I love how healthy and in shape everybody is from riding bikes everywhere
Amsterdam... Lets discuss!
by Anonymous | reply 209 | October 19, 2019 8:17 PM |
In Amsterdam all seems to breathe freedom and peace, and to make one forget the world and its sad turmoils
by Anonymous | reply 1 | September 22, 2019 3:47 AM |
At least in the USA, the pedestrian has the right of way.....in Europe, you can get run over with a person on a bike or someone driving a small Fiat.
by Anonymous | reply 2 | September 22, 2019 4:01 AM |
I hate how all the citizens come to work sweaty and reeking from riding their bikes to work.
by Anonymous | reply 3 | September 22, 2019 4:03 AM |
They don't R3 They're used to it, it's not like it's a workout
by Anonymous | reply 4 | September 22, 2019 4:12 AM |
I’m 6’2” and am used to being able to see above a bar crowd in the US; as well as having to lean down to speak with a short person.
In Amsterdam, I can’t see over the crown because they are all so tall. I can also converse without having to lean over to hear and be heard.
It may seem like a small thing, but it’s oddly discombobulating.
by Anonymous | reply 5 | September 22, 2019 4:28 AM |
^. Was in Amsterdam this past July. Couldn’t get over how high the toilets are. My feet couldn’t reach the ground.
by Anonymous | reply 6 | September 22, 2019 4:37 AM |
Does anyone there have a small dick?
by Anonymous | reply 7 | September 22, 2019 4:42 AM |
R5, the Dutch are the tallest people in the world.
by Anonymous | reply 8 | September 22, 2019 4:58 AM |
The Dutch are also very big boned. Big hips, legs like tree stumps and huge asses.
by Anonymous | reply 9 | September 22, 2019 1:01 PM |
r7 not from my sampling..
by Anonymous | reply 10 | September 22, 2019 2:07 PM |
The Dutch cyclist is usually in road rage, so watch out especially if you are on foot.
by Anonymous | reply 11 | September 22, 2019 3:48 PM |
Have they cleaned up their drug abuse problems yet?
by Anonymous | reply 12 | September 22, 2019 3:51 PM |
[QUOTE]The Dutch cyclist is usually in road rage, so watch out especially if you are on foot
Yup, it's like they're possessed by a demon.
by Anonymous | reply 13 | September 22, 2019 4:02 PM |
Love Amsterdam - despite the increasing hordes of tourists. Perfectly quaint yet modern. Continental yet down to earth. Efficient and practical. Get off airplane and be in central Amsterdam in 20-30 mins. Water flowing everywhere, cute little alleyways and houses. Great beer, pot, gay bars, back rooms, fast food, Indonesian, Italian, Dutch, Middle Eastern food.
I hate it’s become so expensive and crowded. But it’s my favorite European city by far. And you can jaunt down to Paris for a day or two on the high speed train straight from the center to indulge your artistic needs. Or visit a cute little Dutch town like Delft for the day.
by Anonymous | reply 14 | September 22, 2019 4:02 PM |
When I visited in the 90s, Amsterdam felt like one massive red light district, with some of the seediest places and people I've ever seen. It defined "seedy". I hope it's improved.
by Anonymous | reply 15 | September 22, 2019 4:04 PM |
Tall and big cocks?
I am SO there!
by Anonymous | reply 16 | September 22, 2019 4:06 PM |
I've never been.
BUT my flight leaves tomorrow! I'll be there a week. Any pointers, recommendations, warnings?
by Anonymous | reply 17 | September 22, 2019 4:13 PM |
[quote] BUT my flight leaves tomorrow! I'll be there a week. Any pointers, recommendations, warnings?
Go to the Anne Frank House and see Shelley Winters' Oscar. You can still see the indentations where she had trouble letting it go. Poor Mr. Frank had to pry it out of her hands.
Note to Shelley: Don't make a promise your ass can't cash.
by Anonymous | reply 18 | September 22, 2019 4:33 PM |
I took my scarf off to Shelley!
by Anonymous | reply 19 | September 22, 2019 4:35 PM |
I was there in June and took a cab. The driver had to drive down a narrow street and some blond bitch would not move her bike out of the street to let him pass. He asked her nicely several times and she shook her head “no” and pointed for him to maneuver his car close to hitting a house on the other side of the street (meaning he had to drive on the opposite sidewalk).
I asked the driver why she was such a bitch about it. He said because he looked like an immigrant, he gets that reaction from Dutch folks.
So I think Amsterdam - at least most recently - is anti-immigrant and full of blond, bicycling cunts.
by Anonymous | reply 20 | September 22, 2019 4:42 PM |
Amsterdammers are known for despising taxi drivers, R20, regardless of race or skin color. They have a terrible reputation because they can be quite rude and will tell passengers looking for shorter journeys to walk to their destination instead, if the fare isn't worth their while. The Netherlands is also one of the countries with the highest cab fares in the world, and taking lots of taxis is considered somewhat extravagant by the frugal Dutch.
by Anonymous | reply 21 | September 22, 2019 5:02 PM |
R9– I heard Princess Beatrix takes a lot of taxis
by Anonymous | reply 22 | September 22, 2019 5:11 PM |
Home to famous actress Tony "Empress" Geary
by Anonymous | reply 23 | September 22, 2019 5:17 PM |
They eat mayonnaise on their french fries.
by Anonymous | reply 24 | September 22, 2019 5:19 PM |
and it's delish, r24.
by Anonymous | reply 25 | September 22, 2019 6:09 PM |
Love Doutzen, but damn Derek Blasberg really does seem to be a charmless moron.
by Anonymous | reply 26 | September 22, 2019 6:15 PM |
I was bored to tears both times I was in Amsterdam. I now know that I missed some of the hot gay spots, despite my google efforts. I couldn't wait to get to Berlin. Guys are tall and uncut. But not all that gorgeous.
by Anonymous | reply 27 | September 22, 2019 6:56 PM |
I loved the Van Gogh Museum.
