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Welcome to Amsterdam
e sincerely hope that you will enjoy your stay in our famous city and we also hope that at some stage, we will have the pleasure of welcoming you to the Satellite Sports Cafe, one of Europe’s leading sports bars. Inside this guide, you will find various details about our cafe as well as some useful information about our city. Satellite Sports Cafe was established about 14 years ago and since then, we have strived to make our bar one of the most entertaining in Amsterdam. Our cafe is located on the corner of the famous Leidseplein, the city’s most vibrant entertainment area. Trams 1,2,5,7 and 10 will leave you almost at our doorstep. Our promises are simple. Firstly, we guarantee that you will receive a friendly welcome and secondly, we guarantee more sports than any other venue in the city. If it’s on anywhere in the world, the chances are that we can show it!
The café has two floors of equal size. The ground level boasts a new state of the art big screen, nine plasma screens and a number of lcd screens, while upstairs we have also introduced a new state of the art big screen, three plasma screens and 11 lcd screens. We open from 9am every day until 3am during the week and until 4am at weekends and when the bar is open, the kitchen is open as we offer you breakfast, lunch, dinner and supper as well as various other perks like our Unlimited Spare Ribs for only 9,95 Euro and our famed Jagermeister shots which can be purchased for 1,50 Euro each or you can enjoy 10 shots for just 10 Euro…What A Deal !!! Every night is also a party night at the Sports Cafe and our enthusiastic and beautiful staff are always keen to join the party and ensure we have one of the most fun-filled bars in Amsterdam. 2
The winter season promises to be extra special in the Sports Café, as we start to reach the business end of all of the major European football leagues, and the same can be said of the current NFL season. If you happen to be in town during the festive season, you are in for a real treat, as our bar will hosts various different Christmas parties and also our renowned New Year’s Eve party. All in all, it looks certain to be a memorable winter season and we look forward to welcoming you into our legendary café. Have fun in Amsterdam! The Sports Cafe staff
CONTENTS Essential Info Wine & Dine Cafes & Bars Attractions Shopping Smoking Scene Naughty Our Bar
4 6 10 22 26 28 32 36
Satellite Sports Café Guide to Amsterdam is published by Jan Venekamp. E-mail: n.j.venekamp@havevastgoed.nl Tel.: 020-4288876 or 06-54745670 Layout & illustration: Expression Graphic Studio
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Our City
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msterdam. City Of Canals, City of Museums, Venice of the North, Sin City. The list of nicknames goes on and on, but one things is certain, this is one of the most dynamic, entertaining and cosmopolitan cities in the world. There is always a buzz around the place and it’s easy to understand why when you consider the amount of bars, clubs, hotels, cinemas, theatres, museums, restaurants and coffeeshops. The main going-out areas tend to be Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, Dam Square and the Red Light District, all of which offer varied forms of entertainment. Amsterdam is also an extremely easy city to get around thanks to the excellent public transport system, which is punctual and effective. In this part of our magazine we will give you some sound advice on the best events, restaurants, bars, attractions and museums as well as some essential information and telephone numbers which could come in useful during your stay. Remember, it’s a city that doesn’t sleep, no matter what time of day it is and you should always find something to keep you entertained, bemused and amused.
Facts & Figures: Inhabitants: 739.977 Nationalities: 173 Bicycles: 600.000 Trees: 220.000 Parks: 28 City trams: 232 Markets: 21 Shops: 10.334 Diamond polishing factories: 24 Canals: 165 Bridges: 1.281 Houseboats: 2.500 16th, 17th and 18th century buildings: 6.800 Statues and sculptures: 302 Windmills: 6 Museums: 51 Animals at the Artis Zoo: 6.100 Theaters and concert halls: 55 Cinemas: 61 Cafés and bars: 1.402 Discotheques: 36 Restaurants: 755 Hotelbeds: 37.763
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
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EssEntial information Language The official language is of course Dutch (Nederlands) but just about everyone speaks fluent English and they are proud to do so. The Dutch language itself sounds at times close to German, but in truth, they are very different.
Weather Amsterdam enjoys a moderate temperate climate which is influenced by it’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Winters are mild and average above zero degrees. Summers are comfortably warm but seldom hot (although this year was very hot at times).
Credit Cards Most places will accept credit cards, but there are some which don’t, so always enquire first if you intend to pay with plastic. You can also use Cirrus and Maestro cards to withdraw cash from ATM’s.
and of course you can also find car rental at Schiphol Airport. The following company is recommended in Amsterdam: Adams Rent a Car: Tel.: 020-6850111
Changing Money There are several different outlets where you can change money in Amsterdam. The 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.
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 newsagencies. Reduced rates calling cards are also available in these outlets.
Embassies
Money
Australia: Tel.: 070-3108200. Canada: Tel.: 070-3111600. France: Tel.:070-3125800. Germany: Tel.: 070-3420600. Great Britain: Tel.: 070-4270427. Ireland: Tel.: 0703630993. Italy: Tel.: 070-3021030. Spain: Tel.: 070-3024999. USA: Tel.: 070-3109209.
