Category: Amsterdam

De Oude Kerk and the Dam Square
We proceed on to De Oude Kerk (The Old Church) after returning from Zaanse Schans. It was originally built as a Catholic church but taken over by Dutch Protestant reformers. The reformers simplified the large interior and destroyed most Catholic ornamentation in it. The simplification presents a very spacious and different feel to the usual decoration seen in Catholic churches. Its unique location in the Red Light District may raise some eyebrows. But nevertheless, De Oude Kerk impresses with its vaulted wooden ceiling, organ and flooring.
Another unique thing to Amsterdam is the Hop-On Hop-Off Canal Bus. That’s totally different from the iconic red buses circling the major attractions in other major cities.
Then we had our lunch at a random restaurant near Dam Square.
Dam Square
The Dam Square is in the historical centre of Amsterdam. It was initially built to prevent flooding and to link the settlements on both sides of River Amstel. Thatâ€™s also how Amsterdam derives its name from Amstel and Dam. The city grew while Dam Square remains the important core area. The bustling place is now home to Royal Palace, major commercial buildings and plenty of bicycles.
The unassuming-looking Royal Palace is one of the three Palaces used by the Dutch Royals for official events and receptions.
Other notable buildings include Madame Tussauds, de Bijenkorf, De Nieuwe Kerk and the nearby Magna Plaza. Not forgetting the abundance of souvenir shops, cafÃ©s and restaurants around.
Dam Square is a logical gathering spot for both locals and tourists alike. And itâ€™s also where the street performers carry out their acts.
In addition, we also went to check out Ann Frank House and the I Amsterdam sign.
[alert]
What are your thoughts about De Oude Kerk or Dam Square? Leave a comment and share it with me.
[/alert]
December 22, 2016
I Amsterdam We Amsterdam
Itâ€™s already dinner time in Amsterdam by the time we arrived from Brussels. On the positive side, thatâ€™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 youâ€¦
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. Itâ€™s frankly not that interesting but more for a good laugh.
The City of Canals
People often referred Amsterdam as â€˜Venice of the Northâ€™ 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 Amsterdamâ€™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. Itâ€™s just so DAM nice! So I am hoping that the following pictures are able to provide some of that feel.
Itâ€™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.
[alert]
What are your thoughts about Amsterdam? Leave a comment and share it with me.
[/alert]
December 15, 2016