant has been outing a smile on the faces of Amsterdam diners and nothing has changed, as it continues to serve up excellent Italian cuisine in the perfect setting. e restaurant can be found just off the famous Rembrandtplein on neighbouring orbeckeplein and offers all you would expect and more from an Italian eatery. e chefs use only the best and freshest ingredients to concoct a menu of Italian delights which is certain to agree with your palate. We have tried the penne arabiata and the carbonara on many occasions on the past and will do so again in the near future. eir pizzas are also among the best you will find in the city. e interior of the restaurant is also impressive, as the Latin style pillars and some stunning pictures almost make you feel like you are dining in ancient Rome. e service is also excellent, as the staff go out of their way to ensure that your visit is a memorable one. If you show the ad on the previous page of the magazine, you can receive a 10% discount on your bill. Isola Bella’s location near Rembrandtplein means that weather permitting, it is the perfect place to sit outside and enjoy your meal enjoy all the nearby activities on orbecke Square and Rembrandt Square.
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SuppercLuB
meAtBALLS
rAzmAtAz
Jonge Roelensteeg 21 Tel.: 020 344 6400 www.supperclub.com
Warmoesstraat 15. Tel.: 020-7371250. www.meatballs.nl
Hugo de Grootplein 7-11 Tel.:020-4868408. www.razmataz.nl
Supperclub is a creatively driven goliath that stimulates all senses, backed with 21 years of experience in food, drink, art, entertainment and above all pushing creative boundaries. From the club to the cocktail bar and from the restaurant to the gallery; supperclub is one of these unique places where experiments come to life. That’s why, for more than twenty years, supperclub has been the place to be for creative people. It is a true free state where all your senses are stimulated and in which you are encouraged to let go of your inhibitions and release your creativity.
The newly opened Restaurant Meatballs on Warmoesstraat offers guests a home cooked meal away from home. It’s a tribute to great chefs, good food and of course the meatball. Their vegetables are also delicious and you can combine them with or without one of the various choices of meatballs. Included in their selection of meatballs are: the New Yorl-Style Bacon & Cheddar Beef Ball, spicy pork, garlic chicken, tasty lamb and chili con carne….all of which are delicious. Summing up, it’s new, original and it looks certain to be a hit. Definitely worth visiting.
Classic French cuisine. Head chef Stéphane Bertet and his two sons Kailash and Kyle Bertet form the basis of this majestic kitchen team. Visitors are invited to taste old family recipes from Marseilles with influences from Italy. All their meat comes from the organic butcher, their fish is brought in fresh every day and everything on the menu is homemade. The restaurant also boasts a wonderful wine selection from France and Italy and they also like to surprise their guests with an unknown or forgotten aperitif. A special place for special people.
new KIng
reStAurAnt AS
VInKeLeS
Zeedijk 115-117. Tel.: 020-6252180, www.newking.nl.
Prinses Irenestraat 19 Tel.: 020-6440100
Keizersgracht 384 . Tel.: 020-5302010 www.vinkeles.com
There are several Chinese/Mandarin restaurants in the city, but this one is extra-special and believe us when we tell you that the queue often runs out the door of this Amsterdam institution. Portions are generous, and you're bound to order more than you can eat, so building up an appetite is advised. Service can be quite abrupt but that’s just the way it is, Among their specialties are roasted duck, dim sum and the aubergine stuffed with peppery minced pork. They also serve a number of excellent vegetarian dishes.
Located in an old church right near the business district Zuid-As. Upstairs is an exhibition space devoted to the revolutionary Platform 21, and downstairs you can enjoy delicious authentic dishes on long tables. This place has no fixed menu, but rather an ever-changing array of dishes prepared with fresh ingredients such as freerange meat, organic veggies, locally brewed beer and homemade bread. You can dine in the marvellous homey interior or outside on the patio surrounded by the garden.
Another Amsterdam restaurant named in honor of a Dutch painter, the Michelin-starred Vinkeles is located in ultra chic Dylan hotel in a building that was once a Catholic bakery. Indeed, the interior design still has touches of the restaurant’s former life, including the original ovens. Head Chef Dennis Kuipers has created a delightful menu of delicate French cuisine that flirts between classic and contemporary. Many of the city’s elite head to Vinkeles to enjoy the fabulous views over the Keizersgracht, while sampling the fine food on offer. Highly recommended.
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FeATure reStAurAntS
LIttLe BuDDhA
portugALIA
In De wAAg
Kleine Gartmanplantsoen 17. Tel.: 020-5307121. www.littlebuddhaamsterdam.com
Kerkstraat 35. Tel.: 020-6256490.
Nieuwmarkt 4. Tel.: 020-4227772. www.indewaag.nl
Little Buddha’s exclusive concept combines a theatrical bar with a sumptuous restaurant, serving a refreshed menu with winter innovations. Ascend the sweeping central staircase to enjoy a menu of Pacific Rim cuisine prepared to the highest standards. Some of Amsterdam’s finest cocktails are prepared by Little Buddha’s awardwinning team at the epic bar. Should you prefer to treat yourself to one of the Little Buddha ‘Experience’ cocktails, they will visit your table for an extraordinary flair display. The lounge also serves a selection of light pan-Asian culinary options.
Contrary to what many believe, the close proximity of Portugal and Spain geographically has absolutely no bearing on the cuisines of each country. If you fancy a taste of Portugal, we recommend you pay a visit to Portugalia Restaurant which presents an authentic menu, identical to what you would finds in Portugal itself. Like the vast majority of restaurants in Portugal, Restaurant Portugalia is a familyrun business which offers the finest and freshest food. Visitors can choose from a number of mouth-watering meat and fish dishes and the wine list is also excellent. Being a family-run business, the service is also top class.
Restaurant-café In De Waag is housed in a weigh house (Waag) which was built in 1488 and dominates the Nieuwmarkt Square. e characteristic monumental structure adds extra intrigue to this excellent eatery which is the perfect place for lunch, dinner or a meeting. e building, with its constrained yet informal interior design is lit by 300 candles – a combination that ensures a unique atmosphere. e restaurant opens every day at 10.0am for coffee and cakes, and lunch or snacks are available until 4pm and from 5pm, visitors can enjoy some wonderful dinner choices. One of the biggest perks of the restaurant is without doubt the stunning outdoor terrace which surrounds the building and offers the perfect view onto vibrant Nieuwmarkt Square.
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Bo cInq
DAm pLAzA
SeA pALAce
Prinsengracht 494. Tel.: 020-6220682
Damrak 98. Tel.: 020-6262200
Oosterdokskade 8. Tel.: 020-6264777
At the end of October 2009, Bo Cinq opened its doors in the heart of Amsterdam’s nightlife district. Bo Cinq keeps it’s best secrets for friends and explorers. Here. You will find a refined eatery and two spacious lounges one of which is dedicated to the oldfashioned joy of smoking a cigarette. The essence of Bo Cinq’s philosophy lies in the fusion between French and Arabic cuisine, which come together in an adventurous and elegant menu.
