welcome elcome to the fourth edition of ‘Entertainment Amsterdam’, the magazine which strives to add amusement, excitement and intrigue to all visitors of this great city. Too many times, tourists and locals concentrate on specific subjects or specific areas when they visit Amsterdam and many tend to overlook themes and places which yield the same or even more pleasure. Our goals are to broaden your knowledge of entertainment in the city and to make your visit more memorable. When we say entertainment, we mean exactly that. e Oxford English dictionary defines entertainment as the act of entertaining & agreeable occupation for the mind and as such, we will concentrate on the best forms of entertainment that Amsterdam has to offer. We will do that by keeping you updated and well-informed about the hottest venues, the latest events and the best services, while also advising you on certain things which you must always be careful of. Amsterdam has always been one of the party capitals of the world and somehow, it manages to combine it’s vibrancy and electricity with cultural excellence. At ‘Entertainment Amsterdam’, we try to combine both aspects, so that you readers get the maximum enjoyment and variety from your trip to the Dutch capital. Inside the magazine, you can find all the information you require on the best bars, cafes, clubs, restaurants and attractions, as well as some essential information and cultural delights which will make your stay more comfortable and safer. Spring is always special in Amsterdam and lets hope the weather will be the same and all you visitors get the chance to enjoy the famed outdoor terraces which make their return on March 1st.
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P02: P04: P06: P16: P22: P32: P34: P42: P54:
essential Info Main event Live & Kicking What’s Happening seeing & Doing Map Food For thought Bar scene Liberal Amsterdam
entertainment Amsterdam City is a registered trade name and publication. neither the trading name, the format or the content may be reproduced. All rights reserved.
Amsterdam City Entertainment Loenermark 856, 1025 VP Amsterdam, Tel: 06-20652685 Sales: 06-14274579 E-Mail: entertainment.amsterdam@gmail.com
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Directors: Veronica Ferreira Design & Production: Expression Graphic Studio
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useful information Public Transport Public transport in Amsterdam is among the best in Europe thanks to the constant availability, simplicity, efficiency and punctuality of the services.
which is currently undergoing modernization reconstruction. e service provided by the
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. No matter where you need to travel in Amsterdam, you will have to wait no longer than 10 minutes at the tram-stop. You can travel anywhere in the city centre for one hour on any tram for 1.60 Euro. Special strip cards, which can last for the duration of your visit can also be purchased from many newsagents and supermarkets throughout the city. e following is a short list of some of the tram numbers you can take to and from Central Station in order to visit some of the city's hotspots. No. 1: Stops include Dam Square, Spui, e Flower Market, Leidseplein, Vondel Park and Overtoom. No.2: Stops include Dam Square, e Flower Market, Leidseplein, Vondel Park, Van Gogh Museum and Museumplein. No. 4: Stops include Dam Square, Rembrandtplein and the RAI. No. 9: Dam Square, Rembrandtplein, Waterlooplein (Concert Hall).
Dutch Railway Board is exceptional and all trains will leave at regular intervals on time.
TAXI e prices have changed recently for taxis and now every taxi in the city must set a fee of 7,50 Euro once you step into the car. is may sound expensive, but the first two kilometers are free and it is actually a fairer way for the customer as prices remain constant and quite fair. e most reliable service in the city is offered by TCA Taxis and they can be contacted at 0206777777.
WATER TAXIS If you would prefer to float rather than wheel your way to your destination, you can take a water-taxi from various points of the city. It's an innovative and scenic way of traveling.
BICYCLES You'll notice almost immediately, that there is an incredible number of bicycles in Amsterdam. In fact there's more chance of being run over by a bike than there is by a car. Renting a bike is a great way to see the city and we thoroughly recommend it.
AMSTERDAM PASS
No. 14: Dam Square, Rembrandtplein, Waterlooplein, Marnixstraat. No. 16: Dam Square, Albert Cuyp Market.
TRAIN Central Station itself is an impressive building
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is is a novel and cost-efficient way to take advantage of all Amsterdam has to offer. e Amsterdam pass lasts for either 24, 48 or 72 hours and provides a free round trip of the canals. Almost all of the museums can also be visited for free and the pass entitles the bearer to reductions at various restaurants and attractions. e pass is available from the AmsterdamTourist Office and also from many hotels in the city.
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AMSTERDAM TOURIST BOARD 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.
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. ABN Amro, Postbank and ING Bank are the biggest and best ones.
course you can also find car rental at Schiphol Airport. e following companies are recommended in Amsterdam: Adams Rent a Car (020-6850111). Hertz (020-6122441)
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.
DOCTORS e Central Doctor's Service can be contacted at 020-5923434 or 0900-503204.
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.
PARKING Parking can be hell 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 lookout. Don’t pay and you could find your car
POLICE e central number for the police is 09008844. Call this number and they will put you in touch with the nearest police station.
LOST LUGGAGE Aeroplane: Aero Ground Services - 0206033222 or KLM Lost Luggage dept. - 08000226400. On the boat: Dutchport 020-4059400. On the train: 0900-1558. On public transport (trams and busses): 0204605858 clamped and end up paying close to 200 Euro to have it removed.
CAR RENTAL ere are various different car rental companies available in Amsterdam City Centre and of
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CHANGING MONEY e best rates are usually offered by post-offices and the various GWK offices are also good. Changing money at your hotel is normally more expensive.
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spring’s main event
e Queen’s Day Party very street and canal in the city turns into a sea of orange on 30th April as Amsterdammers and visitors assemble in their thousands to celebrate the Birthday of the Netherlands Monarch Queen Beatrix, and it’s one of the biggest parties you will find anywhere on the planet.
E
April 30th is not actually the birthday of Queen Beatrix.e holiday is celebrated on this date because it was the birthday of previous monarch Queen Juliana. When Beatrix succeeded Juliana on 30 April1980, she decided to keep the holiday on April 30, as the weather on her own birthday, January 31st, tended to prohibit
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the traditional outdoor festivities. Prior to 1949 the holiday was celebrated on August 31, the birthday of Queen Wilhelmina. e festivities start the night before (Wednesday 29th April) when you can expect to see live music, outdoor bars, carnivals, street entertainers and boat parties among other things. No matter where you are in the city, you will feel the energy and witness the vibrant colour. e party continues on Queensday itself (ursday 30th April), as almost every street and byway in the city centre is thronged with mass crowd of orange-clad
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revelers. e canals are also a sight to behold as thousands decorate themselves and their boats and travel back and forth around the waterways. e biggest celebrations can be found on Dam Square, Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein and Museumplein. Stages are erected on all these areas on Queen’s Night and a host of talented local artists, comedians and DJs perform for the masses. Be warned, a normal 10-minute walking trip could be trebled in time as a result of
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the huge crowds. Queen’s Day is also the one day of the year when locals are allowed to set up stalls and trade their goods outside their front doors and this can be a real treat for lovers of Bring-And-Buy sales and flea markets. Summing up, it is an unforgettable experience and one which is thoroughly enjoyable. And please take our word for it If you are not wearing something orange, you most definitely will look out of place.
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live & kicking
f live entertainment is what flicks your switch, then you have come to the right city, because Amsterdam offers an excellent range of live action in some stunning settings during the spring season. Many of the venues themselves are housed in buildings steeped in history, some are modern, some old, some big and some small; but they all have one thing in common and that’s their ability to enthrall and entertain. Music fans are in for a real treat, as the city offers live performances from a range of genres including rock, blues, jazz, pop and many more. And don’t be surprised if you witness guest performances from famous stars, because many of Amsterdam’s venues have a reputation for attracting some of the world’s top artists once their big arena
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concerts have concluded. e good news is that almost all the venues are located in the city centre and quite close to each other, so there’s no need for huge taxi fares or long tram rides. In fact, most of the places we have noted are within a 15minute walk of each other. Check our map in the centre of the magazine for more details. It may also be beneficial to pay a visit to the ‘Uitbureau’ (can be found at the corner of the stunning red brick Stadsschouwberg building on Leidseplein) where you can get all the information you require about who and what is on stage during your stay. Tickets can also be purchased there. In this section of our magazine we take a closer look at some of Amsterdam’s top places for live music, comedy and much more.
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C O N C ERTS
CONCERTS
Heineken Music Hall
Paradiso
ArenA Boulevard 590. T. 0900 687424255 Located beside the famous Amsterdam Arena, and with a capacity of around 6.000 persons, Heineken Music Hall is the city’s biggest indoor convert venue and attracts many of the world’s top performers. It’s a tailor-made music venue and has earned an excellent reputation for delivering well organized, well lit experiences with an astonishing sound. To find out who’s in town during your stay, visit their website at www.heineken-music-hall.nl.
Weteringschans 6-8. T. 020-6264521 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.
