Overview
Amsterdam is well known for its fierce nightlife scene and youthful atmosphere. However, far less people are aware of the city's cultural and aesthetic attractions. The city streets are covered in impressively designed buildings and transposed along canals. Amsterdam is also home to many world-renowned museums, including Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. The city's center, the Dam, surrounds the train station, a relatively small and flat area that is easily traversed on foot. To the left of the center is the Red Light District, home to Amsterdam's vibrant nightlife scene. South of Dam are the streets of Rokin and Kalverstraat, Rokin being a primarily residential area and Kalverstraat being Amsterdam's primary shopping district.
Sightseeing Attractions
Amsterdam's center consists of 90 islands that are linked by 400 bridges. This alone is a sight worth seeing, not considering the more than 7000 registered historical buildings also condensed within the city's walls. There are six notable places of worship that are well-known for their architectural appeal, including the Oude Kerk, Zuiderkerk, Noorderkerk, Westerkerk, Oosterkerk, and the Portugese-Israelite Synagogue. Catholic churches were forbidden in Amsterdam for many centuries, and therefore most of the city's Catholic churches were not built until the 19th century. The Hortus Botanicus botanical gardens and the Artis Zoo are good places to visit for tourists who are traveling with children, as well as the beaches found on the western side of the city north of Ijmuiden. The Royal Place is a great historical attraction, and the city's many museums are well-renowned as some of the best in the world.
Nightlife
The other side of Amsterdam is one that is considered one of the best party cities in the world. Amsterdam's Red Light District is the place to go for the nightlife scene, an area where marijuana and prostitution are legal and bars and nightclubs are abundant. Many visitors make their first stop at an absinthe bar, which are fairly easy to find in this district. At night, the streets of the Red Light District are packed with college-aged students from around the world, and the atmosphere is friendly, excited, and inviting. Shopping is another great thing to do in Amsterdam as prices in Amsterdam are not nearly as inflated as those of Europe's other main tourist destinations. A good place to start when shopping is Kalverstraat, the main shopping district. However, Amsterdam's many markets make for worthwhile shopping experiences as well. Check out Albert Cuyp, Lapjesmarkt, and Noordermarkt for a haggling experience and some great deals.
Jessica Elliott is a freelance writer for Directory of Hotels.com – Hip Cool Hotels. For travel to this region, she recommends staying at any one of these fine Small Hotels in Amsterdam.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Elliott
Sunday, 7 March 2010
The Naughty Amsterdam
Amsterdam has it all - but the Amsterdam RED LIGHT DISTRICT has it all also from brothels to sex shops to museums, it leaves nothing to the imagination. The Rossebuurt, as it is known by locals, is unlike any other place. Certainly, the Red Light District that everyone knows about is the one where women, of all nationalities, parade their wares in red-fringed window parlors, many ready to offer more than a school boy peep-show in a private cabin. Another familiar image of the Red Light District is of packs of men, young and old, couples holding hands and pointing in shock of it all, giggling groups of women celebrating a hen night , and busloads of tourists toting cameras.
The Rossebuurt (Dutch for 'pink' or 'red' neighborhood) is in fact one of the oldest and most beautiful parts of the city with its long winding narrow, cobbled streets and utterly charming 14th century architecture, such as the gothic Oudekerk, or Old Church. The Red Light District simply oozes charm and one cannot help but admire the old buildings that lean at odd-angles, and the tree-enshrouded canals. Music, especially during the summer season, invites a person to linger just that little bit longer. The arrival classier eateries and great authentic restaurants such as Café Pacifico, one of Europe's first Mexican restaurants make it appealing for any tourist. For the culture lover there is the very picturesque Zeedijk, the Jewish quarter, Waterloo Square and Nieuwmarkt Square which is just around the corner. Red Light District also boasts a string of unusual shops and pubs.
There is a certain charm to the area thanks to the old buildings leaning at odd angles overlooking tree-enshrouded canals, while inviting pubs, cafes and coffee shops tempts a person to linger longer. Music of every genre can be heard along the streets from a dozen or more venues late at night. Enjoy window shopping at night.
