Vacapedia Vacation Rentals Blog

Amsterdam has gained much promotion due to an exciting nightlife, such as the upcoming annual Amsterdam Dance Event featuring “400 DJs and acts in 40 different venues.” This event will have you dance the night away, not only in clubs, but records stores, art galleries and some other surprising places. Known “the biggest club festival in the world,” the dates for this extravaganza in 2008 begin October 22 for four days.

There are so many things to do in Amsterdam that every visitor can enjoy a wonderful vacation even without a high profile festival. Not many cities have more contrasts than Amsterdam with tulips, brown cafes and colorful, stunning architecture. Intriguing sights are around every corner; and the waterways of canals on almost every street. Art lovers will never lose sight of the fabulous galleries and museums. 

Most city dwellers prefer a mode of transport using their well connected trams or riding bicycles along the narrow cobblestone streets. Homes are vertically built to accommodate more people and utilize the land area more efficiently. This city was and has remained “green” long before it became fashionable.

The city is divided into several areas and best way for you to learn your surroundings is to take a canal tour. Your feet will appreciate the rest too. The tour guides on board are very informative, explaining the historical portions beyond the views and sites. What’s great is afterwards, you can view this gem of a city and explore the same areas by renting a bike securing you are more knowledgeable.

Imagine watching daily life from your home in the canals of Amsterdam.

And when you marvel at the houseboats dotting along the canals, it is natural to wonder what it would be like to live aboard one. But wait! You can experience living on the canals like many of the natives already do in Amsterdam.

A houseboat on the canals has all the comforts of home and can be rented as a vacation home for your accommodation needs. You will be in walking distance to all of the major sights too.

Many of us imagine Holland being of windmills and wooden shoes; a la Hans Brinker with his silver skates. Of course, it’s easy to find the wooden shoes in most souvenir shops but a windmill in the city seems improbable. Not necessarily so. The only operating one within Amsterdam is the Stolen Windmill. It lies on the border of the city, allowing visitors 364 days a year and is closed only on January 1.

Amsterdam is a cultural center that still harbors a strong bohemian and laid-back spirit, and it has affordable options rarely found in other European capitals. What’s more, you will always have a Dam good time, so go and see Amsterdam for yourself, as it has more to offer all year round.

A city filled with options!

Sampling of a few of the must sees in Amsterdam:

• Anne Frankhuis
The home of the great literary classic of a young girl’s plight in occupied Holland, a visit here actually lifts your spirits for the struggle of survival.
 
• Rijksmuseum De Meesterwerken
This museum contains the world’s largest collection of paintings by the Dutch masters.

• Van Gogh Museum
Four levels of nothing but Van Gogh art, including the infamous “Starry Night.”