IIRC, fine art museum was full of those dark painting that the Dutch liken in the 17th century. Men in black cloaks, with a white color, on a black background. All boring. But if you’re there a week, I suppose you should go.
I had the worst table service there at an outdoor cafe.
by Anonymous | reply 28 | September 22, 2019 7:35 PM |
What's going to happen to Dutch-land when the sea levels rise and swamp us all?
by Anonymous | reply 29 | September 22, 2019 7:40 PM |
By that time r29, they will move further inland just in time for the political battles between the secular whites and the ballooning muslim minority. Add global warming into the mix and you'll see a lot of drama in Europe.
by Anonymous | reply 30 | September 22, 2019 8:26 PM |
The only bright spot in global warming is the Dutch. I have faith that they will figure out how to deal with rising sea levels. Of course, it requires and active, pragmatic, functioning government that invests in infrastructure. Our Netherlands - New Orleans - doesn’t compare to Netherlands now and will be flooded. God bless the Dutch.
I saw the issues of immigration overwhelm Holland first. In then1990s, Pim Fortuyn, a gay man, was warning how Islam left him feeling unsafe in his own country because of the unchecked volume and absence of integration to Dutch values. Combined with overtourism, Holland is one of the leaders in addressing modern Europe’s issues.
by Anonymous | reply 31 | September 22, 2019 8:59 PM |
Love: food, bikes, architecture, tall straightforward dorky men with big cocks, cookies, the surrounding flat countryside, the beaches, a few of the museums, the butterfly greenhouse
Dislike: tourists - especially the grungy global hipsters, the dampness
by Anonymous | reply 32 | September 22, 2019 9:00 PM |
Here’s what I heard, but didn’t actually see it myself.
Apparently, the baths are really busy Fridays and Saturdays, right after work. The young gay guys go there and get laid. With that out of the way, they spend the rest of the weekend, undistracted, with friends.
by Anonymous | reply 33 | September 22, 2019 9:20 PM |
R22 Thurn and Taxis?
by Anonymous | reply 34 | September 22, 2019 9:26 PM |
Too many tourists and yuppies in the city centre. Dutch has become a second language and the orignal inhabitants no longer feel at home there.
by Anonymous | reply 35 | September 22, 2019 9:45 PM |
Also, there’s currently a lot of drug-related crime going on. It’s a city full of tedious and self-satisfied cokeheads. Avoid.
by Anonymous | reply 36 | September 22, 2019 9:48 PM |
Even average Dutch boys are hotties with big legs.
by Anonymous | reply 37 | September 22, 2019 9:50 PM |
But New Zealanders usually have the best legs in the world.
by Anonymous | reply 38 | September 22, 2019 9:50 PM |
The Dutch justice minister, Ferdinand Grapperhaus, has acknowledged that it's easier in Amsterdam to have a gram of coke delivered to your house than a pizza.
by Anonymous | reply 39 | September 22, 2019 9:58 PM |
Detour, why did they allow auto-tune on the audition? You can hear the voice correction in his notes, like yikes! Hottie for sure, I'd like those legs on my shoulders while I plow that Dutch ass.
by Anonymous | reply 40 | September 22, 2019 9:58 PM |
Anyone visited alone? I rarely can find any friends with the same vacation interests and/or schedule as I do. I was actually thinking about to visiting there & taking the train to Paris and flying home from Paris.
A lot of the descriptions (bikes, tall people) remind me of Copenhagen. Copenhagen was nice as a solo visitor... lots to see, amazing bakeries that were out of this world.
My friend went to a bath house in Amsterdam and said it was cunty and left. So that's all I know about the gay scene...not that I am a big gay scene person anyway.
by Anonymous | reply 41 | September 22, 2019 9:59 PM |
[quote]BUT my flight leaves tomorrow! I'll be there a week. Any pointers, recommendations, warnings?
Have some Indonesian food! Warning: spiciness goes from Hot to Chernobyl.
Practice moderation if you try the edibles. Tourists end up eating too many edibles and go through a weed overdose, which is essentially a nuclear-powered anxiety attack. Not fun.
Spend some time in the cafes. Dutch cafes take pride in being warm and cozy.
by Anonymous | reply 42 | September 22, 2019 10:01 PM |
I went to Amsterdam several times, alone, but during my good looking years. I met plenty of local guys just out and about and of course the saunas for anyone from around the world.
There is certainly plenty to do as a single person if you don't want or can't get sex.
by Anonymous | reply 43 | September 22, 2019 10:01 PM |
I had an interesting experience there.
It was raining, and I was trying to read a map in the rain, to get to a nearby Gay bar. While I stood there in the rain with my map, I heard two nearby guys arguing. One of the guys leaves. The other, a Turkish guy, asks me for a light. He tells me the other guy was going to mug me, but he shooed the guy away.
I then asked him to show me where the bar was, which he did. I gave him a $20 for his help, and bought him a beer. As we sat chatting, he took out a pack of cigarettes and pack of matches and lit a cigarette.
I then asked him why he approached me earlier for a match, when he already had one. He quickly got up and left the bar.
This was a great scam. Instead of violence that would attract the police, he got me to voluntarily give him money. I think the entire story was a set-up.