Situated on the big Damrak Street beside the famous Swishotel, Dam Plaza is a modern styled restaurant which rarely disappoints. Dam Plaza is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late supper, and no matter what time of the day you visit, they are certain to have something on offer which will tickle your fancy. ey specialize in international cuisine and some of the steaks, pastas and fish dishes are an absolute treat. e interior of the restaurant is modern and refreshing and one other advantage is that they stay open until midnight. A special word also has to be said about the service which is extremely friendly, as the staff go out of their way to ensure your every need is catered for.
Europe’s first floating restaurant is also one of the most visually stunning buildings that you will find anywhere in the world as it looks like a huge Oriental Temple which has been placed on the Amstel River and is a sight to behold at night-time. Founded in 1984, the restaurant is also one of the biggest in the city as it caters for up to 700 people and is divided over three floors. It’s not just the building that is impressive, because the food is also top class as visitors can choose from a varying Chinese menu which offers Cantonese, Peking, Sichuan and North China specialties. The restaurant opens daily from midday. Situated close to Central Station, it is unmissable and very much recommended. Reservations may be necessary.
rIStorAnte Sogno
reStAurAnt Vermeer
Stadhouderskade 7. 1054 ES Amsterdam Tel. +31 (0)20 589 88 70. www.ristorante-sogno.nl
Prins Hendrikkade 59. Tel.: 020 556 4885
huDSon'S terrAce & reStAurAnt
If classy Italian cuisine with some extra added perks sounds attractive, then make your way to Restaurant Sogno which is housed inside the NH Amsterdam Center hotel close to Leidseplein at Stadhouderskade 7. The Italian waiters will pamper you with flourishing gestures at tables which are laid in classical style. The menu will mesmerise you, as will the wine list and the ambience. If you are lucky enough, you may find a window table which offers wonderful views onto one of the busiest parts of the city. Highly recommended.
Housed inside the famous NH Barbizon Palace Hotel, a dish from the kitchen of Chef de Cuisine Chris Naylor reflects a particular moment with a mosaic of pure colours, aromas and tastes which unexpectedly merge into a rich, culinary sensation. Their experienced sommelier can recommend a wine from the remarkable wine menu with a selection from around the world. Haute cuisine combined with superlative service creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Highly recommended.
Prins Hendrikkade 59. Tel.: 020 5564975
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Hudson's Terrace & Restaurant is located in the bright and airy lobby on the ground floor of the famous NH Barbizon Palace Hotel. The modern restaurant offers a fresh day´s start with an extensive breakfast buffet. In the afternoon and evening the restaurant becomes the perfect setting to enjoy lunch or dinner à la carte, light snacks or Spanish tapas. The cuisine offers a savoury selection of typical regional specialties as well as international cuisine. Hudson´s Terrace & Restaurant also serves as the meeting point, as its open all day.
FeATure reStAurAntS
SAhID JAyA
reStAurAnt Stout
De BoLhoeD
Reguliersdwarsstraat 26. Tel.: 020-6263727
Haarlemmerstraat 73. Tel.: 020-6163664
Prinsengracht 60-62. Tel.: 020-6261803.nl
Quite simply one of the finest Indonesian restaurants you will find anywhere, everything about Sahid Jaya oozes class. Enjoying the Indonesian “Rijsttafel” is a special experience which cannot be missed. The ambience, the décor and the food combined with a wonderful atmosphere make Sahid Jaya a must and as you would expect from a restaurant with such a good reputation, the staff are courteous and extremely helpful. If spicy is not your thing, don’t worry, because the chefs at Sahid Jaya concoct a number of nonspicy dishes and they can also prepare dishes to your personal taste.
This funky and modern restaurant creates wonderful fusion from French, Spanish and Japanese ingredients, many of which have a magical effect on the taste buds. The menu changes with the seasons and the interior is modern and eye catching. The paintings and photography also reflect Stout’s funky theme. They also offer a lunch menu comprising of diverse sandwiches as well as breakfast options. The wine list is also impressive and they won the 2004 House Wine of the year for Holland.
Translated into English, the name means Bowler Hat and vegetarians and vegans will revel in this restaurant's creative food, and novices to meatless dining will be surprised at the range and quality of the various dishes. Located in a picturesque part of Amsterdam's Jordaan district. Visitors can choose from an extensive a la carte menu or choose one of the fixed three-course menus. Normally very busy, so recommendations are advised. Everything the chefs create is special and the service is also very good. However, one word of warning: is place is normally very busy and seats can be hard to come by, so reservations are recommended.
cheF'S tABLe
cAFe AmerIcAIn
BorD'eAu
Asterweg 14, Amsterdam-Noord. Tel.: 020-3340672 www.chefs-table.nl
Leidsekade 97. Tel.: 020-5563000. www.cafeamericain.nl
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2 – 14. Tel.: 020-5311705 www.bordeau.nl
Since 2008 Amsterdam-Noord has hosted this culinary meeting point which is divine and different. Located in the business area of Asterweg, guests will immediately experience the friendly and welcoming atmosphere and their eyes will feast upon the amazing open kitchen. Unlike many restaurant with an open kitchen ', where you can peek through a hatch at Chef 's Table, at this place you walk literally and figuratively through the beautiful kitchen. It’s up to you whether you choose two, three or perhaps all seven courses. Guests are welcome at the restaurant from Monday through Saterday from 17:30 a.m. The kitchen closes at 21:30 p.m.
Situated in the heart of the centre, overlooking Leidseplein, the famous Art Deco Café Americain is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, high tea, Sunday Jazz brunch or just for coffee and cake at the reading table. The Café walls feature original Art Deco paintings from Shakespeares Mid Summer Nights Dream. The fivemetre windows are decorated with stained glass windows, whose arches are the continued theme of the high ceiling decorated with Tiffany lamps. For 100 years the Café Americain has enjoyed a reputation as being the meeting place for writers, musicians, actors and other artists of the national and international art world.
Bord'Eau restaurant can be found in Hotel de L'Europe, in the heart of the city centre, where guests are invited to share the passion of Executive Chef Richard Oostenbrugge and Maitre Richard Eerhardt. e venue offers fine food and wine in a modern elegant surrounding. e cuisine of restaurant Bord'Eau offers daring and natural flavors, with French design, modern presentation, accompanied by personal service. A central theme of Bord'Eau restaurant is wine and the wine-inspired interior. e restaurant has a private dining room, where you are surrounded by "walls of wine". Also, the legendary Freddy's Bar located next to the restaurant is perfect for an aperitif or digestif.
