New people...

September is the time of year we see fresh faced kids going to college and living away from home, or foreigners moving over for new jobs. And you can tell them a mile away. No idea of traffic, can't cycle a bike and are dumbfounded looking at the food aisles trying to figure out what the pictures are on the tins to know what the word means.

Its a thrill to be living somewhere new. So I hope they are all enjoying it.
At the weekend, the best advice is really to walk the city. Just keep walking around the place, taking notes of bars or restaurants you might like. Some places become markers for your time here... Leidseplein and Dam square are the main places..  But walk around and enjoy getting lost and finding new things. There will be things you can find even teh lcoals wont know when you take the time to walk about!

As for the rest, please becareful on the bikes!

Be prepared

Today we may be lucky, but the weather in Amsterdam is pretty unpredictable at the best of times. Even checking Buienradar.nl religiously, you will realise it cannot be correct all the time.

Aside from the trusty old cheap poncho (thank you Xenos) I keep my the bike bag, the undesirable but very practical rain gear is going to be a must for the coming 6 months... Either feel like you have accomplished something upon arriving anywhere, or be glued into the trams and metros every morning and evening on the commutes... I know I prefer my personal space!

 

 

 

 

Restaurants...

Someone today just asked me where to go out for food, to which I replied without thinking, Voucher Deals are the reason I go to any restaurant at all. The city has more than 1,000 restuarants of over 100 nationalities feeding thousands of people every day, but where to go can sometimes be a pain.
Now i rely on the likes of coupon buying so it nearly works out buy one get one free when you dine out, so you get to try a restaurant you would never have gone to before, for a lot less the price. With new apps likes DealPage and Scoupy out there which boast local deals, ie. you turn on the app when your hungry and it tells you the nearest deals to you at that point, you never need to go back to the AH again!

The Rain in Dam...

SO maybe the summer has ended? This morning it felt like the sun has gone on its holiday and now we are left with the blanket of grey skies and the rain drops that can ruin your day.. leaving you soaked in the office with mascara pouring down your face, and as soon as you dry, leave back out again... into the pouring rain to get home and never want to leave the house again.

One way to try to tackle the times is to keep an eye on Buienradar as it shows you the map for 2/3/24 hours and the weather. Take the 24 hours with a heavy does of salt, but the 2/3 hours is more realistic...

Still, its 9am and I am not leaving yet til it stops!

Tweet Twoooo

Just so you are aware: there is a twitter account with the name @Netherlanders which is run by a Dutch person who will tweet about living here, their own lives and experiences and little bits of facts/information you might not have known! And if you wish, someone to ask a query to get an answer from the people following them (currently at 2,770 but surely to build!)

A great reason to cycle!

Things to do: Upcoming November/December time

November:
The first saturday of November, showcases the Museum night, where you get to enjoy the unusual opportunity of viewing the museums throughout the night, with Dj music and a more casual feeling that what is normally expected.

For the more serious film lover, the International Documentary Film Festival takes place from 14th - 25th, showcasing around 200 documentarys from around the world on matters some of us don't know about. A great eye and mind opener!

More into the antiques of life? The biggest antiques fair will take place from the 18th - 25th November in the RAI, where you get to check out the art, antiques and designers for all to see.

Or, if your more into the 'local' agriculture, you can check out the Cannibas Cup, from the 18th - 22nd where 'judges' from around the world get to sample and vote on their favourite smoke. People cross breed, flavour and manipulate the genes to change the taste, compound and effects for those to smoke. Now going on its 23rd year, you can buy a day pass for 50e.. Just becareful!

In traditional Dutch style, bring the kids along to the Amstel and welcome in Sinterklaas as he arrives into Amsterdam by boat with Sint Pete. This year, he arrives in on 18th November, so be sure to get up early and check out the big arrival and remember to be good for the 5th December!

December
5th December is the childrens favourite day of the year, as this is their Christmas as it were. They leave their shoes in shops, in the hope Sinterklaas will leave them an orange and some treats.

Also, check out the Ollibollens around the city.. There are fierce competitions and around mid December they will be voting on their favourite, and when the winner is announced, the queues for the winner is astronomical!! So be sure to try them all out!

Autumn falls

With our glorious weekend, reaching 27 degrees on Sunday, thousands decended the pavements towards Oudekerk aan de Amstel as their last hope for a nice sunny cycle to a beautiful village whilst enjoying scenic routes of boats, picnics, people sunbathing all along the canal bed. And this Monday morning has us wakened up with the sheets warpped around ourselves, as the rain falls, and the temperature drops below the 20 mark and ascending to the 16's for the week.

 

Be prepared, make sure you own a poncho, a good umbrella, loaded up your OV chipkaart for any metro/trams you will choose to take instead of your bike. For autumn is calling, and with hopes of sunshine this autumn with a cool breeze, let's just be prepared this year!

 

Tourist Season...

Much like the locals, us expats also get a little miffed with the unaware tourists cycling around, unaware of accident prone machine they are on as they cycle in 2's, 3's and 4's on cycle lanes. Today i bared witness to some tourists on macbikes cycling on the wrong side of the road in 3's and not getting out of the way for the locals on the correct side, to the extend one local just pulled infront of them not letting them pass and shouted at them to cross the road.
Tourists be ware. The locals DO NOT tolerate tourists on their bikes who do not cycle properly and have NO problem telling you about it, hairdryer effect!

Water of life....

Having enjoyed a couple of restaurant week's offerings this last week, one thing has really stood out. Annoyingly. Some restaurants choose not to serve tap water, thus making money on the bottle of water you order. With the Netherlands declaring they have the best tap water, it annoys what is a basic human right: the right to clean water.
I believe it is under law in some countries that should you ask in any establishment for a glass of water, they are obliged by law. Yet the counter that that houses the Hague, with the international tribunal courts for human rights, don't see the option of tap water in a restaurant a free choice.
So €10 charge extra on our bill, each time, just makes me want to drink wine more!

