welcome elcome to the spring edition of ‘Entertainment Amsterdam’, the magazine which strives to add amusement, excitement and intrigue to all visitors of this great city. e credit crisis is easing in many parts of the world and that has been visible in Amsterdam, as more and more tourists are finding the resources to visit. e winter just past provided proof of that, as despite chilly weather conditions, Amsterdam welcomed a lot of visitors during December, January and February. However, too many times,these 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. We will concentrate on the best forms of entertainment that Amsterdam has to offer during this winter season. 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. is spring promises to be the best ever, as the authorities and local businesses have joined forces to create some brand new and exciting projects, which are certain to keep visitors entertained.
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Contents: P02: P04: P06: P16: P24: P32: P34: P40: P42: P44: P52:
essential Info Queen’s Day In Amsterdam Live & Kicking Food For thought seeing & Doing Map What’s Happening City Parks Kiddies Corner 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 E-Mail: entertainment.amsterdam@gmail.com
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Directors: Veronica Ferreira Design & Production: Expression Graphic Studio
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useful information 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). No. 14: Dam Square, Rembrandtplein, Waterlooplein, Marnixstraat. No. 16: Dam Square, Albert Cuyp Market.
TAXI
Public Transport Public transport in Amsterdam is among the best in Europe thanks to the constant availability, simplicity, efficiency and punctuality of the services.
TRAIN Central Station itself is an impressive building which is currently undergoing modernization reconstruction. e service provided by the Dutch Railway Board is exceptional and all trains will leave at regular intervals on time.
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.
TRAMS
BANKS
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 2.60 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.
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.
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AMSTERDAM PASS 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.
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.
rates calling cards are also available in these outlets.
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.
POLICE e central number for the police is 09008844. Call this number and they will put you in
DOCTORS e Central Doctor's Service can be contacted at 020-5923434 or 0900-503204.
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 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 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
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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
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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the main event
Queen’s Day In Amsterdam very street and canal in the city turns into a sea of orange as Amsterdammers and visitors assemble in their thousands to celebrate the Birthday of the Netherlands Monarch Queen Beatrix on Monday April 30th. If you happen to be in the city at this time, you better prepare yourself for the Mother of all parties!
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The day itself (April 30th) is not actually the birthday of Queen Beatrix.The 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,
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January 31st, tended to prohibit the traditional outdoor festivities. Prior to 1949 the holiday was celebrated on August 31, the birthday of Queen Wilhelmina. As mentioned, the city and all other cities in Holland turn into a sea of orange, as it represents the House of Orange, which is the name of the current Dutch dynasty. The holiday festivities start the night before (Sunday 29th) 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
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vibrant colour. However, areas such as Dam Square, Leidseplein, The Nieuwmarkt, The Jordaan, Vondel Park and Rembrandtplein tend to be the busiest and most entertaining. The party continues on the Monday (April 30th) as almost every street and byway in the city centre is thronged with mass crowd of orange-clad revellers. Be warned, a normal 10minute walking trip could be trebled in time as a result of the huge crowds. Also be aware that the public transport schedule is much different. Trams and busses still run, but they run to different destinations, as none can operate in the city centre, so check out the transport website at www.gvb.nl for more information. Huge stages are erected on Dam Square, Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein and Museumplein and musicians, DJs, comedians and various other acts will take to these stages and entertain the thousands, both on Queen’s
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Night and the big day itself. 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. The so-called 'vrijmarkt' ('free market') is similar to a nationwide car boot sale or flea market. Owing to a holiday dispensation from the Dutch government, people do not need to pay taxes on their sales. Many people set up stalls or blankets in parks, on sidewalks and even on the roads themselves (cars are banned on some streets). The items sold are traditionally secondhand discards, but for commercial traders this is also an extremely profitable day. Summing up, Queen’s Day 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, clubbing, comedy, theatre and much more..
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C O N C E RTS
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 E RTS
CONCERTS
Melkweg
Cafe Pakhuis Wilhelmina
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.
Veemkade 576 T. 020-4193368 Live venue in an old warehouse in the docklands area. Its a bit out of city centre but tram 26 will get you there just fine. Wilhelmina hosts live music and DJ's between Wednesdays and Sundays, on a pretty small stage, so it's all very intimate and up close. Drink and admission are cheap. One of the popular evenings is the Hardrock Karoake.
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live & kicking T HEATRES
THEATRES
Royal Carre
Opera House
Amstel 115-125. T. 020-5249452 is huge building on the banks of the Amstel River always attracts top performers in fields such as comedy, circus, music and dance and during winter, they will host their annual World Christmas Circus which is one of Amsterdam’s top annual events. 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.
T HEATRES
THEATRES
Muziekgebouw
Stadsschouwburg
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.
Leidseplein 26. T. 020-6242311
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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 no doubt there will be various Christmas themes in the winter season. Information about what’s on can be gained via their website at www.stadsschouwburgamsterdam.nl.
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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.
L I V E B A NDS
SALSA
Royalty
Cantinero
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).
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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live & kicking I V O RY TICKLING
KARAOKE
Maxim Piano Bar
Bulldog Karaoke
Leidsekruisstraat 33-35, Tel.: 06- 30364965
Leidseplein 15 e Bulldog Palace on Leidseplein is the scene for the city’s best Karaoke nights. Karaoke takes place at the Bulldog on Monday and Tuesday night each week and a great atmosphere is always guaranteed as a string of talented and not-so-talented singers take to the stage under the guidance of resident host Saskia. It’s always a fun-night out and if you do take the plunge and get on stage, they will also take your photo and place it on facebook.
Maxim Piano Bar makes it’s long awaited return this summer and the venue is bigger and better than before. Situated just off Leidsetraat on Leidsekruisstraat, the new management have made various improvements and refurbishments and they invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy live music every night from an array of talented performers in a unique and beautiful setting. e venue also boasts an impressive champagne and wine list. It truly is a welcome and much-needed addition to Amsterdam’s going-out scene.
SOUL
MULTI-FUNCTIONAL
Meander Cafe
Bitterzoet
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 it’s a student cafe, the entrance fee is low. It opens daily from 8.30pm until 3am (4am at weekends).
Spuistraat 2. T. 020-5213001 Bitterzoet is renowned as a venue for underground and subculture bands, DJs, theater collectives and projects. It’s also the place where Fun Lovin Criminals made an unofficial late night gig. e impressive venues houses a grand bar, dance floor, stage and podium on two floors and we also hear that they have introduced a smoking room. Every night tends to be different so be sure to check out their agenda or website at www.bitterzoet.com.