Rahul viz recommends that you visit http://www.bookings.nl/city/nl/amsterdam.html?aid=305255 for more information on THE NAUGHTY AMASTERDAM.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rahul_Viz
The Rossebuurt (Dutch for 'pink' or 'red' neighborhood) is in fact one of the oldest and most beautiful parts of the city with its long winding narrow, cobbled streets and utterly charming 14th century architecture, such as the gothic Oudekerk, or Old Church. The Red Light District simply oozes charm and one cannot help but admire the old buildings that lean at odd-angles, and the tree-enshrouded canals. Music, especially during the summer season, invites a person to linger just that little bit longer. The arrival classier eateries and great authentic restaurants such as Café Pacifico, one of Europe's first Mexican restaurants make it appealing for any tourist. For the culture lover there is the very picturesque Zeedijk, the Jewish quarter, Waterloo Square and Nieuwmarkt Square which is just around the corner. Red Light District also boasts a string of unusual shops and pubs.
There is a certain charm to the area thanks to the old buildings leaning at odd angles overlooking tree-enshrouded canals, while inviting pubs, cafes and coffee shops tempts a person to linger longer. Music of every genre can be heard along the streets from a dozen or more venues late at night. Enjoy window shopping at night.
Rahul viz recommends that you visit http://www.bookings.nl/city/nl/amsterdam.html?aid=305255 for more information on THE NAUGHTY AMASTERDAM.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rahul_Viz
Amsterdam Centrum Tour
Amsterdam Centrum refers to the main city center of the city of Amsterdam. Many of the main attractions (restaurants, coffeeshops, bars and clubs) are concentrated in a small area of canal belts spreading out from Central Station, the main train station. Here we embark on a walking tour around Amsterdam Centrum, taking us through the most popular sights.
Arriving at Central station after the 35 minute journey from Schipol airport, you are greeted by the large covered glass roof overhanging several platforms serving journeys to and from other regions of the Netherlands as well as further afield in continental Europe. We depart Central Station and emerge on Damrak.
Damrak is the main strip leading from Central station to Dam Square. It is heavily populated by pedestrians, trams and bikes -- cars are restricted to only a single lane. You can find a multitude of cheap restaurants and snack bars, hotels, souvenir shops and bureaux de change. Nearly all the stores on Damrak exist to serve the tourist trade and you can find pretty much anything you need here.
Parallel to Damrak is the main high street, Kalverstraat. This has your typical fare - local versions of global brands. Whether you are looking for fast food, women's clothes, sports gear, cell/mobile phones or travel agencies -- the names will look new to you but somehow the street will have a familiar feel to it!
At the end of Damrak, maybe 300 or 400 meters walk, you will find Dam Square. Dam Square is considered to be the center of Amsterdam. It is so called because a Dam was constructed here over five hundred years ago. Over the years, it has played host to regular new years celebrations and also political demonstrations and carnivals. Opposite the monument in Dam Square, you can see the imposing Koninklijk Palace, or Royal Palace. Don't hang around for hours on end waiting for a glimpse of the Queen though as the Dutch Royal family no longer live here!
East of Damrak and Dam Square is the famous Red Light District of Amsterdam. Tourists and locals alike cut through this area or wander around looking at the obvious sights -- ladies ply their trade in the windows offering a whole range of services at different prices. You don't have to buy if you just want to look, indeed most tourists are simply here for the sights. Although often missed, the Red Light District contains some beautiful sights, such as picturesque canals at night and old architecture. The Oude Kerk or Old Church, was built in the 13th century but various parts of it have been rebuilt due to damage or fire over the years.