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FooD FeAture
holland & herring
A Famous combination
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FooD FeAture
H
erring from the North Sea fishery has played a huge role in Amsterdam for as long as the city has existed: Herring and beer traders were among the first to pass through the city’s network of dams and levees, and shortly after that, the Dutch invented herring curing, removing most of the guts postcatch so the fish lasts longer, and the herring trade exploded. ere is a local saying that Amsterdam was built on herring bones. In fact, some historians believe that the Netherlands gained its upper hand on the world seas in the 17th century because Dutch sailors were fed on herring, as it is an excellent source of protein and omega fatty acids. e Dutch are obsessed with the season’s first herring, called Hollandse Nieuwe , which starts appearing at the beginning of June. It may only be called Hollandse nieuwe if it was caught between May and July, contains at least 16% fat and is prepared according to the Dutch tradition. e fish are gutted on board the fishing boats, leaving the pancreas in place. e pancreatic enzymes do most of the conservation, so that the brine they are kept in needs much less salt. is could explain why Dutch herring is so much more flavorful than other salted or pickled herring varieties in the rest of Europe. However, since all herring is nowadays required to be frozen (to kill nematodes) following the catch, good fish is available year-round, as you’ll see in countless haringhuis (herring stands) and vishandels (fish shops) around town. e way the Dutch eat their herring is pretty unusual. ey serve it with chopped raw onions and sliced gherkins. e idea is that you grab the herring by its tail, dip it in the raw onions, throw your head back and down the hatch it goes. However, you don’t have to make like the pictures and cardboard cutouts on some stands and eat the fish in this way. It’s more common to eat herring with toothpicks—often topped with a Dutch flag—in bite-size pieces. e Dutch also like to eat their herrings on a sandwich, it's called a "Broodje Haring", meaning "Herring Sandwich". All these fine fish delicacies can be bought at an Dutch street-side herring fish stall. It’s typical Dutch food, so give it a try! Here are some of the places we recommend to get your herring: Vishandel Molenaar (Albert Cuypstraat 93); V.O.F. Vishandel Centrum (Haarlemmerdijk 4) and Stubbe’s Haring (Singel Haarlingersluis), e stands in the Noordemarkt and Albert Cuypmarkt are also good choices.
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FEATURE CafeS & BarS
C afes & Bars
There is no shortage of cafes & bars in Amsterdam. Irish Pubs, British Pubs, Australian Bars, American cafes, Grand Cafes, traditional Dutch bars – you name it and you can most likely find it in this city. Most can be found in the busy areas such as Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein and The Red Light District. 62
However, quantity does not always equal quality, as some go over the top in their bid to reach their desired theme, while others fall well short. Thankfully, there are those which are worth a visit. In the following pages, we present some venues which are definitely worth visiting.
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FEATURE CafeS & BarS
St. James G a t e I r i s h Pu b When walking the streets of Amsterdam, you could be forgiven for thinking you are actually pacing the roads and byways of Dublin or Galway, such is the number of Irish bars in the Dutch capital. However, quantity does not equal quality and many of these so- called 'Irish bars' go over the top in their bid to ensure an Irish theme while others fall well short. ankfully, there are those which are well worth a visit and one of the best Irish bars in this city or any other is St. James Gate in the heart of Rembrandtplein. Named after the famous brewery where Guinness is brewed, St. James's Gate is a spacious venue, which prides itself on quality beverages, good food, an excellent atmosphere and most importantly, friendly service. In the past couple of years, the venue has improved dramatically thanks to a new and refreshing management strategy and even the locals will admit that this place is in the Premier League of Amsterdam cafes and bars. Unlike many other Irish bars in the city, most of the staff actually hail from the Emerald Isle and those who don't, know more about Ireland and Irish culture than most 'paddys' themselves. Now that we think about it, it is unfair to describe the food as ‘good’, because it is much better than that, as the venue offers culinary delights which are as good as you will find in any restaurant and also very affordable. Choose from set dishes such as lamb curry, traditional fish & chips and sirloin steak and also keep an eye out for the numerous daily specials which are always excellent. As you would expect, they also offer a delicious Full Irish breakfast. Sky Sports television can be viewed via an excellent big
screen or the half dozen or so televisions and an excellent atmosphere is guaranteed during football matches. St. James Gate is always one of the best bars to visit in summer time, as they boast one of the city’s biggest and best outdoor terraces which offers the splendid view onto
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Rembrandtplein and the various forms of street entertainment. Other attractions include a separate smoking room and a full range of English newspapers. For further information, check their website at: www.stjamesgate.nl or you can e-mail them at:
info@st.jamesgate.nl. e bar opens daily from 9.0am to 1.0am (3.0am at weekends) GETTING THERE - Almost impossible to miss as it is situated in the heart of the famous Rembrandt Square. Rembrandtplein 8-10, Tel: 020-4226886.
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Hard roCk Café
mullIGan’S IrISH PuB
o’reIlly’S IrISH PuB
Max Euweplein 57-61. Tel.: 020 5237625 www.hardrock.com
Amstel 100 Tel.: 020-6221330 www.mulligans.nl
Paleisstraat 103-105 Tel.: 020-6249498 www.oreillys.com
In the centre of Amsterdam you'll find great American classic dining and a museum's worth of rock memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe. Located near Leidseplein on the Max Euweplein, the restaurant is split into three levels to offer you the best gaze upon our canals, offering a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals. At Hard Rock Amsterdam you can enjoy a signature Hard Rock cocktail on our canal-side terrace or tuck into one of our 10 oz. Legendary burgers. With our friendly service and rock 'n' roll atmosphere, Hard Rock Cafe will offer you such a great time, you'll be surprised it's legal.
Mulligan’s Irish Music Bar looks out on the river Amstel. Over the years it’s easy location, casual friendly atmosphere, and the blend of quirky characters who call it home, have somehow made Mulligan’s into a legendary meeting place for musicians, writers and thousands of curious visitors from abroad. Noteworthy modern songwriters and traditional players from Ireland make regular appearances. Every Sunday there is an open Irish session and on the second Monday of each month the Mc Sweeney Dancers hold a set dancing session Mulligan’s is also famed for its great Guinness and its sporting coverage.
Located behind the Royal Palace on Dam Square, O’Reilly’s has been in business for more than 12 years and their welcoming approach combined with a non-stop search for perfection has ensured their status among the elite of Amsterdam’s cafes and bars. e staff treat you as they would expect to be treated and few other venues display such hospitality. It is also a landmark pub to watch the best live sporting action. Its particularly popular during the football and rugby matches. O’Reilly’s also offer weekly theme nights (ask inside for details) and the bar also boasts a quaint outdoor terrace.