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live & kicking COMEDY
COMEDY
Boom Chicago Comedy eatre
Comedy eater In De Nes
Leidseplein12. Tel.: T. 020 4230101 Forget laugh-a-minute, e Boom Chicago Comedy shows are laugh-a-second and we guarantee that your jaws will ache and your eyes will water aer this electric mix of scripted scenes and masterful improvised comedy. e Boom Chicago concept started more than 12 years ago and since that time, it has become one of the most hilarious comedy shows you will see anywhere on the planet. Check it out on the corner of Leidseplein.
Nes 110. T. 020 422 00 33 Lovers of cabaret and fans of comedy all agree on one thing: the new Comedy eatre is THE new venue for inspiration and networking. ree companies are based at the eatre, on top of their regular performances there is something special almost every day. Aer the comedy show the theatre changes into a clubhouse where the comedians and guests can have a drink and talk about the show. It would be wise to check our agenda on this site.e theatre has a capacity of 250 and boasts a balcony with historical, old Amsterdam V.I.P. seatings.
ROCK
ROCK & BLUES
e Waterhole
Bourbon Street Blues Club
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
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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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. Summer is always the buzz-time for clubbers in Amsterdam, as the venues host more parties, and of course there are also a huge amount of outdoor festivals and parties to be enjoyed. e clubs themselves vary in size and stature and the following are some of our favourites.
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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 abroad. So don't walk up to the door shooting
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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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live & kicking C LUBBING
CLUBBING
Prime
Club Escape
Rembrandtplein 22 e newest disco-bar in the city, Club Prime opened its doors in early August and in the short space of time since then, it has gained an excellent reputation. e tunes are rocking, the atmosphere is vibrant and the service is very good. e club boasts a spacious dance floor and also a spacious smoking area. Another perk is the VIP Area which offers a great view onto the dance floor and offers guests the chance to sip champagne in more privacy. Prime is also open during the day and boasts a small and attractive outdoor terrace.
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.
C LUBBING
CLUBBING
Club Home
Cafe Royalty
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.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 28-32. T. 020 6260128 One of our absolute favourite places for a night on the town. Café Royalty on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat has become one of the finest clubs in the city, thanks to a refreshing new management strategy, which has made the venue trendier and more appealing. Top DJs will have you strutting your stuff until the early hours and the friendly bar staff enhance the experience. Royalty is open seven days a week and they offer some of the latest opening hours in Amsterdam with the club staying open until 4am during the week and 5am at weekends. e venue also boasts a separate smoking area, and look out for their special Christmas and New Year parties.
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C L U B B I NG
CLUBBING
e Powerzone
e Sugar Factory
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.
Lijnbaansgracht 238 Formerly the Amuse eater, the new night theatre, e Sugar Factory is continuously in popularity. Located directly opposite the entrance to the Melkweg, the venue is open from 9pm to 4am on ursdays and Sundays and from 9pm until 5am on Fridays and Saturdays. Besides great clubbing nights with top DJs, the Sugar Factory offers a stage for theatre, art and performances, so there is a little bit of everything for everybody. e interior is excellent, the comfort value is high and the sound system is top notch.
C L U B B I NG
CLUBBING
Hotel Arena
Zebra Lounge
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.
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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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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food for thought Genki opened its doors in November 2010, and in the short space of time since then, it has been earning rave reviews and rightly so – If you like Japanese food, then this place is a must. It is the first restaurant in town to introduce “infinite dining", by combining the comforts of eating as much as you desire with the service and environment of a high class restaurant, resulting in a wonderful dining experience. e Infinite Dining Menu costs 32,50 Euro and customers get a choice of 70 items. e restaurant also offers A La Carte and lunch Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 161 menus and a Private Dining facility. Tel.: 020-4208080 Sashimi, Nigiri, Maki, Temaki, they can all be found on the menu and they are all created from the freshest ingredients. Quite simply magnificent! at’s the best way An excellent addition to the Amsterdam dining to sum up the all-new Japanese Restaurant scene. For more info, check out their website at Genki, which can be found close to Dam www.restaurantgenki.nl. e restaurant is open Square on Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal. from 12.0 until 23.0 daily.
Restaurant Genki
what a steakhouse actually should be. One exception is Restaurant La Boca, which can be found close to the Royal Palace on Paleisstraat.
La Boca Paleisstraat 15. Tel.: 020-4235200
ere are countless Argentinean steakhouses throughout the city, but unfortunately quantity does not equal quality and many fall short of
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La Boca offer their customers an excellent range of freshly grilled Argentinean meats from the charcoal grill. e spare ribs and the fillet steak have tickled our 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.
La Boca opens daily from midday to midnight and is a definite must for steaklovers. Prices are also extremely competitive compared to many other places. Definitely worth trying for lunch or dinner.
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INDIAN
CHINESE
Restaurant Shiva
Sea Palace
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.
Oosterdokskade 8. T. 020 6264777 Europe’s first floating restaurants, Sea Palace is a stunning structure which can be found on the waterside, just a few hundred metres away from Central Station. It is also one of the biggest restaurants in the city, as it can cater for up to 700 people, courtesy of three spacious floors. e food is excellent as visitors can choose from a varying Chinese menu which offers Cantonese, Sichuan, Peking and northern China specialities. Reservations may be necessary.
P O R T U G UESE
SPANISH & MED
Portugalia
Ibiza Restaurant
Kerkstraat 35. T. 020-6256490 If you fancy a taste of Portugal, we recommend you pay a visit to Portugalia Restaurant which presents an authentic menu, identical to what you would finds in Portugal itself. Like the vast majority of restaurants in Portugal, Restaurant Portugalia is a familyrun business which offers the finest and freshest food and the excellent service in a comfortable venue.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 13-15. Tel.: 020-3319370 e new Ibiza restaurant on Reguliersdwarsstraat opened its doors late last year and in the short space of time since then, it has been making an excellent name for itself. Spanish cuisine is the main order of the day and the resident Catalan chef uses only the finest and freshest ingredients and has concocted a number of dishes which will thrill your taste-buds. e interior of the restaurant also impresses as vibrant colours add to its charm. e service is also excellent. Highly recommended.