Leidseplein, south-west of Dam Square, is a popular tourist spot. Away from the hustle and bustle of Dam Square and Damrak, Leidseplein is a little more relaxed and offers many things to do. To get there, you cross four of the most famous and picturesque canals in Amsterdam -- Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht, Herengracht and Singel. Here, you can find nearly fifty restaurants -- whether you like Indonesian, Italian, Japanese or any other cuisine -- you can find it here. You can also find some coffeeshops, bars, clubs, comedy venues and tourist shops. Many hotels are situated near here and, unlike the Red Light District and surrounding areas, there are very few, if any, beggars in this area.
Amsterdam Centrum is only a small part of what Amsterdam has to offer. Further afield is the museum quarter, Ajax ArenA football stadium and the outlying towns.
Christopher Buckley is a regular traveller to Amsterdam and owner of Amsterdam Review where you can find information on hotel bookings, flights and reviews of things to do and see in Amsterdam.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Buckley
Arriving at Central station after the 35 minute journey from Schipol airport, you are greeted by the large covered glass roof overhanging several platforms serving journeys to and from other regions of the Netherlands as well as further afield in continental Europe. We depart Central Station and emerge on Damrak.
Damrak is the main strip leading from Central station to Dam Square. It is heavily populated by pedestrians, trams and bikes -- cars are restricted to only a single lane. You can find a multitude of cheap restaurants and snack bars, hotels, souvenir shops and bureaux de change. Nearly all the stores on Damrak exist to serve the tourist trade and you can find pretty much anything you need here.
Parallel to Damrak is the main high street, Kalverstraat. This has your typical fare - local versions of global brands. Whether you are looking for fast food, women's clothes, sports gear, cell/mobile phones or travel agencies -- the names will look new to you but somehow the street will have a familiar feel to it!
At the end of Damrak, maybe 300 or 400 meters walk, you will find Dam Square. Dam Square is considered to be the center of Amsterdam. It is so called because a Dam was constructed here over five hundred years ago. Over the years, it has played host to regular new years celebrations and also political demonstrations and carnivals. Opposite the monument in Dam Square, you can see the imposing Koninklijk Palace, or Royal Palace. Don't hang around for hours on end waiting for a glimpse of the Queen though as the Dutch Royal family no longer live here!
East of Damrak and Dam Square is the famous Red Light District of Amsterdam. Tourists and locals alike cut through this area or wander around looking at the obvious sights -- ladies ply their trade in the windows offering a whole range of services at different prices. You don't have to buy if you just want to look, indeed most tourists are simply here for the sights. Although often missed, the Red Light District contains some beautiful sights, such as picturesque canals at night and old architecture. The Oude Kerk or Old Church, was built in the 13th century but various parts of it have been rebuilt due to damage or fire over the years.
Leidseplein, south-west of Dam Square, is a popular tourist spot. Away from the hustle and bustle of Dam Square and Damrak, Leidseplein is a little more relaxed and offers many things to do. To get there, you cross four of the most famous and picturesque canals in Amsterdam -- Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht, Herengracht and Singel. Here, you can find nearly fifty restaurants -- whether you like Indonesian, Italian, Japanese or any other cuisine -- you can find it here. You can also find some coffeeshops, bars, clubs, comedy venues and tourist shops. Many hotels are situated near here and, unlike the Red Light District and surrounding areas, there are very few, if any, beggars in this area.
Amsterdam Centrum is only a small part of what Amsterdam has to offer. Further afield is the museum quarter, Ajax ArenA football stadium and the outlying towns.
Christopher Buckley is a regular traveller to Amsterdam and owner of Amsterdam Review where you can find information on hotel bookings, flights and reviews of things to do and see in Amsterdam.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Buckley
The Amsterdam Red-Light District
Probably you have heard about the Amsterdam Red-Light District
as this is a very famous section in the Netherlands. Much to
your surprise, what you may have heard is true! Here are some
facts about the Amsterdam Red-Light District, a place unlike
any place else.