If there’s a lesson, one would be not to whip out a map on a dark street, as it announces that you’re a tourist.
by Anonymous | reply 44 | September 22, 2019 10:26 PM |
Thanks for the reminder, OP darling. I met the love of my life there three summers ago on a romantic weekend spent in Vogelpark & Dam Square by the canal, and we didn't even get to kiss or fuck. That was the first and last time we saw each other, and as far as I know it's likely we may never meet again.
by Anonymous | reply 45 | September 22, 2019 11:45 PM |
[quote]on a romantic weekend spent in Vogelpark
I think you mean Vondelpark?
by Anonymous | reply 46 | September 22, 2019 11:58 PM |
Kom a.u.b niet hier. We zijn vol en toeristen zijn klootzakken. Berlijn is leuk.
by Anonymous | reply 47 | September 23, 2019 12:01 AM |
Who uses a map any longer?
by Anonymous | reply 48 | September 23, 2019 12:04 AM |
Cuntiness does abound at that sauna near Amsterdam Centraal.
by Anonymous | reply 49 | September 23, 2019 12:14 AM |
R48, this was probably about 1998 or so, so people still used paper maps.
by Anonymous | reply 50 | September 23, 2019 12:15 AM |
R9 Are they really? I keep hearing a lot of them are way too thin. Perhaps that's another country.
by Anonymous | reply 51 | September 23, 2019 12:22 AM |
They are thin, and big boned. duh
by Anonymous | reply 52 | September 23, 2019 12:23 AM |
Antonio’s in Leidseplein makes great pizzas but the customer service is TERRIBLE.
by Anonymous | reply 53 | September 23, 2019 12:29 AM |
The best bread I've ever had. And get on the stoep!
by Anonymous | reply 54 | September 23, 2019 12:32 AM |
I enjoy the seemingly comfortable mix of extremes when I'm there. The Dutch for all their freedoms, expect a high amount of conformity in exchange for the privileges you get, and I honestly would be more reluctant to cross the authorities in The Netherlands than just about any other place in Western Europe. So tolerant, yet they can be hard and mean bastards when pushed a little too much. I hope the balance continues, but we can see from history that it doesn't. I got incredibly creeped out when I visited the Anne Frank House.
by Anonymous | reply 55 | September 23, 2019 12:48 AM |
The various Jewish museums give a lot more context to the history of Dutch Jews. Amsterdam was a refuge for Jews in the 16th and 17th centuries. By the 20th Century, a sizable community was built. The bureaucracy kept (and shared) detailed records of the population, which made it easier than other countries to target people. Hitler killed 80% of Dutch Jews.
by Anonymous | reply 56 | September 23, 2019 1:13 AM |
Have the mussies taken over there yet?
by Anonymous | reply 57 | September 23, 2019 1:15 AM |
Yes, Rose, R57. Amsterdam has been renamed Nije Aleppo.
by Anonymous | reply 58 | September 23, 2019 1:18 AM |
The harsh directness can be disconcerting. Especially coming from waiters. But I leaned to pref it to the obnoxiousness of the French. And being able to speak English is a luxury.
Travelled a lot there by myself in my 20s and 30s. Always met fellow tourists. Lots of gay tourists. Fun cheap happy hours. Or at the pot coffeehouses. The backrooms can be fun - one of the few places where they still have them.
by Anonymous | reply 59 | September 23, 2019 1:24 AM |
Some of the tram conductors are frustrated comedians. Which I enjoyed.
by Anonymous | reply 60 | September 23, 2019 1:58 AM |
For a more authentic experience stay in Utrecht or den Haag. Relaxed locals, far less tourists, fewer rip offs/bad service. 30 -45 minutes away by train.
by Anonymous | reply 61 | September 23, 2019 2:02 AM |
My husband and I visited in the winter of 1997. The two things I remember most is garbage frozen in the ice of the canals and being accosted by a junkie while walking back to our hotel.
by Anonymous | reply 62 | September 23, 2019 2:03 AM |
I stayed with friends behind the Concert Hall. It strongly resembled back bay Boston. Dutch guys are tall but not particularly good looking.
by Anonymous | reply 63 | September 23, 2019 2:10 AM |
I love Haarlem, R61. And it’s much closer to Amsterdam than Den Haag and Utrecht.
by Anonymous | reply 64 | September 23, 2019 2:11 AM |
Yes Haarlem's center square, Grote Markt, was beautiful.
by Anonymous | reply 65 | September 23, 2019 2:16 AM |
Nice big uncut poles but dirty assholes. That is a big turnoff. The Moselms there have clean holes there though.....
by Anonymous | reply 66 | September 23, 2019 2:18 AM |
I stayed by the zoo last time I was there, and every night the streetcar would come off the main route, go past my hotel, and park in the side street about a block down. The driver would turn off the power, lock the door, and then pedal off on his bicycle. The street car would sit there unattended until dawn when the morning driver would pedal back and put it back in service. No vandalism, no graffiti, it just sat there all night.
Can you imagine that happening in almost any other major city?
by Anonymous | reply 67 | September 23, 2019 2:22 AM |
R67, well, there are tons of bicycles also just parked unlocked, too.
by Anonymous | reply 68 | September 23, 2019 2:25 AM |
I enjoyed the Amsterdam Zoo and recommend it.
by Anonymous | reply 69 | September 23, 2019 2:25 AM |
R23 Deary he is an actor not an actress. He has a cock. However you are quite right about him being an Empress. A Dowager Empress to be exact
by Anonymous | reply 70 | September 23, 2019 2:27 AM |
I wonder if Geary had to learn the language to become a permanent resident. I heard that’s a requirement.
by Anonymous | reply 71 | September 23, 2019 2:30 AM |
When i went to school in Geneva in 80s nobody locked doors or bicycles but that's all finished now. Amsterdam is still an unlocked bike town? I'm not sure.
by Anonymous | reply 72 | September 23, 2019 2:37 AM |
Anthony Geary shares a look at his life in Amsterdam!
by Anonymous | reply 73 | September 23, 2019 2:41 AM |
[quote]Have the mussies taken over there yet?
