National Tulip Day = Free Tulips in Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam National Tulip day brightens the city.

What we love about this day is the color and FREE Tulips. You too can enjoy. It is tomorrow January 21 on the Dam Square. It is one of the best things you can do in Amsterdam this weekend.

National Tulip Day on Dam Square Amsterdam

We Dutch love free things and to be provided the national flower for free in the grayness of January always lightens the mood.

The tulips are specially grown in the greenhouses South West of Amsterdam.

So get to the Dam Square tomorrow. Pick your own free tulips.

It doesn't matter if you are here for a few days or a few hours.

Take your tulips and put them in your room or give them out to people you pass in the street.

Spread happiness and color on National Tulip Day.

We Recommend:

1. Give yourself enough time to line up.
2. Take lots of photos.
3. Pick your own tulips. Put the tulips in your room or hand them out to passersby.

Tulips from National Tulip Day 2016 in our window.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Free Burgers in Amsterdam this Thursday!!!

When in Amsterdam...has been taken over by upmarket burger places over the last year. Another one is about to be added to the list. However, to open they are going to give away free burgers. Yes, you read it right, FREE BURGERS. Not a normal Dutch strategy, no. This group comes from Belgium via Rotterdam. They are called Ellis Gourmet Burger and the address is Prinsengracht 422.

The Free Burger tasting is on Thursday 19 February from 11:30 until 8pm. Expect madness as free things in this city make people go crazy.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy

Late Rembrandt: Rijksmuseum Exhibition

When in Amsterdam the Rijksmuseum is hosting its first Rembrandt exhibition in 20 years. Late Rembrandt is an exhibition of Rembrandt van Rijn's last twenty years of work.

Over 100 works of paintings, prints and drawings are presented in Late Rembrandt. Rembrandt's last years were marked by tradegy but the works he produced are considered the best of his career. At the age of 60 Rembrandt had become a widower, childless, bankrupt and out of favor in the eyes of Amsterdam's elite.

When in Amsterdam is familiar with Rembrandt. His dark colours, emotion and composition are unmistakable. This exhibition: Late Rembrandt, is striking. Rembrandt's works from this period hold greater emotion. His work is course with limited colour, experimental but with a Master's hand.

Our favorite paintings are Jacob Blessing the sons of Joshep 1965 and the The Jewish Bride. What is impressive is the curation of this exhibition and placing all of the works in one environment. A fantastic exhibition of a Master. A once in a life time opportunity to see all of these works in one place.

The King of the Netherlands opens the exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

The exhibition runs from February 12 to May 17 2015. You are required to by a supplement ticket that is day and time specific. This includes Museum card holders. Children under 18 although free are also required to have a ticket. Book online to avoid long lines.

Local Tip:
Visit the Rembrandt's House Museum the day before visiting this exhibition

Essential information about the Rijksmuseum before visiting.

Romance Guide to Amsterdam

Are you in Amsterdam for Valentine's Day in February or making your own special romantic visit? Amsterdam is a romantic city. Here is a list of things to do no matter your budget or the time of year. From free to expensive, good or bad weather, inside or outdoors. If your not sure what to do on with your loved one when in town take a pick of these romantic things to do in Amsterdam. 

Romantic places to Stay

Amsterdam has a range of accommodation to suit your style and budget. Please remember that Amsterdam is a small town and occupancy is limited so organize you accommodation as early as is possible.

• 5 Star; Our picks would be the new Waldorf Astoria, The Hotel de L'Europe, The Pulitzer, the Dylan and the Intercontinental (locally referred to as the Amstel Hotel).
• Boutique: Hotel V or the Toren
• Rent and apartment through Air BnB
• Rent a House Boat
• Affordable and stylish is the Volkshotel that has jacuzzies on the roof for guests only.