The famous Amsterdam Red-Light District covers a large area
in the oldest part of the city. It has been servicing the personal
needs and desires of locals and visitors for five centuries, and
thanks to the old buildings leaning at odd angles overlooking
the tree-enshrouded canals that a certain charm tempts you
to linger longer in the area. In this district, music of every
genre can be heard along the streets from a dozen or more
places late at night. And, it is the classier restaurants,
redone streets, and revamped facades that transform what
once dark and dingy into one of the most attractive parts of
town - the Amsterdam Red-Light District.
Prostitution in the District
Did you know that prostitution is legal in the Netherlands?
Yes, it is! It is most concentrated in the Amsterdam
Red-Light District where it has enjoyed a long tradition of
tolerance. It has been reported that since October 2000,
window prostitutes have been allowed to legally ply their
trade. Much to your surprise, the prostitutes in the
Netherlands are also taxpayers. However, discrimination is
still very much part and parcel in this kind of trade as a
number of the prostitutes reported that some banks even
refuse to grant mortgages for instance.
Now, as a legal profession, the government ensures that all
prostitutes are able to access medical care and work in
better conditions by way of regulating and monitoring working
practices and standards. Also, it is worth noting that contrary
to the popular belief, the Amsterdam Red-Light District is
actually the safest area in the city as clusters of policemen
and private bodyguards employed by the girls themselves are
always on duty.
The Chinatown
The Amsterdam Red-Light District is one of the few places on
earthy where you can authentic and really tasty Chinese food.
The restaurants in this district are easy to find as cooked
Duck is typically hung in the front window. However, Chinatown
in itself is misleading as there are also dozens of Malaysian,
Indonesian and Thai restaurants and cafés scattered along the
beautiful canals. Besides the restaurants, there are other
Chinese businesses in the Amsterdam Red-Light District,
including a well stocked supermarket across from the Waag,
near the Nieuwemarkt.
The Red-Light District Today
Amsterdam now prides itself on its wholly liberal and tolerant attitude. The city embraces, with the Amsterdam Red-Light
District, embraces the fact that people may be into
prostitution, pornography and soft drugs. So, instead of
criminalizing everything, Amsterdam wears its heart on its
sleeve. What you see is generally what you get. So, how do
you get to it? The answer basically lies on which Amsterdam
Red-Light District you are looking for. There are actually three
Red-Light Districts in the city: the main area is in the Walletjes
area, the Singel, and de Pijp.
Article written by Burt Cotton.
Author Bio::
------------
Burt Cotton
political forums
liberal politics
email: simi_hogard@yahoo.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simi_Hogard
as this is a very famous section in the Netherlands. Much to
your surprise, what you may have heard is true! Here are some
facts about the Amsterdam Red-Light District, a place unlike
any place else.
The famous Amsterdam Red-Light District covers a large area
in the oldest part of the city. It has been servicing the personal
needs and desires of locals and visitors for five centuries, and
thanks to the old buildings leaning at odd angles overlooking
the tree-enshrouded canals that a certain charm tempts you
to linger longer in the area. In this district, music of every
genre can be heard along the streets from a dozen or more
places late at night. And, it is the classier restaurants,
redone streets, and revamped facades that transform what
once dark and dingy into one of the most attractive parts of
town - the Amsterdam Red-Light District.
Prostitution in the District
Did you know that prostitution is legal in the Netherlands?
Yes, it is! It is most concentrated in the Amsterdam
Red-Light District where it has enjoyed a long tradition of
tolerance. It has been reported that since October 2000,
window prostitutes have been allowed to legally ply their
trade. Much to your surprise, the prostitutes in the
Netherlands are also taxpayers. However, discrimination is
still very much part and parcel in this kind of trade as a
number of the prostitutes reported that some banks even
refuse to grant mortgages for instance.
Now, as a legal profession, the government ensures that all
prostitutes are able to access medical care and work in
better conditions by way of regulating and monitoring working
practices and standards. Also, it is worth noting that contrary
to the popular belief, the Amsterdam Red-Light District is
actually the safest area in the city as clusters of policemen
and private bodyguards employed by the girls themselves are
always on duty.
