Posts Tagged ‘Amsterdam’

The city

Amsterdam is not only the largest city in the Netherland, it is the capital city and the cultural and financial capital as well, located in the the west of the country in the province of North Holland. Together with the suburbs, the city has a population of about 1 million people. Its name is derived from Amstel dam, indicative of the city’s origin: a dam in the river Amstel where the Dam Square is today. Settled as a small fishing village in the late 12th century, Amsterdam became one of the most important ports in the world during the Dutch Golden Age, a result of its innovative developments in trade. The city was the leading center for finance and diamonds during that time. Amsterdam expanded and many new neighborhoods and suburbs were formed in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The attractions

The city’s main attractions include its historic canals, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, its red-light district and its many cannabis coffee shops and many others, attracting more than 4 million tourists annually.

Amsterdam’s Climate

Amsterdam enjoys a cool temperate climate, strongly influenced by its proximity to the North Sea to the west and winter temperatures are mild, seldom below 0°C. Amsterdam is surrounded on three sides by large bodies of water, as well as enjoying a significant heat island effect, with nights rarely falling below -5°C. Summers are moderately warm but rarely hot. The average daily high in August is 22°C, and 30°C or higher is only measured on average on 3 days.Amsterdam’s average annual precipitation is less than 760 mm. It is in the form of protracted drizzle or light rain, making cloudy and damp days common during the cooler months, October through March. Only the occasional European windstorm brings significant rain in a short period of time, requiring it to be pumped out to higher ground or to the seas around the city.

The Architecture of Amsterdam
Amsterdam has a rich architectural history. The oldest building was consecrated in 1306, the Oude Kerk (meaning old church) and is situated at the heart of the Wallen. Amsterdam had a variety of architectural styles influencing their buildings. The focal point of all the architectural styles before the end of the 19th century is the old city center. Most historic buildings in the city center and nearby are houses, such as the famous merchant’s houses lining the canals.

Tourism in Amsterdam

Shopping
Shops in Amsterdam range from small specialty shops to large department stores such as De Bijenkorf and Maison de Bonneterie, a Parisian style store. Amsterdam’s high-end shops are found in the streets Pieter Cornelisz Hooftstraat and Cornelis Schuytstraat, which are located in the vicinity of the Vondelpark.Another shopping area is the Negen Straatjes and it differ from other shopping districts because of the presence of a large diversity of privately owned shops. The city also features a large number of open-air markets such as the Albert Cuypmarkt, Westermarkt, Ten Katemarkt, and Dappermarkt.

Getting to Amsterdam

South African visitors can book their flights to Amsterdam online at local flights website, bestflights.co.za

Transportation in Amsterdam

Bicycles
Amsterdam is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world and is a center of bicycle culture with good facilities for cyclists such as bike paths and bike racks, which pervade the city. Bicycle traffic and traffic in general is relatively safe, with only 18 traffic deaths in total for 2007.

Cars
Driving a car in the city center is discouraged. Parking fees are expensive, and many streets are closed to cars or are one-way.

Public Transport
Public transport in Amsterdam mainly consists of bus and tram lines. Three free ferries carry pedestrians and cyclists across the IJ to Amsterdam-Noord, and two-fare charging ferries run east and west along the harbor.You can also be transported along Amsterdam’s waterways by means of water taxis, a water bus, a boat sharing operation, electric rental boats and canal cruises.

Amsterdam’s Culture and Entertainment

Museums

Located at the southern side of the Rijksmuseum is the Museumplein (Museum Square),where most important museums in Amsterdam are situated.
The Rijksmuseum possesses the largest and most important collection of classical Dutch art.With a collection of nearly one million objects.
In front of the Rijksmuseum on the square itself is a long, rectangular, pond that is transformed into an ice rink in winter time. The Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, House of Bols Cocktail & Genever Experience and Coster Diamonds can also be found at the Museumplein. The square is almost entirely covered by a lawn, making it the most prominent site in Amsterdam for festivals and outdoor concerts, especially in the summer. The city contains many other museums. These museums range from the very large Tropenmuseum, Amsterdams Historisch Museum, and Joods Historisch Museum to the small museums such as the Verzetsmuseum, the Anne Frank House, and the Rembrandthuis.