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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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E A S T E R N D E LIGHTS
BRASSERIE
Nomads
Schiller Brasserie
Rozengracht 133. T. 020-3446401 Nomads is hugely popular with with locals and visitors alike. e restaurant is decked out like a Sultan’s Boudoir and comes complete with belly dancers and palm readers. e menu consists of warm and cold mezzes, which are small Arabian dishes and various other Eastern delights. You eat lying down. A different, but wonderful dining experience.
Rembrandtplein 26-36. T. 020-5540723 Schiller Brasserie itself is located inside the building of the NH Schiller Hotel on Rembrandtplein and the Brasserie serves up a superb menu which caters for all culinary tastes courtesy of their superb varieties of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes. e venue also prides itself on top class service and all of the staff will go out of their way to ensure your visit is a memorable one. Also ideal for lunch or high tea.
I N T ’ L B R A SSERIE
SPANISH
At James
Centra
Damrak 45. T. 020 4283118 Located halfway between Central Station and Dam Square on the famous Damrak Street, At James Restaurant is the perfect venue to eat, drink and relax, be it for breakfast, lunch, dinner or even a late supper. e cosy and attractive venue prides itself on great food which is served in generous portions at excellent prices. eir steaks are very tasty, as are the other tasty meat dishes, their fish platters and salads. ey also offer a fine range of desserts and an excellent wine menu. e service is always friendly and helpful and the prices are extremely competitive.
Lange Niezel 29. T. 020-6223050 Centra is located in the heart of the Red Light District just off Warmoesstraat Street and is the place in which to sample authentic Spanish atmosphere, wine and tapas. e Spanish waiters and their friendly but hectic way of serving add to the atmosphere. As you would expect, their wines and sangria are also mouth-watering. e place is almost always busy, so reservations may be necessary. ere are not so many Spanish restaurants in the city, so if you do fancy some tapas or paella, make your way to Centra. A quality eating establishment in a very touristic area.
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food for thought M Y S TICAL MAGIC
NOODLES
Little Buddha Amsterdam
Wagamama
Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen 17
Max Euweplein 10. T. 020 5287778 Amsterdam’s branch of the popular London franchise is proving to be a huge hit and if fresh Japanese noodles and soups at cheap prices is what you are aer, this is the place to go. e restaurants are modelled on the ramen bars which have been popular in Japan for hundreds of years. e menu consists of side dishes, main meals and desserts and the atmosphere is always lively.
e successful international expansion of the Paris based Buddha Bar and Little Buddha concepts continued into Amsterdam, and the venue has been gaining rave reviews from tourists and locals alike. Renowned for its famous kitchen and opulent Asian atmosphere, the Little Buddha concept has taken Amsterdam by storm and truly has added an extra dimension to the city’s going-out scene. Situated at the recently refurbished City eater at Kleine Gartmanplantsoen (close to the famous Leidseplein), Little Buddha Amsterdam will be the destination for food aficionados.
C L A SSY ITALIAN
INTERNATIONAL
Ristorante Sogno
Hudson's Terrace & Restaurant
Stadhouderskade 7. Tel.: 020-5898870 If classy Italian cuisine with some extra added perks sounds attractive, then make your way to Restaurant Sogno which is housed inside the NH Amsterdam Center hotel close to Leidseplein at Stadhouderskade 7. e Italian waiters will pamper you with flourishing gestures at tables which are laid in classical style. e menu will mesmerise you, as will the wine list and the ambience. If you are lucky enough, you may find a window table which offers wonderful views onto one of the busiest parts of the city.
Prins Hendrikkade 59. Tel.: 020 5564975 Hudson's Terrace & Restaurant is located in the bright and airy lobby on the ground floor of the famous NH Barbizon Palace Hotel. e modern restaurant offers a fresh day´s start with an extensive breakfast buffet. In the aernoon and evening the restaurant becomes the perfect setting to enjoy lunch or dinner à la carte, light snacks or Spanish tapas. e cuisine offers a savoury selection of typical regional specialties as well as international cuisine. Hudson´s Terrace & Restaurant also serves as the meeting point, as its open all day.
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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
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this section of our magazine. 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 Ajax Stadium Tour, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the recently reopened 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 C ADEMY
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 M A Z I N G ARENA
ANIMA L ATTRACTION
e World Of Ajax
Artis Amsterdam Zoo
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.
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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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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F A M O U S DIARY
BEER FOR CHEER
Anne Frank House
e Heineken Experience
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.
Stadhouderskade 78. Tel. 020-5239222 e new Heineken Experience reopened in late 2008 and has been designed to bring the values of the Heineken brand to life in an entertaining and contemporary way. Amongst many new elements, guests will experience an interactive journey through the brewing process and will have the opportunity to create and take home their own personalised bottle of Heineken. e working stables and iconic Heineken shire horses will also be accessible via a newly constructed "stable walk"
F O O T B A L L FIRST
THE BIG SCREEN
Ajax Experience
Amsterdam’s Cinema Scene
One of Amsterdam’s newest attractions is the Ajax Experience which can be found on Rembrandtplein and it’s a must-see exhibition for lovers of the beautiful game. You can learn everything about Amsterdam’s favourite football club through fun and interactive displays and various other concepts. You’ll discover the philosophy, rich history and the team highlights. In addition to their trophies, you can see pictures of the best goals that contributed to the club’s fame and success.
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Movie lovers won’t be disappointed in Amsterdam, as all movies are broadcast in English with Dutch subtitles. Pathé is the major cinema company in the city and they recently reopened the stunning City eatre close to Leidseplein. In addition to the seven screens of the cinema itself, the building houses a welcoming lounge, the Little Buddha sushi bar and even a casino. e perfect plan for a rainy day! Two of their other most popular multi-screen theatres are Pathé Tuschinski and Pathé De Munt, both of which can be found nearby Munt Square and Rembrandtplein. In association with:
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seeing & doing De Otter Gillis van Ledenberchstraat 78 Windmill 'de Otter' is a hidden treasure which is located in the city centre just west of the Jordaan area. It can be visited on weekdays and on Friday’s the miller oen operates the mill. is mill was one of many wood sawing mills in this area which facilitated the mass production of big ships in the 17th century, enabling Holland to develop into a powerful merchant nation.