Yummy Brunch served with Love

There are a range of places to take you loved one for a special brunch. Greenwoods, famous for their English style brunch and lunch room has two central locations. De Bakkerswinkle is well known for their local baked products and their stores are scattered throughout the city. In the neighbourhood of the Pijp we recommend Little Collins and the Scandinavian Embassy for a stylish brunch option. To the East we advise the Drovers Dog and Beter & Leuk. To the West there is Staring at Jacob and Sugarless.

Go Out and Buy Flowers

Flowers are cheap in Amsterdam due to the world's largest Flower Auction just outside of town. For 5 - 25 euros you will have a beautiful bunch of colour. There is no excuse not to visit you local florist when in Amsterdam.. Why not even take your love one with you and make an outing of buying flowers. Then stroll along the wonderful canals letting your loved one carry their flowers.

Diamonds are Forever

If you have the money or the inclination then diamonds places are prevalent in Amsterdam. Take your special person to Gassan diamonds and take the free tour to see the cutting process and finish. If you have the cash buy a gift that lasts at the the end of the tour.

picture taken from pictomani.com

Take romantic long walk

Day or night Amsterdam is always beautiful. Take a romantic stroll through the 17th century part of Amsterdam. We recommend the Reguliersgracht, Leligracht, Leidsegracht or Amstel for a beautiful walk with your loved one. Take a small picnic for one of our city's wonderful benches.

Couple on Omy Amsterdam City Centre Tour

Take a tour in a small group

Let a guide look after you for a few hours and learn interesting facts and history about the city. It also saves you from negotiating the tiny complicated allyways of Amsterdam. If on a budget take a free tour with 360. If crowds are not your thing. For a more personal experience Omy Amsterdam Tours holds regular tours of 4 people maximum. Your sure to find company with another couple.

Picnic in the park

If the weather is in your favour then a picnic is a great idea. Make an outing of it by visiting one of Amsterdam street markets to buy your goods. The fruit and vegetables is half as cheap as the supermarkets and twice as tasty. The main three street markets run every day except for Sunday. Ten Kate Market for West of town, Albert Cuyp Market for the South  and the Dappermarkt for the East of Amsterdam. Vondelpark, Westerpark, Oosterpark or just the side of a beautiful canal are all great locations on their day.

High Tea

Great High Tea at the Museum of Handbags and Purses, the American Hotel and Gartine. The museum option might seem a bit strange but it is a great option in an historic and eloquent environment.

Lavish Lunch

Blue is a fantastic option for an affordable lunch with a panoramic view. Buffet van Odette has a great canal side location. Gartine does intimate, chic and vintage interior. Finally, Droog does contemporary Dutch design. All have great food.

See a show

If you like going to the movies visit Tuschinski and purchase the lovers seats in the 1920s era main theatre. This cinema shows mostly mainstream Hollywood movies. Do becareful with non-English movies as most movies are subtitled in Dutch and not dubbed.

The Netherlands National Ballet and Opera is always an option and a good excuse to dress up. For those that like to dance check our the live music institutions to take your love one to. Paradiso is best for a romantic evening but be sure to get your tickets well in advance.

Play games in the Red Light District

Hip and happening is the Ton Ton Club. A modern retro arcade with board games, old computer games, pin ball machines and air hockey. Not to mention boutique beer and tasty snacks. This cool place is right in the middle of the red light district. You may want to pop into The Most Vibrating Shop or the Condomerie, both female and couple friendly sex stores in the Red Light District to pick up something for games later on in the evening.

Bubbles and Wines in Amsterdam

Cocktails or Champagne

Amsterdam has a range of cool, classy or laid back places for a romantic drink. Located meters from Dam square but hidden on the alley called Nes, wine and champagne lovers must check out the sleek Bubbles and Wines. If laid back but still chic is your thing next door is Bar Jones has a more affordable range of drinks. It is always good to have a back up plan as the best places are small in Amsterdam and sometimes they can be full. Cocktail bars have proliferated over the last year or so in Amsterdam. Our pick would be NJOY, Door 74 and Vesper Bar

View from Canvas 7

Romantic place with a view

You may not want or need Champagne or a cocktail. These places have great views that are perfect to sit back and sip a coffee, tea or beer and enjoy Amsterdam with that someone special. The rooftop terrace of Canvas 7, Cafe de Jaren, Cafe P 96 has a boat terrace on the canal; Pllek and Wilheimia Dok are in Noord.