Festivals

In 2008 alone there where 140 festivals held in Amsterdam. The most famous festivals are Koninginnedag (Queen’s Day), Amsterdam Gay Pride and the Uitmarkt. On Koninginnedag, hundreds of thousands of people travel to Amsterdam to join the residents of the city to celebrate. The city becomes entirely overcrowded with people buying products from the freemarket or visiting one of the many music concerts. It is held each year on the 30th of April. During Gay Pride, there is a long parade of boats with floating down Amsterdam’s canals, and curious events taking place throughout the city.It is held each year on the first Saturday in August. The Uitmarkt lasts for three days and it’s a cultural event. It consists of many podia with a lot of different artist on them, such as musicians and poets and is held in late August.

The capital of Holland, Amsterdam city, is without question one of the most appealing and lovely of European cities and just about any time of year you will find many visitors who have come to avail themselves of the many wonders of Amsterdam. But, even though visitors are common all throughout the year, there are some particular seasons that are better suited for tourists to visit Amsterdam.

And, what is that time of year? Well, if you love to see the tulip fields ablaze with color that stretches out for miles, then those who are in the know say that you should take a trip to Amsterdam around the Easter holiday, or in the months of April and May. On a trip to Amsterdam during this time of year you will be able to get yourself lost in the myriad fields and mazes of daffodils and tulips that are so vibrant and eye-popping during this time when they all come to life and burst forth in stunning color.

Most people will advise you not to holiday in Amsterdam during March or October, as those months are known to bring almost continual rain to the area. Since Amsterdam is very much known as a walking city, the heavy rains during this time can make it unpleasant for tourists who are trying to get around and see all of the beauty of Amsterdam Netherlands. And, since walking through the streets of this historic city is one of the major reasons why people have Amsterdam travel on their “must do” lists, having pleasant weather is an essential ingredient.

One of the things that people who go to Amsterdam delight in, no matter what time of year they make their sojourn, is the wonderful Dutch cuisine that is as world-renowned, as are many other aspects of the Netherlands experience. There are many famous, exotic and wonderful restaurants throughout the city that not only feature delicious Dutch dishes, but also many other cuisines that are influenced by the many cultures and peoples that inhabit this “melting-pot” city.

There are also the amazing flower markets that many people put on their “must see” lists when they are planning to visit Amsterdam. Also on such lists are the many world-renowned art and history museums that showcase art and artifacts from many parts of the world, such as the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam. Regardless of your particular interests and preferences, the Amsterdam city center is a destination that houses some amazing sights that visitors will enjoy uncovering and experiencing.

Marice Willard is a travel writer who writes for Zencarhire.com  -  Zen car hire offer cheap car hire in 17,000 location worldwide. Why not make the most of your time in Amsterdam and book your car hire Netherlands today!

The city of Amsterdam, Holland, is known by many to be one of the finest cities found anywhere in the world. It offers visitors a variety of facets of the city which are intriguing and fascinating to the many people who come to this jewel of the Netherlands. This world-class city is not only a favored vacation destination, but it is also a land rich in culture. It is also the capital of Holland, a country that has a deep and interesting history.

One of the most lovely and inviting features of metro Amsterdam is the many beautiful and peaceful canals that meander through the center of the city. This wonderful maze of waterways, which is rare in large metropolitan areas, has earned this Netherlands metropolis the honorary title of “the Venice of the North.” Visitors are often mesmerized by the view of this clean and modern city that they are able to enjoy as they gently and quietly glide through different neighborhoods that are connected by this network of canals.

Amsterdam has been a long-favored destination of tourists from all parts of the globe and more and more visitors continue to be drawn to this fascinating place. As a place that has more than seven centuries of history, which includes plenty of periods of trial and tumult, this magnificent city endures in part through its willingness to embrace the many people who have congregated and settled here.

There is a vibrant and fascinating melting pot of various lifestyles, customs, traditions and heritages that are evident in various districts, attractions, sights, arts and commerce found within the boundaries of Amsterdam city, and also the surrounding areas which have been influenced as well. Overall, this has all created a wonderfully unique and distinct culture all its own. As well, there are many four and five-star Amsterdam hotels available to the world traveler. There is truly something for everyone in the contemporary urban environment that makes up the largest city in the Netherlands.

Amsterdam NL is also known as the “city of Rembrandt,” the world-renowned master painter. Rembrandt spent his days and created his masterpieces in the historic Jewish neighborhood of the city where visitors can still go to see the home where he lived and worked. Several of the museums throughout the city also give honor to Rembrandt and his work, as well as other well-known artists of the ages. The Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam is another venue honoring yet another Dutch artist.