Windmill Nation
Sloten Windmill
For centuries, windmills have helped the Dutch fight water shortages so it is little wonder that they were the first to develop ‘windmill technology.’ In the glory days, the Netherlands boasted more than 10,000 mills but the population today stands at a mere 1,000 and there are eight windmills in Amsterdam, but you can only visit two, which are:
Akersluis 10. T. 020-6690412 Located on the outskirts of the city, the Molen van Sloten mill is still in use to keep the surrounding polderland dry. It is a 19th century polder draining mill accessible to the public daily between 10am and 4pm. Volunteers explain the working of the windmill and with a bit of luck there is a miller around who puts the windmill in operation.
F L O A T ING FLOWERS
NATIONAL FLOWER
Floating Flower Market
Tulip Museum
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.
Prinsengracht 112. T. 020-4210095 Visitors are invited to learn the story of the world’s most dangerous flower at the Amsterdam Tulip Museum on Prinsengracht. In days gone by, the tulip drove the rich and the poor to ecstasy and bankruptcy. Founded in 2004, the museum seeks to fill a void in the history of the tulip. e exhibits include several interactive video displays that trace tulip bulbs from their ancient origins to modern 21st century cultivation. e museum also features a special gi shop.
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S P A R K L E & SHINE
MUSEUMS
Coster Diamonds
Rijksmuseum
Paulus Potterstraat 2-6. T. 020-305 5555. Coster Diamonds is one of the leading diamond factories in Europe. Located in Amsterdam since 1840, Coster proudly contributes to Amsterdam’s reputation as "City of Diamonds". About 340.000 visitors yearly come to see the unique crasmanship and beauty of Coster handmade products during a free-guided tour. ese tours are conducted in all major languages, including many Asian ones. e sparkling tours will show visitors the process of transforming a rough diamond into a creation of beauty that will last for centuries.
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 N CENT
NEMO
Van Gogh Museum
Nemo
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.
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 sugg
Artist Mark Raven’s Reflections On His Home Town’s Atmosphere msterdam’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.
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what’s happening Dedicated to fantasy, horror, science fiction and animation films, the 28th edition of the Imagine Film Festival takes place this year. But be warned - while generic labels may seem helpful, they oen conceal more than they reveal. at's why each year the line-up of films at Imagine prove that the fantastic film has more to offer than just a list of genre types. Experience it for yourself at Kriterion Cinema.
Amsterdam Kleinkunst Festival April 15 to 28 at various locations e Amsterdams Kleinkunst Festival is the annual highlight of the cabaret season in the Netherlands. Since its founding in 1988, the festival has focused on stimulating the future, honouring the past and crowning quality.
MUSIC Carmen Souza
What’s Happening Concerts, musicals, dance events, festivals, theatre….you name it and Amsterdam has it and this spring no different as some wonderful events will take place in the city. 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.
Spring Events in the City
March 16 at Bimhuis Carmen Souza offers a mix of blues, jazz and bossa nova
Boots Electric March 18 at Bitterzoet Amsterdam, brace yourself: e Eagles of Death Metal's Jesse Hughes and his mighty moustache come to town.
Case Mayfield March 23 at Paradiso EP release party by the Amsterdam-based singer-songwriter
FESTIVALS
Black Veil Brides
Imagine – Amsterdam Fantastic Film Festival
March 23 at Melkweg If punk and hardcore tunes flick your switch, then you will love the Black Veil Brides.
April 17 to 28 at Kriterion Cinema
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Laura Marling
Disappears
March 18 at Paradiso e 20-year old British singer-songwriter Laura Marling started her impressive music career at the age of 17.
April 1 at Paradiso Krautrock, shoegaze and garage punk from Chicago. e band features Sonic Youth drummer Steve Shelley and presents second album Guider.
We Have Band March 21 at Melkweg British band from London with electro indie rock
Crazy Pianos – Let’s Go Crazy March 23 at eater De La Mar Internationally renowned music concept that works the audience with no more than two fire red pianos, a saxophonist and a drummer.
Heather Nova April 2 at Paradiso e singer-songwriter takes to the stage at Paradiso.
e Jezabels March 25 at Paradiso
La Excellencia – Shuffle. Play March 24 at Melkweg A young salsa dura combo from New York, performing as part of Melkweg's 'Shuffle.Play' programme.
Damien Jurado March 29 at Paradiso Jurado is an indie rock singer-songwriter from America
Australian indie pop with a good disco lathering; as part of the Indiestad programme
Jonathan Jeremiah
Hot Chelle Rae
March 30 at Paradiso Soulful folk and folky soul (wellorchestrated, mind) by the English-Irish singer-songwriter.
April 2 at Melkweg Energetic American rock/pop quartet
Racoon
April 3 at Paradiso Edgy pop from the Detroit-based singer
March 31 at Heineken Music Hall Dutch pop band performing sincere pop songs with leading role for the acoustic guitar.
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Alex Wilson
Frank Turner April 5 at Paradiso Frank Turner is a folk singer-songwriter and
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what’s happening former singer of the hardcore punk band Million Dead.
their way from teen stars to successful musicians.
e Strange Boys
Killing Joke
April 6 at Paradiso
April 11 at Melkweg Killing Joke have been an influential British post-punk/new wave/industrial rock band since the eighties.
Within Temptation April 14 and 15 at Royal eater Carre Dutch gothic rock band take to the stage at the Royal eater Carre.
Absynthe Minded Texan garage rock pop by e Strange Boys.
April 15 at Paradiso Belgian singer-songwriter Bert Ostyn founded Absynthe Minded a decade ago.
Kneebody April 7 at Bimhuis Music formation from California brings a mix of pop, rock and jazz improv.
Loreena McKennitt April 8 at Royal eater Carre Canadian and Celtic folk singer and composer Loreena McKennith comes to town.
Drake April 8 at Heineken Music Hall Arguably one of the best hip-hop albums of recent years isn't even an official album, it's a mix tape. By a Canadian going by the name of Drake.
Di-rect April 9 at Royal eater Carre is guitar band from e Hague have made
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Sinead OÇonnor April 17 at Paradiso Dublin-born Sinead O'Conner made a name for herself in the early 90s with the heartwrenching international hit 'Nothing Compares To You'.
e Manic Street Preachers April 19 at Paradiso e Manic Street Preachers return to Amsterdam for the first time in ten years for a celebration of the most successful songs of their career.
e Black Seeds April 22 at Melkweg With their sun-drenched mix of reggae, dub, funk and soul, e Black Seeds are longstanding favourites in the South Pacific reggae/roots scene.
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Patrick Watson
Cuadro Flamenco
April 28 at Melkweg Patrick Watson is a four-piece band from Montreal, bearing the name of its leading man and main songwriter.