As with almost all European Union countries, the currency in Holland is the Euro. Before that, the Dutch Guilder was the currency, with two Dutch Guilders coming close to the value of one Euro.
Parking
Tipping The general consensus, and indeed it has also been our strategy since we have been here is to leave a 10 – 15 % tip. However, rude and abrupt service is an all too frequent occurrence in Amsterdam and never be afraid to abandon a tip if the service is not as it should be.
One of the biggest eye sores in the city. Suffice to say that parking can be a nightmare in Amsterdam and it is also quite expensive. If you are parking along the canals, be sure to pay at one of the nearby meters, because wardens are always on the look-out.
Car Rental There are various different car rental companies available in Amsterdam City Centre 4
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Some information which may be useful during your stay in Amsterdam.
Public Transport Public transport in Amsterdam is among the best in Europe thanks to the constant availability, simplicity, efficiency and punctuality of the services.
TRAMS
twice as many taxis on the streets, but many of them charge too much and are driven by rude drivers. We have always found TCA to be reliable and they can be contacted at 0206777777. A novel taxi trip can be enjoyed on one of the city's many bicycle taxis and the price is also fair and the drivers are usually polite.
Trams operate at regular intervals throughout the entire city center and the outskirts from 6.0am until around 12.30am. You will have to wait no longer than 10 minutes at the tramstop. You can travel anywhere in the city centre for one hour on any tram for 2.60 Euro. Special 24-hour tickets can also be purchased from newsagents, or on the trams themselves.
BICYCLES
TAXI
The service provided by the Dutch Railway Board is exceptional and all trains will leave at regular intervals on time.
The recent Governmental decision to liberalize taxis has had its advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, there are
You'll notice almost immediately, that there are an incredible number of bicycles in Amsterdam. Renting a bike is a great way to see the city and we thoroughly recommend Mike’s Bike Tours for both tours and rental. They can be contacted at 020-6227970.
TRAIN
A map of Amsterdam’s tram lines. Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
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Eating out in amstErdam
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hether it is Chinese or Italian, Thai or typical Dutch fare you are looking for, worry not, because Amsterdam has over 1000 restaurants catering for the tastes and budgets of every tourist. Unlike many other countries in Europe, the needs of vegetarians are well catered for. Dining in this diverse and vibrant city can range from fast food to haute cuisine with every nation faithfully represented. The city boasts stylish and top quality restaurants as well as traditional Amsterdam cafés, Dutch pancake houses and steakhouses. Even less well known cuisines countries like Tibet, Ethiopia and Morocco can be found. Seafood and particularly herring is extremely popular in the Netherlands and no doubt during your visit, you will see numerous herring venders on the city
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streets. Locals love their raw haring sandwich with pickle and onion and they swear to its health benefits also. No visit to Amsterdam is complete without trying a fresh herring – you will either love it or hate it. As you’d expect from a city high in tourism, there are more bad restaurants than there are good ones, but the good ones tend to be very very good. If you happen to be in Amsterdam during the festive period and you are searching for traditional dishes such as Turkey & Ham, your best bet is to check out restaurants which are housed in the city’s 5-star hotels – they often do traditional Christmas dinners. There is definitely no excuse for going hungry in the Dutch capital. On the following pages, we look at some of our favourite places to eat out.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
PANCAKES Pancake Corner Leidseplein 11 (Inside Satellite Sports Café). Tel.: 020-4272529
Housed inside the Satellite Sports Café itself, Pancake Corner offers visitors the opportunity to sample various different pancakes. The city is famed for it’s love of pancakes and no visit to Amsterdam is complete without trying one. At Pancake Corner you can take the sweet or savoury option. The pancakes are among the tastiest you will find anywhere and we especially recommend sampling the Tropical Pancake, The Dutch Pancake, The Hungarian Pancake or the Thai Spicy Pancake. If you don’t agree with us, create your own pancake by choosing your own toppings.
DUTCH Haesje Claes Spuistraat 273-275. Tel.: 020-6249998 Not just the finest traditional Dutch restaurant in Amsterdam, but probably the finest in The Netherlands! Restaurant Haesje Claes is held in huge esteem in
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Dutch culinary circles and the praise and plaudits are completely justified, as this is a venue which oozes style, ambience and class. The menu offers an array of traditional Dutch treats and there are plenty of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes to choose from. An absolute must-go place for any visitor to Amsterdam.
DUTCH D'Vijff Vlieghen Spuistraat 294-302. Tel.: 020-5304060 Translated into English, the name means ‘The Five Flies’, and this place is one of the city’s most popular Dutch restaurants. The venue boasts nine separate dining rooms spread over five canal houses decorated with objects from Holland's Golden Age -among them four original Rembrandt etchings. The menu offers a seasonal selection of fish and game marinated with fresh herbs and served with unusual vegetables like chard, wild spinach, and Brussels sprouts.