The colorful and picturesque buildings found throughout Amsterdam Netherlands are a hallmark of this city and is one of the strongest attractions for those who visit Amsterdam. Especially in the old city center, one is dazzled by the beauty of the architecture and the unique and charming feeling that these neighborhoods evoke. One of the best ways to view these neighborhoods is by taking a leisurely boat ride down the various canals, which gives the tourist an incomparable view of these endearing sites that have been lovingly and carefully maintained through the centuries.

One of the cultural aspects of this European city that it has become fairly well known for is the very tolerant position the city takes on prostitution and the use of soft drugs, both of which are legal. The Amsterdam red light district, which is where the prostitution trade operates openly, has even become a part of many city tours. This is part of the “laid-back” attitude that has been in part responsible for the general, easy-going lifestyle that has attracted so many people and which has often converted visitors into residents.

The vibrant and diverse nightlife of the city is something that is particularly attractive to many tourists. There is an almost endless array of pubs, clubs, restaurants and entertainment venues to be explored in Amsterdam, offering something that will appeal to just about everyone. And, for those who are always looking for great shopping opportunities, this is also considered to be a city that competes with the amazing shops found in the likes of London, Paris and Milan.

Amsterdam, Holland, is considered to be one of the great cities of the world. The city has a number of interesting and intriguing facets that will be revealed to the visitor who seeks to learn and experience all aspects of this European jewel. This beautiful city is not only a world-class destination, but it is also well-known to be the cultural and social capital of the country of Holland, which itself boasts a rich and varied history.

One of the most lovely and inviting features that makes metro Amsterdam a romantic weekend getaway destination for thousands of European couples is the many beautiful and peaceful canals that meander through the center of the city. This wonderful maze of waterways, which is rare in large metropolitan areas, has earned this Netherlands metropolis the honorary title of “the Venice of the North.” Visitors are often mesmerized by the view of this clean and modern city that they are able to enjoy as they gently and quietly glide through different neighborhoods that are connected by this network of canals.

Amsterdam has long been a favorite destination for travelers from all over the world, and it continues to attract more and more tourists every year. With over 700 years of history, including many times of tumult and difficulty, this grand city has been able to survive and thrive by embracing the many people, and their rich cultures, who have come to settle in this area.

There is a vibrant and fascinating melting pot of various lifestyles, customs, traditions and heritages that are evident in various districts, attractions, sights, arts and commerce found within the boundaries of Amsterdam city, and also the surrounding areas which have been influenced as well. Overall, this has all created a wonderfully unique and distinct culture all its own. As well, there are many four and five-star romantic hotel getaways available for those seeking time together as well as many hotels targeting the world traveler. There is truly something for everyone in the contemporary urban environment that makes up the largest city in the Netherlands.

Amsterdam NL is also known as the “city of Rembrandt,” the world-renowned master painter. Rembrandt spent his days and created his masterpieces in the historic Jewish neighborhood of the city where visitors can still go to see the home where he lived and worked. Several of the museums throughout the city also give honor to Rembrandt and his work, as well as other well-known artists of the ages. The Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam is another venue honoring yet another Dutch artist.

The colorful and picturesque buildings found throughout Amsterdam Netherlands are a hallmark of this city and is one of the strongest attractions for those who visit Amsterdam. Especially in the old city center, one is dazzled by the beauty of the architecture and the unique and charming feeling that these neighborhoods evoke. One of the best ways to view these neighborhoods is by taking a leisurely boat ride down the various canals, which gives the tourist an incomparable view of these endearing sites that have been lovingly and carefully maintained through the centuries.

One of the cultural aspects of this European city that it has become fairly well known for is the very tolerant position the city takes on prostitution and the use of soft drugs, both of which are legal. The Amsterdam red light district, which is where the prostitution trade operates openly, has even become a part of many city tours. This is part of the “laid-back” attitude that has been in part responsible for the general, easy-going lifestyle that has attracted so many people and which has often converted visitors into residents.

The vibrant and diverse nightlife of the city is something that is particularly attractive to many tourists. There is an almost endless array of pubs, clubs, restaurants and entertainment venues to be explored in Amsterdam, offering something that will appeal to just about everyone. And, for those who are always looking for great shopping opportunities, this is also considered to be a city that competes with the amazing shops found in the likes of London, Paris and Milan.

