welcome elcome to the winter 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 autumn season provided proof of this, as it can safely be said that it has been a long time since the city saw so many visitors in September, October and November. 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 winter 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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essential Info Christmas in Amsterdam new Year In Amsterdam Live & Kicking What’s Happening seeing & Doing Map Food For thought Bar scene Liberal Amsterdam
entertainment Amsterdam City is a registered trade name and publication. neither the trading name, the format or the content may be reproduced. All rights reserved.
Amsterdam City Entertainment Loenermark 856, 1025 VP Amsterdam, Tel: +31 6 312 5990 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, Rabobank 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.
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.
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.
DOCTORS e Central Doctor's Service can be contacted at 020-5923434 or 0900-503204.
EMERGENCY In the UK its 999, in America its 911 and in AMSTERDAM its 112. When you get through, state your location and the kind of help you require (police, ambulance or fire brigade). You will then be transferred to the appropriate department.
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 rates calling cards are also available in these outlets.
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Renting a bike is a great way to see the city and we thoroughly recommend it.
POLICE e central number for the police is 0900-8844. Call this number and they will put you in touch with the nearest police station.
LOST LUGGAGE Aeroplane: Aero Ground Services 020-6033222 or KLM Lost Luggage dept. 0800-0226400. On the boat: Dutchport 020-4059400. On the train: 0900-1558. On public transport (trams and busses): 020-4605858
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 A festive view over the Nieuwemarkt.
Christmas
In Amsterdam
If we are honest, Christmas in Amsterdam was never treated with the same enthusiasm and gusto as most other European cities, but that has been changing dramatically in the past few years, as the authorities and local businesses introduce new measures to ensure the Festive period has something for everyone. And in 2010, it has never been more vibrant and exciting. e Dutch holiday season started in November, with the arrival of Sinterklaas and all his Zwarte Pieten (Black Peters) and the celebrations continued on the weekend of 5 December, when Sinterklaas (originally the holy day of Sint Nicholaas) is celebrated each year. On the eve of the 5 December, the children leave their boots by the fireplace, hoping to wake up to find them filled with sweets. On the day itself, families gathered to exchange gis and and eat lavish holiday meals.
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However, most of us are more accustomed to the traditional Anglo-American Christmas (December 25) and as previously mentioned, Amsterdam is full of surprises this year. Many of the big entertainment areas such as Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein (close to Dam Square) and Museumplein offer attractions which include ice rinks, Christmas-style markets and vendors offering tasty seasonal treats including hot mulled wine and the famous Dutch Oliebollen (traditional doughnuts). e Leidseplein ice rink is already up and running and is definitely worth visiting, as is the huge rink at the new Winterland facility on Rembrandtplein. Winterland was introduced to the city last year and was a huge success. All the indications suggest that this year will be equally good.
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Unlike many other cities, almost nothing stops in Amsterdam during the festive season. Even on Christmas Day itself, almost all bars, clubs, cafes, shops and restaurants stay open, so the fun is never-ending. Also unlike most other places, the Dutch celebrate two Christmas Days, one on December 25 and one on December 26 and they are simply knows as First Christmas Day and Second Christmas Day. Traditionally, the second Christmas Day is when the locals take to the roads to visit their families. ose who want to worship need not worry as there are several churches that you can visit no matter what your particular affiliation. Amsterdam is of course also famous for housing it’s special Christmas Shop (Singel Canal opposite the Floating Flower Market). is shop stays open 365 days per year, selling all kinds of Christmas decorations and treats and it becomes extra special when December arrives. e following are some of the best Christmasthemed events taking place in the city this year: Winterland Until January 8 at Rembrandtplein Following the success of last year, Winterland returns to Rembrandtplein e biggest is the Winterland spectacle which can be found on Rembrandtplein and runs until January 8th. e area is transformed into a winter wonderland which offers an ice rink, Christmas
markets and lots of festive food and drink. It is open daily from 10am until 2am. Old Church Christmas Concert December 18 at Oude Kerk e oldest building in Amsterdam, the Oude Kerk is a majestic setting for a Christmas Concert on 18 December. e Very Big Holiday Show Until December 26 at Leidseplein eater In their new show, Amsterdam's Boom Chicago takes a hilarious look at all the joys and frustrations of the Christmas season e Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra Festive Concert December 17 at Het Concertgebouw e exact programme of this Festive Concert at the Concertgebouw on 17 December is always kept under lock and key until the event but it's guaranteed to be a spectacular Christmas treat! World Christmas Circus 2011 December 22 to January 8 at eater Carre e internationally-renowned World Christmas Circus features only the crème de la crème of the circus world. e circus is in town for a run of shows from 16 December to 2 January 2011 at Amsterdam's Royal eatre Carré.