Michelin Star Dinner

Amsterdam's Michelin stars have multiplied over the last few years. There are a range of award winning places. Our pick is French cuisine at Ciel Bleu is located on the 23rd floor of the Okura Hotel. 

Michelin Star not your style? Try Romantic settings at Ponte Arcari for Italian or Belhamel for French. If hip burgers or vegetarian is more to your style check out the corresponding links.

Romantic canal cruise at canal.nl

A Private Boat Tour

The canals of Amsterdam are unique. The wonderful historic centre is one of the best places in the world to show your love. For those that can afford it the best experience is a salon boat.

Regular Canal  Tour

Avoid the big ugly tourist boats in Amsterdam and opt for this affordable option at Friendship boat tours. They provide an open boat and a drink. They partner with a champagne company so you can pay a bit more and buy a glass of bubbles for yourself and your loved one.

Remember in Amsterdam Love comes in Shape and Sizes and we are proud of this fact.

When in Amsterdam ....enjoy!

Best Views of Amsterdam: Canvas 7

When in Amsterdam....there are a number of great places to view enjoy the beauty of Amsterdam.

Rooftop terrace of Canvas 7
(Photo taken from Canvas website)

Canvas 7 

Situated in an old Newspaper headquarters building, Canvas 7 is located 7 floors above Amsterdam. The hip venue contains a cocktail bar, cafe, restaurant and club. On the lower floors a hotel called the Volkshotel is located.

Canvas 7 rooftop view
(Photo credit: Raymond van Mil)

We highly recommend coming for a drink or to the club. We have not eaten at the restaurant but reviews can be found at this website. Get there early to get a spot on the balcony.

Canvas 7
(photo taken from website)

The hotel is industrial in style. The rooms are affordable and individual. The top benefit of being a guest is that you can visit the sauna and hot tubs atop the building. This would be a perfect location for a couple visiting Amsterdam who like something different, creative and away from the main tourist areas.

Soixante Neuf room at the Volkshotel
(Photo by Mark Groenveld)

Address: Wibautstraat 127, +31 20 261 2100, volkshotel.nl/canvas. Open Mon-Thurs 7am-1am, Friday 7am-4am, Sat 8am-4am, Sun 8am-1am

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

House of Bols closed for renovation

When in Amsterdam...a trip to the House of Bols is always great. Especially, if you don't drink beer. Bols the legendary spirit and jenever company is closing their Amsterdam visitors centre for refurbishment. From January 5 until 22 2015 the House of Bols attraction will be closed for renovations. Let's hope it doesn't extend the construction like a few of their famous neighbours on Museumplein.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Amsterdam indoor Food Market: Foodhallen

When in Amsterdam...there are many street markets.

Foodhallen is a food market in part of the old tram depot of Amsterdam west. The market is a retail food market where 21 small independent businesses have a stall and dispense some wonderful treats for under 10 euro. Music and events take place regularly so be sure to check out the the Foodhallen website for up to date information.

In the middle of the market is a bar that sells drinks. This market is similar in concept to Chelsea and Grand Central Market in New York and Borough Market in London.

Foodhallen, Amsterdam (source Facebook page Foodhallen)

The building complex is great urban rejuvenation project supported by the City of Amsterdam, the local community and investors. In addition to the food, within the complex is a library with a reading cafe, movie theaters, television studios and indoor parking for 500 bicycles.

Foodhallen, Amsterdam (source Facebook page Foodhallen)

The food section has the restaurant De Brasserie Halte 3 and the Grill Restaurant Meat West. The complex is also a short walk to the famous Ten Kate street market.