C O N C ERTS
THEATRES
Melkweg
Muziekgebouw
Lijnbaansgracht 234. T. 020 5318181 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.
Piet Heinkade 1. T. 020-7882010 e recently opened Muziekgebouw venue offers composers and makers of music and theatre with their own work place. Festivals, thematic projects and multimedia concerts are held regularly. e building is visually stunning and also happens to be one of the most photographed subjects in Amsterdam. For more information, check out their website at www.muziekgebouw.nl.
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live & kicking T HEATRES
THEATRES
Stadsschouwburg
Amsterdam Concertgebouw
Leidseplein 26. T. 020-6242311
Concertgebouwplein 2-6. T. 020-6718345
e unmissable Stadsschouwburg in the heart of the famous Leidseplein is one of the city’s top venues for drama and theatre productions, and is also one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful buildings. e theatre frequently shows English language theatre productions and dance performances and there is always a host of top performances during the spring season. Information about what’s on can be gained via their website at www.stadsschouwburgamsterdam.nl.
Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw is internationally known for its fabulous acoustics and as home of the famous Concertgebouw Orchestra. Visitors can enjoy an alternating programme which involves both Dutch and international musicians and varies from performances by world famous symphony orchestras to concerts for children, contemporary music, vocal concerts and world music. Guided tours are also available. Check out our Events section to see what major performances are showing this spring, or for extra info, go to their website at: www.concertgebouw.nl.
T HEATRES
THEATRES
Royal Carre
Opera House
Amstel 115-125. T. 020-5249452 This huge building on the banks of the Amstel River always attracts top performers in fields such as comedy, circus, music and dance and during spring, they will host the Footloose Musical and also Irish songstress Mary Black. e Royal Carre theatre has been in existence for more than a century and is visual stunning. Check out the website at www.theatercarre.nl for further details about what’s on during your stay.
Waterlooplein 22. T. 020-5518117 Known in Amsterdam as ‘Het Muziektheater’ (e Music eatre) this venue is the theatre of residence for e Netherlands Opera and the Dutch National Ballet and also home to the Holland Symphony Orchestra. 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.
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R O CK
SOUL
e Waterhole
Meander Cafe
Leidsedwarsstraat 49. T. 020 6208904 If you like your music live and rocking, you’ll love e Waterhole on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 49, just a few yards off the famous Leidseplein. With their high-tech sound system and full acoustic insulation, e Waterhole can really pump up the volume. Every weekend, the venue hosts top local and international bands and just like the rest of the week, admission is absolutely free and that’s a rare thing for live music venues in Amsterdam. www.waterhole.nl
Voetboogstraat 3. T. 020 6258430 Lively three-level bar with daily live soul, blues and funk performances. Meander attracts young locals and especially students, which ensures that it is very affordable. At weekends bands play covers and happy tunes, and regular dj's spin their favourite records. Good place for a crazy night out, and since its a student cafe, the entrance fee is low. It opens daily from 8.30pm until 3am (4am at weekends).
B L UES
ROCK & BLUES
Maloe Melo
Bourbon Street Blues Club
Lijnbaansgracht 163. T. 020 4204592 is traditional 'brown' blues bar is regarded as Amsterdam's 'Home of the Blues' and it can be found on Lijnbaansgracht, very close to Leidseplein. Live music (mostly blues) can be heard every night in the back room, with a mix of renowned players and local talent, and occasional jam sessions. ere are oen appearances from international names who visit aer playing a gig at a bigger venue.
Leidsekruisstraat 6-8. T. 020 6233440 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 lay-out ensures that no matter where you are positioned inside, a good view of the stage is guaranteed.
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live & kicking JAZZ
JAZZ
Bimhuis
Jazz Café Alto
Piet Heinkade 3. T. 020 7882 50 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 the City of Amsterdam decided to move it 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. To find out what’s on during your stay or to purchase tickets, go to their website at www.bimhuis.nl.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 115. T. 020 6263249 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.
P I ANO BAR
SALSA
Piano Bar Maxim
Cantinero
Leidsekruisstraat 35 An enjoyable venue which can be found on one of the small streets close to Leidseplein, Piano Bar Maxim has enjoyed a massive faceli in recent times and the venue is now bigger, more beautiful and more enthralling. e management make it one of their top priorities to bring in outstanding international singing pianists who are also open to requests.
Marie Heinekenplein 4. T. 020-6706921 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 Latin-oriented 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.
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C O M EDY
LIVE BANDS
Comedy Café Amsterdam
Royalty
Max Euweplein 43-45. T. 020 6383971 Since 1994 the Comedy Café has been the place to go for Comedy fans. Every Monday and Tuesday they give new talent a chance with their Open Mike night. On ursday, Friday and Saturdays, professional comedians rock the house and every Sunday they present an all English Show with Improv Comedy Group ‘Hole in the Boat’. ey also serve delicious food at great prices. More info at www.comedycafe.nl
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 28-32. T. 020 6260128 One of the biggest disco/live music clubs in the Leidseplein area, Café Royalty continues to enhance it’s already high reputation. e live music programme is excellent at weekends with various top Dutch bands performing covers and their own tracks. Top DJs also perform every night in a venue which stays open later than most others (oen until 6am).
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CLUBBING msterdam’s clubbing scene is famed throughout Europe and the world and itsa little wonder when you consider the amount of top class DJs who perform and the number of wonderful parties and venues. Winter tends to be a busy time, as people swap terrace-sitting for a night on the tiles. All the venues are particularly busy during the festive season and of course on New Year’s Eve. e clubs themselves vary in size and stature and the following are some of our favourites.
A
RULES Here are a few tips on what you should and shouldn't do before, during and aer you are at a club. 1. It can oen be a disadvantage if you speak English. It's probably something to do with the bad reputation UK residents have
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abroad. So don't walk up to the door shooting your mouth off. Also don't approach the venues drunk or stoned because you have no chance of entry. 2. You may think you are ready and able for just about everything a Dutch club has to offer, but the likelihood is that you are not, so pace yourself. 3. Smoking a joint is widely accepted in most Dutch clubs and 'E' is generally accepted as part of the clubbing scene. e story is different with hard drugs and many of the clubs have installed facilities to detect those who use the hard stuff. 4. Try to behave when you exit the club. e natives don't appreciate loud-mouths waking them up at six o'clock in the morning. Take it from someone who used to live in Rembrandtplein. 5. it’s always a good idea to tip the doorman when you leave. Five Euro is usually enough and can sometimes ensure that the queue is shorter and the entrance policy more lenient when you visit again. 6. Don't get any ideas about making trouble inside or outside the club because the Dutch police force is always around, and can be severe. Piss them of and you will find yourself in a cell.
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C L U B BING
CLUBBING
Club Escape
Rain
Rembrandtplein 11. T. 020 6221111 e Escape Venue in the heart of Amsterdam has been a fact in the Dutch nightlife since October 1986. Over the past twenty years Escape has grown to be a well-known and highly respected club in the Amsterdam nightlife scene. e club can accommodate 2500 eager clubbers and the venue remains extremely popular and at the cutting edge of the modern dance scene. With a recent renovation and plenty of appeal, it’s a star that shows no sign of fading.
Rembrandtplein 44. T. 020 6267078 A unique drinking-dining-dancing experience – that’s the best way to sum up the impressive Club Rain. e management of Rain invite you to hear, see, smell, touch and taste inside one of the city’s most attractive and entertaining hotspots. Aer eating and drinking in the impressive restaurant and bar, you can cap off your night with some dancing. Global music is the order of the night and patrons will be taken aback by the sounds, special live performances and stunning visual art which can be enjoyed.
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Hotel Arena
Club Home
s’Gravesandstraat 51. T. 020-8502400 e popularity of this venue has rocketed in recent times and it’s understandable as it is an excellent clubbing venue. e club is situated inside an old and beautiful church and the management have chosen to leave the venue almost entirely in its original state making for a stunning interior. e DJs and sound systems are also good and you should check the internet for their upcoming events.
Wagenstraat 3-7. T. 020 6201375 is placed used to be known as Sinners In Heaven, but has now become Club Home and it’s not just the same that has changed, because Home is truly becoming one of the top clubbing venues in the city and came in for rave reviews during the Amsterdam Dance Events which took place earlier this winter. e décor inside is breath-taking and the DJs are among the finest you will find anywhere. No doubt, Home will be one of the top places to visit during this season.
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live & kicking C LUBBING
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Winston Kingdom
e Powerzone
Warmoesstraat 131. T. 0 20 6231380 Located on the famous Warmoesstraat Street in the heart of the Red Light District, e Winston Kingdom is open nightly and offers live music, DJ's, dancing, shows and much more. Known and unknown Djs perform at the living room-club which promotes excellent dance nights, as well as events like fashion shows, film and book presentations and band competitions.