March 19 at Royal eater Carre Great quality artists, including dance talent Daniel Navarro and the praised guitarist Paco Serrano.
e Australian Pink Floyd Show
Awakenings
April 29 at Heineken Music Hall is tribute band exists since 1988 and does not only interpret Pink Floyd's songs but brings the complete show including video projections and psychedelic lighting.
Ryan Adams
April 7 and 8 at Westergasfabriek As the organisers of the country's largest techno event, Awakenings is an institution in the Netherlands. e annual Awakenings summer festival celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2011 and now returns for a special NYE spin-off.
May 6 at Royal eater Carre e Americana/alt-country star comes to Amsterdam to present his latest album, the highly-acclaimed Ashes & Fire.
May 18 and 19 at Paradiso e twice-yearly music festival London
London Calling
Marcus Miller May 8 at Paradiso One of the best funk and jazz-fusion bass players in the world.
Nora Jones May 28 at Royal eater Carre American singer-songwriter, musician and occasional actress. Daughter of the famous sitar player Ravi Shankar.
Calling crosses the North Sea to Amsterdam's Paradiso for an always longawaited autumn and spring instalment.
DANCE
COMEDY
Friday Night At e Van Gogh Museum Every Friday until may 25 at Van Gogh Museum On Friday nights the Van Gogh Museum turns into a great night spot. With a bar in place, they dim the lights in their central hall, turn up the stereo, pull out some lounge chairs and invite DJs and live acts to perform.
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Metamorphosis Until April 8 at Boom Chicago e best of the past and the best of the future, with a hybrid show combining material from the Best of Boom show with scenes from the comedy troupe's upcoming production.
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what’s happening HOLLAND FESTIVAL 2012
T
he Holland Festival has been the trend-setting performing arts festival in the Netherlands since 1947, annually presenting exceptional work at the international level. It offers a ‘kaleidoscopic window on the world’ with a mix of all the performing arts, big names and daring experiments. Below we inform you about a selection of performances of this year’s festival.
C(H)OEURS Alain Platel, les ballets C de la B, Teatro Real Madrid In these times of growing nationalism in Europe, Belgian choreographer/director Alain Platel stages a large-scale production in order to examine the ‘dangerous beauty’ of the masses. In a living tableau, the 150 strong choir and orchestra of the Madrid Teatro Real perform music of Verdi and Wagner. Opposite them, ten dancers of les ballets C de la B, who represent our individuality. Inspired by Jonathan Littell’s bestseller The Kindly Ones, the performance raises questions about the responsibility of the individual in the group. Koninklijk Theater Carré 1–4 June, 8 p.m.
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The Music of Jonny Greenwood & Bryce Dessner Bryce & Aaron Dessner, Amsterdam Sinfonietta Guitar heroes Bryce Dessner (The National) and Jonny Greenwood (Radiohead) have both been successful of late writing compositions for classical ensembles. Greenwood made headlines with his film score for Paul Thomas Anderson’s There Will Be Blood. The programme at the Holland Festival will feature the world premiere of the suite from this soundtrack and a performance of his composition Popcorn Superhet Receiver. A new work for string orchestra by Bryce Dessner will also have its world premiere. On top of that, Dessner himself will take to the stage together with his brother Aaron to perform his composition Raphael and his concert for two guitars St. Caroline by the Sea. 16 June, 8.15 p.m. Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ
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The Master and Margarita Simon McBurney, Complicite Bulgakov’s novel The Master and Margarita is a magical realist fantasy about the devil descending on Stalin’s Soviet Union, a woman going to hell and back to save her lover, and Pontius Pilate discussing the nature of human worth with Jesus Christ. It’s a sharp satire on the suffocating bureaucracy and the unbearable superficiality of modern life, as well as a daring analysis of good and evil, love, sex and spirituality. A parable which hits the mark
Het Muziektheater Amsterdam 13-14 June, 8.15 p.m.
Accordion Wrestling Kimmo Pohjonen, Helsinki Nelson Between the 1920’s and the 1960’s wrestling matches in Finland were accompanied by the accordion. The accordion players were actual celebrities, named on the billboards next to the wrestlers. The reason for this was that the wrestling matches were followed by dance hall events. Kimmo Pohjonen and the wrestlers of Helsinki Nelson revive the tradition and bring it up to date in a production of spectecular physical musical theatre, featuring live music and choreographed wrestling on an electronically amplified mat. Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam 18-19 June, 8.30 p.m.
Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela without fail, especially in the capable hands of McBurney and co. Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam 21-22 June, 7 p.m., 23 June 7.30 p.m.
La création du monde 1923-2012 Faustin Linyekula The influential Ballet Suédois shot to fame in the Europe of the early 1920’s with their avant-garde productions. In 1923 they staged La création du monde, a ‘fantaisie négrico-cubiste’ about the creation of the world according to African and Afro-American mythologies. Congolese choreographer Faustin Linyekula transformed the original piece into a work that accommodates both the original Western version and his ‘African response’. Fabrizio Cassol, who previously arranged music by Monteverdi and Bach for Alain Platel, has written the music.
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Gustavo Dudamel The world famous Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela will be making its first appearance in the Netherlands, as final concert of the Holland Festival. The more than 150 strong orchestra is the jewel in the crown of the Venezuelan music programme known as El Sistema. Under the baton of the charismatic chief conductor Gustavo Dudamel – himself an alumnus of El Sistema – the orchestra will play Esteban Benzecry’s Rituales Amerindios and Richard Strauss Eine Alpensinfonie. 28 June, 8.15 p.m. Het Concertgebouw
HOLLAND FESTIVAL 1 – 28 June 2012 For full programme and ticket sales: www.hollandfestival.nl
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parks
Amsterdam Parks
e perfect way to relax during a sunny day…
e official list states that there are around 30 parks in Amsterdam ranging from Wertheimpark (which covers one acre and is the smallest) to the famous and fabulous Vondel Park which covers 48 hectares and is the biggest. Many of the city’s parks offer the perfect opportunity to get away from a bustling city centre which seldom sleeps and on a sunny summer day, locals flock in their hundreds to find the perfect spot for peace, tranquility and relacation. e following is a summary of some of the more famous and most enjoyable parks.