Bike safety

A conversation today popped up regarding safety here in the Netherlands. No one wears helmets bar the professional cyclists, yet there are more accidents and deaths by the daily cyclist compared with the professionals. The bike is a great mode of transport, cheap to maintain, (mostly) reliable, and no need to wait on public transport - yet we all are aware of how blase we all get after a year of cycling the same pavements. We all agreed, what we all need is a well designed, fashionable helmet that shows the famous locals wearing them to try and influence the hip and trendy residents to do the same.

Lets hope it might come soon!

Party Time

So for any and all people needing to throw a party I have to say my favourite shops to pop into are:
1) Action
2) Xenos and
3) Blokker.

Action has the cheapest and alternative groupings for decorations, and even some snacks to add in! Xenos just has everything of anything, a little more expensive and Blokker just finishes it off for any lightening or whatever you need.

With the variety of nationalities in the city, you have a great opportunity of choosing your food theme! Greek, Italian, Moroccan, Spanish are all possible, as is Polish, American and Indonesian! Everything is possible here with the variety of shops and small local delis!

Whatever area you live in, there is a party everything Friday and Saturday night in someones apartment, but no one needs a reason for it. Just invite friends over, grab some drinks and food and go for it!

Live a little

For however long you will be in Amsterdam, do one thing for yourself. Get talking to a local. If just in your hotel, local bar, or a work mate, get to know someone from here. Hear their stories, go where they recommend, just do something they do to look at the city from their point of view. No matter how many books for travellers you read, remember they are written by people to travel and have to find out about these places from other people too!

Working and Living

The Netherlands has the highest amount of part time workers in Europe, with 40% of women choosing to work part time (20-32hours a week over the 40 hour typical week) They are said to have the best work to living ratio around EU, dressing well for the work offices, enjoying a drink after work with their co-workers, and the rest of their time is to live stress free. 

When the sun is out, enjoy it. Pack a picnic and get to your nearest park and enjoy the hours we have left as September is just around the corner, and that means Autumn falls soon!

Things to do

If you are wanting something a little different check out these upcoming things to do:

September
Jordaan Festival: This little area of the city comes more alive with music, children's mini festivals, opera, theatre, and anything vibrant. A great time to check out the area and get involved in local tradition. From 14th - 16th  September

Inside Design Amsterdam: takes place in Westergasfabriek but also in some participating stores, as most design shops are involved. Its a show case with a different angle, from interior, to modern designs, and some free workshops and idea shops to help you design at home!From 21-23rd September


National Restaurant Week: A great opportunity to try out some amazing restaurants for a set price of €27.50 for 3 courses (exl drinks). Places are limited so it's best to book early and keep an eye out on the last minute options!

October
The 37th edition of the ING Amsterdam Marathon takes place on October 21st. Maybe you take part, maybe you observe, but you will notice the disruption if you live in the city! Be careful and take note of the changed routes if you have plans that day!

Amsterdam Dance Event: For those into night clubs, dance music and all things related, the Amsterdam Dance Event rungs over the weekend of the 17th - 21st October, when all nightclubs are involved and some 700 artists can be playing around the city. Be sure to check out the website to check out your favourite DJs and buy tickets, as most are sold out quickly!

Gay Pride

Tomorrow is Gay Pride and the city is already prepping for the occasion. Lots of street parties and boat parties! Enjoy the day everyone! There shall be sun!

Summer Salad

Just so you know, sometimes the news gets a little odd in the Netherlands around June/July/August. This is referred to as Cucumber time. When news reporters would talk about cucumbers as there is nothing else to talk about with no government in session, and most companies nearly shut for the holiday season!

Van Gogh paint your body...

If you have nothing to do this Sunday....

Artists group the Itinerant Museum of Art is looking for people who will strip naked and allow a painting by Vincent van Gogh to be painted on their body. The group wants this homage to the Dutch painter to take place in Amsterdam, Zundert where he was born 122 years ago on Sunday Aug 5th.

The group is currently working on a body-painting homage to the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.

How to enjoy the sunshine

Some people prefer the lazy old park route, some go the BBQ on the water edge of the Amstel river down on the Weesperzijde, but one opportunity I see most people don't think of is grabbing their bikes and cycling off on the green routes.
Now our days are numbered with the summer sunshine, just hop on and head off. Check out a route that is planned for you to see parts of the city from a different persective.

Enjoying the last of the summer...

For the last month of August you have to try to make the most of it...
Options:
Het Parade at Martin Luther Park. Something to enjoy the weather with, enter into the realm of Dutch theatre. Unfortunately most is in Dutch, so you will just hang around the sangria tent, but its worth the experience!

Festivals: There are too many festivals to talk about here, but the Netherlands have the most festivals to choose from, so just type in your weekend and I am sure the options will pop up!

AmsterdamseBos.. The forest.. Trust me, just take your bike, and go cycle to it.. enjoy the sunshine, the large parks, forests, mini farm, canoes, paddleboats, kids pool, even a Theatre in the evenings... there is a lot to do in this very large forest. Be sure to make the most of it for the sunshine!

Gay Pride: Saturday 4th August. Take your camera, and get out and about in the city and see the gay community come alive on the rivers and the streets!

Grachten Festival: 10-19th August. This is a unique experience to enjoy music whilst on the grachts. The most famous is on the 18th outside the Hotel Pultzer on the Prinsengracht. A classical orchestra perform live on the edge of the canal.

Uitmarkt Aug 24-26 A host of theatre, music, films and culture hosted in several venues throughout the city.

Pluk de nacht open air festival: Aug 22- 30..
Cultural movies form around the world are played in open air locations around the city. Check out and see if your own language is there, as otherwise it can be difficult, watching an Arabic movie with Dutch subtitles! But a very wonderful experience if its not raining!

Exclusive DJ pub crawl Amsterdam

Having the privilege of knowing one hell of a fabulous DJ and guy in general, I was honoured to be invited to the first edition of their pub crawl in December 2011. Today we commence the madness with the second edition.. Starting at an Albert heijn

A little bit of madness but a lot of fun....