VEGETARIAN De Bolhoed Prinsengracht 60-62. Tel.: 020-6261803 Translated into English, the name means Bowler Hat and vegetarians and vegans will revel in this restaurant's creative food, and novices to meatless dining will be surprised at the range and quality of the various dishes. Located in a picturesque part of Amsterdam's Jordaan district. Visitors can choose from an extensive a la carte menu or choose one of the fixed three-course menus. Normally very busy, so recommendations are advised.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Players Cafe
CafEs & Bars
Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen 25. Tel.: 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. The decor is extremely pleasing on the eye, the tunes are pleasing on the ears and the service is extremely friendly. Players opens from midday until 1.0am during the week and until 3am at weekends. An added perk is the quality service, as the staff at Players go out of their way to make sure your every need is catered for. An added perk is that the venue boasts one of the most modern and funky lounge terraces in the city. Definitely worth a visit.
Excalibur CafĂŠ Oudezijds Achterburgwal 48. T. 020 6268353
If you like your rock music played the hard way and you also have a fondness for motorcycles, then Excalibur is a must-go venue. Located in the heart of The Red Light District on Oudezijds Achterburgwal Street. Excalibur offers great views onto the main thoroughfare of the Red Light District. Inside, the Knight meets the Biker and you will no doubt be taken aback by the King Arthur style memorabilia, as well as various fascinating motorcycling objects. Other perks include pool tables on the top floor and Sky Sports television. The service is among the friendliest you will find in Amsterdam, as the down-to-earth staff go out of their way to help.
No.129 Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 129. www.no129.nl. The recently opened No.129 is a stylish club, and one of the few of its kind in Amsterdam. The venue can be found close to the famous Leidseplein at Korte Leidsedwarsstraat. Seven nights a week, the resident DJs of No.129 provide you with a wide range of music, covering various different genres. The atmosphere is excellent and the friendly staff will go out of their way to ensure your visit is a memorable one, and that you will enjoy the perfect night out. No.129 boasts an excellent drinks menu and they also create some wonderful cocktails, all at very reasonable prices.
boasts a huge selection of vodkas, rums and whiskys…..and their range of absinthes must be seen to be believed. They are open from 9am until 5pm from Monday to Saturday.
Hoopman Irish Pub
Leidseplein 4. Tel. 020-6381408
Tales & Spirits
Lijnbaanssteeg 5-7 Tel.: 06-55356467 www.talesandspirits.com
Tales & Spirits is a craft cocktail bar and restaurant in the historical centre of Amsterdam. Serving exquisite cocktails and delicious food for affordable prices all with a big smile and extraordinary hospitality. It is a home away from home. A multi-level building featuring a cocktail bar with restaurant serving exquisite drinks, amazing food, and bar bites in contemporary, unique, and vintage glassware. Their focus lies on providing incredible experiences, using classic and innovative culinary & mixology techniques, stunning presentation and serving vessels, all designed and served in a fashion that will continually ‘wow’ you.
Moos Liquor Store
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 195 Tel. 020-6227804 or 06-25034582 www.moosdrankenhandel.nl One things that is difficult to find in Amsterdam is a quality stores selling alcohol for take away. Thankfully the problem has been eradicated thanks to the Moos Liquor Store which can be found close to the famous Leidseplein at Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 195. The store 12
You're never short of good company at The Hoopman and when you mix that with a wholesome selection of Irish beers and whiskeys to tickle the taste buds, a touch of Irish music to delight your ears and a food menu to warm the cockles of your heart, the end result is an excellent venue day or night. The Hoopman is attached to two equally entertaining venues which are under the same ownership – Reijnders and The Hole In
The Wall, and together, the three bars form a massive outdoor terrace. Perks include daily English newspapers, live Irish Music and coverage of all big sporting events. This bar also caters for private parties in a large function room on the first floor. All three bars boast extensive and mouth-watering food menus which include dishes like Irish Stew, Beef and Guinness Pie and Fish and chips.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
BLINq
Kleine Gartmanplantsoen 5 One of the newest additions to Amsterdam’s nightlife scene, Blinq opened its doors at the end of 2009, and what an impact the place has made. Believe us when we tell you that this truly is one of the jewels in Amsterdam’s crown. The bar-
most entertaining venues in the city. Club Smokey is dedicated to providing a high quality entertainment and dancing facility. It is one of the exclusive clubs in Amsterdam and offers the best music, Dj's, lasers effects and sound quality available. VIP Reservations are also available. Chilling out at the coffeeshop before upping the vibe at Club Smokey – what could be better?
CLUB ESCAPE
restaurant-club can be found on the famous Leidseplein and offers simple dishes based on the finest ingredients and inspired by the many cultures of Amsterdam. At weekends Blinq offers much more than your regular evening out as their resident DJs and live musicians will enthral and excite.