Have the male pussies taken over??
Oh, sorry. You're an illiterate racist, my bad.
by Anonymous | reply 74 | September 23, 2019 2:44 AM |
Thanks for that, R73. But where are the rentboys?
by Anonymous | reply 75 | September 23, 2019 2:45 AM |
would love to go once a year. It's got its own excitement, and there are some decadent little gay bars which are kind of fun. but overall, it just has a great vibe as a city.
by Anonymous | reply 76 | September 23, 2019 2:49 AM |
The problem is so many tourists don’t get out of the center near the train station, Dam Square and the Red Light district. It’s like visiting San Francisco and only seeing Union Square. Outside of the center, it’s beautiful. The Jordaan is one of my favorite neighborhoods in the world. And it’s easy to to day trip to other towns like Utrecht and Delft via Central Station. I’m missing it as I type.
by Anonymous | reply 77 | September 23, 2019 2:52 AM |
R77, I’m in love with the de Pijp area. I always go to Albert Cuyp Market.
by Anonymous | reply 78 | September 23, 2019 3:06 AM |
The bicyclists are assholes.
by Anonymous | reply 79 | September 23, 2019 3:08 AM |
And they’re getting worse, R79.
by Anonymous | reply 80 | September 23, 2019 3:08 AM |
I desperately want to go. I used to want to move to holland
by Anonymous | reply 81 | September 23, 2019 3:12 AM |
some of us LIKE the red district thing, r77. Not everyone wants a gorgeous rural vista.
On the other hand, I do love the history of the place. It's weird the combination of uptight dutch puritanism and do your own thing sexuallly that makes Amsterdam so fascinating.
by Anonymous | reply 82 | September 23, 2019 3:17 AM |
The main red light district (De Wallen) will either be phased out or moved to another district over the next few years. I wish I’d visited there back in the 70s and 80s. Now way too many of them look either Eastern European or like trannies.
by Anonymous | reply 83 | September 23, 2019 3:23 AM |
I've spent many evenings just getting on random ferries at the piers behind the Central Train Station and riding them to wherever they take me.
by Anonymous | reply 84 | September 23, 2019 3:30 AM |
R27 Yes, tall, uncut and hugely hung. Dutch cock is some of the biggest and best out there.
by Anonymous | reply 85 | September 23, 2019 4:08 AM |
[quote]I've spent many evenings just getting on random ferries at the piers behind the Central Train Station and riding them to wherever they take me.
I'm glad you're an active bottom, but don't you think it's a big homophobic to be calling your tricks "ferries"?
by Anonymous | reply 86 | September 23, 2019 2:15 PM |
Interestingly in my 25 years of going to Amsterdam, I have never taken one of those ferries. And now I hear the area on the other side of the station a ferry ride across is the hip area. Just seems like such a hassle to have to get back on a ferry after a night out.
I love being able to walk home from Reguliersdwarstraat after a few beers and a joint at The Otherside, stop at NY Pizza or another fast food spot (not FEBO - disgusting) on Leidestraat and roam through the Jordaan to a little canal house apartment. It really is like the perfect little village.
by Anonymous | reply 87 | September 23, 2019 2:57 PM |
We must fly to Amsterdam next month for a root canal. Very expensive the dentist, the air fare and hotel for a poor woman such as ourself But at least we will save the tooth, it is top high tech endontal care.
by Anonymous | reply 88 | September 23, 2019 3:01 PM |
Geez Louise, R88, did you have to bring up dentistry into our lovely conversation? Next thing you’ll bring up your taxes next.
by Anonymous | reply 89 | September 23, 2019 3:31 PM |
income and 'wealth' taxes there are horrendous for residents
by Anonymous | reply 90 | September 23, 2019 3:33 PM |
[quote]It's weird the combination of uptight dutch puritanism and do your own thing sexuallly that makes Amsterdam so fascinating.
All of the Protestant countries are like this, including the US.
by Anonymous | reply 91 | September 23, 2019 3:36 PM |
I enjoyed it very much the first time I visited. I went back a few years later, and realized that once was probably enough. There isn't enough to see and do to warrant more than one visit.
by Anonymous | reply 92 | September 23, 2019 3:43 PM |
R92, I realized that after two visits I ran out of “things to do” but also realized I just love the vibe and the people and that’s brought me back several more times. And I’m going back next week. Here’s one thing I fall back on if the weather’s really bad-I go to the movies. I never go to cinemas here in NYC but I love the ones in Amsterdam like the Tuschinski, Pathe City and the Rialto. The cinemagoers are way more respectful and generally keep their mouths shut during the film.
by Anonymous | reply 93 | September 23, 2019 3:49 PM |
As a regular visitor I agree R92. Which is why I’m confused it become such a tourist Mecca. The canals and architecture - and prostitution and pot - are unique. But it’s not like Paris or Rome in size or scope of tourist activities
Part of the reason I like going back there is the absence of pressure to do touristy things. Just wandering and exploring new neighborhoods or towns - or simply reading a book overlooking the canal - is a perfect vacation for me from NYC. It’s small scale makes it feel like I’m getting away from the intensity of a big city - yet the amenities and gay nightlife provide me all I’m used to from a big city.