Vondel Park e largest park in Amsterdam pictured above) and probably the most famous one in all of e Netherlands, the splendid Vondel Park welcomes around 8 million visitors every year and is particularly busy during the summer
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period. Amsterdammers love Vondel Park as you will no doubt notice as they jog past or walk through with their dogs. During summer, the park also hosts a free open-air theater which attracts talented musicians, magicians, comedians and actors and can be extremely enjoyable. Visitors can also avail of several cafes and bars which are scattered throughout the area. e main entrance to the park can be found directly opposite the large Holland Casino building close to Leidseplein.
Amsterdamse Bos Created in the 1930s to reduce unemployment, e Amsterdamse Bos is the largest recreational area in Amsterdam and incredibly, it lies four metres below sea-level. A stretch of water called e Bosbaan flows through the area and as well as adding something to the beauty of the park, this waterway also hosts a number of
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important rowing regattas. At the west end of the Bosbaan you can find the Bosmuseum which displays the natural and social history of the park and also hosts a number of temporary exhibitions. e splendid area include almost 150 variations of foreign and native trees and is also paradise for bird-watching enthusiasts. Other attractions include some shallow swimming pools, a pancake house, a goat farm and pedal boat rental. e park can be found close to the Amstelveenseweg Street.
Sarphatipark A small but extremely beautiful park which can be found close to the famous Albert Cuyp Market in the area known as De Pijp, Sarphatipark offers the perfect opportunity for relaxation. Named aer Samuel Sarphati, a Dutch physician, Sarphatipark was founded in 1885, the park lies amidst the 19th century homes and among other features, it includes a fountain, wonderful grassy lawns and a superb monument.
Frankendael Frankendael is a rare public park which covers seven hectares and can be found close to the Plantage Middelaan area of the city. e area was used by rich Amsterdammers during the 18th century to build country retreats where they would spend their summer and autumn vacations and Frankendael is the last of them that survived. e ornamented facade adds an extra degree of beauty as does the large
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Botancial Garden which covers one part of the park and boasts around 500 varieties of wild plants and trees, some of which are unique. e park can be entered by the Middenweg Street.
Amstelpark is park can be found in the south west of the city and is an absolute treat for kids thanks to the large number of attractions which include a playground, a mini-golf course, a mini-football pitch, pony riding and miniature train tours. Visitors can also enjoy the rose garden, the rhododendron walk and a model garden and nursery, e Rieker Windmill can be found at the south end of the park, while art exhibitions are oen held in the Glazen Huis and Papillon Gallery. e park can be found in the suberb of Buitenveldert.
Westerpark As, the name suggests, the park can be found to the west of the city. It has always been a beautiful area and that beauty has been extended to new levels recently thanks to a refurbishment plan which is just about complete and has made the park even more attractive. Westerpark is a popular area for the city’s artists to relax and gain inspiration and its not surprising why they choose this area. A farm can also be found within the park’s boundaries and visitors will also be impressed by some of the impressive cafes and bars e park can be entered by the Haarlemmerweg Street.
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for kids Child’s Play
In Amsterdam
Many people don’t realise it, but Amsterdam can also be a fun and entertaining city for children. There are so many attractions to keep the kids amused, but more importantly, many of these attractions will stimulate their minds as well as their bodies. Having fun while gaining education at the same time – what could be better for the children? Many of the attractions which are suitable for the children have been mentioned in the previous pages of our attractions section. Here are some more.
Nemo Science & Technology Museum Oosterdok 2. Tel.: 020-5313233 You can't miss the distinctive building on the Amsterdam waterfront, and once inside,
dominos) as well as a full-fledged chemistry lab for older kids.
Walibi World Spijkweg 30, Biddinghuizen. Tel.: 0900-9292 Formerly known as Six Flags, Walibi World is just about the biggest theme park in e Netherlands and is a treat for the adults as well as the youngsters. e park can be found in the town of Biddinghuizen and can be reached by car in around one hour. Walibi World boasts more than 50 attractions and as you would expect, the area is also filed with restaurants, cafes and picnic areas. e star attraction is Goliath – the biggest rollercoaster in the Benelux which reaches heights of 46 metres and spends of more than 100km per hour. ere are several other rollercoatsers and a huge array of rides and attractions for the younger children. All in all, a treat for the entire family.
Dolphinarium
prepare for your kids to charge right in. e exhibits are multilingual and some are topical to the Netherlands, technology with a cultural slant. ere are things to do for toddlers (bubble fun, magnetic games, large piece
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Strandboulevard Oost 1, Harderwijk. Tel.: 0341-467467 Lovers of dolphins and other forms of sea-life will be intrigued by e Dolphinarium, the largest marine animal park in Europe which reopens during spring. e park is situated in the town of Harderwijk (around one hour by car) and a fun filled day for the entire family is guaranteed. As you would expect, there are the usual live performances from the dolphins, sea lions and whales, and the Walrus Show is also worth seeing. Add in the kids playground, the beach, a wonderful 3-D spectacle and a magical Pirates Show and you get the perfect ingredients for family fun.
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in Amsterdam, its hard to believe that there is enough room for a top zoo, but there is and its provided by Artis Zoo at Plantage Kerklaan. e complex includes an excellent kid's playground area with a sandbox, climbing structures and various other playground equipment.
Cinema
Madame Tussaud's Dam Square 20 Tel.: 020-5221010 No doubt the children will love getting up close and personal with some of the pop stars and movie stars at Madame Tussauds. ey will also enjoy the various new promotions such as Pirates Of e Caribbean.
Midget Golf Amstelpark Amstelpark 2-b. Tel.: 020-4044209 A wonderful mini gold course which can be found in the Amstel Park. e kids can spend hours plotting their way around the attractive and fun-filled course. Please call beforehand to make sure the course is open as they have limited opening hours during winter.
As with most other movie productions, all animations and children’s movies can be enjoyed in English language. However, be careful when booking your tickets for the big animation movies as they are also available in Dutch language, so make sure you choose the right one. e best places to watch the movies are the Pathe Cinemas on Munt Square, Leidseplein and also the wonderful Tuschinski Cinemas close to Rembrandtplein.
Sea Life Strandweg 13, Scheveningen Tel.: 0515-231341 A real Dutch treat for fish fans. Sea Life in the seaside resort of Scheveningen (close to the city of e Hague) has been attracting Amsterdam visitors for many years. You can start your visit by checking out the various different species of shark, conger eals, sea horses and crabs as well as a wonderful array of exotic tropical fish. Visitors can also explore the world of Amazonia where they can learn first hand about the Amazon and it’s surrounding rain forest.