Daniel Goedkoopstraat 1. T. 020 6818866 One of the largest club venues in Amsterdam, e Powerzone has always been a major hit with visitors of Amsterdam who love to get down to the beat. Some of the the hottest national and international DJ's perform at the huge venue and they also offer a VIP area with bottle service and an outdoor terrace which looks onto the Amstel River. A metro ride to the Sparklerweg stop is necessary.
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Dansen Bij Jansen
Zebra Lounge
Handboogstraat 11 T. 020-6201779 Always popular with the students, Dansen Bij Jansen is one of the best places to go for those who enjoy hip-hop. Various other music styles are also played. e two-floor venue boasts a dance floor on the lower level and a quieter and more chilled out bar on the top floor. e door policy is usually quite good and the club is also known for it’s special Happy Hour promotions.
Korte Leidse Dwarsstraat 14. T. 020 6126153 e original plan for this place was to make it into a chic striptease bar but the Government had other ideas and their decision proved to be a huge shot in the arm for Amsterdam’s Nightlife scene as the management then proceeded to turn it into one of the city’s trendiest and best clubs. A classy interior, stunning lighting and sound systems, top DJs and an electric atmosphere ensure Zebra Lounge impresses.
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C L U B BING
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Studio 80
Panama
Rembrandtplein 17. T. 020 5218333 Located on the famous Rembrandtplein, this venue has grown immensely in popularity in recent times and is now attracting some of the best local DJs. eir ursday theme night entitled ‘WKND Starts Here’ offers excellent House Sounds and is a great way to get the weekend started. Likewise their ‘Sunday Spirit ‘night can be a great way to round off your weekend.
Oostelijke Handelskade 4. T. 020 3118686 Housed in a former Port Authority building, Panama can be found slightly out of city center, but a little extra traveling is definitely worthwhile as Panama continues to excel and impress. e venue comprises a restaurant and a hip nightclub/theatre. e restaurant is a roomy affair, with large windows, high ceilings and subdued stylish decoration and extremely good food, while the nightclub continues to attract the right DJs and the right kind of party people.
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Club 8
Odeon
Admiraal de Ruijterweg 56b. T. 020 6851703 During the week, Club 8 is widely regarded as one of the city’s best pool halls, but at weekends, it transforms into an increasingly popular club which is proving to be a big hit with tourists and locals alike. eir innovative theme nights such as Disco Exota and Club Rascal offer something completely different to the norm and in many ways, more entertaining than the norm. e door policy is also good.
Singel 460. T.: 020 5218555 is monumental building was a former beer brewery built in 1662, but the present-day Odeon combines historical features with modern Dutch Design. e patrician’s house offers a brasserie with open kitchen, a cocktail bar, a large concert hall and various characteristic rooms to host all sorts of gatherings. Odeon is a cosmopolitan centre for entertainment and cultural and commercial activities. Opening hours: Club: 23.00-05.00 hrs, weekends only. www.odeonamsterdam.nl
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what’s happening What’s Happening Concerts, musicals, dance events, festivals, theatre….you name it and Amsterdam has it and this winter is no different as some wonderful events will take place in the city and many with a festive theme. We have listed some of the main events of the season in the pages that follow. If you require ticket information on any of the events, pay a visit to the Amsterdam Uitbureau which can be found on the corner of the wonderful Stadsschouwberg building on Leidseplein.
THEATER
Suriname word for story. A theatre maker tells a 'tori' and invites different artists to participate musically, theatrically and poetically. Chaplin April 8 at Bellevue eater Charlie Chaplin (1889-1877) made his first film at 25. Within a year, he became famous worldwide. He made films all his life in which he not only acted but also wrote, directed and produced Chaplin’s talent is portrayed in this production as well as the other side of the Chaplin coin
Les Miserables Sunday 15th – Sunday 22nd February At Royal eater Care is famous musical adapted from the novel by Victor Hugo has featured on the stage since its premiere in 1985 at the London West End. Jean Valjean has spent 19 years in a labour camp for stealing a piece of bread. Aer his release, he works his way up from factory worker to mayor. Mister Magic 24-26 February at Bellevue eater Clear your minds, for there is a spirit, here, amongst us! Mister Magic is a variety artist who tries to seduce his audience from his wheelchair. MC Toris Sunday 1 March & Sunday 5 April at Westergasfabriek eatre jam session. Tori is a
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SPECTACLES AutoRai April 1 to 11 at Amsterdam RAI Amsterdam's international motor show, AutoRAI, takes place every two years at the Amsterdam RAI. For motorists and car enthusiasts, the show offers the opportunity to check out all the latest models, styles and accessories from a wide variety of automobile companies. All the best car manufacturers are represented. Race of the Classics April 13 to 19 at various locations e Race of the Classics sailing challenge starts in Rotterdam, sails via Ostend to Ramsgate or Lowesto (depending on the weather) before re-crossing the North Sea to finish near where it started, in Amsterdam. First held in 1988, the Race of the Classics attracts over 20 teams to sail across the North Sea to England and back, competing for the highly-prized Challenge Cup.
is the day when Dutch people take to their bicycles, perhaps taking in a windmill or two along the way. Cycling is a normal mode of transport in Holland and whole families regularly use bicycles to get around, never more so than on National Cycling Day. Fantastic Film Festival April 15-26 at Tuschinski e Fantastic Film Festival is something of a cult annual institution in Amsterdam, screening European and international thriller, cult, horror and science-fiction movies at Pathe’s Tuschinski eater and other venues in the city. e festival began in 1984 as a weekend-long event, but now lasts for 12 days, with discussions, retrospectives and a marathon Night of Terror for nocturnal horror fans.
National Cycling Day May 9 at various locations Coinciding with National Windmill Day, this
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what’s happening Ghost Note – A Dance Tribute To Jazz Monday 6 April at Bellevue eater Early numbers from legends such as Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton as well as new compositions that are performed, in part, live. Central to the programme is the feeling of freedom that slaves would have felt when they heard their AfroAmerican jazz being played.
MUSIC rowing Rainbows Up Tue 24 & Wed 25 February at Frascati A spectacle based on voice, performance, dance, electronic music, lightscapes and a smoke machine. Over the top acting conveyed in a physical journey, where the actors appear to test the experience of their experimental crossing of borders.
Rockin’ On Heaven’s Door Sunday 3 May at Meervaart A musical show that is more than a tribute to what many claim are the four greatest Rock & Roll artists of all time. Backed by 6-strong band, the stage is sequentially taken by Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly and Eddie Cochran. In both appearance and vocal skills, the resemblances are uncanny.
Lost & Found Orchestra Feb 28 to March 8 at eater Carre Violins are changed for saws. Kettles, kitchen utensils and bottles become the drums and there is room for vacuum cleaners too. Added to the mix are show elements, dance and comedy. Piaf e Musical March 10 & 11 at eater Carre New version of the successful musical of 1999 about Edith Piaf, her music and her dramatic life. With all her greatest hits including 'Non, je ne regrette rien' and 'La Vie en Rose'.
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OPERA I Puritani February 17 to March 1 at Muziektheater
Coloured Images Until February 22 at Jewish Historical Museum In 1926 and 1931 the grain dealer Arie Speelman (1880-1964) and his wife Anne Christine Speelman-van Vliet (1886-1967) took two trips to Palestine. During these trips they visited the photo shop at the American Colony (a religious community of American Christians), where they bought more than a thousand lantern slides of the Holy Land... is unique exhibition features reproductions of fiy highlights from this collection, plus fiy more displayed in a slide show. Van Gogh And e Colours Of e Night roughout Spring at Van Gogh Museum at dusk is devoid of colour is a common misconception, and the Van Gogh And e Colours Of e Night exhibition proves
e story is set in the mid 17th century. e civil war between the puritans and the supporters if Stuart is raging. Elvira, daughter of the puritan governor is in love with Aturo - a Stuart adept - who is sentenced to death for treason.
EXHIBITIONS Fritz Behrendt: Wartime drawings roughout Spring at Resistance Museum Fritz Behrendt was born in 1925 in Berlin. He and his family fled to the Netherlands in 1937. His drawings were political from the start. Near the end of the war, he got arrested for his work with the resistance. Aer the war, he built a sizeable career as a political cartoonist for several newspapers
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otherwise. Held at Amsterdam's Van Gogh Museum, it is definitely worth seeing. e Passion Of A Businessman. April 10 to Sept. 20 at Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam merchant Andries Bonger (18611936) met eo van Gogh in Paris. eo introduced him to French modern art. Aer his return to the Netherlands, Bonger took up collecting art, especially work by befriended artists like Odilon Redon (1840-1916) and Emile Bernard (1868-1941).