HooPman IrISH PuB
THe GraSSHoPPer
euro PuB
Leidseplein 4 Tel. 020-6381408 www.cafehoopman.nl
Oudebrugsteeg 16 Tel.: 020-6261259 www.grasshopper.nl
Dam Square 3-7, Unit V, Tel.: 020-4200563 www.amsterdam-dam.com
e Hoopman is situated at the corner of Leidseplein and has all the trimmings you would expect from a city centre Irish bar, as it is busy all day and all year round. You're never short of good company at e Hoopman and when you mix that with a wholesome selection of Irish beers and whiskeys to tickle the taste buds, a touch of Irish music to delight your ears and a food menu to warm the cockles of your heart, the end result is an excellent venue day or night. e bar also screens SKY Sports TV and the service is always good.
You can’t help but notice the huge Grasshopper building on Oudebrugsteeg, particularly at night when it’s green illuminated lights brighten the area. e Grasshopper venue offers three-in-one entertainment and is definitely worth a visit. On the first two floors, you will find their sports bar and Grand Cafe and on the third floor, you can find the Evita Steakhouse which offers some excellent South American steaks. In fact, you could say it’s four-in-one because the coffeeshop is located at basement level. All this under one roof, so there is absolutely no risk of getting bored here.
e Euro Pub can be found a few steps down from café Majestic, beside the famous Krasnapolsky Hotel and is the perfect place to get the party started. A Rocking sound system, exceptional service, an impressive list of cocktails and shooters and a constantly lively atmosphere ensure that its fun all the way in e Euro Pub. is really is an ideal place to warm up before you tackle the clubs and other nighttime delights the city has to offer. It will also be a popular haunt for watching live sporting events. e bar also boasts a lovely outdoor terrace which offers great views onto Dam Square.
Summer 2014
FEATURE CafeS & BarS
Café de kroon
Café eSCaPe ’
PlayerS Café
Rembrandtplein 17 Tel.: 020-6252011 www.dekroon.nl
Rembrandtplein 11 Tel.: 020-6221111 www.escape.nl
Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen 25 Tel.: 020-4204069 www.amsterdam-dam.com
No visit to Amsterdam is complete without visiting Café Restaurant De Kroon, one of the finest Grand Cafés in Amsterdam. Whether it’s for morning coffee, afternoon lunch, a graceful evening dinner or just drinks, this venue never disappoints. De Kroon transforms into a dancing venue on Friday and Saturday evening where resident dj’s play soulful house music. Lunch and dinner menus are impressive and as you would expect, the service is exceptional. With an excellent elevated view over Rembrandtplein, you can enjoy an atmosphere you will not forget very easily. Ran by the same people who own the famous Escape Club, no wonder it’s so good!
Top class. at’s the best way to describe Caffe Escape on Rembrandtplein. e interior, the atmosphere, the service, the food, the drinks – they all belong in the premier league of going-out establishments. Visitors can sip their beverage or enjoy their meal while taking in the views of vibrant Rembrandtplein. e food menu is very good with the chef ’s using only the freshest ingredients to create a mouth-watering ensemble of dishes. Summer is in the air, so guests can also enjoy the outdoor terrace which offers great views onto Rembrandtplein. As you would expect, the service is also excellent.
Players Cafe offers top class food and drinks in a superb venue close to the famous Leidseplein Square. e decor is extremely pleasing on the eye, the tunes are pleasing on the ears and the service is extremely friendly. Players opens from midday until 1.0am during the week and until 3am at weekends. An added perk is the quality service, as the staff at Players go out of their way to make sure your every need is catered for. An added perk is that the venue boasts one of the most modern and funky lounge terraces in the city. Definitely worth a visit.
FEATuRE Nightlife
Famed throughout Europe and the world, Amsterdam’s nightlife scene will dazzle and delight you, provided you go to the right places. The Dutch capital has long held a status for being one of the most dynamic, entertaining and cosmopolitan world cities and whether it be winter, spring, summer or autumn, there is always a buzz around the place. The main going-out areas tend to be on or around Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein and Dam Square. In this section, we will ďŹ ll you in on some of the places which are worth a visit.
Amsterdam Nights S E E T h E c o Lo u R FEEL ThE vIbE
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FEATuRE Nightlife
BuBBleS & WiNeS
Bitterzoet
CAfé luxemBourg
Nes 37 Tel.: 020-4223318 www.bubblesandwines.com
Spuistraat 2 Tel.: 020-5213001 www.bitterzoet.com
Spuistraat 24 Tel.: 020-6206264 www.luxembourg.nl
Located on one of the city’s quaintest lanes and only about two minutes walking distance from Dam Square, Bubbles & Wines is one of Amsterdam’s finest champagne and wine bars. eir extensive and carefully chosen collection consists of more than 50 wines by the glass and more than 180 by the bottle. Besides the wine- and champagne lists, they also offer a heavenly selection of Gourmet Bites which will enhance your appreciation of our delectable champagnes and wines. e décor is lovely and the atmosphere is refined and relaxed. Perfect place to get away from it all.
Bitterzoet has set out to be a stage for underground and sub-culture bands, DJs, theatre collectives and projects. e idea is to have a new happening every night. Checking the agenda you may find such different venues as Afro-Cuban jazz fusion, funk jam sessions, hip hop battles, skateboarding performances, rock nights and house parties. is is also the place where Fun Lovin Criminals made an unofficial late night gig, last time they visited Netherlands on tour.e audience at Bitterzoet is dynamic and young, and knows where to buy the rarest sneakers, where to find the underground venues that counts and which record store is best.
is is where many of the locals play. Café Luxembourg has long been one of the most popular venues in the city and is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon or to enjoy a relaxed night before encountering the louder and more lively places. It tends to be particularly busy on a Sunday afternoon, as locals look for the ideal bar for relaxation. e service is good, the venue is extremely spacious and they normally provide a full range of international newspapers. An added bonus is their superb food menu. is place has won various prizes over the years and is definitely worth a visit.
Beer temple
plAyerS SportS CAfé
VeSper BAr
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 250 Tel.:06-53812807 www.beertemple.nl
Warmoesstraat 170 Tel.: 020-4200563 www.amsterdam-dam.com
Vinkenstraat 57 Tel.: 020-8464458 www.vesperbar.nl
Beer Temple opened in September 2009 and is an absolute must for those who like it brewed. Located on Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal, the venue serves 30 different beers on draft. Included among the many brands they have on offer are: Anchor, Flying Dog, Anderson Valley, Left Hand, Dark Horse, Southern Tier and ree Floyds. Beer Temple also serves up more than 60 different types of bottled American beer, so there are no excuses for not finding a beer which suits your taste. Prices are extremely competitive and the friendly staff will go out of their way to make sure your visit is a memorable one.