SMOKEY EXPERIENCE
Rembrandtplein 18/20. Tel.: 020-4222194 Smokey has been a household name in Amsterdam entertainment circles for many years. Their coffeeshop on Rembrandtplein is one of the most famous in the city, while Club Smokey, their bar-club which can be found just one door away has also gained a reputation for being one of the liveliest and 16
Rembrandtplein 11. Tel.: 020-6221111 Escape is a multi-spaced venue for a total clubbing experience. With special Club dinner arrangements you can enjoy a 4 course menu at Escape Caffé and get VIP access to Escape Club afterwards. Escape was founded in 1986, which means that this year is the 25th Anniversary! Since its formation,. Escape has been hugely popular with domestic and foreign visitors. Its cutting edge design and technical facilities as well as a tremendously good sound system form the ingredients for a wonderful clubbing experience. Escape hosts clubnights like Framebusters with lots of national and international talented DJ’s and entertainment. Be sure to check the website, because 2011 will bring lots of special surprises! Escape: 25 Years of Nightlife, Entertainment, Innovation and Premiership.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Amstelstraat in central Amsterdam, AIR's interior has been brought to life by the talented designer imagination of Dutchman Marcel Wanders. His lively design features a host of surprises and the theatrical, intimate result is a feast for the senses. Each area has its own style and feel which lends an extra dimension to exploring the club. AIR haven't missed a trick, the spacious entrance hall is equipped with electronic lockers, while the five bars, two smoking areas and three blocks of toilets are all individually designed and styled.
PARADISO
CLUB HARTjE
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 64 Whats app only: 06-25224383 Club Hartje has been hugely popular with domestic visitors. Now it’s time to welcome and entertain Amsterdam’s foreign visitors. The club has gained a reputation for being one of the liveliest and most entertaining in the city. The venue boasts a VIP area, and bodyshots are a regular feature at this highly entertaining club with excellent dancing facilities. You can expect to hear everything from 90s, R&B, Dance, House and Top 40. Club Hartje is also the perfect setting for birthday parties, bachelor and hen nights or genuine nights of fun. It is also a walletfriendly venue. Ask the girls behind the bar, for their special. Entry is free every night from Wednesday till Saturday. Opening hours are from 22.00 till 03.00; and until 04.00 at weekends. Follow them on Facebook: Hartje leidseplein Amsterdam.
AIR AMSTERDAM
Amstelstraat 24, Tel.: 020-8200670 www.AIR.nl One of Amsterdam's newest nightclubs with pure international allure. Rising from the ashes of the legendary club iT on the 18
Weteringschans 6-8. Tel.: 020-6264521 www.paradiso.nl Paradiso can be found just off Leidseplein and is one of the biggest and best modern music venues. The building is a refurbished
church which boasts stunning acoustics and an excellent atmosphere. It regularly attracts top performers who may have just finished touring and chose Paradiso as their venue for closing. More information can be found on their website at www.paradiso.nl. Paradiso is also renowned for its Christmas and New Year parties and more details about these events can also be found on their website.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
livE musiC
Rockin’ All Over The Waterhole If you like your music live and rocking, you’ll love The Waterhole on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 49, just a few yards off the famous Leidseplein. With their high-tech sound system and full acoustic insulation, The Waterhole can really pump up the volume. Add in a spacious and excellently decorated venue and good service and you’ve got yourself the perfect live music club. Every Friday and Saturday, the venue hosts top local and international bands which play live on stage from 11pm and just like the rest of the week, admission is absolutely free and that’s a rare thing for live music venues in Amsterdam.
They also host Happy Hours every evening, when you can get a pint of beer in a frosty glass for just €2.50. You can’t get much cheaper than that around the Leidseplein, or the rest of Amsterdam, for that matter. If there’s one game that goes down well with rockin’ music and beer, it’s got to be pool and The Waterhole boasts three pool tables, so you’ll never have to wait too long for a game. The Waterhole is open from 16:00 until 04:00 on Friday & Saturday and from 16:00 until 03:00 the rest of the week and is always worth a visit. Prospective visitors should also check at the bar to find out exactly what bands are playing during their visit.
Aspiring musicians should come along between Sunday and Thursday when The Waterhole hosts their renowned live Jam Sessions which get underway at 10pm. The atmosphere is always hot on Jamming nights and each evening, there is a different theme. When the bands aren’t playing, the bar staff have an extensive music collection at their fingertips, so let them know what you like and if you’re nice, they’ll crank the dial up to 11. 20
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Madame Tussaud’s
attraCtions
Dam 20. Tel.: 020-5221010 Rub shoulders with stars from the world of music, cinema, politics, sport and art. OK, they don't breathe and talk back to you, but the likeness is incredible, as the wax workers at Madame Tussaud's continue to excel and baffle with their uncannily realistic wax figures. The visit starts with a recreation of scenes from Holland's Golden Age before advancing to more present times. Madonna, Bono, Michael Jackson, Bill Clinton, and Mel Gibson - they are all there, so why not take a snapshot alongside your favourite star. Sports lovers will enjoy visiting the top floor where many of the world's top sports-stars are on display. The venue also boats an impressive souvenir shop and is always worth a visit. GETTING THERE: Almost impossible to miss as it is situated at the corner of Dam Square
The World Of Ajax Sampling The World Of Ajax exhibition and stadium tour is an absolute must for 22
football lovers. The exhibition charts the history of Holland's most famous club, which has won 31 league titles and also enjoyed huge success in European competition. 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 can also take the opportunity to watch Ajax in action at the Arena.