by Anonymous | reply 94 | September 23, 2019 3:51 PM |
I wish that sauna near Amsterdam Centraal was less cunty. And the cruising area wasn’t so poorly lit.
by Anonymous | reply 95 | September 23, 2019 3:54 PM |
Haven’t been to a sauna in 10 years. Feel too old - and prefer back rooms where the dick is all that matters. But I remember Thermos was the nice one. Very European - food, drinks, socializing. It was near Leidesplein.
by Anonymous | reply 96 | September 23, 2019 3:59 PM |
Are they a Germanic people? What does the rest of Europe think of the Dutch? I've been to Amsterdam a couple of times. It is a charming place but the people seem intense but at least they're not as humorless as the Swiss.
by Anonymous | reply 97 | September 23, 2019 3:59 PM |
We still refer to Amsterdam as "The land of no sex", because that is what it was for us. It's why we did not stay there, in additia to the horrible winters.
by Anonymous | reply 98 | September 23, 2019 4:01 PM |
[quote]but I love the ones in Amsterdam like the Tuschinski
The Tuschinki theatre is worth a visit for the Art Deco/Jugendstil interior alone
by Anonymous | reply 99 | September 23, 2019 4:03 PM |
It really is gorgeous, R99.
I don’t think Thermos sauna is around anymore.
by Anonymous | reply 100 | September 23, 2019 4:48 PM |
Thermos Sauna closed in 2016. NZ Sauna is the only gay sauna in Amsterdam and it’s thoroughly cunty.
by Anonymous | reply 101 | September 23, 2019 4:50 PM |
How is a sauna cunty?? If u don't have a great bod or big dick you get the stink eye?
by Anonymous | reply 102 | September 23, 2019 7:46 PM |
The Dutch are very brusque. If they are not interested, there is no chit chat - just a no. On the flip side, if they are interested, it’s very efficient and direct sex. But not a romantic people. Which is the way I like my sex.
There is also a sizable Asian group however that is very different and can be stalker-y. As well as Moroccan/North Africa - though seems like there are very few out gay Moroccans - who can be more business oriented
Not sure if Why Not, the gay brothel is still open. But it’s kinda disappointing. No Dutch boys - just Asian and Moroccan and a few Eastern European. The Eastern Europeans used to be more prevalent but I guess they no longer come to Amsterdam for sex work. They just stay in Prague - now that William Higgins and all the other old johns just go directly there.
by Anonymous | reply 103 | September 23, 2019 8:08 PM |
R103 The Germans are very similar.
by Anonymous | reply 104 | September 23, 2019 8:17 PM |
German men are way more sexual and passionate than Dutch men, in my experiences with them.
by Anonymous | reply 105 | September 23, 2019 8:47 PM |
I lived there for almost a year when I was 24. The winter was really tough. I took alot of drugs and had alot of sex. Didn't love the Dutch really but I think I was so messed up that I didn't really get ino it in the right way. Too much sex with strangers and bad friends.
by Anonymous | reply 106 | September 23, 2019 8:56 PM |
Ask me anything!
by Anonymous | reply 107 | September 23, 2019 9:02 PM |
And yes, the Dutch are infamously direct. We never mean it bad, though. I think it has to do with our history of mercenaries. What you see is what you get, no means no.
We don't mean any harm by being so direct. We just don't beat around the bush, you'll always know exactly where you stand with a Dutchman.
by Anonymous | reply 108 | September 23, 2019 9:04 PM |
R108 If you could live anywhere in the Netherlands where would it be?
by Anonymous | reply 109 | September 23, 2019 9:10 PM |
I’m not R108 but I’d love to retire to Haarlem. It’s a smaller version of Amsterdam with 90% less tourists. I don’t care about the crappy weather. I’d definitely have a skylight so I could hear the rain lashing down. At my airbnb there it’s one of my favorite things.
by Anonymous | reply 110 | September 23, 2019 10:00 PM |
I fantasize about living in Texel - an island off the north coast. But realistically too remote for more than a month.
by Anonymous | reply 111 | September 24, 2019 12:45 AM |
R109 - I would pick Maastricht. Beautiful old city, very liveable.
Amsterdam isn’t what it used to be anymore. We sold ourselves out to cheap mass tourism.
by Anonymous | reply 112 | September 24, 2019 4:39 AM |
I taught 8th grade there for 10 months, and let me tell you the native kids do not like immigrant people of any creed or color (but they especially dislike Easterners). They’re vocal & proud about their intolerance, too. The culture there is very different to other places in Europe & the West in that regard.
The young kids there also have impeccably fluent English (mostly gleaned from YouTube/Tumblr etc. and I dubbed movies/tv on Netflix rather than lessons in school) and high intelligence across the board.
by Anonymous | reply 114 | September 24, 2019 10:14 AM |
They should be deservedly proud of their country. But more so than the UK, they were overwhelmed with immigrants early on.
by Anonymous | reply 115 | September 24, 2019 12:52 PM |
4 Things to Expect When you Visit Amsterdam.
From a gay American expat.
by Anonymous | reply 116 | September 24, 2019 1:13 PM |
Dear God r116.
by Anonymous | reply 117 | September 24, 2019 1:40 PM |
R117 right? I couldn’t even make it through the first minute.
by Anonymous | reply 118 | September 24, 2019 1:59 PM |
Is Life Easier in NYC or Amsterdam?