The Winterland ice rink on Rembrandtplein is popular during winter.
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the main event There will be fireworks galore on New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve
In Amsterdam
Amsterdam goes into party overdrive on New Years Eve with illuminated skies and champagne rivers. If you find yourself in the city at this time, you are in for a real treat. Huge numbers of visitors pack into the city’s bars and clubs, many of which need to be prebooked and some of them ask for a cover charge. New Year's Eve in Amsterdam is called ‘Oudjaarsdag’ or ‘Oudjaarsavond’ (Old Year's Day or Old Year's Evening, respectively). You might also see or hear December 31st being
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referred to as Oud en Nieuw (Old and New). Whatever you wish to call it, one thing is for sure, if you're ringing in the New Year in Amsterdam, you're in for a memorable party. Dam Square, Rembrandtplein, Nieuwmarkt and Leidseplein have become the main revelry areas and once midnight arrives, they are extremely crowded, while the skies are illuminated by fireworks and the ear-drums pound from the sound of fire-crackers which tend to be lit up long before and aer the chimes for 12 o’clock.
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Dam Square is set up with beer tents and live shows take place on a huge stage. It’s a similar situation on Leidseplein, Museumplein and Rembrandtplein. If you want a quiet spot to see the fireworks, pick any bridge on the city’s main canals and watch the sky – you’ll see fireworks from all directions and hear the incredible sounds of a city celebrating. By the way, instead of saying ‘Happy New Year’, the Dutch say, “gelukkig nieuwjaar” (pronounced Hill ukik New Yar). e atmosphere is jovial and festive and if you fancy extending your celebrations into the early hours, check out the discotheques, most of which organise New Year’s Eve theme nights with special DJs. e following are some of the parties we recommend to ring in 2012.
Amsterdam United December 31 at Westergasfabriek Amsterdam United pulls out all the stops to present a fiery New Year's Eve party at the Westergasfabriek Gashouder in Amsterdam. e event promises to bring a spectacular new twist to proceedings with nothing less than an indoor firework show!
New Year’s Eve In Amsterdam Amsterdam goes into party overdrive on New Years Eve with illuminated skies and champagne rivers. If you find yourself in the city at this time, you are in for a real treat. Huge numbers of visitors pack into the city’s bars and clubs, many of which need to be prebooked and some of them ask for a cover charge.
Going To A Go-Go December 31 at Paradiso e Paradiso gets old-school this New Year's Eve with their Going To a GoGo party.Amsterdam BeatClub are in charge of this groovy event featuring live bands, go-go girls, cult movies, great DJs, champagne and of course oodles of fun.
Electronation NYE Silver Disco December 31 at Sugar Factory e Sugar Factory teams up with Electronation to wave goodbye to 2011 at the NYE Silver Disco. e dresscode is all about disco outfits and glitter for this merry evening packed with a whole spectrum of disco tunes and singalong classics
Museumplein will again be crowded when 2012 is rang in.
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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 winter 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 ON C E RTS
CO NCE RT S
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 ON C E RTS
TH EATR ES
Melkweg
Muziekgebouw
Lijnbaansgracht 234. T. 020 5318181 e Melkweg (Milky Way in English) is Amsterdam's biggest multi-functional entertainment venue. Housed in a former dairy, Melkweg attracts some top class performers. e venue mainly concentrates on live performances, but at weekends it hosts a variety of dance events which are also worth checking out. During the day and before performances, visitors can enjoy a drink at their impressive café.
Piet Heinkade 1. T. 020-7882010 e recently opened Muziekgebouw venue offers composers and makers of music and theatre with their own work place. Festivals, thematic projects and multimedia concerts are held regularly. e building is visually stunning and also happens to be one of the most photographed subjects in Amsterdam. For more information, check out their website at www.muziekgebouw.nl.