Artis Amsterdam Zoo Plantage Kerklaan 38-40. Tel.: 020-5233400 Said to be the oldest zoo on the continent, Artis was founded in 1838 to promote the knowledge of natural history and is an oasis of peace and quiet amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. The zoo 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.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
The Heineken Experience Stadhouderskade 78, Tel.: 020-5239222
One of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions, The Heineken Experience closed for renovations last October, but it is set to open again this summer and things will be bigger and better than before, as new attractions such as a mini brewery, a Tasting Bar and a tour of the Shire horses stables have been added to the many other attractions which include experiencing the speed of a bottling line as an actual bottle of Heineken. Of course no trip to the brewery is complete without a bit of personal testing.
Anne Frank House Prinsengracht 267. Tel.: 020-5567105 It’s quite normal for hairs to stand on your
neck as you visit the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her diary during the Second World War. For more than two years, she lived secretly with family members and friends in the back part of her father's office building at No. 263 Prinsengracht. The Secret Annex has been preserved in its authentic state. The front part of the building and the offices where the helpers worked have been restored to the style and ambiance of the war years. Quotations from the diary, photographs, films and original objects - belonging to the people in hiding and those who helped them - all serve to illustrate the events that occurred at this location. Anne's original diary is on display in the museum along with some of her other notebooks.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
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on all of the highlights you pass on the way. This information can be listened to in no less than 13 languages. They also offer a special dinner cruise. For more information check out their website at: www.blueboat.nl.
Torture Museum
Sex Museum Damrak 18. T. 020 6228376 The Sex Museum can be found on the huge Damrak Street, between Central Station and Dam Square and is always popular among visitors to the city. It is Europe's first, best and oldest sex museum. Included among the exhibits are a collection of erotic prints and drawings, as well as many costumes, instruments, life-like figures and various other surprises. Make sure you bring your camera.
Cruising The Canals Blue Boat Company Tel.: 020-6791370 There’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. Their deluxe boats will give you a remarkable opportunity to experience and see the beautiful traditional merchant houses, the numerous bridges, the typical houseboats and to feel the unique vibe of Amsterdam. All the boats are also equipped with a computerised audio system, informing you 24
Singel 449 Nowadays, crimes and sins such as adultery and petty theft can go by unpunished, but that wasn't the case during medieval times and Amsterdam's Torture Museum offers hard proof of this through the various weapons and instruments of torture on display. The methods used to punish adulterating males and females are particularly interesting and you can almost feel the pain just by seeing and touching the various instruments, which include the Torture Chair, the guillotine and the rack to name a few. The museum also offers detailed explanations in six different languages about the different instruments and methods of torture which were used in medieval days. The museum is open daily from 10.0am to 11.0pm and the paltry entrance fee of five Euro makes it well worth a visit.
Nemo Oosterdok 2. Tel.: 020-5313233 Science center NEMO is the biggest science center in The Netherlands. Here you can discover the wonderful world of science and technology in a playful and entertaining way. The Amsterdam-based NEMO covers a wide range of scientific and technological subjects and is hugely enjoyable for both adults and kids. The museum creates interactive exhibitions which fire the imagination, by developing educational products, projects and games, and by making programmes such as lectures, demo's, workshops and science theatre.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
shopping in amstErdam
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ith more than 10,000 shops, almost 150 galleries, more than 150 antique shops and 26 markets, Amsterdam could justifiably be described as a shopping heaven. Designer labels, bargains, jewellery, diamonds, books, antiques….You name it and you will most likely find it in Amsterdam. The main pedestrianised shopping streets are Leidsestraat, Kalverstraat and Nieuwendijk where you will find most of the regular high street stores. Amsterdam also plays host to exclusive shopping areas like PC Hooftstraat, Spiegelstraat, Van Baerlestraat and The Nine Streets where you will come across countless designer boutiques, interior design shops, art galleries and other specialist shops. Most stores open at around 10am (later on Monday mornings) and close at 6pm (5pm on Saturdays).