The Chinatown
The Amsterdam Red-Light District is one of the few places on
earthy where you can authentic and really tasty Chinese food.
The restaurants in this district are easy to find as cooked
Duck is typically hung in the front window. However, Chinatown
in itself is misleading as there are also dozens of Malaysian,
Indonesian and Thai restaurants and cafés scattered along the
beautiful canals. Besides the restaurants, there are other
Chinese businesses in the Amsterdam Red-Light District,
including a well stocked supermarket across from the Waag,
near the Nieuwemarkt.
The Red-Light District Today
Amsterdam now prides itself on its wholly liberal and tolerant attitude. The city embraces, with the Amsterdam Red-Light
District, embraces the fact that people may be into
prostitution, pornography and soft drugs. So, instead of
criminalizing everything, Amsterdam wears its heart on its
sleeve. What you see is generally what you get. So, how do
you get to it? The answer basically lies on which Amsterdam
Red-Light District you are looking for. There are actually three
Red-Light Districts in the city: the main area is in the Walletjes
area, the Singel, and de Pijp.
Article written by Burt Cotton.
Author Bio::
------------
Burt Cotton
political forums
liberal politics
email: simi_hogard@yahoo.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simi_Hogard
Window Shopping in Amsterdam - The Red Light District
Amsterdam's red light district is one of the city's biggest attractions, as well as being one of Europe's most unique and interesting areas. Like red light districts in many cites across the world, its origins date back to the 14th century when sailors arrived in port and were in need of some female companionship. What makes Amsterdam's Red Light Zone different from others in the world, however, is that rather than try and criminalise and cover up the sex industry, Amsterdam has legalised and legitimised it - meaning a safer environment for industry workers and their customers alike.
Located just 10 minutes walk from Central Station, the Red light District consists of theatres, museums, bars, coffee shops, and perhaps the most recognisable Red Light District icon - the pouting prostitutes who stand in street-front windows, dressed in seductive lingerie and attempting to lure in passers by.
As the sun goes down, the red lights begin to glow, and the streets start to swell with tourists. Some are looking for some adult entrainment; many others are just intrigued as to what goes on in this unique part of the world.
Amsterdam's liberal and forward thinking stance on prostitution has earned it equal amounts of praise and criticism. Many believe the selling of sex to be immoral, but Amsterdam points out that prostitution goes on in almost every city of the world and that by accepting it, rather than ignoring it, they have made the sex industry a safer place for workers and clients.
Hotels, apartments and other accommodation in Amsterdam can vary greatly in price, and while the areas around the Red Light District are especially popular, there is still a good mix from 5 Star luxury hotels to more modest budget options. Although the area is famous for its seedier side, there is much more on offer than sex; joining an organised tour will allow you to dig deeper into the intriguing world and enable you to learn more about the world's oldest profession while getting the low-down on how the industry operates.
Another interesting new attraction that has only recently become available is the "Dine with the Dutch" option. Born out of tourist curiosity as to how local Dutch people live within the city, the Dine with the Dutch option allows tourists to visit a real Dutch local home, eat a traditional three course Dutch meal and experience genuine Dutch hospitality.
Whilst it may cause the more reserved amongst us to blush, Amsterdam's Red Light District is one of the most important attractions of the city, bringing in thousands of tourists every week, and generating a huge amount of income for locals. Alongside the coffee shops, museum and galleries of the city, the Red Light District is a major attraction and a definite must-see, if only for the window shopping!
Andrew Regan is an online, freelance author from Scotland. He is a keen rugby player and enjoys travelling.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Regan
Located just 10 minutes walk from Central Station, the Red light District consists of theatres, museums, bars, coffee shops, and perhaps the most recognisable Red Light District icon - the pouting prostitutes who stand in street-front windows, dressed in seductive lingerie and attempting to lure in passers by.
As the sun goes down, the red lights begin to glow, and the streets start to swell with tourists. Some are looking for some adult entrainment; many others are just intrigued as to what goes on in this unique part of the world.