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live & kicking T H EA T RES
TH EATR ES
Stadsschouwburg
Amsterdam Concertgebouw
Leidseplein 26. T. 020-6242311
Concertgebouwplein 2-6. T. 020-6718345
e unmissable Stadsschouwburg in the heart of the famous Leidseplein is one of the city’s top venues for drama and theatre productions, and is also one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful buildings. e theatre frequently shows English language theatre productions and dance performances and there is always a host of top performances during the spring season. Information about what’s on can be gained via their website at www.stadsschouwburgamsterdam.nl.
Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw is internationally known for its fabulous acoustics and as home of the famous Concertgebouw Orchestra. Visitors can enjoy an alternating programme which involves both Dutch and international musicians and varies from performances by world famous symphony orchestras to concerts for children, contemporary music, vocal concerts and world music. Guided tours are also available. Check out our Events section to see what major performances are showing this spring, or for extra info, go to their website at: www.concertgebouw.nl.
T H EA T RES
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Royal Carre
Opera House
Amstel 115-125. T. 020-5249452 This huge building on the banks of the Amstel River always attracts top performers in fields such as comedy, circus, music and dance and during spring, they will host the Footloose Musical and also Irish songstress Mary Black. e Royal Carre theatre has been in existence for more than a century and is visual stunning. Check out the website at www.theatercarre.nl for further details about what’s on during your stay.
Waterlooplein 22. T. 020-5518117 Known in Amsterdam as ‘Het Muziektheater’ (e Music eatre) this venue is the theatre of residence for e Netherlands Opera and the Dutch National Ballet and also home to the Holland Symphony Orchestra. e venue hosts top class productions of some of the world’s most famous operas and ballets and musicals, so check out their website at www.hetmuziektheater.nl.
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C OM E D Y
JAZZ
Boom Chicago Comedy eatre
Jazz Café Alto
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.
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.
C OM E D Y
SALSA
Comedy eater In De Nes
Cantinero
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.
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 T IC K LIN G
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.
SOU L
MUL T I-FU NC TION AL
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 RO CK
JAZZ
e Waterhole
Bimhuis
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
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.
BL UES
R OCK & B LU ES
Maloe Melo
Bourbon Street Blues Club
Lijnbaansgracht 163. T. 020 4204592 is traditional 'brown' blues bar is regarded as Amsterdam's 'Home of the Blues' and it can be found on Lijnbaansgracht, very close to Leidseplein. Live music (mostly blues) can be heard every night in the back room, with a mix of renowned players and local talent, and occasional jam sessions. ere are oen appearances from international names who visit aer playing a gig at a bigger venue.
Leidsekruisstraat 6-8. T. 020 6233440 Situated close to the famous Leidseplein, Bourbon Street offers live music nightly. World famous acts such as Sting, Jeff Healey, e Rolling Stones Crew and Joss Stone have performed here and no doubt more stars will be belting out their tunes in the future. It’s intimate, the atmosphere is always vibrant and the lay-out ensures that no matter where you are positioned inside, a good view of the stage is guaranteed.
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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.
A
RULES Here are a few tips on what you should and shouldn't do before, during and aer you are at a club. 1. It can oen be a disadvantage if you speak English. It's probably something to do with the bad reputation UK residents have
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abroad. So don't walk up to the door shooting your mouth off. Also don't approach the venues drunk or stoned because you have no chance of entry. 2. You may think you are ready and able for just about everything a Dutch club has to offer, but the likelihood is that you are not, so pace yourself. 3. Smoking a joint is widely accepted in most Dutch clubs and 'E' is generally accepted as part of the clubbing scene. e story is different with hard drugs and many of the clubs have installed facilities to detect those who use the hard stuff. 4. Try to behave when you exit the club. e natives don't appreciate loud-mouths waking them up at six o'clock in the morning. Take it from someone who used to live in Rembrandtplein. 5. it’s always a good idea to tip the doorman when you leave. Five Euro is usually enough and can sometimes ensure that the queue is shorter and the entrance policy more lenient when you visit again. 6. Don't get any ideas about making trouble inside or outside the club because the Dutch police force is always around, and can be severe. Piss them of and you will find yourself in a cell.
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live & kicking C LU BB ING
CL U BB ING
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 LU BB ING
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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 LU B BI N G
CL UB BIN G
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.
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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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what’s happening
Imagine
What’s Happening Concerts, musicals, dance events, festivals, theatre….you name it and Amsterdam has it and this winter 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.