Meat West (source Meat West Facebook Page)

If you love food and markets this is a must visit for anyone exploring Amsterdam as a return or first time visitor.

Getting there:

Location:

Location is between the Kinkerstraat, Bellamyplein, Tollensstraat and the Ten Katemarkt. It is a very big complex hence the complicated address.

Bike: 10 minutes bike from the Anne Frank House Museum for beginners.

Tram:

• 13, 14, 12, 3 exit at corner of Bilderdijkstraat and De Clercqstraat
• 7, 17 exit at corner of Ten Katemarkt and Kinkerstraat
• Preferred option from Centraal Train Station catch Tram 17.
• Preferred option from Museum district is Tram 7, departing from nearby Leidseplein. 

Opening Time:

 1200hrs to 2330hrs

Keep up to date with what is going on at the Foodhallen on their Facebook page.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

For more blogs on Amsterdam food:

All time top 10 thing to eat in Amsterdam: a critical analysis 

Rijksmuseum critics: What you need to know before you visit.

When in Amsterdam...the Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands located in Amsterdam.

We have taken the biggest criticisms and provide solutions or awareness for you to enjoy this world class museum.

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
(Source: Wiki Commons)

1. Tickets

"It's crazy how expensive this is at 14 Euro, and even more with the audio guide. Compared to the incredible museums that I went to in Paris, which were all under 10 Euro, including The Louvre, this was extremely disappointing." Darwin G. Yelp review


Critics of the price will be further annoyed. As of November 1 2014 the price will increase to 17.50 euro. Children 18 years of age and under are free. There are no student discounts.


It took 10 years and 500 million dollars to restore the Rijksmuseum. Be mindful with the economy slowly recovering from crisis, the cultural budget was slashed. Also, to see a Hollywood movie in Amsterdam costs 10 euro per adult.

Tips:

• Buy your tickets online before you go.

• Buy a museum card (Museumkaart) instead. This gives you unlimited access and express lane privilege. If you visit the Anne Frank, Van Gogh and Rijksmuseums you have received the value of the card and received express lanes on the latter two.

• Benefits of the Museumkaart; You can also visit the Rijksmuseum more than once rather then cram it all into one visit. You can also pop into one of the smaller Amsterdam museums that you would not normally have visited for free with the MuseumKaart.

• Benefits of the Museumkaart; If you book online a pre-purchased ticket for Anne Frank tick Museum Card on the booking form. It will cost you 50cents. You skip the line and the price of your Museumkaart has more value. 

• Benefits of the Museumkaart; You do not require the Museumkaart when you purchase this ticket online. The museum card is only required with your print out of the 50 cent ticket when you visit the Anne Frank House.

• Small tour companies like Omy Amsterdam Tours will drop new Museumkaarts to you at your hotel for an added fee if you are staying in central Amsterdam. If you join one of their tours they charge face value of the card.

2. Lines

"Although there is a remark on the website,that you may not be able to enter the directly, there is no mention of a 2 hour wait before you can get in. E-ticket or not,join the queue and wait... wait...wait..." Christina B. Tripadvisor review

Getting into the building, lining for tickets, the cloak room and the cafe are often criticised. At times there are more people with pre-paid tickets then can enter the building safely. 

Tips:

• Be clear if you have a pre-purchased ticket. Pre-purchased tickets have a bar code on a print out or a card like the Museumkaart mentioned above. 

• The pre-purchased ticket line does not include vouchers/coupon discount cards like the IAmsterdam card or the Holland Card. You need to line up for this in the no pre-purchased ticket line.

• Most hotels will sell you a pre-purchased ticket(with a bar code) or tell you where a reseller is located.

• The shop on the Museumplein (Museum Square) 100 yards from the front of the museum sells pre-paid tickets to the Rijksmuseum.