Everything you could ever ask from a bar, plus a whole lot more. Innovative and effective management – at’s the secret to the success of Players, as the owners constantly strive to ensure that the venue stays on the fast lane of Amsterdam’s rapidly changing nightlife scene. eir state of the art screens, together with an excellent satellite TV system ensure that the bar can broadcast more sports than you can imagine When there is no sporting action (or when it finishes), Players transforms into one of the finest late night party venues you will find anywhere.
Boutique Bar Vesper is located in the middle of the beautiful and famous Jordaan area in Amsterdam, between the trendy Haarlemmerdijk shopping district and the Brouwersgracht. Vesper has a large variety of great wines, beers and an extensive cocktail list. Due to the intimate character of the bar, Vesper is a great location for small get-togethers, cocktail parties or just a nice relaxing drink after work. eir award winning bar team create some really memorable cocktail concoctions. Open: Tuesday – ursday from 20.00 - 01.00; Friday – Saturday from 17.00 - 03.00; Sunday Closed.
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FEATuRE Nightlife
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CluB eSCApe
Air AmSterdAm
heiNekeN muSiC hAll
Rembrandtplein 11. Tel.: 020-6221111 www.escape.nl
Amstelstraat 24 Tel.: 020-8200670 www.AIR.nl
ArenA Boulevard 590 Tel.: 0900-687424255 ww.heineken-music-hall.nl
Escape is a multi-spaced venue for a total clubbing experience. With special Club dinner arrangements you can enjoy a 4 course menu at Escape Caffé and get VIP access to Escape Club afterwards. Escape was founded in 1986, which means that this year is the 25th Anniversary! Since its formation,. Escape has been hugely popular with domestic and foreign visitors. Its cutting edge design and technical facilities as well as a tremendously good sound system form the ingredients for a wonderful clubbing experience. Escape hosts clubnights like Framebusters with lots of national and international talented DJ’s and entertainment. Be sure to check the website, because Club Escape always produce some memorable party & club nights during spring and they are renowned for their Queen’s Night and Queen’s Day parties.
One of Amsterdam's newest nightclubs with pure international allure. Rising from the ashes of the legendary club iT on the Amstelstraat in central Amsterdam, AIR's interior has been brought to life by the talented designer imagination of Dutchman Marcel Wanders. His lively design features a host of surprises and the theatrical, intimate result is a feast for the senses. Each area has its own style and feel which lends an extra dimension to exploring the club. AIR haven't missed a trick, the spacious entrance hall is equipped with electronic lockers, while the five bars, two smoking areas and three blocks of toilets are all individually designed and styled.
Heineken Music Hall is a tailor-made venue for music. It has earned something of a reputation for delivering well organised, well lit experiences with an astonishing sound. With a capacity of around 6.000 persons, it has hosted concerts for well known names like Beyonce, Radiohead, Keane and Pink. As a visitor you can really appreciate the well planned approach, leading to lesser queuing, quicker bag- and body search, easier access to bathrooms and bar, and free internet stations on the second floor. Concert agenda and online booking of tickets can be found on their website. Please check concert agenda at www.heineken-music-hall.nl.
CluB JV
CAfé BuBBleS
feeSt VAN Joop
Reguliersdwarsstraat 108-114, Tel: 020-6272710 www.jantjesverjaardag.nl
Lange Leidsedwarsstraat 90-92 www.cafebubbels.nl
Lange Leidsedwarsstraat 39 www.hetfeestvanjoop.nl
At Club JV, every night is a party night. It's one of the biggest of the many party bars in the area and can be found on one of the corners of Rembrandt Square. At weekends, Club JV comes to life and keep an eye out for their special theme nights and after parties, which are always electrifying and entertaining. To find out exactly what party tickles your fancy, it is worth checking the exterior of the building as they always advertise their upcoming events there. Don’t be surprised if the staff also get in on the party-act and also don’t be surprised to see an array of Dutch beauties frequenting the place..
One of the busiest and most entertaining disco/party bars in the city, the atmosphere is always hot inside Café Bubbels, whether it be on a Monday or a Saturday night. e venue consists of a spacious dance floor, two bars and a smoking area and the tunes are made up of a mixture of the new and old. e bar staff are extremely friendly and visitors are often the recipients of free shots. It’s very popular among students, but the door policy can be quite strict, so make sure you are well behaved and polite to the doormen. Entrance is free, but s small tip to the doorman on the way out could ensure further visits.
Located on the Lange Leidsedwarsstraat just around the corner from the vibrant Leidseplein, Feest van Joop has been a household name in the Amsterdam nightlife scene for the last twenty years. Every ursday, Friday and Saturday night from 10 pm, their friendly and experienced bartenders invite you into the unique atmosphere of Amsterdam clubbing as it should be. So if you want to experience a real Dutch night out, make your way to the Feest van Joop!
Summer 2014
FEATuRE Nightlife
CluB prime
the SugAr fACtory ’
CluB up
Rembrandtplein 22 www.clubprime.nl
Lijnbaansgracht 238 Tel.: 020-6270008 www.sugarfactory.nl
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 26 Tel.: 020-6236985 www.clubup.nl
One of the city’s newest clubs and definitely one of the best. e tunes are rocking, the atmosphere is vibrant and the service is excellent at Club Prime no matter what day of the week it is. e club boasts a spacious dance floor and also a spacious smoking area. Another perk is the VIP Area which offers a great view onto the dance floor and offers guests the chance to sip champagne in more privacy. Keep an eye out for the parties and after-parties they will organise during the summer season, because a Prime party is always a memorable partyCheck out their website at: www.clubprime.nl for more info.
Formerly the Amuse eater, the new night theatre, e Sugar Factory opened its doors in the spring of last year and since then it has been gaining rave reviews. Located directly opposite the entrance to the Melkweg, the venue is open from 9pm to 4am on ursdays and Sundays and from 9pm until 5am on Fridays and Saturdays. Besides dance nights, the Sugar Factory offers a stage for theatre, art and performances, so there is a little bit of everything for everybody. e interior is excellent, the comfort value is high and the sound stytem is top notch.
Located close to the famous Leidseplein on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat, Club Up is a stage for young talent hosted in the swanky art club De Kring, which usually only admits members. However, every ursday, Friday and Saturday, the club is open to everyone who's interested in eccentric, wacky, free-spirited parties with a decidedly artistic edge. Club Up regularly throws after parties during certain festivals and initiatives such as the Fringe festival and the Amsterdam Dance Event…these parties are memorable to say the least! Details of all upcoming events can be viewed via their comprehensive website.