Amsterdam's liberal and forward thinking stance on prostitution has earned it equal amounts of praise and criticism. Many believe the selling of sex to be immoral, but Amsterdam points out that prostitution goes on in almost every city of the world and that by accepting it, rather than ignoring it, they have made the sex industry a safer place for workers and clients.
Hotels, apartments and other accommodation in Amsterdam can vary greatly in price, and while the areas around the Red Light District are especially popular, there is still a good mix from 5 Star luxury hotels to more modest budget options. Although the area is famous for its seedier side, there is much more on offer than sex; joining an organised tour will allow you to dig deeper into the intriguing world and enable you to learn more about the world's oldest profession while getting the low-down on how the industry operates.
Another interesting new attraction that has only recently become available is the "Dine with the Dutch" option. Born out of tourist curiosity as to how local Dutch people live within the city, the Dine with the Dutch option allows tourists to visit a real Dutch local home, eat a traditional three course Dutch meal and experience genuine Dutch hospitality.
Whilst it may cause the more reserved amongst us to blush, Amsterdam's Red Light District is one of the most important attractions of the city, bringing in thousands of tourists every week, and generating a huge amount of income for locals. Alongside the coffee shops, museum and galleries of the city, the Red Light District is a major attraction and a definite must-see, if only for the window shopping!
Andrew Regan is an online, freelance author from Scotland. He is a keen rugby player and enjoys travelling.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Regan
10 Things For Families To Do In Amsterdam
Your Amsterdam is - Amazing, Marvelous, Sensuous, Terrific, Excellent, Ravishing, Darling, Arresting, Magnificent! It really is a fantastic vacation destination for the architecture lovers where each monument stands better than the other. Its stunning structural designs, striking mansion houses, exquisite canals, big shopping malls, and elegant hotels just make it the most desired tourist destination.
The Dutch capital has lots of charms, something for every traveler's taste. You can have complete fun and do lots of things in the city, if you are out to take family vacation in Amsterdam. You may start your Amsterdam exploration from DAM SQUARE, which is typically the first port of call for tourists, located in the historical center of Amsterdam, south of the main transportation hub, Centraal Station. It is famous for its notable buildings and frequent events.
Leidseplein, a lively square situated in central Amsterdam, is one of the busiest hubs for nightlife. You can enjoy nice night out at the square and the surrounding streets, full of bars, restaurants, outdoor cafes, theaters, dance clubs, are nice places for hang out. Street performers and fire eaters are major attractions of the square, which is located in the southwest of the central (canal) district, immediately northeast of the Singelgracht canal.
If you are art lover, visit the Stedelijk Museum (City/Urban Museum), located at Museum Square (Museumplein), close to the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. The museum is home to the city's modern and contemporary art from the 19th century till the present day, and features the works of Picasso and Monet.
Jordaan, a district in Amsterdam is famous for fine streets, charming canals, brown coffee shops, and exclusive shops. It is home to many art galleries, particularly for modern art. You really can have nice time out at this place and its neighborhood, which is also studded with specialty shops and restaurants, and markets.
The real tourist magnet, Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt Square) is perfect place to enjoy real Dutch nightlife. The vibrant square is particularly famous for nightlife, reputable diamond dealers and the unavoidable tacky souvenir shops. It's your place for excellent night clubs, gay venues, public houses, eating places, coffee shops, cafés, and hotels. Here, you can find typical chock-a-block Dutch pubs and Dutch music.
Situated in the Pijp district, the Albert Cuypmarkt is the best place for shopping. It is possibly the most familiar and most engaged outdoor marketplace in Europe. Surrounded by lots of pleasant cafes and small shops, the place attracts thousands of visitants each day; particularly popular on Saturdays. There are more than 300 stalls offering goods ranging from fresh produce, to clothes, to odds and ends, with the cheapest prices in Amsterdam.