• If you do not take an umbrella or a bag (larger than A3 paper) you do not have to enter the cloak room. This will save you valuable time. Large bags like suitcases will not be allowed.

• Best time to visit is during the week and between the hours of 2pm -5pm. On the weekend try to get to the museum before it opens to ensure no line.

3. Layout

"Completely renovated so that it is even more confusing to get around. SOOOOO MANY STUPID STAIRS! Badly designed and laid out. Too many queues as they don't have enough staff. Poorly ventilated so that it is stuffy everywhere. Toilets only on the ground floor in a four storey building." Sandro B, TripAdvisor.


The Museum is a very large museum with 4 floors and can be very disorientating. Understand what you would like to see and what time periods.

Tips:

• Make a plan. The museum is very large and impossible to cover fully in one visit. Be mindful of this. Start on the 3 floor in the Hall of Masters for the highlights and see how much time you have.

• Look at the website and download the app before you go. Have an understanding of what you would like to see before you go. You then do not have to pay for the audio guide.

• The museum has free WiFi so you can access the app throughout the building. Charge you battery before you go.

• Remember the TOILETS are only on the bottom floor. Go before you explore the museum.

4. Disability Access

"Holland is a fantastic country with generally great facilities for the disabled and a very caring population. Here- and only here- it goes horrendously wrong and there is a lot of work to be done on this newly refurbished building to ensure disabled people get a look in.
As for my Wife (a Nurse) and I, we found the whole experience was a struggle from beginning to end. Sorry MUST do better" Theflyingdoctor, TripAdvisor


The Rijksmuseum does have wheelchairs available but in limited number. You must first enter the building to access the wheelchairs. Most criticism regards lining up with a disabled person.

Tips:

• Bring your own wheelchair. Most hotels will provide a wheelchair if provided notice of your need. 

• Familiarise yourself with the layout of the museum before you go to the museum. You can download the app to the museum for free.

Overview

• Buy your tickets online. If visiting more than 2 museums buy a Museumkaart.

• Create a plan of what you want to see. Familiarise yourself with the museum layout.

• Download the app and charge your phone before you go.

• Look for the signs to know which line you should be enter the museum.

• Do not take a large bag or umbrella if you can help it. Avoid the cloak room.

• Lage bags like suitcases are not allowed.

• Museum has free Wifi.

• Use the toilets on the ground floor before you visit the exhibition.

• If disabled bring your own wheelchair.

Now you have the knowledge to overcome the biggest criticisms of the Rijksmuseum.

Here is information on the exhibition at the Rijksmuseum from February until May 2015 Late Rembrandt: Rijksmuseum

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

 

Amsterdam Canal Cruise with a difference: Hot Tug

When in Amsterdam...a canal cruise is always a great idea. The best way to explore Amsterdam, the city built on water is with a local on a small boat. However, boating is seasonal with many Amsterdammers storing their boats away for the cold months.

Hot Tug in front of Hotel d'Europe

The Hot Tug is a boat that enables you to enjoy Amsterdam in all weather. Simply the boat is a hot tub. A new concept boat, the Hot Tug was launched at the Amsterdam Boat Show in September 2012.  Fueled by a wood fired heater the water can be warmed to 38 degrees Celsius. The designer of the boat wanted people to become part of their environment. In the Hot Tug in Amsterdam you become part of Amsterdam with only a small separation between you and the water.

Hot Tug in East of Amsterdam

The Hot Tug is a design of Frank de Bruijn owner of Supergoed. Frank's background is in sculpture. He attended the illustrious Willem de Kooning Academy in Rotterdam. De Bruijn also has a passion for physics and engineering. His furniture has been exhibited in many of the country's museums.   

Hot Tug in Red Light District (De Wallen)

Currently the makers of Hot Tug have teamed up with the group from Boom Chicago. From September 2014 the boat is available to Amsterdammers and our guests.  The boat holds six people comfortably or seven if you are friends (plus the captain). On our 3pm tour, it cost EUR 50 per person on a with a three person minimum to go out (six people maximum). A private boat at 3pm costs EUR 250. A private boat at another time with a center city hotel pickup and drop off costs EUR 450.