FEATuRE Nightlife
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CAfé SouNdgArdeN
CAfé Cox’
tAleS & SpiritS
Marnixstraat 164-166 Tel.: 020-6202853. www.cafesoundgarden.nl
Marnixstraat 429. Tel.: 020-5237850 www.cafecox.nl
Lijnbaanssteeg 5-7 Tel.: 06-55356467 www.talesandspirits.com
Established in 1993 on the corner of the crossing where the Rozengracht meets the Marnixstraat, Café Sound Garden continues to go from strength to strength. Depending on the night, there are DJs and live acoustic sessions otherwise the bar staff play great music. e Soundgarden’s terrace is a must for anybody who loves to sit next to the water with an eclectic bunch of people with discerning music tastes in rock. People with two things in common; A love of rock music in all it’s genres and a desire to hang out in an alternative and open environment. e Soundgarden has become infamous for it’s international clientele, so when sitting on the terrace you can quite easily hear more than half a dozen languages.
Since time immemorial, Café Cox is where people come to readjust their world to a new perspective following a theatre performance. e café-restaurant is located in a side-wing of the Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam, just a stone’s throw from Leidseplein. Café Cox is renowned for its fine food and high level of hospitality, combined with a jazzy, funky and soulful musical program. Every Friday evening the DJ is spinning Dance tunes. e bar opens daily from 5pm to 1am and until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays. www.cafecox.nl
Tales & Spirits is a craft cocktail bar and restaurant in the historical centre of Amsterdam. Serving exquisite cocktails and delicious food for affordable prices all with a big smile and extraordinary hospitality. It is a home away from home. A multi-level building featuring a cocktail bar with restaurant serving exquisite drinks, amazing food, and bar bites in contemporary, unique, and vintage glassware. eir focus lies on providing incredible experiences, using classic and innovative culinary & mixology techniques, stunning presentation and serving vessels, all designed and served in a fashion that will continually ‘wow’ you.
BimhuiS
BArCA
Bulldog kArAoke
Piet Heinkade 3 Tel.: 020-7882188 www.bimhuis.nl
Marie Heinekenplein 30-3 Tel.: 020-4704144 www.bar-ca.com
Leidseplein 15 www.thebulldog.com
e centre spot for the Dutch jazz scene is the world famous Bimhuis. Great names in Jazz have played the Bimhuis over the years and in recent times, the City of Amsterdam decided to move it from its classic location in Amsterdam’s historic quarters to the stunning Muziekgebouw complex behind Central Station. e new Bimhuis is a state of the art music venue, with cutting edge technical and acoustical facilities. e service is excellent from the friendly staff and a night of pure entertainment is always guaranteed at Bimhuis. To find out what’s on during your stay or to purchase tickets, go to their website at www.bimhuis.nl.
Located on Marie Heinekenplein in De Pijp area of the city, this hip yet elegant restaurant-bar with its warm and stunning interior has made a big impact on the Amsterdam nightlife scene. e formal dining area boasts elegantly set tables, sectioned off by low walls. For casual dining there are couches with high tables and stools to enjoy a relaxed bite. You may also dine on their terrace on the square under the trees. In the evenings, the house DJ plays a combination of Funk, Jazz and Blues to create a mood whilst you enjoy your food and drinks. Ideal for a night of fun accompanied by excellent food.
e Bulldog Palace on Leidseplein is the scene for the city’s best Karaoke nights. Karaoke takes place at the Bulldog on Monday and Tuesday night each week and a great atmosphere is always guaranteed as a string of talented and not-so-talented singers take to the stage under the guidance of resident host Saskia. It’s always a fun-night out and if you do take the plunge and get on stage, they will also take your photo and place it on facebook.
Summer 2014
FEATuRE Nightlife
pArAdiSo
melkWeg’
BourBoN Street BlueS CluB
Weteringschans 6-8. Tel.: 020-6264521 www.paradiso.nl
Lijnbaansgracht 234. T.: 020-5318181 www.melkweg.nl
Leidsekruisstraat 6-8. T.: 020-6233440 www.bourbonstreet.nl
Paradiso can be found just off Leidseplein and is one of the biggest and best modern music venues. e building is a refurbished church which boasts stunning acoustics and an excellent atmosphere. It regularly attracts top performers who may have just finished touring and chose Paradiso as their venue for closing. More information can be found on their website at www.paradiso.nl. Paradiso is also renowned for its Christmas and New Year parties and more details about these events can also be found on their website.
e Melkweg (Milky Way in English) is Amsterdam's biggest multi-functional entertainment venue. Housed in a former dairy, Melkweg attracts some top class performers. e venue mainly concentrates on live performances, but at weekends it hosts a variety of dance events which are also worth checking out. During the day and before performances, visitors can enjoy a drink at their impressive café. Melkweg’s New Year party is always memorable and more details about this year’s event can be found on their website.
Situated close to the famous Leidseplein, Bourbon Street offers live music nightly. World famous acts such as Sting, Jeff Healey, e Rolling Stones Crew and Joss Stone have performed here and no doubt more stars will be belting out their tunes in the future. It’s intimate, the atmosphere is always vibrant and the layout ensures that no matter where you are positioned inside, a good view of the stage is guaranteed. e club can be found near Leidseplein and is virtually unmissable – just look for the two Blues Brothers on top of the roof.
BimhuiS
JAzz CAfé Alto
CANtiNero
Piet Heinkade 3. Tel.: 020-7882150 www.bimhuis.nl
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 115. T. 020-6263249 www.jazz-cafe-alto.nl
Marie Heinekenplein 4. T. 020-6706921 www.salsa-amsterdam.nl
e centre spot for the Dutch jazz scene is the world famous Bimhuis. Great names in Jazz have played the Bimhuis over the years and last year it moved from it’s classic location in Amsterdam’s historic quarters to the Muziekgebouw complex behind Central Station. e new Bimhuis is a state of the art music venue, with cutting edge technical and acoustical facilities. More details at www.bimhuis.nl.
e oldest and most famous jazz café in Amsterdam is located just off Leidseplein and caters for a broad audience. ere is no cover charge and live jazz is on the menu every evening and sometimes the organizers also surprise visitors with a little bit of Blues. e bar opens from 9pm until 3am during the week and until 4am at weekends. e service is extremely friendly and prices are also very fair – a must for Jazz lovers.
Currently the most popular salsa venue in Amsterdam, Cantinero can be found on the famous Marie Heinekenplein. e restaurant/club calls itself a 'salon de baile' and they have several Latinoriented parties here every week. e club is popular with dancers as well as non-dancers and is also the home of dance school Extremos, who teach here five days a week. e food is also extremely good. It’s a must-go venue for lovers of Latin music and dance. More information can be found on their website.