Winter Events in the City Science Live December 22 to January 8 at NEMO Visitors get to act as test person for scientific research at e Nemo Science Museum; all ages needed
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East - West: Japan and Japonism Until Januray 15 at Van Gogh Museum is exhibition exhibits Japanese prints from Vincent and eo van Gogh's personal collection alongside works by western artists who were influenced by the Japanese art that was introduced at the time.
Red Light Pilot Projects
EXHIBITIONS
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Until December 31 at Het Muziektheater Showcasing beautiful treasures and memorabilia from the world of opera and dance.
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Until January 20 at ARCAM In the light of large-scale renewals in the neighbourhood, ARCAM presents architecture ideas for blending creative programmes with existing structures in an attempt to reach greater cultural diversity in Amsterdam's red light district.
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Edith Frank-Holländer, 1900-1945 roughout winter at Anne Frank House Edith Frank-Holländer was Anne Frank's mother. For the first time, she's put in the spotlight with an exhibition entirely dedicated to her. Most people know little more about Edith Frank than what her youngest daughter Anne wrote about her in her diary. e exhibition adds to this knowledge and aims to better acquaint museum visitors with Edith using personal testimonies contained on film and in photos, letters and artefacts.
Impressive Presents roughout winter at Museum of Bags and Purses e bags displayed in this exhibition were originally owned by individuals and collectors or once the property of famous fashion houses and designers such as Moschino, Stella McCartney, Louis Vuitton and Judith Leiber
exhibition to the subject of death, and how it is dealt with in various cultures. Visitors to the exhibition will discover how different peoples deal with death all over the world.
MUSIC New Model Army December 18 at Melkweg e British band New Model Army has been going strong for nearly 3 decades producing politically and poetic numbers rooted in folk, punk, rock and metal. NMA has worldwide cultstatus.
Beth Hart December 19 at Paradiso
Death Matters roughout winter at Tropenmuseum Amsterdam's Tropenmuseum dedicates an
e American singer takes to the stage at Amsterdam’s Paradiso.
Clash Of e Cover Bands December 25 at Hotel Arena A renowned jury, consisting of 5 representatives from record companies, vocational media and ticket offices, will determine which band is allowed to bear the name of 'best cover band of the Netherlands' for a year.
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what’s happening
UB40 will perform at Paradiso in January.
UB40
Amos Lee
January 29 at Paradiso e legendary British band take to the sdtage at Amsterdam’s Paradiso.
January 16 and 17 at Paradiso Funk and soul by the young singer and guitarist
Tanzwut
Ledisi
December 28 at Melkweg Medieval instruments (such as the bagpipe) are mixed with loud guitars and techno and electro beats. With fire, costumes, mystical lyrics and flying bras.
January 23 at Paradiso Amsterdam's Paradiso welcomes American R&B singer-tp Ledisi to the stage.
Legends
February 9 at Paradiso A singer-songwriter, bass guitarist and producer who records and performs in a number of different musical styles
January 7 at Paradiso Black pop hits from the past and the present. Music and videoclips from Marvin Gaye, Alicia Keys, etc.
Korendagen Choir Festival January 14 and 15 at Paradiso Amsterdam's Paradiso welcomes more than 140 choirs from all over the Netherlands. e annual Korendagen (literally translated as 'choir days') have become an Amsterdam institution.
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Nick Lowe
DANCE Friday Night at Van Gogh Museum Every Friday throughout winter 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
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chairs and invite DJs and live acts to perform.
Magic Of e Dance Irish Show February 4 at Schouwburg, Amstelveen e breathtaking show sees both Irish and American tap stars sweep the audience back to a time of American emigration in this passionate love story.
BALLET e Nutcracker & e Mouse King December 15 to January 1 at Het Muziektheater e Dutch interpretation of the enormously popular fairytale ballet. In contrast to the
Social Media Circus Until January 31 at Leidseplein eater e new show by the American Leidsepleinbased comedians explores the world's current fascination with social media - and its antisocial aspects. All with a good dose of laughter, of course.
Fawlty Towers – e Dining Experience January 10-15 at Schouwburg, Amstelveen is dinner show by Interactive eatre Australia is modelled on the famous TV show Fawlty Towers and has been successfully touring around the world for more than ten years. No wonder: food and laughter are usually a good combination. Unless you're dining in the real Hotel Fawlty that is...
MISCELLANEOUS e Magic Flute
original E.T.A. Hoffmann story, which is set in a patrician's residence in Germany, Van Schayk and Eagling's Nutcracker and Mouse King takes place in an Amsterdam canal-side house around 1810.