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Thursday is late night shopping in Amsterdam, with most shops staying open until 9pm. Most of the Shopping Malls stay open until 7pm daily (Thursdays 9pm). Those who like quality bargains will definitely have to visit the famous Albert Cuyp Markets which hosts countless shops and stalls. One such shop is called ‘Wear Open’ and it is one of our favourites….see below! WEAR OPEN Albertcuypstraat 117 Wear Open is situated on the street which hosts the world-famous Albert Cuyp Street Market. In their store, you will find the latest fashions from Rome, Milan, Paris at the lowest prices. Besides clothing they are also known for our ridiculous low prices for the newest boots and bags. The store is open 6 days a week from 9.00 am till17.00 pm. The area is easily accessible by public transport and trams 4, 16, 24 and 25 will get you there.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
smoking sCEnE
Amsterdam’s Smoking Scene
Since the 70s, Holland has had the most liberal marihuana laws in Europe, but some of you may be surprised to learn that it's not strictly legal here, just tolerated. When we say coffeeshop in Amsterdam, we refer to an establishment where you can buy hash and weed etc. Despite the new tobacco law which was introduced in July 2008, many coffeeshops offer smoking rooms, meaning you can still enjoy your spliff inside. Marihuana is not dangerous, but it is a drug and doesn't suit everyone. You will also see various hemp and mushroom shops around the city and even if you are not going to consume what they offer, these places are still worth a look.
COFFEESHOPS Grey Area
De Dampkring
Handboogstraat 29. The 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.
Hunter’s Bar
Sint Nicolaasstraat 41 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 28
friendly staff, eclectic music selection, and plenty of devices to make your visit a memorable one. The stoner-operators welcome visitors from around the world who are searching for a fun and open environment. Open daily, you can obtain more details from the DNA Genetics shop at Sint Nicolaasstraat 41.
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. The venue also boasts an extensive drinks menu.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Happy Feelings
Kerkstraat 51 If ever a name was suited to a coffeeshop, this is it, because at Happy Feelings On Kerkstraat (close to Leidseplein), the feelgood factor is never-ending. The interior manages to be trendy, yet at the same time cosy and relaxed and their products are said to be among the finest you will find in the city. The new ban on smoking tobacco in public has made life difficult for many lovers of Amsterdam’s soft-drugs scene, but Happy Feelings have the perfect solution courtesy of their smoking garden. They 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. The shop also sells pipes and they have a microscope, so you can see the fine
crystals which make up their products. Other perks include two flatscreen TVs which are perfect for watching the sporting action. A welcome addition to Amsterdam’s coffeeshop scene and definitely worth a visit for fans of all things green.
Smoking Bull
Lange Niezel 13 Situated on Lange Niezel Street, just off Warmoesstraat and in the heart of the Red Light District, 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. Perks include an extensive drinks menu (alcohol included), a pool table, plasma TV screens, Sky Sports coverage, a chill-out area and internet access.
Stone’s Café
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. The spacious venue is located in the heart of the famous Warmoesstraat Street in the Red Light District and among other things,
boasts an extensive menu and very reasonable prices. The staff are always friendly and helpful and the atmosphere is always good. An added bonus for visitors is that they have all the big sports channels, meaning you can watch all the major sporting events. Other attractions inside the shop include two pool tables. They also serve some excellent pub grub and it’s a good place to go for your typical English breakfast.
CoffEEshop hEavEn! The Rookies
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 145 – 147 Tel: +31 20 6390978 www.rookies.nl
O
ver the years, many Amsterdam coffeeshops seemed to lose their way and lose their purpose, as owners sought ways to be more commercial and more profitable. Thankfully, there are some venues which still maintain the true Amsterdam coffeeshop values and one example is ‘The Rookies’ which can be found close to Leidseplein on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat Street.
Furthermore, it has a much more open feel than most narrow, cramped coffeeshops that you find in Amsterdam and it boasts one of the city’s largest smoking areas with seating for more than 70 people. The products at Rookies are also top of the range and only the best weed and hash is sold here. They are also renowned for their space cakes and also offer bongs and other smoking equipment. The tunes are also worth mentioning, as their choice of music enhances the atmosphere. In summing up, this truly is one of the ultimate coffeeshop experiences in Amsterdam. Experienced and amateur smokers; tourists and locals – everyone is welcome at The Rookies.