How do I book?

To book a boat call 0900 BOOM CHI or email hello@boomchicago.nl. Payment must be made in full at the time of booking.  We take credit and debit cards online or by phone (small booking charges apply). 

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Lunch in Amsterdam for couples

When in Amsterdam... has been looking for a place to take that special person on a nice lunch. Here is a list of charming places to savour the moment and the conversation. The list has been chosen due to their central location.

Gartine

In the middle of the hectic city is this charming place. Perfect for a brunch, lunch or high tea. Prominent is the Portugese chandelier and the wonderful china and crockery. Make sure to make a reservation as the capacity is 20 people. 

Taksteeg 7, Amsterdam

Buffet van Odette

Buffet van Odette

Situated on the World Heritage List Prinsengracht this is a great place for a lunch. Dinner time the place gets busy. If you are lucky get an outdoor seat and enjoy the conversation and the view.

Prinsengracht 598

Blue

Situated on top of shopping mall do not be disheartened by what is below. Above you have a 360 degree view of Amsterdam in a stylish environment at reasonable prices.

Kalvatoren level 3. Entrance via end of Kalverstraat or Single by Muntplein

Droog

Combination of shopping and a tea room. What could be better? Droog is also the best example of Dutch design under one roof. The shop has a tea room upstairs and don't forget to show mum the wonderful courtyard garden.

Staalstraat 7 Level 1


When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Other related posts:

Top 10 Amsterdam eats: a critical approach

Amsterdam Vegetarian and Vegan Eats

Best Coffee in Amsterdam's Old City Centre

When in Amsterdam...seriously good coffee spots have popped up all over town in last year. Yes, the city is famous for the Cannabis Coffeeshops but the places listed below are for those that yearn for a well made coffee. Please note none of these places sell cannabis.

Cut Throat Barber and Coffee
A real man cave situated meters from the Dam Square. Owned by a New Zealander who relocated after the Christchurch earthquake. This places caters to your coffee ... and hair needs.

Caffe Il Momento
Located on the Single canal on the old Torensluis (tower lock/bridge) just a short walk from Dam square. The espresso  machine is from 1905 and worth a visit in itself. This is a Dutch style espresso bar that reminds you of Italy.

Screaming Beans
A stylish restaurant and cafe situated in the heart of the 9 Streets shopping district. The coffee and the their machine are impressive. Stop by for a delicious brew or an extended lunch or dinner.

Quartier Putain
Located between prostitute windows, a kinder-garden and across from the city's oldest church. Only in Amsterdam could you find a heady mix with a quality coffee in front of you. The place is a collaboration by Erik de Kok and the guys from Top Notch, a Dutch record label. The old jukebox is an added bonus.

Koko Coffee and Design
Great Coffee and Design. Tucked between the hedonistic Red Light District and the end of the touristy Damstraat you will find this peaceful little place by Caroline Kruijssen and Karlijn Timmermans. Tea lovers will also love the place as they do loose leaf tea pots.

Filter
Just blocks from the Waterlooplein market you will find Filter. Large wooden tables and local art on the walls provide a tasteful interior. The organic sandwiches and fresh juices are also fantastic but the coffee is the highlight at Filter.

Concerto Coffee
One of the last bastions of the old independent music stores. Concerto has survived the advent of digital music. Positioned on the refurbished Utrechtestraat, a lovely stroll from the busy Rembrantplein. Enjoy a wonderful coffee and then browse through the extensive music for sale. Check out their website for weekly live music.

Sweet Cup
A hole in the wall next the Green Bike rental on the busy Leidseplein. This little place warms you with their tasty coffee. If not for a moment you can escape the tourist hustle of the Leidseplein.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!