It’s already dinner time in Amsterdam by the time we arrived from Brussels. On the positive side, that’s also the time where the city truly comes alive. While Amsterdam is known for countless bridges and endless canals, the capital city is also synonymous with drugs and sex. In fact, some of the crazy things to do in Amsterdam include a visit to the Red Light District or getting high on magic mushrooms. Together with Super Mario Bros tunes, maybe?

But Amsterdam is much more than that of course. The bicycle haven takes pride in its beautiful tulips, windmills, wooden clogs, Delftware, Van Gogh and etc.

Dining at Restaurant Hap Hmm

Dinner was at a local restaurant which I am unable to pronounce. Hap Hmm was highly recommended for a taste of traditional Dutch food and so we went. The cosy restaurant was packed and we have to wait for seats. We finally got our seat by sharing a table with a friendly elderly gentleman.

The service is fast and friendly at this no-frills locals’ hangout. In no time, we are already munching away.

Good food and great atmosphere make the experience at Hap Hmm a wonderful one.

Amsterdam Red Light District and Sex Museum

We went to the famed Red Light District of De Wallen after dinner. Strolling around the Red Light District is one of the unique things to do in Amsterdam. There are many tourists around the whole area. Everybody is busy checking out the sexily dressed ladies behind those windows. It is kind of interesting to see how potential customers negotiate a deal. The curtains will be drawn upon reaching a deal and what goes on behind is up to your imagination.

Do not attempt to take the photo of the ladies up close. Or else they will certainly make a big scene and hurl vulgarities at you…

Then there is the Venustempel Sex Museum. This is the first and oldest sex museum in the world. On display, is an extensive collection of erotic pictures and stuff. Everything is sex-related, very fitting for its theme anyway. It’s frankly not that interesting but more for a good laugh.

The City of Canals

People often referred Amsterdam as ‘Venice of the North’ for their similarity. However, the fact is that Amsterdam has got more bridges and canals than Venice. Anyhow, both cities are equally beautiful and charming in their own ways.

The best thing for me is a stroll along Amsterdam’s charming canal ring. And the skinny canal houses lining alongside complete the picturesque setting. There are lesser water activities after dark and the reflection exudes a sense of tranquillity. It’s just so DAM nice! So I am hoping that the following pictures are able to provide some of that feel.

It’s really amazing to be here. And to think that the area was swamplands before replaced by the canals.

STAY: Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre review

Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre is situated in the middle of almost everything which is a super plus for me. It is easily accessible to and from Amsterdam Centraal station. This is an excellent base location since it is near to Dam Square and most of the major attractions. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the vicinity.

The decent-sized double room comes with a comfy bed that ensures a good night rest. The hotel itself is very clean and the friendly management staffs make our stay a very pleasant one. I will not hesitate to stay here again.