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what’s happening COMEDY Hole In e Boat Every Sunday at Comedy Café e Comedy Café on Max Euweplein present the hilarious English spoken improvised comedy chow which has been gaining rave reviews. e two-man show is based upon suggestions from the audience. It’s sometimes almost serious, almost always hilarious and extremely versatile. Definitely worth seeing. Wednesdays from Feb 18 to March 25 at Toomler Open Podium An evening full of daredevils who want to perform as a stand-up comedian just once or their whole lives. And of course the Comedytrain comedians will also be there to try out their latest fabrications
CONCERTS Kings Of Leon Saturday 21 February at Heineken Music Hall One of the hottest acts around at the moment and their latest hit ‘e Sex Is On Fire; has made them even more popular. Symarip February 21 at Melkweg Legendary British ska/reggae band of the sixties. e band is known as one of the original skinhead bands, before the term received a negative political connotation. e Datsuns Sunday 22 February at Melkweg Young New Zealand retro rock outfit follow into the footsteps of AC/DC and take it one step further. e Datsuns easily fit in with the
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likes of White Stripes, e Strokes and e Hives. Sisters Of Death Tuesday 24 February at Paradiso English band, formed in 1980, was a frontrunner of the gothic scene. A controversial group, who have changed line ups many times. Zita Swoon Friday 27 February at Meervaart Flemish band with singer and guitar player Stef Kamil Carlens. Capacocha Friday 27 February at Pacific Park Trashy guitars, funky grooving bass, cheesy organs, danceable electro-beats and screaming vocals make for a pumping set of electrorock&roll. e Rasmus Saturday 28 February a Melkweg Alternative rock from Finland. e have been causing a stir in Scandanavia and look certain to be popular in the Dam. e Australian Pink Floyd Show Sunday 1 March at Heineken Music Hall is tribute band came about in 1988 and they will perform the rock opera e Wall live for the first time in 25 years. Eagles of Death Metal March 2 at Paradiso Eagles of Death Metal take their rocking concoction of metronomic beats, fuzz guitars and bubblegum vocals on tour.
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John Legend Wed 4 & urs 5 March at Heineken Music Hall e extremely popular Neo soul singer and pianist takes to the stage at the Heineken Music Hall for two nights. e Prodigy Wednesday 4 March at Paradiso British electro dance act from Essex. Known for their stage show and punk attitude they also have fans among the rock crowd. Elycian Fields Monday 9 March at Paradiso Amercian rock outfit started in 1995, Hailing from New York city, they have a huge European fan-base and this is certain to be a popular gig. White Lies Tuesday 10 March at Melkweg is London trio with their new wave style take to the stage at e Melkweg. e Killers ursday 12 March at Heineken Music Hall
girls can dance to'. e new album 'You Could Have It So Much Better' is released on 3 October. Grace Jones ursday 19 March at Paradiso e ever-controversial Grace Jones, brings her Hurricane Tour to Amsterdam. Judas Priest Monday 23 March at Heineken Music Hall e legendary rocker is sure to be a popular attraction when he takes to the stage at the Heineken Music Hall in March. Mary Black Monday 6 April at eater Carre e legendary Irish songstress will perform some of her best loved hits at the Royal eater Carre. Bob Dylan Fri. 10 to Sun. 12 April at Heineken Music Hall One of the biggest gigs of Amsterdam’s concert year. Dylan’s in twon and no doubt tickets will be like hot-cakes. Simply Red Tue. 21 & Wed. 22 April at Heineken Music Hall e legendary British band will be belting out hots from the past as well as some new material when they perform at the Heineken Music Hall for two days.
Are they human or are they dancers? Find out at the Heineken Music Hall as this New wave rock band from Las Vegas with a British sound take to the stage. Franz Ferdinand Friday 13 March at Paradiso Scottish rock quartet that makes 'records that
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London Calling ur. 30 April and Friday 1 May at Paradiso Various well-known and up-and-coming alternative dance- and guitar bands from Great Britain.
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seeing & doing
msterdam’s attractions are famed and admired all over the world and it’s easy to understand why aer you sample the delights the city has to offer. e arrival of spring also breathes new life into the city, as many of the attractions which were closed or lacked energy during the winter months rediscover their vibrancy. In other parts of the magazine, we have gone into detail about attractions such as the Red Light District, the clubbing scene, cafes and bars and where to dine and in this section, we look at some of the other reasons for adding thrills and spills to your visit. In recent years, the biggest tourist attraction has been canal cruising and various different companies offer various different cruises along the city’s famed waterways. We recommend the cruises offer by the Blue Boat Company and you can read more about them in this section of our magazine.
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ere are also of course the infamous museums and a visit to some of the big ones like Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are highly recommended as are the Torture Museum and the Sex Museum which offer something a little bit different but are equally entertaining. Art is also popular in the city and if you fancy taking home an extra special memory of your visit, you should pop along to the Mark Raven art shop where you can find wonderful paintings of Amsterdam and other special souvenirs. Other attractions like the Artis Zoo, e Comedy Café, e Ajax Stadium Tour, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the recently re-opened Heineken Experience, bicycle rental and trips to the various theatres ensure that no matter what time of day it is, there will be something to see and do in Amsterdam.
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D R I N K S A CADEMY
WAX WONDERS
House Of Bols
Madame Tussauds
Paulus Potterstraat 14 One of the city’s newest attractions, 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 cocktail-making. 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!
Dam Square 20. T. 020 5221010 e Madame Tussauds gallery is situated on the corner 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 sportsstars are on display.
A N I M A L A T TRACTION
STREET FUN
Artis Amsterdam Zoo
Amsterdam Street Entertainers
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40. T. 020 5233400 Said to be the oldest zoo on the continent, Artis was founded in 1838 and 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. You can also quench your thirst for knowledge at the zoo’s Planetarium, or by visiting its many museums and smaller exhibitions. Open every day.
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e spring season marks the return of the city’s best street entertainers. Some people get pestered by their presence, but most find them amusing and entertaining. Many of the acts are very good and some of them go on to bigger and better things in the future. e best entertainers can be found on Dam Square, Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein and if they do impress you, give them a Euro or two.
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seeing & doing Blue Boat Company A visit to Amsterdam is not complete without a canal cruise! here’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 their boats have an open deck, so guests can enjoy the canal views in the open air and it’s an absolute delight when the weather is fine. Weather permitting, the sliding roof on the boat can also be opened, Eight of their boats are fitted with a wheelchair
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li. If you would like to use this facility, please mention it when booking! All the boats are also 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. All the boats are equipped with the following facilities: Outside deck, glass roof (can be opened up to 50%), toilet, kitchenette, CDplayer and Mp3 playing facilities, power (16 kw), computerised audio system 913 languages), microphone and central heating. 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.
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seeing & doing B E A BEER
AMAZING ARENA
Heineken Experience
e World Of Ajax
Stadhouderskade 78. T. 020 5239222 Heineken Experience is back! One of Amsterdam’s best loved attractions was closed for a long period due to renovations, but the wait seems to have been worthwhile as Heineken Experience is now bigger and better than it ever was before. Discover the art of brewing beer, learn about the legendary Heineken family, find out what it is like to be a bottle of beer and check out the new “Brew You” ride.
Arena Boulevard 1. T. 020 3111336 Sampling e World Of Ajax exhibition and the tour f the Amsterdam Arena 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. You will need to take the Metro or a taxi.
S P IN TO WIN
SPIRIT OF VODKA
Holland Casino Max Euweplein 62. T. 020 5211111 Holland Casino, which is situated just off Leidseplein is housed in a huge building which stands out among almost all others in the city, thanks to it's size, shape, splendour and location at the edge of one of the city's main canals. Games such as roulette, blackjack and poker can all be played and they also have a huge selection of slot machines. e first floor is also home to the casino's magnificent restaurant and the venue also hosts various live entertainment performances.
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Vodka Museum Damrak 33. T. 020 5286035 e three-storey Vodka Museum which is housed in one of the oldest buildings on the famous Damrak Street offers a collection of more than 500 vodkas. Visitors can also enjoy a vodka-movie and they are also invited to make their own movie. You will also receive a free gi to mark your visit and you can also purchase some samples of the famous drink in the Vodka Museum shop. e museum also houses an excellent Dutch souvenir shop.