If you are up for a different kinda night, join them on facebook:

Animal Language Kafe Rave and keep uptodate with the future nights out!!

Weather and Festivals

We are currently in the 5 day summer period where the rain has taken a mini holiday, so anyone and everyone out there, get out into the sunshine, enjoy the days and max out your outdoor experience this weekend, whilst you can, as the weather is unpredictable at the best of times!

Today is the Party in the Park in AmsterdamseBos where thousands of locals are heading to enjoy the first sunshine of the month of July!

Stop reading this! Get outside!!

Letters

Just to let anyone know living here. If you get a letter withy letters CVZ written on it, dont ignore it! Many many people usually do but this is the health insurance people (called a college). You need to be insured if you are registered and living here, but if you are only here for a set period of time (1 year/ 2 years) and have global health insurance from your own country you need to contact them and let them know you are insured elsewhere!

Crazy Cats...

Whilst browsing the Albert Cyup Market this afternoon I noticed a regular feature in some of the shops...

Cats.
The Cats are back in fashion in the city of Amsterdam!

Let's Go..

One of the best advice to any tourist is to hire a bike and see the city another way. But for those expats who live here, we are too used to jumping on our bikes and going from A-B-C-B-A... but do we really venture out and about?
Have you noticed the cycle paths with green signs showing cycle routes the city laid out for you? IF you have nothing to do, and a few spare hours, why not just follow the signs. Most are on the Amstel, as some bring you to Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, others... well who knows.. Just jump on your bike and GO.

Creativity all around

The Dutch weather is known for being unpredictable, with rainy summers, and heat wave springs, everyday is a challenge when cycling to work. Unless you give up and take the metro/tram, you will be covered in a poncho or cycling one handed whilst holding the umbrella.  Unfortunately, you will learn that the canals wind can pick up, and blow your umbrella backwards leaving you with another broken umbrella. Some shove them in the bins, some just leave them stranded in bushes. 

On my walks i noticed someone got creative with the ones they had either broken, or found and created their own umbrella-fence!

Look UP!

Whilst out walking around the city, do you go places you never have been? Or get lost in a city tog et to know it a little better? Along the many canals of the city are a scattering of houseboats, big ones, small ones, white, colours, wooden, bricked.. and this one.. With a classic car on the roof!

Or equally, just on the streets. The Amsterdammers love their balconies and will dress it up for them to be able to enjoy it as much as possible in summer sunshine (if we are graced with a summer this year?!)

I walk past this house weekly, and only last week did I notice that there was a pig looking down at me!

License please....

Weird little fact:
You need a license for some hobbies! One surprising one is golf! You will need to be good enough, aware of the game and be tested to achieve a license before you can play on a old course!

Another: horse riding!

I think it's easier to get hobbies like baking or reading here!

Fine Wine....

Having drinks with a friend last night, she told me of an experience her friend had been through last week at a popular 'upmarket' bar in Amsterdam.
She had gone with a friend and ordered 2 glasses of Chardonnay from the menu, priced at €4. After several orders, they got their bill only to notice they were charged €6.50 for each glass. They pointed out to the waitress they had actually ordered the €4 to which she replied that it was a mistake on the menu and it was actually €6.50.
Not happy they asked for the manager, who came and pointed out it was a mistake on the menu, but they would still have to pay the full €6.50 for each glass. After a conversation the manager then gave in and said 'this time' they could pay the €4. They paid the bill and as they were leaving the waitress went straight to them and told them to their face that they pissed her off.

Never before have I heard, nor encountered this. And having previously been to this bar a few times, I have no plans to ever frequent the bar again. The fact the manager hadn't changed the menu if even with a pen over the price, which by Dutch law is required to show all prices.

Be careful out there, and just double check the price when ordering from the upper market type bars in the city, especially along the Prinsengracht area!

Festivals

The Netherlands is one of the busiest countries in the world when it comes to festivals. Since the beginning of the dance music revolution in the late 80's, the Netherlands, in its open mindedness has sprung people into event organizers, creating events - dance music events, some of which have grown into world famous festivals.

Whilst travelling or living in the country, let your inhibitions go wild, and join in the festivities. Be it in the local parks, or the major festivals scattered around the country. It can be well worth the trip to see some famous artists playing, or just to soak up the Dutch local, and enjoy some of the best run festivals in Europe!

Art-sterdam.....

Amsterdam is not just the usual Van Gogh, Rijksmuseum and Renaissance paintings... Amsterdam is seeped in history of modern art, from the squatters 80's right through to day. Here are a few out of the many modern museums that not even most of the locals know about!

Aschenback & Hofland: Bilderdijkstraat 165c Wed-Sat 1-5pm, free entrance.
Something from the squatters day of the 80's, this brings works from Simon Hemmer, Seb Koberstadt and abstract art works of Sven-Ole Frahm. Stand back and observe.

Kochxbos: Eerste Anjeliersdwarsstraat 5, Wed-Sat 1-6pm, free entrance.
For the underground amongst us, the changing art works shown are avant garde and for those who like the modern obscure, in the beautiful Jordaan setting. Previous works have also included Sarah Maple, Englands own younger generation Tracy Emin in waiting.

Upstream Gallery: Van Ostadestraat 294, Wed-Sat 1-6pm free entrance.
Located in the trendy Pijp area, this art gallery shows international art works, in a relaxed vibe. From Motion nightmares from Cristobal Leon, concrete and glass sculptures by Crisitan Andersen it can have something for everyone, if you have an interest in something new and different.

Amsterdam in the summer

Ok, so summer in the city isn't really as we hoped. Some jumpers and boots still in our wardrobes, and our trusty umbrellas. Fear not, keep an eye on buienradar.nl which gives you 2hr, 3hr and 24hr weather prediction so you can plan the day ahead for museums, eating/drinking al fresco or just taking a cycle.

Just plan ahead, keep a poncho in your saddle bags, and a sturdy umbrella (for your multitasking cycle/umbrella holding moments!)