Canal Cruises Stadhouderskade opposite Hard Rock Café. Tel.: 020-6760551 For the kids, the excitement of the canal cruise is all about getting on the boat and seeing Holland from a unique angle.
Artis Amsterdam Zoo Plantage Kerklaan 38-40. Tel.: 020-5233400 When you look at how space is such a premium
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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.
W
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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 2008, 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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S E E & B E SEEN
SEE & BE SEEN
Le Pub
Café Luxembourg
Leidseplein 2Tel.: 020-6209077 e latest addition to Amsterdam’s Going Out scene, Cafe Le Pub on Leidseplein looks certain to become one of the city’s best hotspots. Le Pub boasts a fantastic selection of Belgian beers and French wines and cocktails. ey also offer a French-style bistro menu for breakfast and lunch, while at dinner-time you can visit their fantastic third-floor steakhouse with breath-taking views over bustling Leidseplein. e quality of their products (food and drink) together with quality separate Le Pub from other similar venues in the city and the place is definitely worth visiting.
Spui 24. T: 020-6206264 is is where many of the locals play. Café Luxembourg has long been one of the most popular venues in the city and is the perfect place to spend a lazy aernoon or to enjoy a relaxed night before encountering louder places. It tends to be particularly busy on a Sunday aernoon. e service is good, the venue is extremely spacious and they normally provide a full range of international newspapers. An added bonus is their superb food menu. is place has won various prizes over the years and is definitely worth a visit.
C L A S S Y CAFE
CHIC & TRENDY
Caffe Escape
Rembrandtplein 11. T. 020 6221111 Brand new and top class. at’s the best way to describe the all-new Caffe Escape on Rembrandtplein. e interior, the atmosphere, the service, the food, the drinks – they all belong in the premier league of goingout establishments. Visitors can sip their coffee or any other beverage while taking in the views of vibrant Rembrandtplein. Its also a great place to warm up before you tackle the delights of Amsterdam’s nightlife scene.
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Bar Ca 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.
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bar scene NEW & EXCITING
CLASSY
BlinQ
Players Cafe
Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen 5 Amsterdam’s nightlife scene is set to be greatly enhanced with the arrival of Blinq, a new BarRestaurant-Club which will be situated on the famous Leidseplein. e venue will boast modern and beautifully simple dishes based on the finest ingredients inspired by the many cultures of Amsterdam. At weekends, Blinq will offer much more than your regular evening out. If you had intended to go home aer dinner, you might think again as their resident DJs will be starting off the night with their funky beats. So look out for Blinq!
Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen 25. T. 020 4204069 One of the newest additions to Amsterdam’s nightlife scene and it certainly is a welcome addition as it offers top class food and drinks in a superb venue close to the famous Leidseplein Square. e decor is extremely pleasing on the eye, the tunes are pleasing on the ears and the service is extremely friendly. Players opens from midday until 1.0am during the week and until 3am at weekends. e venue also boasts a large and modern outdoor lounge terrace.
LOUNGE
DIFFERENT
Bar Lux
Xtracold Ice Bar
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.
Amstel 194-196. Tel: 020-3205700 Xtra Cold offers the ultimate ice experience as visitors are invited to sip some of Amsterdam’s finest cocktails in a stunning visual setting. Guests are welcomed into the ‘Some like it Hot’ Lounge area which exudes a feeling of well being. Hot and cold drinks are served there as well as delicious classic and contemporary cocktails. Contrasting this is the XtraCold Ice Bar with the theme ‘ Some like it cold’. As the name already suggests, everything is made out of ice and to embrace the cold, every visitor receives special thermal clothing including gloves before entering the Ice Bar.
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M U L T I - F U N C TIONAL
DUTCH PARTY
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Feest van Joop
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.
Lange Leidsedwarsstraat 39 Located on the Lange Leidsedwarsstraat just around the corner from the vibrant Leidseplein, Feest van Joop has been a household name in the Amsterdam nightlife scene for the last twenty years. Every ursday, Friday and Saturday night from 10 pm, their friendly and experienced bartenders invite you into the unique atmosphere of Amsterdam clubbing as it should be. So if you want to experience a real Dutch night out, make your way to the Feest van Joop!
M U L T I - F U N C TIONAL
BROWN CAFE
Bulldog Palace
Cafe De Koningshut
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.
Spuistraat 269. T. 020-6264276 Amsterdam is famed for it’s Brown cafés and one of our favourites is Cafe De Koningshut which can be found in the historical centre at Spuistraat. Comfort and relaxation are at premium inside this intimate and attractive venue which proves to be the perfect setting any time of day or night. e service is excellent as is their selection of drinks. e bar can be found beside the famous Haesje Claes Restaurant, so drinks then dinner, or dinner then drinks – Why Not?
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bar scene I R ISH PUBS
IRISH PUBS
Hoopman Irish Pub
St. James Gate
Leidseplein 4. T. 020-6381408 e Hoopman Irish Pub is situated at the corner of Leidseplein and has all the trimmings you would expect from a city centre Irish bar. ey offer a wholesome selection of Irish beers and whiskeys and a great food menu. e Hoopman is attached to two equally entertaining venues which are under the same ownership – Reijnders and e Hole In e Wall. Visitors can also avail of an excellent outdoor terrace.
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.
I R ISH PUBS
SPORTS BARS
Mulligan’s Irish Pub
Players
Amstel 100. T. 020-6221330 Mulligan’s Irish Music Bar looks out on the river Amstel. Over the years it’s easy location, casual friendly atmosphere, and the blend of quirky characters who call it home, have somehow made Mulligan’s into a legendary meeting place for musicians, writers and thousands of curious visitors from abroad. Noteworthy modern songwriters and traditional players from Ireland make regular appearances. Every Sunday there is an open Irish session and on the second Monday of each month the Mc Sweeney Dancers hold a set dancing session Mulligan’s is also famed for its great Guinness and its sporting coverage.
Warmoesstraat 170, T. 020-6272635 e newest Sports Bar in the city opened its doors last year and in the short space of time since then, it has built a reputation for being one of the best places you could find in any city for viewing the sporting action. Situated at the Dam Square side of the famous Warmoesstraat Street, visitors walk downstairs to find a spacious venue which offers all the latest visual equipment to ensure your view of the match is unrivalled. e service is also excellent and the bar also boasts a very tasty food menu.
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bar scene I N T E RNATIONAL
PARTY-TIME
Susie’s Saloon
Café Amsterdamned
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.