Amsterdam earned its name when a dam was put in place on the River Amstel during the thirteenth century. It is a popular misconception that The Hague is the capital of The Netherlands when in fact it is Amsterdam.

Amsterdam has earned an enviable reputation as the perfect city break destination, although with such a lot to see and do, a weekend might not be long enough to justify the trip. With such a wide variety of rates, there are Amsterdam hotels to fit any taste or pocket. An enjoyable way to explore the Amsterdam experience is to take a boat trip along the canals. There are 1,281 bridges spanning the four main canals and most cruise operators who offer all sorts of themed journeys around the city’s complex canal system. Many cruises are available throughout the year. As a suggestion, set by a day to take in a selection from the many museums in Amsterdam and buy a ticket on the museum boat where you will be transported in style to a selection of the popular museums. One point of interest is that of the Rembrandts Museum at the Jodenbreestraat. Here you will be able to admire the original collection of 250 etchings and a number of sketches and drawings by the famed Dutch master Rembrandt. Apart from Rembrandt’s house, you will cruise the canal waters over to the house of Anne Frank. The house is now a museum, but was originally the home of the Frank family. Afraid of capture by the invading German army, the entire family spent years in hiding. Anne Frank, the daughter, wrote her engrossing diary during the 2 years of hiding. The house (her home) has been saved by the Anne Frank Foundation and was onverted to a museum 45 years ago.

The renowned Rijksmuseum contains The Netherlands biggest collection of history and art including Asian arts, dolls houses, paintings and the history of Netherlands exhibition. The main event at the Rijksmuseum is based around the famous works from the country’s wonderful Golden Age with artists including Vermeer, Steen and Rembrandt.

For an unforgettable art experience, situated midway between the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum is that of the Van Gogh museum. A wonderfully detailed exhibition of Vincent Van Gogh’s life is displayed within the walls of this famed building and you will enjoy in excess of 200 of his oil- covered canvasses. In addition to his paintings are his hundreds of drawings together with overwhelming numbers of hand-written notes by the vastly misunderstood artist. Absolutely essential viewing for fans of modern art, impressionist fans and fans of The Netherlands!

Amsterdam’s red light district is famed throughout the World. It is located in the area around the Oude Kerk region where a number of the city’s greatest buildings can be found. The Red Light district runs between Warmoesstraat and Nieumakt square. Stag Nights are a popular event in the De Wallen area, presumably attracted here by the expectation of window prostitution and sex shops. The region is especially interesting since it is where visitors come to be themselves. It is a vibrant energetic area where you will find a huge variety of people, a perfect cup of coffee, excellent shops and lots of excellent places to eat.

Driving in the area of Amsterdam can be very pleasant. The roads are wide and modern and the city can be considered an excellent centre for touring around the nearby regions and countries. Costs for Amsterdam car hire are very economical and you will save money by making an online booking.

Dam Square is the Dutch eqivalent of Piccadilly Circus because it is a tourist hotspot generally and the perfect location to enjoy people watching and street entertainment while you sip a well-deserved cappuccino! There are so many tourist attractions in Amsterdam that visiting just a handful of them could set a family back a small fortune. The City offers its treasured tourists the Amsterdam Card saving you lots of money!. Introduced by the Amsterdam Tourist Board, the card entitles you to admission to all the famous museums as well as a free canal boat trip and discounts to lots of shops and restaurants. In addition the Amsterdam Card gives you free travel around the city. You can obtain an Amsterdam Card for 24, 48 or 72 hours. The 24 hour version costs EUR 31 (GBP 25), 48 hours EUR 41 (GBP 33) or 72 hours EUR 51 (GBP 41) and is purchased from Tourist Information  (VVV).

In the middle of the frequently all too crowded centre of the city can be found a peaceful pocket of green space nicknamed ‘the town’s pride and joy’. Amsterdam’s very attractive botanical gardens, Hortus have been on this spot for over 400 years and are maintained with pride by its dedicated keepers. A tranquil retreat for the times when life in the city gets a bit too fraught!

If you are visiting Amsterdam in August, you will enjoy the colourful ‘Gay Parade’. The Gay Parade takes place every year and consists of a procession of brightly painted and wildly decorated boats. Its a wonderful camera opportunity not to be missed and is best savoured by watching from one of the bridges that cross the Prinsengracht Canal.