Don’t let the name fool you, because this place has been around for almost two decades and the staff are among the most knowledgeable and experienced you will find. The coffeeshop got its name because back then in 1992, the owners were among the youngest in the coffeeshop trade. In our opinion, the thing that separates The Rookies from most others are the chill and relaxation factors. Not many coffeeshops offer the friendly service, relaxed atmosphere that you will find in the Rookies. Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
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Red Means Go! The Red Light Ladies
This is one form of window-shopping that never bores a man. Sales and discount offers don't exist, but the quality of the merchandise can be most pleasing on the eye as some of the finest females you will ever lay eyes on await your custom. Simply pay and play, and when the business concludes, there's no need to worry about the boring post-sex chit-chat, which many members of the female sex believe is part of the deal. The majority of the Red Light Ladies are extremely beautiful and hail from all corners of the world. Choose from Oriental, LatinAmerican, European and coloured girls and enjoy oral sex and sexual intercourse for an average price of 50 Euro. Once you have entered, you will be there for about of 15 minutes and it won't be the most romantic rendez-vous you have ever experienced, but it certainly is different. If you wish to stay longer than the standard 15 minutes, you will most definitely have to pay more. All the hookers (hoertjes) are legal and most undergo regular
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health checks. They have even formed a kind of political party, which lobbies the Government when improvements are needed. The girls pay between 100 and 150 Euro for daily rent of the window, but the good ones can make between 500 and 750 Euro during the week and anything up to 1,000 Euro at weekends. In The Red Light District, it's true to say that the world's oldest profession has undergone major modernization work and in the past months, the Government made a decision to buy some of the windows and swap the girl for art and fashion, The project is called ‘Red Light Fashion’. However, certain rules still must be adhered to and its worth taking a look at our 'Better Safe Than Sorry' article below. When it comes to sex, The Red Light District is as liberal as it gets, but some rules must be adhered to and a few safety tips should be followed. Violent crime is almost non-existent although pick-pocketing can be quite common. The police don't visit the area regularly, so the following advice should be taken on board to ensure your visit is memorable for the right reasons.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Better Safe Than SORRY
Some essential safety tips for The Red Light District PROSTITUTES Remember, sex is business for them, so be polite and courteous. Don't get any ideas about threatening the girls or harming them, because bodyguards, despite not being visible are always close at hand PHOTOGRAPHS Taking photographs of the girls is forbidden. If you break this rule, your film or even your camera could be confiscated or even destroyed. UNSAFE SEX Don't make a fool of yourself by asking for sex without a condom. It doesn't happen. BLUE LIGHTS This is only a warning for heterosexuals. If a blue light glows from above the windows, you are dealing with transsexuals. Maybe a treat for our gay readers, but a major shock for the straight guys! CHARLIE BOYS These are the numerous individuals selling hard drugs on the black market . Most of them are harmless, but their goods can often be damaging. When walking in the Red Light District, these guys will approach you and ask if you want to purchase 'Charlie, heroin ecstasy etc.'‌..ie. hard drugs. Just say no and walk away. BE A FRIEND INDEED FOR A FRIEND IN NEED Never abandon a colleague who is in a drunken state. It can also be foolish to visit the Red Light District unaccompanied at an ungodly hour and it's wise to avoid quiet alleyways when it is late. DISPLAYING YOUR ASSETS This doesn't mean you have to keep your zipper closed, it's a simple warning against thieves, so don't keep your wallet or money in a place which is easily accessible. Best if you only carry the money you require for that night. Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
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Erotic Museum
The museum is located across the road from The Banana Bar and offers a trip through the different ages of sex.
Hotel Luxer
THE CASA ROSSO EXPERIENCE
One of the most famous venues in the Red Light District is the world-renowned Casa Rosso live sex theatre. The main theatre is situated at the centre of O.Z. Achterburgwal (the main canal of the Red Light District). Live sex is the order of the day at Casa Rosso as they present a series of shows and erotic acts. The main programme starts at around 7.00pm and guests can choose an entrance fee of 40 Euro, which does not include drinks; or 50 Euro which include two drinks (not champagne or cocktails).
Warmoesstraat 11. Tel.: +31 651 35 09 34. www.hotelluxer.nl Hotel Luxer has a top location in the historic heart of Amsterdam. Its neighbourhood is well known for its many fascinating shops, restaurants, bars, and museums. Hotel Luxer is within a 5-minute walk of the Central Station and is also close to Amsterdam’s famous canals, The Red Light District, Dam Square, the Nieuwmarkt, Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, and WaterloopleinThe hotel is a true and completely renovated 3-Star facility with a charming lounge and bar. The hotel offers 47 charming rooms. Hotel Luxer welcomes tourists, with or without children, and is also a favourite for business travellers who will discover just what they need for a short or long stay Amsterdam.
Banana Bar
Without doubt one of the highlights of a trip to The Red Light District is a visit to the Banana Bar. The drinks are poured by a group of topless barmaids and just when you think pub-life can't get any better, it does. For an additional fee of around 50 Euro, the same waitresses will perform a series of sexual favours which include the consumption of a banana from a soft, moist and private area. Peep Show
Walk into one of the several small booths in the peep show theatre, insert two Euro into the slot and look at live sex acts. 34
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Our Bar The Terrace
The outdoor terrace provides seating for an additional 80 people and stays open till late. The terrace is sheltered and heated so need to worry if it starts to rain or gets a little chilly. Table service is also provided outside and there are televisions so you can still watch the sporting event you want.
Our Specialities
Unlimited Spare Ribs The Unlimited Spare Ribs is the tastiest and the best value for money deal you will find in Amsterdam. We are renowned all over the city for our delicious spare ribs and you can eat as many as you can for the unbelievable price of 10,95euro.