List of runs for anyone needing some motivation!

Sun 08/26/2012   Gooische Run, Laren Nh 5/10k
Fri 08/31/2012   Leiden Ladiesrun, Leiden 5/10k
Sat 09/01/2012   Fit2Move Vathorstrun, Amersfoort 6.6/10k
Sun 09/02/2012   Haarlemmermeer Run, Hoofddorp 5/10k
Sun 09/02/2012   37e Vlietloop, Voorschoten 5/10k
Sun 09/02/2012   Tempo-Run, Bussum 5/10k
Sat 09/08/2012   Rabobank Pierloop Velsen, IJmuiden 8.2k
Sun 09/09/2012   Marktstadrun, Purmerend 4EM/8EM
Sun 09/23/2012   28e Dam tot Damloop, Amsterdam-Zaandam 4EM/10EM
Sun 09/30/2012   Zilveren Kruis Achmea Loop, Haarlem 5k/10k
Sun 09/30/2012   ABN AMRO Singelloop Utrecht, Utrecht 10k
Sat 10/06/2012   Mud Masters Obstacle Run, Haarlemmermeer 3.5EM/7.5EM
Sun 10/07/2012   Rondje Bergen, Bergen 5/10k
Sun 10/07/2012   Sloterplasloop, Amsterdam 5/10k
Sun 10/07/2012   Westfriesgasthuis Loop(t), Hoorn 5/10k
Sun 10/14/2012   Pijnenburg Bosmarathon Soest, Soest 5/10.5k
Sun 10/21/2012   37e TCS Amsterdam Marathon, Amsterdam 8/21k
Sun 10/28/2012   Heemstede Loop, Heemstede 5/10k
Sun 11/04/2012   Parnassia Laan van Meerdervoort Loop, Den Haag (Kijkduin) 5/10k
Sun 11/04/2012   Maple Leaf Cross, Hilversum 6k
Sun 11/11/2012   Olympisch Stadionloop voor Unicef, Amsterdam 5/10k

Time, smoke and shine..

For anyone looking for a good hairdresser, its always a risk just moving to a new city, so you will need to try out a few, and especially with the prices some of them charge also. I have found myself buying Crowd buying vouchers (groupon, living social, megadeal etc)to check out hairdressers without the price tag. And one i might have already mentioned, was Ronald vanDun. Open 10-6 7 days a week, it was a great find last year when I went for the first time with a voucher I had bought. Very causal, and relaxed, just Ronald himself to take care of you.

If you like to have a cigarette with your coffee whilst reading your book, this really is the place for you!

Maritime Museum

Having just come back from the Maritime museum (Scheepvaartmuseum) I have to say, its not really a place for those unless you have a keen interest in Ships. It is a beautiful building, and you can go into the old wooden boat you may see floating beside it which was built 30 years ago by volunteers of a boat that actually sank just off Hastings, England in the 18th Century, so it is interesting to feel to that. For the rest - paintings, decorations, and anything to do with it (maps etc)..  I could be skipped by the average tourist!

The Carrot equation!

Strange fact:
In English, we say the root of 9 = 3.
In Dutch, they say (translated) the carrot of 9 = 3

The more recognisable your bike, the less chance of it getting stolen. The newer, fancier it is, the more chances of coming out one morning to find it is gone forever. LOCK it! Get a lock, and not just the cheapest, but the big hard tough ones. The people stealing your bike are professionals so make it as difficult as you can. Make sure you have the back lock on your bike, and then lock the front wheel and your bike to a bike stand. There is nothing more frustrating that coming out one morning late for work to find the bike is gone!

Take a run....

If you are sporty, or just want to run a few charity ones, check out inschrijven.nl
Here you can choose the area you are living in and see what runs are up and coming - everyone knows of the Amsterdam marathon, but what about other smaller cities/villages where you get to check out the local scenery while your at it! Multi-task!

Have a laugh...

Bored with the Dutch tv? Fancy a laugh without having to understand the language? It's international comedy time again at the toomler. Located under the Hilton hotel, in Zuid, from June 27th til August 4th there are 6 pairs of international comedians showcasing for 4 nights (Wednesday to Saturday).
No excuse to stay in, and if you see me sitting in the crowd come say hi!

Eurocup fever...

Its all kicked off and surprising start for most, with the Netherlands having lost yesterday to Denmark 0-1. Surprise for most, and a quiet night for many. Tonight the Irish are in force, after a draw from Italy and Spain. The City is lighting up with all the flags of the Euro Cup, as every nation playing has someone living in this city, all wanting their teams to win... It will be an interesting month!

Secret Gardens...

With the summer on and off currently, no one is sure what to do. But if the sun shines, and you are free on the 15/16 or 17th of June, it is the famous 'Open Garden's weekend' where some of the cities best kept 30 garden secrets are open to the public to browse and enjoy. With one ticket, you can gain access to all gardens, and there is a boat to bring you between some to keep you in the flow of all things bright and beautiful.
Check out:  www.opentuinendagen.nl 

Summer is here?

After a brief holiday back home, I was landing into Schiphol when my fellow passenger pipped up saying he was just on a 5 day holiday to the city, on a 3 month backpack excursion of Europe. He asked me if there was anything i could recommend for someone on a budget, and possibly only in the city for just 5 days.
It left me stumped. Its raining, its summer, and he has little money to flush around..
The library was a first hit, as its free internet also - a great need for travellers.
For someone not into art, he was left a little taken back, but i prompted him to hire a bike on a nice weather day, and cycle around. I know hands down, from people who have visited they all expressed how much better they felt they got to see/or know the city after a cycle around with a local.

How would you spend 5 days, with little money? And in our rainy summer?

Wine in the sunshine.

If you fancy getting to know a little more on the wine front, the hermitage has a wine shop on the nieuwe keizersgracht that has a wine tasting coming up on Sunday 28th may.

My way to describe the Netherlands

They don't care.