Right in the center of the city, Artis Zoo is the oldest zoo of Holland. It comprises four main areas including Zoo, Planetarium, Botanical Gardens and Geological and Zoological museum. It's your place for watching varieties of old trees and statues of modern artists, geological & zoological wonders, and enjoying trips trough the universe at Planetarium.
Hortus Botanicus is a gigantic botanical garden established in 1632. It has 6000 plants and some of the plants are truly unique as 2000 years old agave cactus. It is near to Artis - Amsterdam ZOO, and remains a pleasing oasis of tranquility in the tiring and busy Amsterdam centre.
You can also enjoy shopping in Dutch style and visiting some of its famed street markets named as Albert Cupy, Waterlooplein, Bloemenmarkt Flower Market or Dappermarkt. Your trip to Amsterdam just wouldn't be complete without visiting a Windmill. There are 8 eye-catching windmills in at the heart of the city just waiting to admire. Don't forget to take your camera with you!
Author writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing listings for Amsterdam holiday apartments, Amsterdam hotels, bed and breakfasts, and Amsterdam vacation.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Burrows
The Dutch capital has lots of charms, something for every traveler's taste. You can have complete fun and do lots of things in the city, if you are out to take family vacation in Amsterdam. You may start your Amsterdam exploration from DAM SQUARE, which is typically the first port of call for tourists, located in the historical center of Amsterdam, south of the main transportation hub, Centraal Station. It is famous for its notable buildings and frequent events.
Leidseplein, a lively square situated in central Amsterdam, is one of the busiest hubs for nightlife. You can enjoy nice night out at the square and the surrounding streets, full of bars, restaurants, outdoor cafes, theaters, dance clubs, are nice places for hang out. Street performers and fire eaters are major attractions of the square, which is located in the southwest of the central (canal) district, immediately northeast of the Singelgracht canal.
If you are art lover, visit the Stedelijk Museum (City/Urban Museum), located at Museum Square (Museumplein), close to the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. The museum is home to the city's modern and contemporary art from the 19th century till the present day, and features the works of Picasso and Monet.
Jordaan, a district in Amsterdam is famous for fine streets, charming canals, brown coffee shops, and exclusive shops. It is home to many art galleries, particularly for modern art. You really can have nice time out at this place and its neighborhood, which is also studded with specialty shops and restaurants, and markets.
The real tourist magnet, Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt Square) is perfect place to enjoy real Dutch nightlife. The vibrant square is particularly famous for nightlife, reputable diamond dealers and the unavoidable tacky souvenir shops. It's your place for excellent night clubs, gay venues, public houses, eating places, coffee shops, cafés, and hotels. Here, you can find typical chock-a-block Dutch pubs and Dutch music.
Situated in the Pijp district, the Albert Cuypmarkt is the best place for shopping. It is possibly the most familiar and most engaged outdoor marketplace in Europe. Surrounded by lots of pleasant cafes and small shops, the place attracts thousands of visitants each day; particularly popular on Saturdays. There are more than 300 stalls offering goods ranging from fresh produce, to clothes, to odds and ends, with the cheapest prices in Amsterdam.
Right in the center of the city, Artis Zoo is the oldest zoo of Holland. It comprises four main areas including Zoo, Planetarium, Botanical Gardens and Geological and Zoological museum. It's your place for watching varieties of old trees and statues of modern artists, geological & zoological wonders, and enjoying trips trough the universe at Planetarium.
Hortus Botanicus is a gigantic botanical garden established in 1632. It has 6000 plants and some of the plants are truly unique as 2000 years old agave cactus. It is near to Artis - Amsterdam ZOO, and remains a pleasing oasis of tranquility in the tiring and busy Amsterdam centre.
You can also enjoy shopping in Dutch style and visiting some of its famed street markets named as Albert Cupy, Waterlooplein, Bloemenmarkt Flower Market or Dappermarkt. Your trip to Amsterdam just wouldn't be complete without visiting a Windmill. There are 8 eye-catching windmills in at the heart of the city just waiting to admire. Don't forget to take your camera with you!
