Jordaan is one of the most sought-after addresses in Holland. Heck...even Rembrandt decided to spend his last years here! The once somewhat dodgy hood has blossomed into one of the trendiest areas of Amsterdam and is the ideal base for anyone who wants to experience the true essence of the idyllic city, yet be far enough from the tourist crowds to have a relaxing break as well. Narrow leafy streets, endless romantic canals, trendy boutiques and hip cafes give Jordaan a most splendid atmosphere and the eclectic mix of locals also make it a varied and intriguing area to explore at length. Yet despite its relaxing vibe, Jordaan is still within walking distance of the Dam, the Central Station and all of the city’s main attractions, so basing yourself here on your Amsterdam vacation will certainly be convenient too. Jordaan is home to no less than 70 cafes, most flanking the suburbs canals. Some are renowned for their excellent coffee blends, others for their trendy and hip patrons and some offer a unique taste of what Amsterdam is all about. Book your holiday rental apartment in Jordaan, perhaps in one of the many characteristic houses along the canals, and come experience ...

Bicycles are an economic, convenient and super fun way to get around any town when on vacation, and Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, is a prime example. Bikes are to Amsterdam what sheep are to Auckland; that is to say they outnumber the human population. As opposed to New Zealand however, bicycles in the Netherlands have the right of way in traffic, making it ever so safe for even novice riders to explore the city with ease on just two rented wheels. All one needs is to spend just five minutes in Amsterdam to understand the local’s obsession with bike riding: the city’s innumerable canals, narrow laneway and tucked-in attractions make this the epitome form of transport. On your next visit to Holland, book your holiday rental apartment in Amsterdam and Go Dutch by renting a bicycle for the duration of your stay. Follow our guide to easy riding and ensure yourself of a splendid and hassle free holiday. With over 400kms of bike paths to enjoy, there’s no corner of this enticing capital you won’t be able to reach. Where to rent MacBike is probably the most recognisable rental company in Amsterdam, or at least they rent out the most recognisable looking bikes. ...

Amsterdam is often regarded as one of Europe’s most entertaining capital cities. Boasting an enviably relaxed atmosphere and an anything-goes attitude makes it the ideal destination for anyone looking for an enjoyable and carefree holiday. Innumerable clubs, brown café and nightclubs abound and, let’s not forget, Amsterdam also boasts arguably the most famous Red District in Europe. Finding a fun, chilled or energetic way to while away the wee hours of the morning is no challenge for the truly enthusiastic holiday maker. For a night out with a difference however, step out a little and take advantage of the many Amsterdam entertainment options on offer. Book an accommodation in the Central Ring area and follow our guide to enjoy some of the city’s most incredible evening activities. Romantic Dinner Cruise Bask in the romance of Amsterdam and take your lover on a romantic sunset dinner cruise. While the city’s canals may be enticing during the day, seeing them in the flickering evening glow is pure magic. An evening spent exploring some of Amsterdam’s most idyllic nooks and crannies is sure to be a memorable holiday experience. The two and a half hour cruise includes a scrumptious 4-course dinner and plenty of wine ...

[pinit] Amsterdam is a superb destination if indulging in some serious R&R is on your holiday agenda. The city is brimming with first-rate health spas and pamper-palaces; and quite a few risqué establishments we might add. No matter what kind of pleasure you seek, you can certainly find it all in Amsterdam! Regrettably, we have no anecdotal tales to tell about the salacious centres, but we can attest that the beauty and health spas in this captivating capital are simply exceptional. Book a central Amsterdam apartment, and delight in a treatment or two in one of the following spas. You’ll find no better way to reinvigorate your body and soul! Sauna Deco, Herengracht 115 Don’t be too concerned if, as soon as you walk into Sauna Deco, you happen to see a mixed crowd of visitors au naturel. No, you haven’t walked into one of the other spas; but this is still Amsterdam after all and modesty here is not highly regarded. If you must know, Sauna Deco is one of the most respected health spas in town, and a few hours here could see you soak in a sauna or steam room, plunge in a pool and perhaps have a ...

The upmarket area of Jordaan in Amsterdam is home to many of the city’s best art galleries and great area to stay in while on holiday in Amsterdam. Below are some worth checking-out during your stay in Amsterdam: Rock Archive Gallery Amsterdam Web: Rock Archive Art Gallery This is a gallery of international pedigree as it has galleries in many of the major cities around the world. The building itself has a light and contemporary feel to it, whilst the art is a collection of classic rock and jazz images which will appeal to the art lover who enjoys how a photographer and artist can capture the charisma and character of a person or people. The photos are not just of artists in action, they are also limited edition prints staged specifically for the shoot. Dolf D. van Omme Gallery Address: Eerste Bloemdwarsstraat 19, Jordaan, Amsterdam In an area of Amsterdam where many of the galleries are focussed on modern concepts, this gallery offers you the opportunity to enjoy fine art from around Europe created in the 19th and 20th century. Amongst the best attractions of this gallery are the fantastic paintings of the city of Amsterdam over the years which really capture how it has ...

When the winter is too warm for skating on the canals, Amsterdam has a number of outside ice rinks including the delightful Museumplein rink which is adjacent to the magnificent Rijksmuseum. Museumplein, or Museum Square, is home to a total of four museums and the other three are the Stedelijk Museum, the Diamond Museum and the Van Gogh Museum. Also located in the square is the United States Consulate. The Museumplein was reconstructed ten years ago to a design by a Swedish architect. There is now parking and a supermarket underground and, above, is an artificial lake which is converted into an ice skating rink for the four months of winter. In the old days, before bicycles, children couldn’t wait for the cold weather to freeze the canals so that they could strap on wooden ice skates and get to school much faster than walking. At the weekends, families would skate to friends and relatives and enjoy biscuits and hot drinks served from barrows. Pea soup was also a popular way to get nutrition and warmth when out skating. From December until March, the ice skating rink at the Museumplein is open everyday between ten o’clock in the morning until eight at ...