The girl is on point!
by Anonymous | reply 119 | September 24, 2019 2:22 PM |
R119 .. Amazing that he such a world traveler and he still talks ghetto.. 3 times he said. ‘ What Imma go ahead a do is’
by Anonymous | reply 120 | September 24, 2019 2:38 PM |
Joey can be amusing at times but he’s way too over the top a lot of the time. His Dutch bf seems nice.
by Anonymous | reply 121 | September 24, 2019 6:57 PM |
Amsterdam is incredibly easy. They could use more corner delis/convenience stores - but very walkable everywhere. And a few Albert Heijns which serve as a mini-grocer/convenience store. Also not 24 hour like NY - but that contributes to the slower pace of life. Lots of take out food and delivery.
by Anonymous | reply 122 | September 24, 2019 8:00 PM |
Interesting that a city with more fast food places in a concentrated area as I’ll ever see in my life still doesn’t have a 5 Guys or Shake Shack.
by Anonymous | reply 123 | September 24, 2019 8:14 PM |
Hipsters, expats, tourists and yuppies have ruined Amsterdam. Real ‘amsterdammers’ life on the edge of the city. They can’t afford the houses in the neighbourhoods that most tourists associate with the city, unless they’re lucky enough to have scored social housing there.
by Anonymous | reply 124 | September 24, 2019 8:40 PM |
R123 we‘re not that big on American fast food - try a Kroket or Bitterball next time you visit!
by Anonymous | reply 125 | September 24, 2019 8:50 PM |
I have, Dutchie! And a frikandel from FEBO. Not a fan. But, damn, I do like those chicken hot dogs with bacon, chopped onions and curry sauce in Dam Square. And I dream of those burgers at Burger Bar. And those fries from Pietersma Snacks in Albert Cuyp Market.
by Anonymous | reply 126 | September 24, 2019 9:25 PM |
You, good sir, are a true connoisseur.
by Anonymous | reply 127 | September 24, 2019 9:58 PM |
LOL, Dutchie. I’m back there next week (I live in NYC). First stop-Dam Square! And then off to Albert Cuyp Market, where I also enjoy the kippen broodjes.
by Anonymous | reply 128 | September 24, 2019 10:13 PM |
You guys are making me hungry!
by Anonymous | reply 129 | September 25, 2019 5:49 AM |
We recall a hot young Dutch truly magnificent uncut sizemeat that was actually the size of our arm, he was a fish-fucker who wanted to try something different. This was in 1996
And the most incredible thing was...he paid us!
The only bad part was that he would not pork us 'natural' but demanded a rubber, so we harvested his load orally instead!
by Anonymous | reply 130 | September 25, 2019 9:02 AM |
I lived there as a 24 year old and was a total slut. Saunas mainly. It was sex and drugs for me. I use to go to a gym there and the sauna was always fall of gay men wanking each other off. I had sex with the gym instructor in the showers too. It was fun.
by Anonymous | reply 131 | September 25, 2019 9:58 AM |
Not one gay sauna in Haarlem, just one pathetic gay bar. Unbelievable.
But back to Amsterdam-has anyone been to the Rijksmuseum to check out the ongoing restoration of Rembrandt’s Night Watch?
by Anonymous | reply 132 | September 25, 2019 12:08 PM |
Yes I was there last summer. It's pretty spectacular. I love the Dutch masters.
by Anonymous | reply 133 | September 25, 2019 2:12 PM |
Dutchie, do you know if the absoluteky adorable stroopwafel guy at Albert Cuyp Market enjoys the homosex? He’s so frigging charming.
by Anonymous | reply 134 | September 25, 2019 8:43 PM |
Amsterdam sounds like more effort than its worth.
Perhaps it was a place to be in 1990 when the world was much more uptight and mass tourism wasn't a thing.
By all accounts, the people, the weather, and the food are cold and uninspiring.
Big dicks alone won't make up for that, unless you are a size queen.
by Anonymous | reply 136 | September 26, 2019 7:56 PM |
Yes, R135. I’m in love. He’s so damn cute.
by Anonymous | reply 137 | September 26, 2019 8:05 PM |
You’re right R136 - Adam was more of the place in the 90s. Legal pot, backroom sex, leather - and very cutting-edge tech for the time (Internet, etc) . Now the US has legal pot, the leather scene has died - and the main issue, it’s overtouristed. I still like it but prefer the smaller towns for a real Dutch vibe. But def worth seeing - the canals and 17th century canal houses are beautiful.
by Anonymous | reply 138 | September 26, 2019 9:12 PM |
Crossing Prinsengracht (Prince’s Canal) always gives me a lovely feeling whenever I visit.
by Anonymous | reply 139 | September 26, 2019 9:25 PM |
For those looking for insider tips.. I put a little list together for you.
Areas to visit: - Oud-Zuid: Beautiful museums (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh, Stedelijk) and a wonderful park in English style (Vondelpark). Excellent restaurants. Pricey. One of Amsterdam’s snobbiest neighbourhood. Worth it. - Plantagebuurt: Elegant neighbourhood, and certainly recommended for a nice stroll. - Utrechtsestraat: Leisurely shopping streets that crosses all of the channels - Prinsengracht: In my opinion the most pedestrian canal. Certainly not as chique as the Herengracht, let alone the Keizersgracht. But, much more alive. - Amstelhotel: Worldfamous hotel on the river Amstel, truly fit for a King. Pricey, but stunning. Reservations are a must.
Areas to avoid: - Damrak. Trashy. Crowded. Yuck! Amsterdammers avoid this stretch like the plague. - Nieuwendijk: Cheap shops. Nothing special. - De Wallen: Collective name for a district of canals. While the smaller canals and 17th century houses are beautiful, the British drunks flown in from Manchester are not.