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featUre COFFESHOPS
Coffeeshops Stone’S Café Warmoesstraat 91. Tel.: 020-6241406
An extremely popular venue among English speaking tourists and it’s easy to understand why as Stone’s Café is a coffeeshop where you will never get bored. e spacious venue is located in the heart of the famous Warmoesstraat in the Red Light District
and among other things, boasts an extensive menu and very reasonable prices. Other attractions inside the shop include two pool tables. ey also serve some excellent pub grub and it’s a great place to go for your typical English breakfast. Further up the Warmoesstraat road, you will find a second Stone’s Café, which is equally enjoyable and it is the place to buy your smoking materials and if you want, you can take them back to the more spacious shop at Warmoesstraat 91. a b r axaS Jonge Roelensteeg 12-14 & Spuistraat 51 Tel.: 020-6255763 Abraxas has long been regarded as one of Amsterdam's finest coffeeshops and the praise is well justified. e shop on Jonge Roelensteeg offers a varied and quality menu as well as other goodies. Abraxas recently added another feather to their cap when they introduced Abraxas Too, an all new coffeeshop which can be found at Spuistraat 51 (close to Dam Square) and looks certain to cause excitement thanks to
its beauty, comfort and intrigue. As with the shop on Jonge Roelensteeg, the staff are professional and will give the necessary advice for clients. ey are also very friendly.
featUre COFFESHOPS
The Rookies
Friendliness, Experience & Relaxation ! Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 145 Tel: +31 20 6390978 www.rookies.nl
O
ver the years, many Amsterdam coffeeshops seemed to lose their way and lose their purpose, as owners sought ways to be more commercial and more profitable. ankfully, there are some venues which still maintain the true Amsterdam coffeeshop values and one example is ‘e Rookies’ which can be found close to Leidseplein on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat Street. Don’t let the name fool you, because this place has been around for almost two decades and the staff are among the most knowledgeable and experienced you will find. e coffeeshop got its name because back then in 1992, the owners were among the youngest in the coffeeshop trade. In our opinion, the thing that separates e Rookies from most others are the chill and relaxation factors. Not many coffeeshops offer the friendly service, relaxed atmosphere that you will find in the Rookies. Furthermore, it has a much more open feel than most narrow, cramped coffeeshops that you find in Amsterdam and it boasts one of the city’s largest smoking areas with seating for more than 70 people. e products at Rookies are also top of the range and only the best weed and hash is sold here. ey are also renowned for their space cakes and also offer bongs and other smoking equipment. e tunes are also worth mentioning, as their choice of music enhances the atmosphere. In summing up, this truly is one of the ultimate coffeeshop experiences in Amsterdam. Experienced and amateur smokers; tourists and locals – everyone is welcome at e Rookies.
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Cannabis Sativa L., Green Gold or the Devil's Harvest?
A
msterdam is famous and notorious all over the world for its Red Light District and its tolerant soft drugs policy. Among foreigners (and Dutch) there are many misconceptions about soft drugs, more specifically about Cannabis Sativa L. It has been called everything from ‘green gold’ to ‘the Devil’s Harvest’, but what is Cannabis Sativa L. exactly? C a n na b i S o r H e m p ? ‘Cannabis’ is the name given to the plant itself. ‘Sativa’ simply means ‘sown’, and is used to indicate the common or cultivated form of a plant. e ‘L.’ refers to Carolus Linneaeus, the Swedish botanist who first gave this common yet celebrated herb its scientific classification in 1753. Since then, two more main types of cannabis have been identified: Cannabis Indica was classified in 1785 and Cannabis Ruderalis in 1924. From huge fibre-producing industrial hemp plants to the most potent of medicinal strains, the entire spectrum may be accurately referred to as ‘cannabis’, or even ‘hemp’, as all types are of the same species. Commonly, the term ‘hemp’ is used when referring to the industrial crop, and ‘cannabis’ to mean the medicinal and recreational varieties with a high cannabinoid content. primal HigH teCH Commodity e fibres of the hemp plant are among the longest and strongest in the plant kingdom. It was through the cultivation of hemp that humans progressed from wearing animal skins and hides to garments of woven cloth. It was the second most used material in shipbuilding after wood. From before the time of the Phoenicians (pre 5th Century BCE) right up until the late 19th Century, all long sea voyages relied on sails, ropes and rigging made from hemp. Presently the fibres of the hemp plant, the oil and the wooden core are used as multifunctional and ecological alternatives to conventional materials. Companies such as Adidas and Louis Vuitton use woven hemp fibres in shoes and clothing, while the oil extracted from hempseed is be used for nutritional (omega 3) and industrial purposes (cosmetics, fuel). Hempcrete (hemp wood, lime, loam) has been
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rediscovered as a construction material, replacing concrete. Hemp plastics are the materials of the future: lightweight, durable, biodegradable and a potential replacement for many petrochemical plastics. Luxury car manufacturers are already applying hemp composite in car doors, dashboards and bodyworks. U n i verSal SoUrCe of i n S p iration In early human culture the feelings and effects imparted by cannabis use were intertwined with early religious beliefs and 'communion with the gods'. As cultures have become more sophisticated the transcendental effects of cannabis have come to be appreciated by many artists, writers, and musicians. It became a source of inspiration and creativity for virtually the same reasons that it is valued as a sacrament. References to cannabis in art, literature and music naturally sparked interest among their audiences and contributed to another popular new form of usage - for recreation and relaxation. Amsterdam - Cannabis Capital of the world In the 1960s and 1970s, Amsterdam became the cultural magnet of Europe, the magical centre. A policy of tolerance towards the use of cannabis attracted hippies and others rebelling against societies’ rules. e first coffeeshop (Mellow Yellow), where cannabis could be bought and consumed, was opened in the early 1970s. Others followed quickly and Amsterdam soon obtained a new tourist attraction. A young Rotterdam entrepeneur, Ben Dronkers spotted the high potential of cannabis and started collecting seeds from all over Central Asia, South East Asia and the Subcontinent. With these as an important building block, he began breeding his own hybrids cannabis strains. In the early Eighties, an influx of new strains from the USA provided additional gene-stock from which to create more exceptional hybrids, such as the infamous Skunk#1®. In 1985, Ben Dronkers established the first cannabis seed bank in Europe (Sensi Seeds) and opened the Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum. During the 1990s and into 2010, the Dutch cannabis industry flourished.