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.
DANCE
PARTY-TIME
Club JV
Cooldown Café
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.
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.
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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 years 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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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
T
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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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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 e Magic Mushroom Gallery's on Spuistraat and Singel answer every call and are always worth a visit. But what are 'smart drugs', you may be asking yourself, so we'll attempt a short explanation. Most mind altering substances are classified as either '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 / truffles. e Magic Mushroom Gallery on Spuistraat is the perfect place to begin your quest for mind expansion. e space is bigger than it's competitors, allowing customers to explore and learn in a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere.
A
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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 they supply a wholesale service. Magic Mushrooms / Magic Truffles are available in eight different varieties which include: Psylocibe Mexicana, Psylocibe Atlantis, Philosopher Stones, Dolphins and Space Shuttles. An oral and written explanation of the effects of each kind accompanies every purchase and the polite and helpful staff will go out of their way to make sure you choose the one that best suits your needs. A large variety of herbal XTC's can also be found in the store, the most popular being 'Flower Power', which increases energy and results in a happy feeling. Changing exhibits from Amsterdam's up and coming artists can also be viewed inside the gallery and many of these budding Van Gogh's 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. Both shops are open 7 days a week from 10.00 till 22.00. eir products can also be purchased online by visiting www. Magicmushroom.com. GETTING THERE: e bigger of the two stores is located at Spuistraat 249. If you walk behind the Magna Plaza Shopping Centre and take the first 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 C O FFEESHOPS
COFFEESHOPS
Grey Area
De Rokerij
Oude Leliestraat 2
Lange Leidsedwarsstraat 24
Grey Area is probably the closest thing to what an American shop would be if laws in the U.S. were as progressive as they are in Amsterdam. While quite small in size, they make up for that with an emphasis on quality and value. Inside you will find friendly staff, eclectic music selection, and plenty of devices to make your visit a memorable one! e stoneroperators welcome visitors from around the world who are searching for a fun and open environment. Open seven days a week from High Noon (12:00pm) until 20:00 at night, don't let the short hours or small size put you off, this is where the connoisseurs shop!
Established in 1996, this is the first-formed and the largest of the four Rokerij coffeeshops in Amsterdam and is the place of choice for visitors from all over the globe. Situated close to Leidseplein, it is uniquely decorated in a mix of styles based on Hindu and Nepali artwork. e music is a surprising mix of styles and guarantees the perfect ambiance to relax and chill out. eir other shops can be found at Singel 8, Amstel 8 and Elandsgracht 53.
C O FFEESHOPS
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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C O F F E E S HOPS
COFFEESHOPS
Smoking Bull
Hill Street Blues
Lange Niezel 13 Situated on Lange Niezel Street, just off Warmoesstraat, Smoking Bull Coffeeshop is one of the best we have encountered in the Red Light area or any other area of the city for that matter. e spacious and attractive venue has always been a popular haunt for visitors and once inside you will understand why. Perks of the place include an extensive drinks menu (alcohol included), a pool table, plasma TV screens, Sky Sports coverage, a chill-out area, internet access and they also serve light snacks.
Warmoesstraat 52 Named aer the well-known American cop series, Hill Street Blues is ironically located nextdoor to a police station on the Warmoesstraat street. e place is decorated with graffiti not only on the walls but also on the sofas and chairs. ey serve coffee and a wide range of spirits, beer and liqueurs. You can also chill out while playing some pool, tablefootball and a number of different board games. Eminem had his photo taken on the Hill Street couch for the cover of his first album, so you may even bump in to someone famous here.
C O F F E E S HOPS
COFFEESHOPS
Kadinsky
Happy Feelings
Rozemarijnsteeg 9 Another of Amsterdam's finest coffeeshops. It has a funky up beat modern style and is famed throughout the city and further afield for it's cool tunes. eir products are also of the highest quality and they are one of the few places in the city which actually offer special discount rates on some of their wares. e huge downstairs window offers the perfect view onto a busy side street.
Kerkstraat 51 If ever a name was suited to a coffeeshop, this is it, because at Happy Feelings On Kerkstraat (close to Leidseplein), the feel-good factor is never-ending. e new ban on smoking tobacco in public has made life difficult for many lovers of Amsterdam’s so-drugs scene, but Happy Feelings have the perfect solution courtesy of their smoking garden. ey also provide various tobacco substitutes which are allowed to be smoked inside. Visitors will also find a vaporiser on each table, and these are no regular vaporisers, they are waterpipes which really must be tried.
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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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TaTanka smarTshop amsTerdam Welcome to the Natural Future
their impressive internet site at:
Situated on Korte Leidswedwrstraat, just 100 m from the Sports CafĂŠ, this smartshop, seedbank, and internet cafe is a must-see place for those interested in taking a happy natural look into the future.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 151, Amsterdam
The things that separate Tatanka from so many of the others is the friendliness and knowledge of the staff. If these guys can not advise you, then nobody can. And the products themselves will amaze you. We have all heard of Viagra, but Tatanka offers Stimulust, a natural sexual enhancer for men and women. Or how about the macabooster, a natural herbal XTC . New rules mean that Amsterdam is no longer allowed to sell magic mushrooms, but Tatanka have the solution for mushroom lovers with their magic truffels which have the same effect. Or perhaps you fancy a bit of Salvia, which is also almost like magic mushrooms A great selection of hand-made smoking accessories, bongs, funky t shirts and various gadgets can also be found and they have also introduced a dope-tester, so you can check if your dope is real.
www.tatanka.nl.
*If you show the ad from Tatanka on this page, you will receive a 10% discount on products at their store.
Products can also be purchased online via
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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
L
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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 P R I VATE CLUBS
STRIPTEASE
Club LV
La Vie
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.
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.
New Escort Agency Rules ! id you know that from February 2008, all Amsterdam-based escort agencies are required to be licensed? is is one of many measures that the city council has taken to fight human trafficking and improve the working conditions for prostitutes. All agencies must for example have a health & safety plan for their workers and a solid financial base.
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Be sure to check if the company that you use is licensed and be aware that by doing business with
an unlicensed agency, you might be maintaining abuse. Moreover, under the new law you could be held responsible for using an unlicensed agency and you could face legal punishment. Genuine agencies should always have a License Number on their websites, promotions and advertisements, so make sure you look out for this number before calling. *All agencies promoted inside our magazine are legal and licensed.