Always Say Netherlands
the sweetspot guide to amsterdamcanada
(Dec.10.11)
Even though it’s over 800 years old, Amsterdam is one very modern city. The fashion is forward, the food is phenomenal and the efficient transit system makes this one of the most accessible — and enjoyable — cities to visit in Western Europe.
Where to Stay:
With its easy-to-navigate tram system and plethora of biking paths, there really isn’t any need to rent a car in Amsterdam — a hotel with a central location is the way to go. NH Museum Quarter (from €89) is a four-star hotel nestled between a stunning flower-lined canal and the Van Gogh Museum (€12.50). The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, and the English-speaking staff is extremely patient with map-wielding guests. Take our advice and ask for a canal-facing room. There’s no extra charge and the view is breathtaking.
Where to Eat:
Indonesia was a Dutch colony for 350 years, so don’t be surprised to see that its cuisine has come back the other way. Puri Mas is one of the city’s finest restaurants specializing in rihstafels (rice tables), a series of small dishes including spicy green curry, freshly made egg rolls and crispy fried prawns (€20.50-€41 per person).
Brasserie Harkema has an exquisite dining room, but it’s the brunch menu that will make you wish you could eat here every morning. For a big-as-a-bowl-of-soup café latte (€2.10) and gourmet eggs benedict (€8.20), this is a must-try eatery.
Lest we forget we’re on the ocean, Nevy reminds our taste buds with its house specialty, a salt-crusted whole sea bream (€7.50/100 grams). Situated on the eastern-most jetty in the city, the location alone would be worth the journey. Luckily, their fresh, modern dishes are also divine.
What to Do:
The best way to see this city is by boat. Hop onto the Blue Boat Canal Cruise right near the hotel, and enjoy an hour and a half of peeking up into people’s windows while learning about the city’s architecture.
Watch out Paris, Amsterdam’s fashion cred is rising. With a city-sponsored program allowing new designers to set up shop in unused “windows” in the Red Light District and unique shopping projects like 9 Straatjes, this city is ready to show its style chops. Throw in wicked vintage shops like 1953 (Straalstraat 2), and design cooperatives like Droog, and you’ll be skipping the museums for some serious shopping. If you’re in need of some new basics, be sure to check out Hema (Kalverstraat 212). It’s like Ikea but with clothes (and no assembly required).
Sweet Tip: After taking the direct train from the airport to the Central Station, buy yourself a multi-day GVB transit pass. This allows you to hop on and off the trams or rent a bike for an extra €2/day. Also pick up an I Amsterdam City Card (€59). It offers huge discounts and free passes to museums, restaurants and attractions. It’s really worth it.