Only go during weekdays: - De Dam: Also called Damsquare, this crowded square is home to the Royal Palace and the impressive Nieuwe Kerk (church). This is where Dutch monarchs abdicate and get sworn in. Never go here on a Saturday. - Nieuwmarkt: Beautiful old castle-like structure dating back to the 16th century. Chinese neighbourhood around the corner. Great food. Best days are Tuesday and Wednesday.
And finally, some words of wisdom: - The Dutch are very direct but mostly cordial. You’ll never hear someone say “No, so sorry we ran out of apple juice. But maybe try...” - we’ll just answer with a curt “No”. It’s a cultural thing, take no offence and enjoy the fact that you know exactly where you’re standing! - We all speak fluent English, as we don’t overdub British/American movies. A couple of Dutch words will go a long way to charm a Dutchman! - The country is called The Netherlands, and it’s a kingdom comprised of four countries, the other countries are islands situated in the Caribbean. Don’t call it Holland, we may get offended - even though you’ll find tour operators advertising our country as Holland. - Self-confidence is something we take pride in, and the Dutch aren’t shy. Again, being direct is key - but direct does not equal rude. - Amsterdam is a pretty safe city, observe the normal precautions you would follow in any city. - The sidewalks are narrow, the bikes are coming from all directions and you may be surprised to suddenly find a tram breathing down your neck. Watch where you’re going! - Amsterdam is an expensive city. - Haarlem and Utrecht are only a 30 minute train ride away. Lovely cities for a day trip, both very Dutch and less hectic than Amsterdam.
Have fun!
by Anonymous | reply 140 | September 28, 2019 7:42 AM |
Ok, this time WITH formatting.. hopefully.
—————-
For those looking for insider tips.. I put a little list together for you.
Areas to visit:
- Oud-Zuid: Beautiful museums (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh, Stedelijk) and a wonderful park in English style (Vondelpark). Excellent restaurants. Pricey. One of Amsterdam’s snobbiest neighbourhood. Worth it.
- Plantagebuurt: Elegant neighbourhood, and certainly recommended for a nice stroll.
- Utrechtsestraat: Leisurely shopping streets that crosses all of the channels
- Prinsengracht: In my opinion the most pedestrian canal. Certainly not as chique as the Herengracht, let alone the Keizersgracht. But, much more alive.
- Amstelhotel: Worldfamous hotel on the river Amstel, truly fit for a King. Pricey, but stunning. Reservations are a must.
Areas to avoid:
- Damrak. Trashy. Crowded. Yuck! Amsterdammers avoid this stretch like the plague.
- Nieuwendijk: Cheap shops. Nothing special.
- De Wallen: Collective name for a district of canals. While the smaller canals and 17th century houses are beautiful, the British drunks flown in from Manchester are not.
Only go during weekdays:
- De Dam: Also called Damsquare, this crowded square is home to the Royal Palace and the impressive Nieuwe Kerk (church). This is where Dutch monarchs abdicate and get sworn in. Never go here on a Saturday.
- Nieuwmarkt: Beautiful old castle-like structure dating back to the 16th century. Chinese neighbourhood around the corner. Great food. Best days are Tuesday and Wednesday.
And finally, some words of wisdom:
- The Dutch are very direct but mostly cordial. You’ll never hear someone say “No, so sorry we ran out of apple juice. But maybe try...” - we’ll just answer with a curt “No”. It’s a cultural thing, take no offence and enjoy the fact that you know exactly where you’re standing!
- We all speak fluent English, as we don’t overdub British/American movies. A couple of Dutch words will go a long way to charm a Dutchman!
- The country is called The Netherlands, and it’s a kingdom comprised of four countries, the other countries are islands situated in the Caribbean. Don’t call it Holland, we may get offended - even though you’ll find tour operators advertising our country as Holland.
- Self-confidence is something we take pride in, and the Dutch aren’t shy. Again, being direct is key - but direct does not equal rude.
- Amsterdam is a pretty safe city, observe the normal precautions you would follow in any city.
- The sidewalks are narrow, the bikes are coming from all directions and you may be surprised to suddenly find a tram breathing down your neck. Watch where you’re going!
- Amsterdam is an expensive city.
- Haarlem and Utrecht are only a 30 minute train ride away. Lovely cities for a day trip, both very Dutch and less hectic than Amsterdam.
Have fun!
by Anonymous | reply 141 | September 28, 2019 8:06 AM |
Oh, I forgot.. Dating!
- We are very openminded when it comes to sex without strings attached. Use common sense, play safe, avoid darkrooms. Just hook up through Grindr.
- The Dutch men are tall, 6.2 on average. We’re usually not too thicc or muscly.
- Yes, there is a good chance your Dutch date will be hung. And rarely cut, as circumcision is more and more (since the 1980’s) considered a violation of a child’s sovereignty.
- Going on a romantic date with a Dutchman means a lot of questions. It’s not an interrogation, he’s just trying to get to know you!
- Be prepared to split the bill. Indeed, to go Dutch. Even when you insist to pay for both, your dreamy Dutchie won’t go for it.
- Avoid having a strong opinion about our politics or the monarchy. Especially when you’re an American, this is a surefire way to disqualify yourself.
- Be prepared to talk about Trump. I know, it’s not fair that we get to talk about your politics, but.. 🤷🏼♂️
- Most men are not blond, it’s a mixed bag. Go to Sweden if blonds are a thing for you. Says the blond Dutchie!
- You’ll find an exotic mix of flavours in Amsterdam! From the Caribbean to Suriname, from Indonesia to Middle-Eastern, from African to Chinese. This applies to both the cuisines and Amsterdam’s inhabitants!
by Anonymous | reply 142 | September 28, 2019 8:06 AM |
R142 You are so freaking awesome for posting this!
by Anonymous | reply 143 | September 28, 2019 8:10 AM |
You are correct Mary r136.