Summer 2014
Besides coffeeshops, the Netherlands - and Amsterdam in particular - became a haven for additional cannabis-related industries, such as growshops and wholesalers. Late 2010 though, things started to change. While other countries such as Spain were working towards decriminalisation, Dutch politicians started to discuss the introduction of repressive new cannabis laws, eroding Holland’s famous tolerance policy. As the legacy of the late right wing government, a preliminary law was put in place in southern Dutch provinces, prohibiting foreigners from buying cannabis in coffeeshops. e law is intended to be put into effect in the rest of the Netherlands by the 1st of January 2013. Hopefully, the upcoming September elections will bring reason, justice and humanity back into Dutch politics in order for the Dutch and all foreign guests alike to enjoy Amsterdam and the Netherlands in all its glory and freedom. http://hashmuseum.com (oldest Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum in the world) http://sensiseeds.com (oldest European Cannabis Seeds Bank) http://hempflax.com (largest Dutch industrial Hemp producer) http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save_th e_dam/ (tourist petition against the upcoming cannabis law).
featUre COFFESHOPS
The Magic Mushroom Gallery
As you peruse around Amsterdam, you will no doubt notice the large number of smart shops the city has to offer. Some are small and a little bit dingy, while the service in some of the others leaves much to be desired, but e Magic Mushroom Gallery's on Spuistraat and Singel answer every call and are always worth a visit. But what are 'smart drugs', you may be asking yourself, so we'll attempt a short explanation. Most mind altering substances are classified as either 'soft' or hard 'drugs', but there is also a third group of so called 'smart drugs', which fall into neither of those two categories. Smart drugs are completely legal and consist of herbs and natural ingredients. When taken, they are said to increase energy levels, aid relaxation or enhance sexual performance, depending on which one you choose. Smart drugs shops have sprang up all around the world to satisfy this market, but as with almost everything else, Amsterdam has a slightly different twist to many other countries, in that the city is also permitted to sell hallucinogenic mushrooms / truffles. e Magic Mushroom Gallery on Spuistraat is the perfect place to begin your quest for mind expansion. e space is bigger than it's competitors, allowing customers to explore and learn in a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere. ey also own another smaller, but equally interesting store at the Flower Market (Singel 524) and one of the big advantages for potential customers is that they supply a wholesale service.
Summer 2014
Magic Mushrooms / Magic Truffles are available in eight different varieties which include: Psylocibe Mexicana, Psylocibe Atlantis, Philosopher Stones, Dolphins and Space Shuttles. An oral and written explanation of the effects of each kind accompanies every purchase and the polite and helpful staff will go out of their way to make sure you choose the one that best suits your needs. A large variety of herbal XTC's can also be found in the store, the most popular being 'Flower Power', which increases energy and results in a happy feeling. Changing exhibits from Amsterdam's up and coming artists can also be viewed inside the gallery and many of these budding Van Gogh's often created their works under the influence of mushrooms. All in all, the venue is definitely worth a visit, whether you try the products or not. Admission is free and so is the tea. Both shops are open 7 days a week from 10.00 till 22.00. eir products can also be purchased online by visiting www. Magicmushroom.com. GETTING THERE: e bigger of the two stores is located at Spuistraat 249. If you walk behind the Magna Plaza Shopping Centre and take the first left, you will eventually meet the Magic Mushroom Gallery. e smaller shop can be found at Singel 524, the same street as the floating Flower Market. Tel: 020-4275765 (Spuistraat) or 020: 4227845 (Singel).
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FeaTuRe NighTLife
The Red Light District e most famous X-rated venue on the planet. Even the Pope is aware of what goes on at this place. Located in the area known as 'Wallen', it dates back to the 13th century, making it one of the oldest parts of the city, but many things have changed recently as the Government undertakes major reforms. Prostitution has always been rife in the Red Light District, but it wasn't until the 18th century that the window ladies appeared. At that time, Amsterdam's port was extremely busy and sailors would walk to the area seeking intoxication and the ladies of the night. Much has
changed since then and contrary to many reports, it isn't as sleazy or unsafe as most people imagine. A string of canals bisect the main thoroughfares of the district, which are linked to several narrow alleyways. e area is quite busy during the day, and when darkness falls, the atmosphere becomes vibrant and busy. e district has just about everything a sex haven requires. Live sex shows, peep shows, sexual theme bars, sex shops, pornographic video booths, fetish parlours, lap dancing clubs, a sex museum and of course the infamous girls behind the windows.
The Red LighT Ladies e majority of the Red Light Ladies are extremely beautiful and hail from all corners of the world. ey offer oral sex and sexual intercourse for an average price of 50 Euro. All the prostitutes are legal and most undergo regular health checks. e girls pay between 100 and 150 Euro for daily rent of the window. In e Red Light District, it's true to say that the world's oldest profession has undergone major modernization work. However, certain rules must be adhered to and its worth taking a look at our 'Better Safe an Sorry' article below. The Casa Rosso expeRienCe eatre Casa Rosso is one of the many erotic establishments in the Red Light area which is managed by the Janot Entertainment Group. Casa Rosso is the world renowned live-sex theater which was instrumental in the modernization of the Red Light District. e main theatre is situated near the center of O.Z. Achterburgwal (the main canal of the Red Light District). B a na na B a R If you like your drinks to be poured by a group of topless barmaids, then a visit to Banana Bar could be for you. For an additional fee of around 50 Euro, the same waitresses will perform a series of sexy acts. p R i vaT e C Lu B s If you fancy something a little bit more upmarket and intimate than the Window
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Ladies, you could visit one of Amsterdam’s many private clubs (sex clubs). Most clubs are quite extravagant and include excellent bar facilities. We recommend Club LV (020-6636662) on Middenweg 144. e s C oRT agenCies Most of the time, picking an escort in Amsterdam is a bit of a lucky dip, but there are some companies which provide what they say they will. Veronica’s Secret (0031-6-15258383), Secret Pleasure (0031-20-6366145), Heaven escort (0031-6-25102103), 90 Minutes Escort (0031-20-6370738) are recommended. Massage companies have also become extremely popular in recent times and one of the best is Massage Service Amsterdam (0031-6-27274383). Summer 2014
IMPORTANT!!! Did you know that from February 2008, all Amsterdam-based escort agencies are required to be licensed? is is one of many measures that the city council has taken to fight human trafficking and improve the working conditions for prostitutes. All agencies must for example have a health & safety plan for their workers and a solid financial base. Be sure to check if the company that you use is licensed and be aware that by doing business with an unlicensed agency, you might be maintaining abuse. Moreover, under the new law you are actionable.
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In the heart of Amsterdam, located between the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh museum, you will find one of the oldest and most respected diamond factories in the world: Coster Diamonds. We have the most beautiful jewelry, the most sparkling diamonds and the most educational tour you can find. Our multilingual tourguides will explain everything you ever wanted to know about the mystical world of diamonds.
Visit Coster Diamonds and add some sparkle to your life Paulus Potterstraat 2-8 | 1071 CZ Amsterdam | The Netherlands Tel. +31 (0) 20 3055 555 | info@costerdiamonds.com | www.costerdiamonds.com