Now that sounds harsh but it's true of all kinds. The good kind: not caught up in fashion must haves, or what people are saying about you, to the bad: poor customer service.

As far as I can see, the locals go out and enjoy themselves in whatever way they please and even the police cannot dull their pleasure time. They have less shame than the western Europeans, with their openness to sex and the sex trade in shop windows in the red light district. They see no shame or any embarrassment about enjoying yourself.

Over all, they get on with life. They want to live their life and don't care how it affects you as that's your problem, no theirs. Which is a good way to live as they care little for what you think and just get on with their lives.

Customer service is brought in here as the lack of is seen throughout the country. It's not because your a foreigner or don't speak the local language, as some locals get the same treatment and just get on with it. Again. They don't care how they are treated in customer service (unless tragically) they just get on with life!

Country of flowers

Whilst in Amsterdam I always try to tell people to get to the keukenhof to check out the professional gardens and a nice afternoon walk (as long as it doesn't rain!) . Just 45mins from Amsterdam (take a bus from schiphol and 35mins later you are at the front door)
Check out the website for dates as they sometimes knows what days are busiest so you can avoid the crowds!

Queens Date!?!

Have you made your plans for Queens Day this year?
Did you know that celebrations start the night before on Queens night! Choose your bar wisely, as to make the best of Queens Day, you need to up and active on Queens Day to enjoy the free trade day, that has all the streets in the center of the city marked out with masking tape to 'hold' your position so come Queens Day, you have your area already  to set up and sell your new/used or old items to passers by.
Enjoy the day, wandering around the city, seeing what stuff might be for sale and party at every corner with the bars open and with djs stationed everywhere.
The city has started year by year to close down and filter out the crowds, so what was there last year may not be here this year. Check it out before you make plans! Museumplein is meant to not be open this year, instead with a focus on Olympiaplein so attract persons to be there, and trains/metros are all slowed down to minimum to make sure persons leave the city early. From a city that holds an average of 750,000 persons, it explodes to 1,600,000 expected, via Dutch persons in local cities coming up for the day, or visitors to the country. It is a busy time, and the Mayor likes to try to make sure everyone can enjoy themselves, but at the same time keep the city safe and easy to maneuver during the evening.

Enjoy your day, drink responsibly, and enjoy the free trading day for all! 

It's not easy

I just had a drinks reception last night for expats and locals. Let me tell you, everyone has it hard. I heard several stories, some of it taking people nearly 4 years to settle here and now scared to leave having put so much effort into moving here, only now not really sure if they want to stay.
Accommodation is tiring, and will wear you out unless you have the contacts. Its all about meeting and building contacts. Most agencies demand that you sign a contract with everyone and we have all had a variety of experiences. I once answered to an add for girls only house and who ever wants to move in just al meet up at same time and check the house out together. Those that were happy, got it, and pulled straws if there was too many. It's desperate, and not easy. And otherwise very pricey. One of my places was costing me 700euros for a tiny single bedroom, in a shared apartment not even in the city. But i was desperate so i had it for 4 months to give me time to search for somewhere else.

Its scary, and frustrating, and I really would recommend you keep doing the expat meet up groups, as its all about who you know, not just about finance. There are so many groups to meet up its hard to list them here, but do some research, just to enter the name of the country from where you are from, and the Netherlands, into Google with Amsterdam, you might find a grouping just for that.
Anything is possible!

Gymmin It

I caved in and joined a gym. And it's a difficult decision in any country you live in. Here in Amsterdam, you are out to fend for yourself. There are such a variety, from international, national and basic gyms to choose from,  I would suggest you decide which one you generally like and try them out. Some gyms can offer a weeks trial period, but not many.
I joined the local gym, 2mins cycle from my house, which shows how lazy someone can really be!
But, as typical goings on in the Dutch hospitality, upon registering they were delighted to take my money and make me sign up, but never told me where the locker rooms were, how to use the card or even suggested the intake most gyms demand you do upon registering with a gym. I had to ask for everything myself which just left me feeling I am left to fend for myself and useless, and not really wanting to go there as the are signs all around the gym with pictures I don't understand (you cannot wear a t-shirt with no sleeves, yet i see plenty doing so!?) And a machine people punch a code into and it gives them some info. Again. I have no idea.

On the other hand, if the gym isn't your thing, check out the different options: Yoga, Pole Dancing, Zumba, Dancing lessons, Martial Arts, Boxing and everything else this city has to offer from Noord to Zuid, Oost to West, there are sports facilities in every nook and cranny of the city, so it just depends on what you like. You can do some trials with the groupbuying websites like groupon etc. to try something new, or just join an expat website as they can give dancing lessons so you get to meet the international group and its all done through English.

Beauty and the treats!

I was recently under a panic of needing my nails done last minute, and as a 9-5er it is difficult trying to get anything done, but I came across a great place in the zuid which is beyond accommodating and they even offered me this 10e voucher to be used with any facial/fake nails to anyone reading this.

Just print out this picture and bring it with you to:

Aesthetic Beauty on Rijnstraat 2 or call 020 4707014. With a great variety of facials to treat yourself to, and with the flexible time slots (I got my nails done on a Monday even at 7pm!) I would recommend!

St Patricks Day

In just 7 days, the Irish will be celebrating their national day - St Patricks Day under the guise of drinks, leprechauns, drink and well more drink. Whilst in Amsterdam, there are numerous pubs - Molly Malones, Balarney Stone, Mulligans, Dan Murphys, Jame's Gate, Hole in the Wall to name but a few.. a few things to know.
Their websites might not be up to scratch ( or working at all) but please note a few options:
Dan Murphys are known for their extended opening hours for the occasion, either 5am, or until the place is empty enough. As this St Patricks Day falls on a Saturday, I think they might be kicking people out.
Hole in the Wall just across the street is like Murphys bar the late license, and more over priced drinks!
The others are more northers, near Centraal Station so more dedication is required for these venues, unless you do brave the bike. Though please note, if you are ridiculously drunk on the bike and a police person catches you, you will get in trouble. You don't need the motorized vehicle to get in trouble here!