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the case during medieval times and Amsterdam's Torture Museum offers hard proof of this through the various weapons and instruments of torture on display. e methods used to punish adulterating males and females are particularly interesting and you can almost feel the pain just by seeing and touching the various instruments, which include the Torture Chair, the guillotine and the rack to name a few. e museum also offers detailed explanations in six different languages Singel 449. T. 020 3206642 about the different instruments and methods of torture which were used in medieval days. Amsterdam is famed for it's vast array of museums. Some are both fascinating and e décor and lay-out of the two octagonal educational, but many are truly boring and rooms adds to the sense of eeriness you provide as much stimulation as watching paint experience during a walk through the museum dry. e Torture Museum at Singel 449 falls into and allows your mind to further adjust to the fear the first category and is really worth a visit. that the victims of the various tortures must have experienced all those years ago. e museum is Nowadays, crimes and sins such as adultery and open daily from 10.00am to 11.00 pm. petty the can go by unpunished, but that wasn't
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seeing & doing M O VIE MAGIC
FLOATING FLOWERS
Pathe Cinemas
Floating Flower Market
Various Locations Movie lovers won’t be disappointed in Amsterdam, as all movies are broadcast in English with Dutch subtitles. Pathé is the major cinema company and two of their most popular multiscreen theatres are Tuschinski (Reguliersbreestraat 26-34) and De Munt (Vijzelstraat 15), both of which can be found nearby Rembrandtplein. Tuschinski is a huge Art Deco cinema palace while Pathe De Munt has 12 screens and is one of the newest multiplexes in Amsterdam.
e floating flower market is the only one of its kind in the world and is also one of the most colourful 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 find the best tulip bulbs to take back home.
D I A M OND DELIGHTS
GO WITH THE WIND
Amsterdam’s illustrious history as a city of diamonds dates back to the Dutch West India Company at the end of the 15th century. ere are about a dozen diamond factories in the city, many of which offer guided tours. Diamonds aren't necessarily cheaper in Amsterdam but prices are fairly competitive. e best factories and exhibitors are Gassan Diamonds (Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 173175. Tel.: 020-6225333) and Coster Diamonds (Paulus Potterstraat 2-4. Tel.: 020305.55.55).
Such is the importance of these living monuments that there is even a National Windmill Day (11 May) in Holland. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t even have to leave Amsterdam to see a windmill. ere are in fact 8 windmills in Amsterdam, but you can only visit two, which are:De Otter which can be found on Gillis van Ledenberchstraat 78 and Sloten Windmill, which is located on the outskirts of the city at Akersluis 10.
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F A M O U S DIARY
MUSEUMS
Anne Frank House
Rijksmuseum
Prinsengracht 267. T. 020 5567105 e hiding place where Anne Frank hid with her family and wrote her diary during the Second World War. e Secret Annex has been preserved in its authentic state. e front part of the building and the offices where the helpers worked have been restored to the style of the war years. Quotations from the diary, photographs, films and original objects all serve to illustrate the events that occurred at this location. Anne's original diary is also on display.
Jan Luijkenstraat 1. T. 020 6747000 e national museum of the Netherlands has undergone major refurbishment over the past years and most of it has been completed and the attraction is now even better than it was before. Discover artifacts from the Dutch Golden Age, such as the wonderful dolls' houses, a treasuretrove of silver, the most beautiful Delware, magnificent militia paintings, icons from Dutch history, and of course many famous paintings with Rembrandt’s Night Watch as the highlight.
V I S I T V I NCENT
NEMO
Van Gogh Museum Paulus Potterstraat 7. T. 020 5705243 One of Amsterdam’s most popular museums, e Van Gogh Museum holds the largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh in the world. 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 19th-century art.
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Nemo Oosterdok 2. T. 020 5313233 e biggest science center in e Netherlands. Here you can discover the wonderful world of science and technology in an entertaining way. NEMO covers a wide range of scientific and technological subjects and is hugely enjoyable for adults and kids. e museum creates interactive exhibitions which fire the imagination, by developing educational products, projects and games, and by making programmes such as lectures, demo's and workshops.
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amsterdam in sugge
Artist Mark Raven’s Reflections On His Home Town’s Atmosphere sterdam’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. e 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
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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
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gestive lines capital into almost calligraphic symbols, he is able to capture 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. UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE Aer 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. DEVELOPMENT It was from his detailed, figurative style that Mark later developed the unique play
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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. 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.´ TWO LOCATIONS Mark Raven’s work can be seen in his shop at the Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 174, just behind the Roval 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. No doubt Mark will have created some extra special works to reflect how beautiful Amsterdam can be in springtime. In association with:
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food for thought
ith around 800 different restaurants to choose from, there is no risk of going hungry in Amsterdam and with so much variety and so many different national cuisines available, there is something to cater for everyone’s taste. Dutch national dishes tend to be ungarnished, hearty, and wholesome, in short – nothing too fancy, but hey you are in Holland, so maybe you should sample some of the local culinary delights and there are plenty of traditional Dutch restaurants to choose from. Seafood, as you might imagine in this traditionally seafaring country, is a big deal, and there are various good seafood restaurants in the city. e cuisines from
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Asia and the Far East are also popular and you will no doubt notice the vast number of Indonesian, ai and Oriental restaurants in the city, some of which are extremely good and some of which fall short of the mark. Other international cuisines you can find in the city include: Italian, French, Japanese, Greek, Argentinian, Indian, Spanish, Turkish and Chinese and you can even find Moroccan, Ethiopian, Iranian restaurants. In this section of the magazine, we take a look at some of our favourite eating establishments, all of which vary in price and stature, but all of which have some kind of appeal.
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T R A D I T I O N AL DUTCH
MEXICAN
Haesje Claes
Los Pilones
Spuistraat 273-275. T. 020 6249998 Haesje Claes is situated in the historical centre of Amsterdam across from the Amsterdam Historical Museum. Founded in 1974 it comprised of only one building, but now extends over six different, interconnected buildings. e restaurant has long held a tradition of being Amsterdam’s finest when it comes to traditional Dutch cuisine. It’s an absolute must for foreign visitors.
Eerste Anjeliersdwarsstraat 6. T. 020 6200323 e second Los Pilones restaurant has just opened in De Jordaan area and its proving to be just as good as the sister-restaurant at Kerkstraat 63. Both places are run by Hector and Pedro, two Mexican brothers who take pride in their country’s culinary heritage. e food is great, as is the service. Los Pilones will raise your standards so high that you won’t settle for fake Mexican stuff again.
I N D O N ESIAN
JAPANESE
Sahid Jaya
Kobe House
Reguliersdwarsstraat 26. T. 020 6263727 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 can not be missed. e ambience, the décor and the food combined with a wonderful atmosphere make Sahid Jaya a must. It’s also possible to have dinner or enjoy lunch in their beautiful and unique Amsterdam courtyard.
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 77 T. 020 622 64 58 is place takes sushi and sashimi very seriously and you will struggle to find a better Japanese restaurant. e friendly and efficient staff will be pleased to serve you a wide variety of Japanese treats in a wonderful setting. Choose between a number of set menus, or assemble your meal a la carte. ey also offer a number of excellent tepan menus. Kobe house uses only the freshest and best ingredients, so why not enjoy a taste of Japan.
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food for thought pleasant lighting totally fitting the space. Visitors can enjoy an excellent lunch or a delicious dinner from the Argentine/Spanish tinted kitchen and weather permitting, you can also enjoy your meal from the waterside terrace. Genuine steakhouse dishes such as a T-bone or a top quality Rib eye are recommended and you can also select from a more refined selection, such as prawns in white wine sauce and various other fish dishes and tempting salads e wine card includes a number of wellselected wines which form a fine combination with the meals. Oudebrugsteeg 16. T. 020 4232424 e service is friendly and helpful and with the Grasshopper bars and coffeeshop just Steakhouse Evita is located on the second floor of downstairs, a visit to Evita can turn into a truly the famous Grasshopper building, a stately enjoyable evening and night. monumental premises which can be found close to e kichen is open everyday from 1pm to 11pm. the Damrak Street in the heart of Old Amsterdam. Lunch is served until 3pm and included on the e venue offers a splendid view over the city with lunch menu are treats such as Italian rolls, toasties, all its hustle and bustle and the restaurant itself omelettes, chicken sate and some excellent burgers. boasts a warm and relaxed atmosphere with
Steakhouse Evita
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of freshly grilled Argentinean meats from the charcoal grill. e spare ribs and the fillet steak have tickled our tastebuds on many occasions and they will do so again in the near future. As well as the wonderful meaty treats, La Boca also offer some excellent fish dishes and their tapas courses are also pleasing on the taste buds. e service inside the restaurant is top class as the friendly staff go out of their way to make sure your every Paleisstraat 15. T. 020 4235200 need is catered for. e latin music adds that Southere are countless Argentinean steakhouses American touch to the place and they have also throughout the city, but unfortunately quantity been known to hold some Karaoke sessions does not equal quality and many fall short of when the eating is finished and the party is what a steakhouse actually should be. One getting started. exception is Restaurant La Boca, which can be La Boca opens daily from midday to midnight found close to the Royal Palace on Paleisstraat. and is a definite must for steak-lovers. La Boca offer their customers an excellent range
La Boca
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food for thought THAI
INTERNATIONAL
Butterfly ai Café
Restaurant Dubbel
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 160. T. 020 6232064 Located in Amsterdam’s oldest neighbourhood, the Butterfly ai Cafe offers a setting filled with charm and intrigue and a menu which boasts delicious home-made ai cuisine. e intimate and attractive venue provides a relaxed, yet entertaining atmosphere and the food is exceptional. Aer dinner, the Café transforms into one of the city’s most entertaining bars and attracts an extremely cosmopolitan crowd.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 80. T. 020 6200909 An unexpected cosy restaurant in the centre of Amsterdam, just two minutes walk from Leidseplein. A typical Amsterdam “Eetcafé”, highly appreciated by locals. Daily fresh fish, meat and vegetarian dishes, including the daily changing “Hollandse Pot” (typical Dutch Food). Specially famous for it’s spareribs, Beef-steaks and the favourite of many returning clients: cheese-fondue with sundried tomatoes. A warm atmosphere with local prices.