COMEDY Can’t Dutch is Until January 30 at Leideplein eater is brilliantly-titled new show by the Boom Chicago funnymen (and women) offers a chance to relive the greatest moments of the comedy troupe's history.
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roughout winter at Amsterdam Marionette eater An exotic adventure, a classic story of the struggle between good and evil, a fairy tale. Presented by wooden actors. A story from the realm of imagination, populated by princes and princesses, dragons and exotic birds. A play about jealousy, vanity and compassion, and of course the overriding power of love.
St. Valentine’s Day February 14 at various locations Amsterdam is one of the most romantic cities in the world, so to be here for Valentine's Day is an opportunity not to be missed. Cosy up for dinner, take a boat cruise, get married for a day or just stroll through the old cobble-stoned streets this February 14th.
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what’s happening
Palazzo Dinner & Show
Touch Your Senses! Would you like to get away from your daily routine? Forget about the monotony of everyday life and enjoy an evening of unique experiences? Escape to the magical faraway world of Palazzo, with its thousands of twinkling candles and mahogany-framed mirrors. Enjoy a superb four-course dinner and marvel at the breathtaking, world-class entertainment which will be on display throughout winter. A new chef will take charge of the Amsterdam spectacle, as legendary cuisinier Robert Kranenborg takes over from Herman den Blijker. Together with his kitchen team, this culinary giant has composed a 4-course menu for Palazzo, whereby the focus is on high quality. e menu offers something for everyone, including fish, meat and vegetarian dishes. Palazzo is a theatre for all the senses! e event includes theatre, cuisine, acrobatics, comedy, magic and illusion, and whisks visitors away to an enchanted world, far from the harshness of everyday reality. Guests can expect Palazzo to be an enjoyable leap into
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the unknown; a mysterious, sensual and unforgettable experience. e show itself is better than ever this time around, as e Palazzo scouts have been searching around the globe in order to bring you a new, stunning, hilarious and spectacular cast for the show. And they succeeded! Palazzo also has the privilege to be located in the most dynamic part of Amsterdam: Amsterdam Zuidoost. Within walking distance from train station Amsterdam Arena, the Heineken Music Hall, the Pathé Movie eatre and the Amsterdam Arena. With the train station only meters away, Palazzo is easily accessible by public transport or car. You can book your seats online or by phone: +31 900 - 72 52 996 from the Netherlands; +31 20 - 43 53 010 from outside the Netherlands. Address Palazzo Office For group bookings of more than 15 persons, please contact: Palazzo Producties B.V. ArenA Boulevard 61-75 1101 DL Amsterdam t: +31 20 - 43 53 010 f: +31 20 - 43 53 011e: info@palazzo.nl
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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. As you would expect, winter is the busiest period, so don’t be surprised if you encounter crowds and queues at many of the city’s biggest attractions. In other parts of the magazine, we have gone into detail about attractions such as the Red Light District, the clubbing scene, cafes and bars and where to dine and in this section, we look at some of the other reasons for adding thrills and spills to your visit. In recent years, the biggest tourist attraction has been canal cruising and various different companies offer various different cruises along the city’s famed waterways. We recommend the cruises offer by the Blue Boat Company and you can read more about them in this section of our magazine.
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ere are also of course the infamous museums and a visit to some of the big ones like Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are highly recommended as are the Torture Museum and the Sex Museum which offer something a little bit different but are equally entertaining. Art is also popular in the city and if you fancy taking home an extra special memory of your visit, you should pop along to the Mark Raven art shop where you can find wonderful paintings of Amsterdam and other special souvenirs. Other attractions like the Artis Zoo, e Comedy Café, e Ajax Stadium Tour, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the recently re-opened Heineken Experience, bicycle rental and trips to the various theatres ensure that no matter what time of day it is, there will be something to see and do in Amsterdam.
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AM A Z I N G A RE NA
e World Of Ajax
F A M OU S DI AR Y
Anne Frank House
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.
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.
B EE R F OR C HE ER
SPIN TO WIN
e Heineken Experience
Holland Casino
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"
Max Euweplein 62. T. 020 5211111 Holland Casino, which is situated just off Leidseplein is housed in a huge building which stands out among almost all others in the city, thanks to it's size, shape, splendour and location at the edge of one of the city's main canals. Games such as roulette, blackjack and poker can all be played and they also have a huge selection of slot machines. e first floor is also home to the casino's magnificent restaurant and the venue also hosts various live entertainment performances.
