Amsterdam 

The first time I went to Amsterdam was on a long weekend with my partner, Mum and her husband to celebrate my birthday.  This was the first time I had ever traveled abroad, other than a day trip to France with the school.  I remember being very excited and from this visit I fell in love with the relaxed, easy-going atmosphere and have been back several times since.  The only difference since my first visit is the Euro and the abundance of Hen and Stage nights (if you want to avoid these then you need to go for a midweek break).  

There is plenty to see and do in Amsterdam from flea markets to museums, park walks to river rides, shopping, drinking, bars, and clubs.   Plus around the 30th of April they celebrate the Queen's birthday with a big day of activities.  Everyone gets dressed up in orange, the beer is cheap and the entertainment is free.  A fantastic time to visit this beautiful city.

There's something in Amsterdam for everyone.  You can make Amsterdam what you want out of a holiday.

I have now been four times and can't wait until my next visit.

Things to do in Amsterdam :     

• The Van Gogh Museum   

• The Rijksmuseum       

• The Heineken Experience     

• The Sex Museum     

• Anne Franks House      

• On a Sunday they sometimes have music in VondelPark   

• Nieuwe Kerk   

• The Torture Museum   

• Café Alto – Jazz Music   

• Bourbon Street – Rock and Blues - Blues Brothers on Roof so you can’t miss it   

• The Condom Shop   

• Canal boat meal – 3 course evening meal on the canals    

• Albert Cuyp Market    

• Hire some pedal boats on the canal – great fun but need a good deposit    

• Sea Palace Restaurant     

• The Floating Flower Market     

• Nieuwe Kafe Restaurant – Dam Square is a great place to pass the time, watch the world go by.   Good platters to share and Sandwiches, Beer and Milkshakes.    

• Red Light District both in the day and at night

A useful site for info on Amsterdam

www.amsterdam.info/entertainment

For restaurants

www.amsterdam.info/restaurants

Places to avoid:

The Bulldog – as it’s there just for the foreigners and is pricey

Things to avoid:

Don’t drink shorts as they are very expensive – stick to beer