INDIAN
ITALIAN
Restaurant Shiva
Isola Bella
Reguliersdwarsstraat 72. T. 020 6248713 Quite simply the finest Indian Restaurant we have encountered in Amsterdam. Everything about Shiva is pleasing, but the one thing that separates it from the others is the food – quite exceptional. All the Indian classics are on offer and they are cooked to perfection, but we just can’t stay away from the amazing e Mulligatawny soup followed by the tantalising Chicken Madras.
orbeckeplein 7. T. 020 6269582 For good Italian cuisine, try the attractive Isola Bella restaurant which can be found just off the famous Rembrandtplein on orbeckeplein. At Isola Bella you can choose from the finest Italian cuisine created from the freshest ingredients. e venue itself boasts a stunning Latin-style interior and there is also a large and comfortable outdoor terrace.
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food for thought ITALIAN
ITALIAN
Ristorante Pinocchio
Ristorante Sette Bello
Rembrandtplein 22. T. 020 6221759 Ristorante Pinocchio on Rembrandt Square is fast becoming a hit with many visitors to the city and the reasons are quite simple, because at Pinocchio, you are guaranteed quality Italian cuisine at extremely competitive prices. Visitors can choose from an impressive menu of Italian dishes and the pizzas are widely regarded to be among the best you will find in Amsterdam. Open from 11.0am until 1.0am and at weekends, they stay open until 3.0am.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 89. T. 020 6265976 A wonderful little Italian Restaurant which can be found just off Leidseplein. e homemade pastas (we love the penne arabiata) are fantastic, as are the pizzas and we also recommend some of the cold starters because we have still not found a better carpaccio in the city. To top things off, the atmosphere is friendly and warm, the service is excellent and the prices more than reasonable.
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G R EEK
TASTY TREATS
Mykonos
Café Proust
Lange Leidsedwarsstraat 45. T. 020 6223759
Noordermarkt 4. T. 020 6239145 Situated in the picturesque Jordaan area, Proust is the perfect venue for lunch or dinner. ey offer a good selection of salads, pastas and meat dishes at extremely reasonable prices. When dinner is over, Proust transforms into a bar which is extremely entertaining and very popular with younger people. e small terrace also allows you to enjoy the view on the Noordermarkt from their small terrace.
If traditional Greek food is what you are aer, then Restaurant Mykonos is the place to go. e thing that separates Mykonos from similar restaurants in the city is quite simply the quality of their food and the competitiveness of their prices. e food is cooked by Greeks and the service is also provided by Greeks and those who fancy a little bit of Armenian cuisine will also be happy as the owner hails from Armenia and also offer some of his countries specialities. And trust us, the fish dishes are fantastic.
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bar scene
ith about 1,500 different cafes and bars to choose from, there is no excuse for being thirsty in Amsterdam and they can be found on just about every street, corner or canal and all of them offer something different. Dutch drinks, rather than food, have played a much more important role on a global scale as a consequence of the importance given to beer and its brewing over the centuries. In the early 18th century there were over seven hundred breweries in e Netherlands, although today there are only twenty-five. Heineken is the most famous of the Dutch beers, and brands such as Amstel, Brandt, Breda, Grolsch, Oranjeboom and Skol are also brewed in Holland, so it can be a beer lover’s paradise. No doubt you will also notice that the locals like their beer in small glasses and with a hey helping of foam. ey say it keeps the beer fresher and although it may seem strange to many visitors, they do have a point, so try the foamy small beers before you judge.
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To start with, there are the traditional brown cafes, which are always worth visiting, particularly the ones which host outdoor terraces during fine days. e city also plays host to a vast range of theme bars (everything from Irish pubs to sports bars and Australian hang-outs to cocktail bars) and there also some wonderful Grand Cafes and a fine range of hostelries for those who like things a little more chic and trendy. e average opening hours are from 11.00am to 1.00am during the week and many stay open until 3am at weekends, especially in areas such as Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, Dam Square. e Nieuwmarkt and e Red Light District. NOTE: Since July 1st, smoking in public places is no longer allowed, so if you fancy a cigarette with your beer, make sure you find a bar which provides a smoking area. Most of the big venues have them.
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e Return Of e Terrace Springime in Amsterdam. Warmer temperature, blooming tulips, Greener trees, and the return of the city’s famous outdoor terraces. Most of the outdoor tables and chairs were locked safely away during winter, but they make their return in early March and if recent spring weather temperatures are anything to go by, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to sip their drink outside and enjoy the vibrancy of Amsterdam. Places like Rembrandtplein, De Jordaan, Leidseplein and Dam Square just don’t look the same when the outdoor drinking and dining facilities are taken away and there is
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always a great sense of anticipation when they return. In one way, the outdoor terraces signal the start of the tourist season for many owners. ey will also provide some welcome relief for smokers, who for the past few months have had to endure the rain and cold while puffing their cigarette or joint outside. e city’s famous street entertainers also share the relief, as many of them pack up their bags during winter before returning in March with new and more entertaining repertoires. Many of the bigger bars and restaurants offer terraces with heating facilities, meaning you can enjoy a drink outside no matter what the weather conditions. Some of the best outdoor terraces have been listed in the cafes and bars section which follows this story, so take a close look to find the terrace which suits you best…..Cheers !!
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bar scene
Hard Rock Cafe is centrally located in the heart of Amsterdam, easily accessible by public transport. e cafe is on a canal and has canalviews in the restaurant, a bar and terrace on the water and also a covered terrace.
Rock 'n' roll is Hard Rock’s heritage with great music, videos and a huge collection of memorabilia from artists from the past and today. Hard Rock Amsterdam has guitars from Van Halen and Jimi Hendrix and collectables from Bob Marley, Lenny Kravitz and more. Combined with friendly service and terrific food, Hard Rock is a place you'll never forget. Hard Rock Cafe started in 1971 with just burgers and shakes on the menu. Today, in addition to the best hamburgers in town, Hard Rock also offers classic American cooking with delicious appetizers, sandwiches, entrees and mouth-watering desserts. e full bar and specialty cocktails are not to be missed. e Hard Rock T-shirt is the best-selling Tshirt in the whole world, and Hard Rock has made a name for itself with artist-designed Tees, collectable fashion and unforgettable souvenirs. e Amsterdam T-shirts, hats, pins and glassware are sold exclusively in the Amsterdam Rock Shop.
C OCKTAILS
COCKTAILS
Amsterdam’s Hard Rock Cafe Max Euweplein 57-61. T. 020-523 ROCK
Feijoa
Bar Bep
Vijzelstraat 39. T. 06 53726137 Situated close to Rembrandtplein on a corner of the Vijzelstraat Street, the stylish cocktail bar called Feijoa has been earning rave reviews in recent times. e cocktails are as good as you will find anywhere and are all created with unique and fresh ingredients. e service is among the friendliest and most helpful we have ever encountered, while the chic and stylish venue adds even more positives to Feijoa.
NZ Voorburgwal 260. T. 020 6265649 Bep attracts a crowd of young and hip creatives and media types and among other things, they offer some of the finest cocktails you will find in the city. All the usual favourites can be enjoyed, as well as some you may not have heard of. e service is generally very good and the same can be said of the atmosphere. Bep also offers a good food menu at very reasonable prices.
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bar scene Café Lust
You Will Keep Coming Back for More
Cornelis Trooststraat 49. T. 020 6716027
ou know what it’s like. You visit a foreign city and at some stage you long for the feelings of having that bar which is like a home away from home. Unfortunately, Amsterdam does not offer many places which have the solution, but one
Y
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exception is Café Lust in the Pijp area of the city. Any time of day, you will receive a warm welcome from Remco or Daphne before settling down to enjoy the various attractions the bar has to offer. One of our favourites is the weekly Tuesday night Murphy’s Table Quiz, which is played amongst the locals and visitors alike and don’t worry about the language barrier, because they can accommodate by asking the questions in English as well. On Saturday’s the venue plays host to live music and make sure you bring your instrument with you for the jam sessions which always go down a treat. DJs are also a regular attraction at weekends. Café Lust also boasts an excellent food menu. e traditional Dutch stampoot is as good as you will find anywhere and their burgers have also tickled our taste buds on many occasions. e café is open from 11am until 1am from Sunday to ursday and until 3am at weekends.