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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 O OT BA L L FIRST
TH E BIG SC R EEN
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.
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.
P E AC E & S ER ENIT Y
A N IMA L A TTR ACT IO N
Begijnhof e Begijnhof is an enclosed courtyard dating from the early 14th century. It is the only inner court in Amsterdam which was founded during the Middle Ages, and therefore lies within the Singel — the innermost canal of Amsterdam's circular canal system. A group of historic buildings, mostly private dwellings, centre on e Begijnhof. It was originally built as a sanctuary for the Begijntjes, a Catholic sisterhood who lived like nuns, although they took no monastic vows. Nowadays it is one of Amsterdam's top tourist attractions and its definitely worth visiting.
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Artis Amsterdam Zoo 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 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 OA T ING F L OWE RS
NAT IONAL F LOW ER
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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D RI N KS A C A D EM Y
WA X W OND ER S
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.
SP A RK L E & S HIN E
MUS EUMS
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.
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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 winter.
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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 from 12.0 until 23.0 daily. Square on Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal.
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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food for thought R O C KIN G FOOD
JAPANESE
Hard Rock Cafe
Sumo Restaurant
Max Euweplein 57-61. T. 020-5237625 In the centre of Amsterdam you'll find great American classic dining and a museum's worth of rock memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe. Located near Leidseplein on the Max Euweplein, the restaurant is split into three levels to offer you the best gaze upon our canals, offering a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals. At Hard Rock Amsterdam you can enjoy a signature Hard Rock cocktail on our canalside terrace or tuck into one of our 10 oz. Legendary burgers. With our friendly service and rock 'n' roll atmosphere, Hard Rock Cafe will offer you such a great time, you'll be surprised it's legal.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 51. Tel. 020-4235131 Lovers of Japanese cuisine are in for a real treat at the wonderful new Sumo Restaurant, which opened on Leidseplein at the start of the year. Diners will get more than they bargained for at Sumo, courtesy of their ‘All You Can Eat’ concept, meaning there is absolutely no chance of leaving the place with an unfulfilled appetite. And you may not stop eating, such is the quality of the cuisine on offer. eir selection of delicious sushis has to be seen to be believed, and the warm dishes are equally impressive.
S T EA K OU SE
JAPANESE
Rancho’s
Kobe House
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 71-73. T. 020 -6274754 One of several Rancho steakhouses in the city, the restaurant on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat is among the best steakhouses you will find. e food is of the highest quality, as they use only the freshest ingredients. e beef comes from cattle that graze freely on the South American pampas, meaning it is of high quality, delicious and healthy! e service is also excellent and their outdoor terrace is always popular during fine weather, as you can dine while watching the activity on vibrant Leidseplein.
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 77 T. 020-622 64 58 is place takes sushi and sashimi very seriously and you will struggle to find a better Japanese restaurant. e friendly and efficient staff will be pleased to serve you a wide variety of Japanese treats in a wonderful setting. Choose between a number of set menus, or assemble your meal a la carte. ey also offer a number of excellent tepan menus. Kobe house uses only the freshest and best ingredients, so why not enjoy a taste of Japan.
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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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food for thought PO R TU GUE SE
MEXIC AN DE L IGH TS
Portugalia
Matias
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.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 95. T. 020-6381817 Just about the finest Tex-Mex cuisine we have tasted in Amsterdam, Restaurant Matias recently came under new management and the change has made a heck of a difference, as this really is a superb place to eat. Situated on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat, close to the famous Leidseplein, the venue boasts two floors, and serves up a variety of Mexican dishes, as well as excellent seafood and steaks. e atmosphere is warm and intimate and don’t be surprised if you find yourself staying a lot longer than you initially planned. An added perk is that the service is among the best you will find anywhere in Amsterdam. Also perfect for lunch.
INT ’L B R ASSERI E
ITA L IA N
Isola Bella
At James
orbeckeplein 7. T. 020-6269582 For good Italian cuisine, try the attractive Isola Bella restaurant which can be found just off the famous Rembrandtplein on orbeckeplein. At Isola Bella you can choose from the finest Italian cuisine created from the freshest ingredients. e venue itself boasts a stunning Latin-style interior and there is also a large and comfortable outdoor terrace.