Steaks
The Cafe
The Satellite Sports Cafe opens earlier than almost any other bar in Amsterdam. Our doors open at 9am and stay open until 3am Sunday through to Thursday and 4am on Friday and Saturday. Whilst the cafe is open the kitchen is open. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at anytime as everything on our extensive menu is available day or night. Our ground floor boasts table seating for around 70 people whilst an additional 20 can sit at the bar. Upstairs can seat 80+ people and also has its own full sized bar. There is also plenty of standing space and our stadium-like stairs provide excellent views of the cafe and the televisions. Our waitresses offer table service with a smile and no matter if you are enjoying a meal or simply having a drink with friends, we can make sure you are able to watch the match of your choice. 36
Our succulent prime rib eye and rump steaks are accompanied by a choice of french fries or baked potato, a choice of 4 homemade sauces and a salad. These delicious steaks will certainly fill that hunger gap.
Pancakes
We serve wonderful homemade pancakes, which can be enjoyed with a sweet or savoury filling. We offer suggestions on our menu or you can personalize your own pancake. They are extremely nourishing and also excellent value.
Drinks
6 x Jagerbombs for 10 euro 2 x Vodka and 1 mixer (inc. Red Bull) for 10 euro 4 x Heineken Longneck for 11,50 euro 10 x Shots of Jagermeister, Sourz or Silverstrike for 10 euro
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
News From The Sports Cafe Work Opportunity
Top Shots
The winter season is always busy in Amsterdam, as tourists continue to flock and the university season is in full swing. At the Satellite Sports Café, it also means work opportunities! Are you looking for work?
At the Satellite Sports Cafe, we continue to offer our customers the best value for money when it comes to food and drinks.
We are always adding to our group of enthusiastic waiters and waitresses. At the Sports Cafe, we offer our staff favourable working conditions, and the chance to work in one of Amsterdam’s most famous and busiest bars. You don’t need to speak Dutch, but a good knowledge of English is required. If interested, please pass by the cafe on Leidseplein and leave in your CV with the manager on duty.
Our ‘Shots Specials’ have to be seen to be believed, as we offer guests 10 shots of Jagermesiter, or 10 shots of Sourz, or 10 shots of Silver Strike for just 10 Euro.....buy all 30 shots togetherfor just 27,50 Euro. We have also introduced a new Jager-Bomb special which will blow your mind and surprise your wallet, as we are offering six Jager-Bombs for just 10 Euro….that really is unbeatable value! Other offers in the Sports Café include our deal of four bottles of Heineken Long Neck for just 11,50 Euro and our famed Unlimited Spare Ribs for just 10,95 Euro.
Our SpOrtS
FOOTBALL
One of our mottos is “More sports Than You Can Handle” and it is 100 % true. We can screen live action from almost every sport you can imagine. Not only that, but we can simultaneously screen matches from the same competitions which start at the same time. If an event happens to be on when we are closed or because there is too much demand for another event, just ask one of our managers about the possibility of recording the event. The following is a list of some of the major sports and events we screen in the Satellite Sports Café. Sports Café.
FA Premiership
Thanks to our outstanding satellite systems, we screen up to 5 live Premiership matches simultaneously every Saturday afternoon and we also show all live games on Sundays, so don’t miss the start of the new season – come on the Gunners!
Scottish Football Live coverage of Scottish games are shown every 42
Saturday and Sunday and we will have all the matches involving Celtic and Rangers who are now plying their trade in Division 1
Italian Serie A
We also screen up to 4 live Italian Serie A games simultaneously every Sunday afternoon. Juve will be hard to stop again, but Napoli could run them very close.
Spanish La Liga
Again, its live coverage all the way on Saturdays and Sundays. Can Barca retain their title, or will Gareth Bale’s Real Madrid, or even Atletico Madrid snatch their crown?
German Bundesliga
Every weekend, we have extensive live and simultaneous coverage from the German Bundesliga. You can bet your mortgage on Bayern under Guardiola!.
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
Champions League
will try to arrange a video recording.
We will show full coverage of all games at the end of the group stages and also from all games in the knockout stages.
College Matches
Europa League
Big fight nights are legendary in the Sports Café and we do our best to stay open for the big American match-ups.
We will also screen all the big games from the Europa League on Thursday nights, as we head towards the business end of the competition.
NFL
Follow the conclusion of the NFL season which culminates with the Superbowl itself in February. Superbowl nights are always great nights at the Sports café. Our money is on Manning and the Broncos.
Basketball
NBA, College Basketball...you name it and we will show it and just like the baseball, if the game is on after closing time, ask a member of staff and we
We also screen a large number of College Football games every week.
Boxing
Horse Racing
UK, Irish and US horse racing can be viewed inside the bar on a daily basis and if you fancy a flutter, the betting shop is just around the corner.
Your team is our team!
If there happens to be any other sporting event on during your stay in Amsterdam and you are eager to see it, just call in and ask us and be sure we will do all we can to accommodate you. Even if its camel racing in the Sahara Desert or snowboarding in the French Alps, don’t be afraid to ask, because we do not lie when we say that we offer more sports than you can handle!
Sports Cafe Guide To Amsterdam
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