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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. e Hoopman is attached to two equally entertaining venues which are under the same ownership – Reijnders and e Hole In e Wall and together, the three Leidseplein 4. T. 020 6381408 venues provide one of Amsterdam’s best outdoor terraces in the heart of Leidseplein. he Hoopman Irish Pub is situated at the corner of Leidseplein and has all All three bars boast extensive and mouththe trimmings you would expect from watering food menus and they also offer a a city centre Irish bar, as it is busy all day and all quality Irish breakfast and a superb roast dinner year round. You're never short of good company every Sunday. is is also one of the best places at e Hoopman and when you mix that with a to go to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March wholesome selection of Irish beers and 17th.
Hoopman Irish Pub
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bar scene visitors and it’s popularity shows no signs of wilting. e attractive venue offers a laidback yet enjoyable atmosphere and as you would expect from an Irish pub, the service is very good. As well as an impressive drinks menu, e Aran also offers a firstrate food menu, which includes treats such as fish and chips and cottage pie, and they also offer an excellent range of soups, sandwiches snacks. Before we forget, their Max Euweplein 73. T. 020 6220416 and Irish breakfast is one of the finest you will find in Amsterdam. It odern Irish flair – that’s what you includes all the trimmings which the others can expect to find at the excellent oen forget and is excellently priced. Aran Irish Pub, which can be found One of the biggest perks of e Aran is the close to Leidseplein on the attractive Max stunning outdoor terrace which overlooks one Euweplein (directly beside Holland Casino and of the city’s most picturesque canals and Hard Rock Café). e venue is almost Amsterdam’s biggest park, Vondel Park. It truly unmissable due to its noticeable cubic shape. is a joy to behold when the weather is fine. e Aran is a big favourite among locals and
Aran Irish Pub
M
I R ISH PUBS
IRISH PUBS
O’Reilly’s
St. James Gate
Paleisstraat 103-105. T. 020 6249498 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 excellent reputation. e staff treat you as they would expect to be treated and few other venues display such hospitality. e food menu is also excellent and it is also a landmark pub to watch the best live sporting action.
Rembrandtplein 8-10. T. 020 4226886 Named aer the famous brewery in Dublin where Guinness is brewed, St. James's Gate is a spacious and attractive venue, which prides itself on quality beverages, good food, an excellent atmosphere and most importantly, friendly service. St. James Gate also provide one of the best outdoor terraces in the city and there is no need to worry if it gets a little bit chilly, because all the parasols are fitted with electric heating systems. ey also offer a smoking room.
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bar scene M U L T I -FUNCTIONAL
MULTI-FUNCTIONAL
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Bulldog Palace
Oudebrugsteeg 16. T. 020 6261259 Famed throughout Holland and Europe, the Grasshopper venues offers three-in-one entertainment and is definitely worth a visit. On the ground floor, you can relax and have a drink or a bite to eat on their terrace, while the first two floor hosts their sports bar and Grand Café. On the third floor, you can find the Evita Steakhouse. In fact, you could say it is four-in-one, because the coffeeshop is located at basement level.
Leidseplein 13-17 e Bulldog Palace is one of the biggest bars in the city. Karaoke Nights, professional dance acts, an in-house DJ, internet facilities, pool tables, a souvenir shop, a coffeeshop, a state of the art smoking room - the list goes on and on. Refurbishments during January and February made the venue even better and they have also introduced a better food menu.
I N T E RNATIONAL
THEME BARS
Susie’s Saloon
Coco’s Outback
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 254. T. 020 6390995 A hugely popular venue among tourists and locals alike, Susie’s Saloon can be found towards the Dam Square end of Oudezijds Voorburgwal. e venue’s perks include internet connection, pool tables a darts board and access to all the Satellite TV stations which also make it the perfect place to watch the sporting action of your choice.Susi’e was also one of the first bars to introduce a Smoking Room for those who need a ciggy with their beer.
orbeckeplein 8-12. T. 020-6272423 Australian theme bar, Coco’s Outback is extremely popular among the tourists and is one of the better places to go for good beer, good sports coverage and nourishing, yet inexpensive tucker. ey offer a huge selection of beers including most of the brands from Down Under and other perks include a pool table, special theme nights and the enlistment of DJs during many weekends.
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B A R S W I T H A VIEW
BARS WITH A VIEW
Heineken Hoek
Old Sailor
Kleine Gartmanplantsoen 1-3. T. 020 6230700 One of the city’s most famous and most loved Grand Cafes can be found on one of the corners of Leidseplein and is impossible to miss due to its size and splendour. For many years, Heineken Hoek has offered the perfect setting for a relaxation during morning, aernoon and night. e venue boasts a fantastic outdoor terrace and stunning views onto bustling Leidseplein.
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 39A. T. 020 6247739 e Old Sailor can be found in the very centre of the Red Light District amidst the live sex shows and the window ladies. e atmosphere is always vibrant inside the Old Sailor as revelers are invited to choose from a wide range of beers and spirits in a setting which is decorated with naval memorabilia. However, the biggest perk is the onto the main thoroughfare of the district including the famous window ladies.
C H I C & TRENDY
LOUNGE
Bar Ca
Bar Lux
Marie Heinekenplein 30-3. T, 020 4704144 Located on Marie Heinekenplein in De Pijp area of the city, this hip yet elegant restaurantbar with its warm and stunning interior is rapidly making an impact on the Amsterdam nightlife scene. 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.
Marnixstraat 403. T. 020 4221412 Situated just off Leidseplein, Lux is a relaxed lounge-bar, which is extremely popular among locals and visitors alike. Among other things, the venue offers comfortable white-cushioned seats and a DJ on the upper level who lazily spins great music. e friendly atmosphere and open seating makes it easy to meet new people and make new friends. e drinks menu is varied and impressive and the service is good.
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bar scene café are quite eye-catching as Excalibur looks out onto many of the Red Light window ladies. Inside, the Knight meets the Biker and you will no doubt be taken aback by the King Arthur style memorabilia, as well as various fascinating motorcycling objects. As mentioned, the theme is also heard rock, so expect to hear some of your favourite groups from the 70s and 80s, blasting from the excellent sound system. Other perks of the bar include pool on the top floor an excellent 6268353 tables drinks selection and Sky Sports television. e service in Excalibur is also excellent and the staff will go out their way to make sure your visit is pleasant. Unlike many other places, they also don’t mind starting up a conversation. Summing up, a great place to go while you enjoy the other delights of the Red Light District.
Excalibur Café
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 48. T. 020 fyou like your rock music played the hard way and you also have a fondness for motorcycles, then Excalibur is a must-go venue. Located in the heart of e Red Light District on Oudezijds Achterburgwal Street, the first thing you may notice is that the views from the
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Five Bells Sports Bar & Grill Nieuwezijds Kolk 15-17. T. 020 6386088 ne of the newest bars in the city, e Five Bells Sports Bar and Grill is proving to be a huge addition to the Amsterdam entertainment scene and its popularity has grown substantially in recent months. Its central location at Nieuwezijds
O
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Kolk (between Central Station and Dam Square) makes it easily accessible and once you get there, you are certain to be enthralled by an excellent atmosphere, a stunning interior, friendly service and even friendlier prices. All the big matches can be viewed via a big screen and several other monitors and their advanced technology means you can view different games at the same time. eir food menu is also impressive as visitors can enjoy a quality English breakfast. And for lunch and dinner you can enjoy some of their delights from
the grill. Other attractions include a pool table and a huge selection of drinks. ey also accept reservations for big groups and Five Bells is always a great place to go to enjoy the Queen’s Day celebrations.
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bar scene G R AND CAFES
GRAND CAFES
Café De Kroon
Café L’Opera
Rembrandtplein 17. T. 020 6252011 Grand Café De Kroon is definitely among the finest grand cafes in the city and it’s reputation exceeds itself. Whether it's for morning coffee, aernoon lunch, a graceful evening dinner or just drinks, De Kroon never disappoints It is also the perfect place for that all-important business meeting for and an added bonus is that the food menu is impressive and will delight your taste buds any time of day.
Rembrandtplein 27-29. T. 020 6204754 Located on one of the corners of Rembrandtplein, the first thing that will impress you in Café L’Opera is the stunning Art Nouveau interior. e atmosphere is normally laid back and relaxed and makes L’Opera one of the ideal locations for a business meeting. e service is friendly and helpful and it is also the perfect place to get warmed up before tackling some of the busier nightspots in the area.