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.
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I N D I AN
CHIN ESE
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.
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IN DONE SIAN
Harbor Lounge
Sahid Jaya
Borneosteiger 1. Tel. 020-4189690 It may be located a bit outside the city centre, but that shouldn’t prevents anyone from trying out this wonderful restaurant which is nestled on the water and has without doubt one of the most stunning terraces in the city. Food, water and entertainment are all brought together at Harbor Lounge, as top chefs entice you with ever-changing and mouthwatering lunch and dinner menus. Trust us when we tell you that it is ‘affordable luxury’, because prices are extremely competitive considering the quality of this place. Highly Recommended.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 26. T. 020-6263727 Quite simply one of the finest Indonesian restaurants you will find anywhere, everything about Sahid Jaya oozes class. Enjoying the Indonesian “Rijsttafel” is a special experience which can not be missed. e ambience, the décor and the food combined with a wonderful atmosphere make Sahid Jaya a must. It’s also possible to have dinner or enjoy lunch in their beautiful and unique Amsterdam courtyard.
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food for thought MY S TIC A L M AG IC
MEXICAN
Little Buddha Amsterdam
Los Pilones
Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen 17
Kerkstraat 63. Tel. 020-3204651
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.
One of Amsterdam’s best Mexican restaurants, Los Pilones on Kerkstraat (Leidseplein area) is the place to go for truly real Mexican cuisine at great value. e restaurant is run by Hector and Pedro, two Mexicans brothers who take pride in their country’s culinary heritage. e food is great and is served in generous portions and the service is also excellent. All those who believe they know all there is about tacos, salsas and chillies and other Mexican goodies, think again because Los Pilones will raise your standards so high you won’t ever settle for fake Mexican stuff again. Reservations are recommended because this place fills up quickly. ey recently opened the second Los Pilones restaurant at Eerste Anjelierdwarsstraat 6 and it is equally good.
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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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bar scene
ith about 1,500 different cafes and bars to choose from, there is no excuse for being thirsty in Amsterdam and they can be found on just about every street, corner or canal and all of them offer something different. Dutch drinks, rather than food, have played a much more important role on a global scale as a consequence of the importance given to beer and its brewing over the centuries. In the early 18th century there were over seven hundred breweries in e Netherlands, although today there are only twenty-five. Heineken is the most famous of the Dutch beers, and brands such as Amstel, Brandt, Breda, Grolsch, Oranjeboom and Skol are also brewed in Holland, so it can be a beer lover’s paradise. No doubt you will also notice that the locals like their beer in small glasses and with a hey helping of foam. ey say it keeps the beer fresher and although it may seem strange to many visitors, they do have a point, so try the foamy small beers before you judge.
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To start with, there are the traditional brown cafes, which are always worth visiting, particularly the ones which host outdoor terraces during fine days. e city also plays host to a vast range of theme bars (everything from Irish pubs to sports bars and Australian hang-outs to cocktail bars) and there also some wonderful Grand Cafes and a fine range of hostelries for those who like things a little more chic and trendy. e average opening hours are from 11.00am to 1.00am during the week and many stay open until 3am at weekends, especially in areas such as Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, Dam Square. e Nieuwmarkt and e Red Light District. NOTE: Since July 1st 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 & BE SEE N
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.
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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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ree Sisters Rembrandtplein 17. T. 020 6275660 One of a trio of ree Sisters establishments in the city, one other smaller version can be found a few doors down on Rembrandtplein and the other can be found on Leidseplein. However, this one is the biggest and most famous of the trio. e venue is split into several different areas and always a popular spot for the young and trendy before they hit the clubs; and also for business visitors and those who like a relaxed aernoon drink and snack. ey also offer an excellent food menu, while the antique-style interior combines comfort with a warm atmosphere. In association with:
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bar scene M U L T I -FU N C TIONA L
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e Grasshopper
Bulldog Palace
Oudebrugsteeg 16. T. 020-6261259 Famed throughout Holland and Europe, the Grasshopper venues offers three-in-one entertainment and is definitely worth a visit. On the ground floor, you can relax and have a drink or a bite to eat on their terrace, while the first two floor hosts their sports bar and Grand Café. On the third floor, you can find the Evita Steakhouse. In fact, you could say it is four-in-one, because the coffeeshop is located at basement level.