Beauty and the Dammed...

Having lived in several countries, and getting used to having to source new beauty spots, it is frustrating at best. Having to expose the intimate self to getting waxed, plucked, and trying to relax in massage, you can pay a lot for a relaxing treatment only to be tense during the entire time, wasting money with every moment that fleets.

I have tried numerous spots in Amsterdam, and here are (my) top choices:

Day & Night Beauty, in the Pijp.

Delete -waxers, off Overtoom

CyberSalon, off Dam Square

These are the places I can recommend. As for the hair, it can be difficult finding something, but if you are needing something on a Sunday, I found Ronald VanDun. Its very rare that you can find anything decent open on a Sunday in Amsterdam, so its a great one to put in the diary if you need something! Decent prices, and friendly staff.

Museums

You are moving to a UNESCO city, with more museums than you can see in a year, so why not save yourself some money and head down to Leidseplein's UitBuro, Opening times: from Monday to Saturday: 10:00 / 18:00; Thursday: until 21:00; Sundays and Public Holidays: 12:00 / 18.00. Here you can buy the Museum year card ( €39.95 ) and gives you access to 

1. Allard Pierson Museum
2. Amsterdam Museum
3. Anne Frank House
4. Bijbels Museum - Bible Museum
5. De Nieuwe Kerk - New Church
6. Diamond Museum Amsterdam
7. Dutch Funeral Museum
8. Film Museum - EYE Film Instituut Nederland
9. FOAM Photography Amsterdam
10. Hermitage Amsterdam
11. Het Grachtenhuis - Canal House Museum
12. Huis Marseille, Stichting voor Fotografie
13. Jewish Historical Museum
14. JHM Kindermuseum
15. Max Euwe Centrum - Chess Museum
16. Museum Amstelkring - Our Lord in the Attic
17. Museum Geelvinck Hinlopen Huis
18. Museum Het Schip/Amsterdam School of Architecture
19. Museum Van Loon
20. Museum Willet-Holthuysen
21. Nederlands Instituut voor Mediakunst Montevideo/Time Based Arts
22. NEMO Science center
23. Oude Kerk - The Old Church
24. Olympic Experience
25. Royal Palace Amsterdam
26. Press Museum
27. Rijksmuseum
28. Scheepvaartmuseum - Maritime Museum
29. Stedelijk Museum
30. Tropenmuseum - Tropical Museum
31. Tropenmuseum Junior
32. Van Gogh Museum
33. Verzetsmuseum - Resistance Museum
34. Discount for Rembrandt's House

Phew... well. Off you go! That should keep you busy for a few months!

High tea! And not Coffeeshop kind...

Yes, the coffeeshop is well known around the world for the smoking...
But I will know direct you for High Tea instead...
There are a few great locations that I have tried and will recommend, but I don' know them all, so keep your eyes out for any more..

Firstly, and it has to go straight in at number one. The American Hotel at Leidseplein. A great place to stop and have a drink and chat in the art deco restaurant, but also they provide High Tea and there is no finer place than this (get a table by the window!) Enjoy a glass of prosecco, orange juice, and variety of teas along with various sandwiches, cookies, macaroons, panna cotta or crème brûlée, fresh fruit, chocolate fondue. The list goes on. I can honestly say it can last around 2 hours, if you space it out, and enjoy the ambiance and atmosphere of the afternoon. The High Tea is served from Monday to Saturday from 14:00 - 17:00 and costs € 29,50 p.p. A reservation is mandatory. In the summer, from June 13 to August 21, the High Tea is also available on Sunday.


Next for the coffee lover: just on the Zeedijk (near China Town) the Hofje van Wijs is the next best. This is a trading company since 1792 in coffee and teas, and still do to this day. So you have a variety to choose from, and buy if you fall in love with any. They have a coffee shop beside the shop, so you can sit down and get some grub, or sit and try a variety of teas and coffee's with some desserts! They sell some of the most expensive coffee's and teas in the world, like Jamaican Blue Mountain and Kopi Luwak. Try before you buy! Open form 12h - 18h everyday except Mondays!


In the Pijp: De Taart van m'n Tante is the next ideal location! Popular as its near the Heineken brewery, and Albert Cyup, this little slice of heaven is certainly one for the girls! Started by two guys who create Willy Wonka style cakes, they opened up in 1990, and have since been styling cakes for international markets, as well as letting you taste their scrumpious delights with a cup of tea/coffee. Open from 10-18h everyday, try to stop in at least once, to check out 
their quirky shop!

Spring/Summer

Planning for the Spring summer already, there are a few things you should attempt to get done!
Firstly, get to the Keukenhof flower grounds, try to get there shortly after it opens in April, as otherwise the flowers start to go out of season and you don't get to enjoy the landscape to its full potential. Its just 45mins from Amsterdam (get train to Schiphol, and take a bus form there directly to the location).
Secondly, the beaches. The dutch love the sun, so much that the first sign of good weather, you will hear them talk about going to the beach, (or if not a picnic in the parks!) So there are a few beaches you will want to check out, some with djs (Bloomendal) and some just relaxing. You can take a train/bus out but then walk through the dunnes to get to the beach. Otherwise, just get your food together, some wine, and head to the local park!
Next, you will want to get onto the grachts (canals!). You can try the visitors boat, Lovers etc from Centraal station to get to see the city, but you can also hire a boat, with a sailor, or you can also hire a smaller boat to go around on yourself with a few people. Its a great way to check out the city. You will notice during the summer a lot of boats out and about! If you can't bring yourself to hire the boats out (there is a location near the Okura hotel), you can also hire the paddle boats from the single/keizer/ grachts.. But i don't honestly know of one person who ever has. Its usually just the tourists!

