Travel Entry 1: Amsterdam

 

We've all heard the rave over Amsterdam and with it being one of the most cost efficient destinations from London, myself and a couple of friends booked a 5 day break to the Netherlands. With the weather being in our favour we made the most of the city's offerings, from spending hours in Vondel Park indulging in Dutch bakery favourites, to walking the narrow cobble stoned roads to find Leidesplein's fashion boutique offerings.

After arriving to Schipol airport we got the train to Amsterdam Centraal station, which took us approximately 25 minutes and cost no more than a few euros. From Centraal station, you're pretty much at the heart of things (think London Euston) - trams 1, 2 and 5 become your best friends. Any of which, will take you to Amsterdam's main 'strip' of tram stations if you like. If you're going for a short break, staying around these areas between Dam station - Rijks Museum to Leidseplein - Museum Plein.

Dam Square

 On the sunny August days we spent in Amsterdam, this old concrete square looked beautiful. The square was filled with street entertainment (singers and dancers), we also walked into a 'free hugs' crowd on the last day. Dam square is surrounded by lively cafes, bars and restaurants. There are also some more commercial museums here such as The Royal Palace and Madame Tussaud. Along with the many horse and carriages around the area, and the Old Clock chiming so beautifully, you can really take a historical step back and images what this town square once used to be. 

We made a point to visit a few of the local attractions including some historical places and museums. First on our list was the Anne Frank House, where Anne Frank and her family were hidden in the house annex for two years in fear of the Nazi's during WW2. Located on 263 Prinsengracht, the building holds the original diary of Anne's, letter's exchanged between the family and friends and personal messages written from Anne's father Otto Frank. 

Anne Frank House second right of the street

 Amsterdam is better known for its Red Light District - a lively but dark neon-lit neighborhood within the streets around the canals, notoriously known for its promiscuous nature. In addition to the red fringed windows, the Red Light District features an extensive list of bars and cafes (this is where you'd get those brownies!), many museums and live shows. In real Amsterdam spirit we decided to visit the Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution - this brought the history of the 14th century winding cobble stoned, narrow roads of the area to life.

Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution

Baba's Cafe, Red Light District

Being the crazy cat lady that I am, I also made a point to visit the Katten Kabinet - essentially an old home devoted to art dedicated to cats, but also home to a few residential cats. The museum is across three floors and is filled with posters, paintings, sketches and cat ornaments. 

Cat shrine, duh

Along with the colourful streets and uplifting spirit of the people of Amsterdam, this is more of a city break. You're sure to make some friends - be it with bartenders, shop keepers or a polite stranger in the park (it's not as dodgy as it sounds, trust me!). Let me know what you're thoughts are if you've made a trip to the Dam, and I hope you enjoyed one of many travel posts to come. 

Saina 

xo