The city is a pleasure-seekers
wonderland that's packed full of beautiful canals, gorgeous gabled
houses and above all, a free-spirited attitude that means that just
about anything goes in this magical city. But it's not just the
infamous red light district and liberal approach to soft drugs that
have made Amsterdam a top tourist destination, as the sheer beauty of
the city and the relentless creativity seen in lifestyle
blogs such as Chapter Friday has meant that
it's a must for any global traveller.
Amsterdam had its own special golden
age in the 17th century and a quick tour of the beautiful
Southern Canal belt will quickly reveal the charms of this magical
period. One of the biggest pleasures about visiting Amsterdam is
wandering along its many canals and criss-crossing its picturesque
bridges – just be sure to take a quick canal boat tour!
But it's not that Amsterdam is stuck in
the past, as a free ferry ride from the Centraal Station across the
IJ lake will take you to the
up-and-coming Amsterdam Noord area that is an
atmospheric land full of hip design studios, futuristic cinemas,
decadent warehouse parties and the occasional luxury restaurant!
Dutch cuisine might not be as famous as
its European counterparts, but a brief visit to the city will reveal
a satisfying selection of exquisite pastries, famous cheeses, as well
as the universally-appreciated pancakes! As befits a northern
European location, Amsterdam also has some great beers on offer too
with Heineken, Amstel and Grolsch being recognised Dutch brands.
Amsterdam is also something of a
shopper's paradise with the Jordaan
area in particular being packed full of bespoke design houses and
artisan jewellery workshops. Further afield, music fans would be more
than well-catered for by the comprehensive offerings at the Concerto
record store, and if you're looking to explore
Amsterdam's heritage as part of the Hanseatic League, then a trip to
the Het
Hanze Huis is a must as the shop offers a great
selection of teas, sweets and other culinary delights of this
splendid age.
And finally, the cultural heritage of
Amsterdam offers no end of surprises with art lovers spoiled for
choice with an excellent selection of galleries. Key amongst these is
the world-famous Van Gogh museum that is packed full of the
post-impressionist painter's most iconic works. But it's not just the
highbrow attractions that Amsterdam offers, as the
Katten Kabinet is an art museum depicting pictures of cats,
whereas the Vondelpark provides the perfect way to spend a sleepy
summer afternoon amidst its leafy landscapes and grand vistas.
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