Day trips, whilst the weather gets better, check out the variety of cities outside to pop to for the afternoon, not just Den Haag, Utrecht or Rotterdam, but also Haarlem, Leiden, Hoorn and Enkhuizen to name a few more all within 1hours train ride. If you really want to get a bit more done, take the train to Den Helder and the ferry across to the island of Texel. Its an island close to the shore, that is a camping spot for the Dutch! The islands are well known, and you must get to at least one of them whilst you are here. There are five of them:

• Texel 
• Vlieland 
• Terschelling 
• Ameland 
• Schiermonnikoog.

Terschelling is the most famous of them, but it is only accessible from taking a long trip around the IJ!

Just a few things to keep in mind, for whenever the spring will arrive!

The Flicks

We all visit the cinema at least once a year, and in Amsterdam, you can visit at least one each month without having to go to the same cinema twice.
With the branded Pathe, which has 3 locations: Leidseplein, Munt and also the Theatre Tuschinski around the corner, you have no reason to not catch up with your movie list. My preference of all three, as most would agree, is the Theatre Tuschinski. With a VIP ticket, which gives you access to the upstairs VIP lounge, and upstairs row seats, make sure you get a seating in the centre, as the sound is not the best when sitting on either side of the cinema. But certainly worth the Experience.

Rialto, in the Pijp area, has a more eclectic feel, with foreign language movies and artsy types, in a very 50's looking building. In Leidseplein area, you have many options with de Baile, Pathe City and Cinecentre, they are all very different with degrees of cinematic movies. From the large scale movie budgets, to the smaller, local, unknown director movies. The Pathe City is the largest, followed by the Cinecentre which is more old school, with curtains that open before, and takes a 10min break in the middle of the film, whilst the Baile is very underground with alternative films.

  In the same area, the Uitkijk, is the oldest cinema in the Netherlands, and has a certain atmosphere to it. Try to get the vip seats upstairs, which should sit 24 persons, with an individual small table, light and bell, as you can ring downstairs bar to come up to place an order of drink/snacks during the movie. Certainly one to experience as it has a certain 'old' feel to it.


 Next unique would be The Movies, on Haarlemmerdijk, by Westerpark. In its original design, this cinema shows some new movies, as well as independent films, and has the added benefit of being able to get dinner in the cinema restaurant, so dinner and a movie without having to leave the location (avail Mon - Thur €29). You can experience some classical and cult films in this location.

Or try the Kriterion, which is a deluxe cinematic location, where they show some modern, as well as the cult films. Near by there is the university of Amsterdam for the preservation and presentation of moving images. They know their stuff!

News

It is normal to check out the website of your national newspaper to keep up to date with things going on in the world, but what is going on in your local country?

My way of understanding the news, without having to get a dictionary out, or copy and paste the news, is by using www.dutchnews.nl It is updated every morning, with the news of the day and gives you a general consensus of what is going on in your new country. 

Taxi's

A taxi is part of life at some stage. I can honestly say, I would rather (or have been told to) walk home in the middle of the night.
Firstly, upon entering the taxi its already €7.50. That's right, before driving anywhere.They are all out for business and some are very under cutting. In Schiphol airport, be ready for a sightseeing tour. It will cost you minimum €40 for a trip into the city (whereas a train and tram will cost a max €6).
The main taxi group are TCA and are on 020 7777777. They are professional, and provide receipts. They have a few London style cabs, and have also introduced 20 electrical vehicles to their group, even a few electrical London style cabs! (see right)

Late at night, on Leidesplein there can be more than 50 taxis, queuing for your business and they will not tolerate drunken people. They won't even tolerate an 8 min taxi ride, demanding instead that you pay €20 minimum for it. (I always walk home if I don't have my bike - though I must point out I do recommend being comfortable cycling before you dare to do it drunk!)

There are also reports about drug selling taxi drivers, and there was also the case of a martial arts trained taxi driver who killed a drunken person. There are always stories, all I want to point out, is plan your travel ahead, so you can avoid the taxi!

Customer Service

I can, and I shall complain. Though it won't do any good. One thing I have had to endure living here is the lack of, or any interest in, customer service in this country - in any shape or form.

Firstly, eating at a restaurant (recommended by IAmsterdam), i took a bite of my pasta and crunched on something, and it turned out - the chef broke a plate in the sauce and they STILL served me with it. They charged for everything except the pasta, even though they never brought me water to wash my mouth with so i used the wine just to wash out my mouth, before running out of there. (Restaurant La Madonnia in Rembrantplein).

Secondly, in a local Albert Heijn, I asked to purchase credit for my mobile as I had a pay as you go. Upon saying the brand name and the amount I required, I was handed the receipt, and I walked out. After trying to put the credit on, only then I noticed they had given me the wrong brand. Walking back in, straight to the person I had purchased it from, they declared they didn't care, and they wouldn't help me out. I asked for the manager, and they told me they were the manager. Shocking, and very frustrating.

I can keep going on and on, but you get the point. Everyone I know here has a story every week of something they get annoyed from. You will just need to relax and get used to this (I am still trying, god bless my partner).

My general consensus is that these people have no care or blind interest in their jobs (customer service) and thus have no interest in the company they work for, or how it is perceived. So, don't take it personally for not talking their language, it's just how they are.

Travel - the OV chipcard

Upon arrival to Amsterdam Centraal Station, follow the signs for GVB/Metro and there is a kiosk where you can buy an OV chipcard. The first card to get is the OV Card - a pictureless card that costs around €7.50, and means you can hop on/off metro,trams and buses without having to buy a ticket each time. It will save you money AND time.  Remember: you MUST check in and out when you board the trams.



(One point of trams, you can ONLY board the tram a the front or the middle, not every door. The Dutch drivers do not take kindly to seeing you jump in, even if you pay).

Upon setting up your bank account, you can then go back and get a new NS/OV Chipcard which includes the train also. You need a passport photo, and your bank details. This means you can get a 40% discount on all trains for up to 4 persons travelling. It's great for the frequent trips to airport, or day trips also! And means you will not have to purchase train tickets each time, as it can be registered online so you can use it to scan onto/off the train also.

OV and Out.