Author writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing listings for Amsterdam holiday apartments, Amsterdam hotels, bed and breakfasts, and Amsterdam vacation.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Burrows
The Do's and Don'ts of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is renowned for being an extremely tolerant city. All races, religions and cultures are welcomed here with open arms and the service is second to none. Amsterdam will probably be one of the freest and diverse cities you will ever visit. From culture and history to one of the best party atmospheres in the world, there will be someone for everyone in this fantastic city. As with any city, there are customs which should be respected. Amsterdam is probably the most laid-back city in the world, but there are still some things you should be aware of...
o Don't worry about crime. Amsterdam is one of the safest cities in the world when concerning violent crime- it almost never happens. The one thing you must be aware of is pickpockets. Pickpocket's usually target tourists, whether it be at an ATM or at the train station or airport. Make sure you keep all your belongings secure and out of sight. Even though the chance you will be targeted is very slim, it is safer to just take these simple precautions.
o Do rent a bike. Amsterdam is flat- there are no hills. You will notice that the locals get around by bike, which is probably the best way to see the majority of the city. There is no traffic in the city centre, so a bike is the best way to get from A to B.
o Don't buy any drugs. As well all know, Amsterdam is free in the sense that you are allowed to smoke cannabis in its coffee shops, but do not attempt to buy any illegal or class A drugs off the street. Not only is it a criminal offence to be carrying over a certain amount of a class A drug, but more times than not the drugs you buy will be of poor quality. The Amsterdam police force clamp down hard on the use of illegal drugs, so it is better not to take the risk.
o Do greet people. It is custom in Amsterdam to greet shop/restaurant or bar staff as you enter the premises. If you don't greet as you enter a public house it is seen as rude, so a little courteousness goes a long way.
o Do not take photos in the Red Light District. Prostitutes (and in particular, their doormen) do not like having their photos taken by tourists, and any attempt to capture footage on either a camera or video recorder will result in you getting into a spot of bother. So don't take the risk.
Do search for cheap flights to Amsterdam. Flights to Amsterdam can be of extremely good value if you book early enough, so use an online comparison tool to help you find a good deal. It is the same with hotels. Hotels in Amsterdam are plentiful; there is a massive variety to suite every need and wallet.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachael_A_Miller
o Don't worry about crime. Amsterdam is one of the safest cities in the world when concerning violent crime- it almost never happens. The one thing you must be aware of is pickpockets. Pickpocket's usually target tourists, whether it be at an ATM or at the train station or airport. Make sure you keep all your belongings secure and out of sight. Even though the chance you will be targeted is very slim, it is safer to just take these simple precautions.
o Do rent a bike. Amsterdam is flat- there are no hills. You will notice that the locals get around by bike, which is probably the best way to see the majority of the city. There is no traffic in the city centre, so a bike is the best way to get from A to B.
o Don't buy any drugs. As well all know, Amsterdam is free in the sense that you are allowed to smoke cannabis in its coffee shops, but do not attempt to buy any illegal or class A drugs off the street. Not only is it a criminal offence to be carrying over a certain amount of a class A drug, but more times than not the drugs you buy will be of poor quality. The Amsterdam police force clamp down hard on the use of illegal drugs, so it is better not to take the risk.
o Do greet people. It is custom in Amsterdam to greet shop/restaurant or bar staff as you enter the premises. If you don't greet as you enter a public house it is seen as rude, so a little courteousness goes a long way.
o Do not take photos in the Red Light District. Prostitutes (and in particular, their doormen) do not like having their photos taken by tourists, and any attempt to capture footage on either a camera or video recorder will result in you getting into a spot of bother. So don't take the risk.
Do search for cheap flights to Amsterdam. Flights to Amsterdam can be of extremely good value if you book early enough, so use an online comparison tool to help you find a good deal. It is the same with hotels. Hotels in Amsterdam are plentiful; there is a massive variety to suite every need and wallet.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachael_A_Miller
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