P ARTY-TIME
PARTY-TIME
Cooldown Café
Café Amsterdamned
Lange Leidsedwarsstraat 16. T. 020 4212284 One of the city’s most famous party bars, e Cooldown Café close to Leidseplein has been putting a smile on the faces of Amsterdam visitors for many years. e venue offers everything you could hope for from a party café thanks to it’s electric atmosphere and excellent selection of tunes which cover everything from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and today. e café opens until 4am during the week and until 5 am at weekends.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 24a. T. 020 4213353 Located directly beside Leidseplein, Café Amsterdamned has been one of the most popular dance/party bars in the city for many years and its popularity shows no signs of decreasing. e atmosphere is always hot and the service is always friendly and helpful. And few other bars give as many special offers. e music varies from 70s and 80s to R & B and from dance and hip-hop to the latest chart hits.
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D A NCE
DANCE
Café e News
Club JV
Korte Leidsedwarstraat 77 It’s only good news inside this party-café which is one of the most entertaining late night discoparty bars in the city. e headlines just got even bigger as recent refurbishments have improved the venue even more. It is located just off Leidseplein and the atmosphere is always vibrant as revelers are invited to dance the night away to a varied selection of tunes which range from 70s & 80s to dance music and modern day hits. An added bonus is that the service is excellent both from the staff and the doormen.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 108-114. T. 020 6272710 Club JV is one of the biggest of the many party bars in the Rembrandtplein area and is one of the newest and most happening clubs in the city. At weekends, Club JV comes to life as party people get down to all the latest tunes. Keep an eye out for their special theme nights and aer parties. To find out exactly what party tickles your fancy, it is worth checking the posters on the exterior of the building.
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liberal amsterdam
Amsterdam’s Smoking & Seeds Scene he Dutch have an attitude of tolerance dating back to the 16th century when they forced out the Spanish and their inquisition. Since then, they have chosen not to make an outrage out of victimless crimes like prostitution, pornography, homosexuality and the use of so drugs, although the stance has been changing slightly in recent times. is permissiveness has resulted in Holland becoming a Mecca for those who wish to experience the freedom of the adult entertainment and cannabis cultures. e "coffeeshop" is a unique Dutch institution. For over 20 years, coffeeshops have operated and there are currently more than 300 in the
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city, where you can buy and smoke cannabis. However, the smoking ban which was enforced last July has an effect on the coffeeshop and so drugs scene, although many of the better shops have catered to customers’ needs by creating smoking rooms. More recently, the Government also introduced a rule which banned the selling of magic mushrooms. e owners of the various seeds shops in the cities are still fighting this law, but as yet, they have failed to have it overturned. In the following pages, we will introduce you to some of the best coffeeshops and seed banks the city has to offer.
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Rookies
More an Just A Coffeeshop eir name may suggest differently, but at Rookies Coffeeshop on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat you will find a highly professional and impressive establishment and equally professional and friendly service. e first thing you will notice upon entering the shop is their state of the art Smoking area, which is as big as you will find anywhere in the city and can seat up to 80 people – so there’s no need to worry about the No-smoking ban. e management of Rookies are also undertaking huge steps to teach their customers about the history and use of so drugs. ey do this though some knowledgeable TV presentations and also through printed material which can be viewed on the walls.
As mentioned, the staff are among the friendliest you will encounter in any Amsterdam coffeeshop and that makes a pleasant change, as many places don’t specialise in the art of good manners. During Springtime, the coffeeshop will also reopen their small outdoor terrace. As you would expect from such an exceptional venue, the actual produce they sell is also top of the range. Highly recommended.
C O F F E E SHOPS
COFFEESHOPS
Abraxas
Hunter’s Bar
Jonge Roelensteeg 12-14 Abraxas has long been regarded as one of Amsterdam's finest coffeeshops. Located on Jonge Roelensteeg, a small alleyway linking the main shopping street Kalverstraat with Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal, the shop offers a varied and quality smoker's menu as well as goodies like ready-to-smoke joints, space cakes and herbal beverages. e décor is mystical and magical and the atmosphere relaxed.
Warmoesstraat 24 Quite simply one of the city’s best coffeeshops and it has been for some time, thanks to the quality of the goods on offer and the stunning décor and excellent service. If you can’t chill at Hunters, you can’t chill anywhere. e venue also boasts an extensive drinks menu and snacks are also available, just in case you get the munchies. Internet access is also available in this excellent venue.
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liberal amsterdam C O FFEESHOPS
COFFEESHOPS
Dolphins
De Dampkring
Kerkstraat 39 Situated just off Leidseplein Dolphins is ideal for those looking for a warm, friendly and relaxed place to spend a lazy aernoon. Music is varying, but always relaxed and never too loud and Dolphoin’s is one of the few coffeeshops in town prepared for the laptopequipped visitor, thanks to their wi-fi internet access. Another bonus is that the staff are among the friendliest and most helpful you will find in the city.
Handboogstraat 29 e coffeeshop which featured in the Hollywood blockbuster ‚Ocean’s 12’, De Dampkring has long been regarded as one of Amsterdam’s elite coffeeshops, and it wasn’t just during filming that Brad Pitt and George Clooney visited because they are said to be quite regular visitors. Its the extraordinary décor which makes De Dampkring stand out from most others. e venue also includes a licensed alcohol bar.
C O FFEESHOPS
HASH MUSEUM
Stone’s Café
Hash Marihuana Museum
Warmoesstraat 91 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 boasts an extensive menu and very reasonable prices. Other perks include Sky Sports and all other major sports channels, and two pool tables. ey also serve some excellent pub grub and it’s a great breakfast.
Oudezijds Achterbirgwal 148 Anyone who comes to Amsterdam should take the opportunity to visit the unique Hash Marihuana Hemp Museum which provides everything you need, or could wish to know about the cannabis plant and it’s uses through the ages. e museum opened in 1985 and since then, more than a million people have visited the very impressive permanent exhibition. Its open from 11.0am to 10.0pm daily.
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Magic Mushroom Gallery s 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 the Magic 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 'so' 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. 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.
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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 both shops supply a wholesale service. Unfortunately because of a recent Government legislation, the sale of Magic Mushrooms is no longer permitted in Amsterdam. e law is being appealed and here’s hoping it will be lied in the near future. Nonetheless, the Magic Mushroom Gallery is still worth visiting for so many other reasons. 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 oen 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. e Spuistraat outlet opens from 11.0 to 22.0 daily while the smaller shop at Singel opens from 10.0 to 22.0 daily. 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 le, 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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liberal amsterdam
The Red Light District ocated in the area known as 'Wallen', e infamous Red Light District is probably Amsterdam’s biggest tourist attraction, but it has undergone major surgery in recent times, as some of the scantily clad ladies of the night have been replaced by designer label-clad mannequins as Amsterdam’s notorious Red Light District goes through a radical faceli. Some say it is the beginning of the end for the area, but the district is still one of the most liberal and vibrant places
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you will find anywhere. It dates back to the 13th century, making it one of the oldest parts of the city. Prostitution has always been rife in the area, but it wasn't until the 18th century that the window ladies appeared. At that time, Amsterdam's port was extremely busy and when the boats docked, sailors would walk to the area seeking intoxication and the ladies of the night. Much has changed since then and everyone has their own ideas and opinions about the area, but contrary to many reports, it isn't as
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sleazy or unsafe as most people imagine. 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. 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
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prostitutes are legal and most undergo regular health checks. 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. Remember, sex is business for these ladies, so be polite and courteous and also remember that taking photographs of the girls is forbidden. If you break this rule, your film or even your camera could be confiscated or even destroyed.
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liberal amsterdam S EX SHOW
BANANA BAR
eatre Casa Rosso
Banana Bar
OZ Achterburgwal 106-108. T. 020 6231834 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). ey present a series of live shows and erotic acts which will shock and surprise you. e programme starts at around 8pm and the entrance fee also includes free drinks.
OZ Achterburgwal 37. T. 020 6231834 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, which include a unique but very enjoyable face massage and also the consumption of a banana from a so and moist area of the lady’s body. A must for all those who are in the city for a bachelor party.
S T RIPTEASE
PRIVATE CLUBS
La Vie
Club LV
Bethlehemsteeg. T. 06 533 807 98 ankfully the striptease scene in Amsterdam has been revived thanks to the new look La Vie Club, which can be found close to the Warmoesstraat Street in the heart of the Red Light District. La Vie boasts an array of friendly beauties who bare all on an elongated bar. ey are also available for lap dances (at a great price) and you if you want to get up close and personal, you can offer them a drink.
Middenweg 144. T. 020 6636662 If you fancy something a little bit more upmarket and intimate, you could visit one of Amsterdam’s many private clubs (sex clubs). Most clubs are quite extravagant and include excellent bar facilities. Club LV is definitely one of the best in the city, as they host a number of beautiful and elegant ladies and offer very friendly service. eir rooms are similar to what you would find in a 5-star hotel.
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