Leidseplein 13-17 e Bulldog Palace is one of the biggest bars in the city. Karaoke Nights, professional dance acts, an in-house DJ, internet facilities, pool tables, a souvenir shop, a coffeeshop, a state of the art smoking room - the list goes on and on. Refurbishments during January and February made the venue even better and they have also introduced a better food menu.
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Players Cafe
Euro Pub
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.
Dam Square 3-7. T. 020-4200563 e Euro Pub Cafe can be found on one of the corners of Dam Square and its location makes it the ideal place to sit back, relax and watch the hectic activity that goes on Holland’s national square. Euro Pub is also the perfect place to get the party started, thanks to a rocking sound system, an impressive list of cocktails and shooters and a constantly lively atmosphere. Also a popular place to watch big sporting events.
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D U T CH P A RT Y
T RUE DUT C H
Feest van Joop
Cafe La Bastille
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!
Lijnbaansgracht 245 If you fancy hanging out where the Dutch hang out, then La Bastille could be the place for you. Located on Lijnbaansgracht, just off the famous Leidseplein Square, this place is normally packed to the raers. During weekends, its were workers assemble to discuss their day at the office and at weekends, it is oen the starting point for a night on the town. Dutch music lovers will adore the tunes.
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Cafe De Koningshut
Mulligan’s Irish Pub
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?
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.
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bar scene S PO RTS BAR S
IR ISH PUB S
Players
St. James Gate
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.
Rembrandtplein 8-10. T. 020 4226886 Named aer the famous brewery in Dublin where Guinness is brewed, St. James's Gate is a spacious and attractive venue, which prides itself on quality beverages, good food, an excellent atmosphere and most importantly, friendly service. St. James Gate also provide one of the best outdoor terraces in the city and there is no need to worry if it gets a little bit chilly, because all the parasols are fitted with electric heating systems. ey also offer a smoking room.
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Hoopman Irish Pub
O’Reilly’s
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.
Paleisstraat 103-105. T. 020 6249498 Located behind the Royal Palace on Dam Square, O’Reilly’s has been in business for more than 12 years and their welcoming approach combined with a non-stop search for perfection has ensured their excellent reputation. e staff treat you as they would expect to be treated and few other venues display such hospitality. e food menu is also excellent and it is also a landmark pub to watch the best live sporting action.
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bar scene T HE ME BA RS
PART Y-TI ME
Coco’s Outback
Café Amsterdamned
orbeckeplein 8-12. T. 020-6272423 Australian theme bar, Coco’s Outback is extremely popular among the tourists and is one of the better places to go for good beer, good sports coverage and nourishing, yet inexpensive tucker. ey offer a huge selection of beers including most of the brands from Down Under and other perks include a pool table, special theme nights and the enlistment of DJs during many weekends.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 24a. T. 020 4213353 Located directly beside Leidseplein, Café Amsterdamned has been one of the most popular dance/party bars in the city for many years and its popularity shows no signs of decreasing. e atmosphere is always hot and the service is always friendly and helpful. And few other bars give as many special offers. e music varies from 70s and 80s to R & B and from dance and hip-hop to the latest chart hits.
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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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liberal amsterdam Amsterdam’s Smoking & Seeds Scene
he Dutch have an attitude of tolerance dating back to the 16th century when they forced out the Spanish and their inquisition. Since then, they have chosen not to make an outrage out of victimless crimes like prostitution, pornography, homosexuality and the use of so drugs, although the stance has been changing slightly in recent times. is permissiveness has resulted in Holland becoming a Mecca for those who wish to experience the freedom of the adult entertainment and cannabis cultures. e "coffeeshop" is a unique Dutch institution. For over 20 years, coffeeshops have operated and there are currently more than 300 in the
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city, where you can buy and smoke cannabis. However, the smoking ban which was enforced last July has an effect on the coffeeshop and so drugs scene, although many of the better shops have catered to customers’ needs by creating smoking rooms. More recently, the Government also introduced a rule which banned the selling of magic mushrooms. e owners of the various seeds shops in the cities are still fighting this law, but as yet, they have failed to have it overturned. In the following pages, we will introduce you to some of the best coffeeshops and seed banks the city has to offer.
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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.
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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 OF FEE SH OP S
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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.
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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 EE S H OP S
C OF FEES HOPS
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.
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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 OF FEE SH OP S
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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.
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HASH MU SEUM
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
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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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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.