Security:

A couple of scams just to be aware of:
Thieves often operate in gangs, particularly on trains between Schiphol airport and Centraal Station and on some trams.
One thief will be distracting you (asking directions, banging on your window, causing a problem) whilst another picks your pocket/steals your handbag, or places their hand in your handbag to get something out. Never be relaxed whilst out and about, even at bars or restaurants.

Another big scam is the fake police officer in plain clothes. "One man usually addresses people on the train to find out if they are tourists. If there are tourists about, two other men emerge with fake police identities and pretend to be investigating counterfeit money and false credit cards. If in doubt ring 112 just to check.  In the usual scam, you are asked to hand over money and credit cards for verification. After the 'inspection', the fake policemen return all the money and cards, or at least that is how it seems. Victims find later on tht part of the money and/or credit cards are gone."

How to deal with it? Fake policemen never wear a uniform, says the Foreign Office, and also like to show shiny police badges - as real Dutch police officers do NOT carry badges.

Your new legs: The Bike

Everyone has one, actually some have more than one. And its the cheapest way to get around the city.
The Bike.  The dearly beloved bike, a native of Amsterdam (you can see from the bike parking facilities around the city - Amsterdam Centraal, underground bike-parks).
There are a variety of ways to buy your bike: Bike Shops, online, or even off a friend. But be aware, bike theft is second nature over here, so Karma will come around if you purchase a bike on the streets, someone will steal it back off you! (Experience gained!)
Most bike shops will provide you with a receipt of purchase, and place the tag in the under tube of the seat, so if found they can trace it back to you!
When you are done with an old bike, never throw it away, recycle it!

The lock will be your best friend, so be prepared to buy a very good lock. Normally retails from €50 - €150, but worth the security!
Next up, lights. If you are caught cycling without lights at night, you can be fined up to €40 for each light you do not have on. To be careful, pop into Hema and purchase their €2.50 pair of lights!

Tourists are a nightmare when you are cycling fast on the bike paths, as most people don't realise the bike paths exist here and wander around. So having a bike bell is useful to give them a warning, without having to straining your voice!

Learning in the Lingo

Amsterdam has so many expats of different nationalities here, you can get away with speaking English. Markets, shops, restaurants etc. But do understand, if you do plan to stay for a year or so, at least learn the basics. Hello, Thank you, Please etc.
There are a few website you can always learn these from, but also you can download free apps like: Trainer EN-NL , Lingopal Lite, DutchWord, Translate etc. They will help you out with some basics to get buy (and very helpful when you first go shopping and need to figure out what some things are).

But for those hoping to learn the lingo, there are several ways to learn the language. Intense, Semi intensive, One Day, even the nuns (as they are called). With groups of people willing to converse, or singing groups, you can be inundated with the amount of ways to learn the language.
One thing I can point out, some classes are large, with English not as the common denominator so learning the language can be confusing. Read up, and ask around who used which courses.
My own personal experience is with Katakura, which has two locations in the Jordaan area and the Rai. With a maximum of 8 persons per class, and a variety of options to do it with (intensive, 5 days, semi intensive, 2 evenings, or once a week...) its the best for rates around.

Get to know the right deals!

Everyone is needing to save money, but still wants something to do..
Check out dagaanbieding where it highlights all the local deals of Holland, like Groupon etc.

Once your Dutch gets better check out www.vakantieveilingen.nl and start in the bidding wars to win dinners, hotels, experiences etc. But do read the fine print, as some hotels they offer, say its really cheap, but you have to pay for breakfast and dinner for each day. 

Shopping!

Upon moving to Amsterdam, you will be needing to start shopping!

To start, IKEA is usually peoples first place to start.. but in Amsterdam check out Hema. Its been the Dutch  one-stop shop. Bed linen, curtains, clothes, food, makeup to bikes! There are several found around the city of different sizes so just check out your local options. Blokker also provides a range of house hold goods, mainly accessorise.

Next few cheap and cheerfuls would be Action and Xenos. Two everything-in-one-location kind of stores, that you can pick up very cheap cutlery, towels, pans, cleaning products, food etc. to get you started. I love popping into these shops monthly to see what specials they have. Action is only found in De Pijp and Osdorp area, whilst Xenos is around the centre and some surrounding areas also.

For food shopping Albert Heijn is the local market.. But be aware, there are some cheaper options, like Dirk van den broek, Deka, C1000 , Jumbo  and other options. I tend to check them each out when ever i pass by them, as they always have weekly offers, Buy One Get One Free and such like.
Albert Heijn, you need to sign up to the Bonus card, so you get to avail of the Bonus options, and also they have AirMiles here too, so you can earn whilst doing your groceries.
Markt is also a popular shop, it is organic, and a little more expensive but you cannot pay with cash in some locations, only PIN and Visa.

The main thing to check out is your local markets. The Albert Cuyp in De Pijp area, is long, and full of variety. The flowers are cheap and outstanding.  Fruit is cheap and €10 can be a week of fruit and veg!

For clothes and everything in between is Kalvertstraat which starts at De Munt which leads up to Centraal Station. Hours of shopping are usually from 10 - 18h, but the shops usually close before 18h (they prefer to clean whilst being paid, then selling until closing time!)

Welcome to Amsterdam - your new home.

First off you are needing accommodation when arriving, and its hard. I mean, DIFFICULT. Unless you know someone before you arrive whom you can stay with,  be prepared to search long and hard to find some where to live...
Websites like elynx.nl, expatriates.nl and such will give expat offerings of places for rent. But be prepared.. It is expensive in the city. Unless you know where you want to live, check everything everywhere. Everyone would be looking for the centre, the West and East are also options but be aware.. Private renting is expensive. VERY expensive. So you will be needing to live with others.

It is a luck of the draw, as there is never a certain time to be looking for places, as there are nearly 200 different nationalities that live here. They are not all students, but also expats for jobs and people just wanting to taste a little bit of the culture.

I would strongly advise search months PRIOR to your arrival here.