AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Just make sure you know what the difference is between Cafe and Coffee Shop! again, something I wont get into today…..
Depending on the time of year you visit, Amsterdam offers a lot of traditional events. If youre lucky enough and spend some time in April you may come across KINGS DAY, which is where the entire city becomes ORANGE - the country’s national colour, and as most of us football nerds know, its the iconic Orange colour we see at every footballing event. We sadly missed out on this special day, as we left only a few days before, but the build up was amazing to see
I’d like to visit most of this part of the world during winter, or the colder springtime as I think it brings out the best in these cities, can you imagine Amsterdam during summer? Id much prefer the Apple Pie and a Scotch or Beer? But again many travellers forget how close Amsterdam is to the ocean, a coastal life is only an hour or so away - if you arrive in Spring you also are lucky enough to catch the blossoming of the famous tulips farms, the famous Windmills and the large fields of colour. So when planning your future trip, make room for a full day of roadtrips outside of the canals.
Now lets discuss the best bits and tips!
-cafes/eats-
PLUK ; recommend to us by a friend who has been living here for a few months, they described it as “Australians love this place” - full of colour and the aesthetic of the stores interior will easily grab your attention. No matter what your poison is, they will offer it - a little shop inside with non-cheesy Amsterdam items on sale as well. If you don’t believe me, check out how amazing their Instagram is > https://www.instagram.com/plukamsterdam
Van Wonderen Stroopwaffeles ; yep that’s a mouthful, literally! now we came across this spot via instagram, of course when you travel the best way to find food is usually asking locals and eating like a local. But at times Instagram will send you in the direction for your next sugar hit. Of course, whenever you do visit a new country and you want to see all the best spots, there will be lines - dont expect to be the first one at this spot! Waffles, thats all I can say the rest is up to you and your choice of toppings, situated in the busier part of Amsterdam - you are between the Canals and the shopping. Find them online > https://www.instagram.com/vanwonderenstroopwafels/
WINKEL43 ; I have to warn you - dont wear a belt, and dont expect to arrive without waiting in line for a seat! Best apple pie ever? well, my grandfather did make some amazing Apple Pies in my time but yes most definitely best Apple Pie in the canal region! Great coffee as well > https://www.instagram.com/cafewinkel43amsterdam/
Lavina Good Food ; for all you healthy humans, this place has it all - great coffee but amazing local foods as well > https://www.instagram.com/laviniagoodfood/
-the photo spots-
Im sorry I made you wait this long for those special photo spots, I have to be honest - every angle of Amsterdam is amazing. Depending on the time of year you visit, whether it is covered in snow or blessed by with Summers warmth, this city does not have a bad side - well dont take your camera through a few streets at night….
Now, Amsterdam. Where do we begin. Every bridge over every Canal is a perfect shot but you need to plan the time of day you visit with crowd size in mind. Every corner takes you to a mix of buildings, the iconic and the modern.
Watch you back at all times, this city is known for its cyclists and well - dont get run over or dont knock anyone over! but do capture these speed demons in their moment.
There are many spots that everyone will tell you about, my best advice
Let the city show itself off to you
