Amsterdam Travel Tips

Travel should be fun too!  This isn’t a travel blog, but I got feedback from a few readers that they would really appreciate some Amsterdam travel tips. Here you go, dear readers … enjoy!

Tips for Fashionistas

The best shopping  is in “The Nine Streets” (De Negen Straatjes) area.  This is where you’ll find cool little boutiques and also where you’ll see the best street style!

 

If you’re going to the fashion district for the designer shops, be warned that some shops only let you in by appointment.

And be sure to check out the fabulous bags and shoes at Hester Van Eeghen.

The Architecture

One on the my favorite parts of the trip was just admiring the gorgeous old buildings and canals.  They’ll take your breath away!

 

Tips for Coffee Lovers

Coffee shops are not for coffee!   Cafes sometimes have coffee and sometimes a cafe is really just a bar. And if you ask for “regular coffee,” you’ll probably get espresso.  Very few cafes have iced coffee drinks, so don’t judge us too harshly for visiting the local Starbucks a couple of times.

 

Tips for Getting Around

Stay out of the bike lanes. They take their biking very seriously in Amsterdam and cars and pedestrians come in a distant second place!  Only bike yourself if you are a confident bike rider … no mercy and no slow lanes available.  The local tram is easy to use and inexpensive. I couldn’t get my Uber app to work in Amsterdam, but I’ve heard of other tourists using it, so why I couldn’t is still a mystery.  Walking is always a great way to get around and will burn off any extra vacation calories! Speaking of ….

 

Tips for Eating

Maybe it’s just me, but the traditional dutch food seemed pretty bland.  I was all about the apple pie and the bread though!  Also be sure to try some Italian food while you’re there, but pass on the Mexican food. (Of course we might just be spoiled in California with amazing Mexican food.)

Tips for Art Lovers

Explore the art and life of  Vincent Van Gogh at the Van Gogh Museum. Be sure to check out the museum shop for great gifts, like a silk scarf of a Van Gogh print and funky tees.  At the Rijksmuseum, you have to see the Rembrants and the Vermeers, of course, but also don’t miss the doll houses! By the way, no taking pictures of the Van Goghs, but at Rijksmueum you can take pics of everything. Anyone know why?

Outside of Amsterdam

If you get a chance, get out of Amsterdam and check out the charming and quaint villages in the countryside!

And last and least …

Tips for Gum Chewers

They don’t sell gum at the airport in Amsterdam AT ALL!  If you like to have gum on the plane, bring it with you.  And if you like a particular brand of gum, bring it from home.

…

Okay Dolls, there are my very random list of tips for a trip to Amsterdam!  If you have any particular questions about anything, feel free to ask in the comments and/or email me at dawnlucy@fashionshouldbefun.com.  Also, want to know what to wear?  Be sure to check out my packing list AND how it all worked out!

 

Fun & Fashion

Dawn Lucy

 

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