The period 1988-2001 was truly the Golden Age in Amsterdam, we have so many wonderful memories of dear friends, generou$ gentlemen, good food, magnificent and massive uncut sizemeats, fun times at the Tubs, travel to other cities.countries from Central Statia, etc.
That is long gone and Amsterdam has been over for us for years now.
by Anonymous | reply 144 | September 28, 2019 8:11 AM |
Perhaps some of the uncontaminated (by mass tourism and political correctness, etc) areas of eastern europe need to be explored.
Turkey also.
by Anonymous | reply 145 | September 28, 2019 8:38 AM |
There are many more cities in the Netherlands to explore… that are not full of tourists.
by Anonymous | reply 146 | September 28, 2019 9:03 AM |
[quote]Avoid having a strong opinion about our politics or the monarchy. Especially when you’re an American, this is a surefire way to disqualify yourself.
I'm half Dutch and half American (and currently a resident of Ireland) and I disagree. Even if you're from the US, if you appear well-informed and reasonably educated and thoughtful, you can absolutely express criticism of the Dutch political class, especially if you actually live in the Netherlands and provided the Dutch person you're speaking to is comparatively open-minded, open to discussion and interested in intelligent opinion. There is plenty to condemn about the likes of Thierry Baudet and Geert Wilders and their ilk, after all. Are people that insecure in your experience that they can barely tolerate criticism?
by Anonymous | reply 147 | September 28, 2019 12:01 PM |
Different folks, different strokes R147. To be fair, it’s best to avoid talking about local politics in any country you visit.
by Anonymous | reply 148 | September 28, 2019 12:11 PM |
T’is wel een soort van sprookjesdorpje
by Anonymous | reply 149 | September 28, 2019 12:15 PM |
The volkoren bread from the Amsterdam bakeries, and from Albert Heihn and Dirk van de Broek, is the best in the world.
by Anonymous | reply 150 | September 28, 2019 1:03 PM |
How's it coming with the plan to get all those houseboats to finally stop discharging their sewage directly into the canals?
by Anonymous | reply 151 | September 28, 2019 1:56 PM |
Two additions to Dutchie´s [142] great list: - the area roughly between the Rozengracht, Lijnbaansgracht, Leidsestraat and Singel is filled with lots of interesting shops. Locally known as the ‘Negen Straatjes´; nine streets. - luxury shopping for the big spenders can be done in the P.C.Hooftstraat. Located near the Leidseplein, basically between the Rijksmuseum and the Vondelpark.
And though our city is overcrowded, some talk of a deluge of tourists; Dutch are friendly, and direct. The squeemish tend to interpret this as rude.
by Anonymous | reply 152 | September 28, 2019 3:20 PM |
Well done. r141 / R142. I would emphasize the Jordaan though. It’s the nicest area in Adam in my opinion and uniquely Dutch. Also convenient to walk to everything.
It’s interesting to see the gay bars sprout in Zeedijk. I love the Queens Head. I miss Cockring and Argos in OZ Voorburgwal- such great, uniquely Dutch places with atmosphere. Reguliersdwarstraat seems to be dying slowly. When Soho opened and April closed, it was never the same. At least the Otherside is still there. But still the gay center I guess.
by Anonymous | reply 153 | September 28, 2019 3:51 PM |
R144 Deary The Moselms there have extremely clean assholes. The Dutch not so much. They are fabulously hung though.
by Anonymous | reply 154 | September 28, 2019 5:04 PM |
It’s worth mentioning that, unlike our German and French brothers, we have nothing against showering at least once a day and wearing clean clothes finished off with a good spray of deodorant.
by Anonymous | reply 155 | September 29, 2019 6:08 AM |
That's not what we discovered to our horror one day in that darkroon above the pron shop at the Muntplein.
We were on our knees in happy anticipatia of swallowing a delicious load as the jeans were being opened and the large uncut Dutch sizemeat was released when, suddenly, we saw/smelled RIPE CHEESE and quickly fled!
by Anonymous | reply 156 | September 29, 2019 8:07 AM |
R147 so, would you say discussing American politics and Trump is fair game too?
by Anonymous | reply 157 | September 29, 2019 12:47 PM |
Erna, I am waiting for the day that you're actually funny. Just for once.
by Anonymous | reply 158 | September 29, 2019 12:48 PM |
Dutchie, I’ve been reluctant to try hutspot. Is it good?
by Anonymous | reply 159 | September 29, 2019 12:50 PM |
We were not trying to be funny, Miss Dutchie.
We were merely reporting an unfortunate experience.
by Anonymous | reply 160 | September 29, 2019 1:23 PM |
R159 — It's nothing special. Mashed potatoes, carrots and other vegetables, pork sausage. Perfect food for after a long walk on an autumn day. Hearty, filling.
by Anonymous | reply 161 | September 29, 2019 2:17 PM |
We recall many happy meals at Hap Hmm with our Amsterdam AA friends!
by Anonymous | reply 162 | September 29, 2019 2:26 PM |
liar
by Anonymous | reply 163 | September 29, 2019 2:43 PM |
There is a talk cute Dutchie in the NY Times travel section today. His company makes all those great colorful signs we see at Airports.
by Anonymous | reply 164 | September 29, 2019 3:17 PM |
Tall^^
by Anonymous | reply 165 | September 29, 2019 3:17 PM |
[quote]You’ll find an exotic mix of flavours in Amsterdam! From the Caribbean to Suriname, from Indonesia to Middle-Eastern, from African to Chinese. This applies to both the cuisines and Amsterdam’s inhabitants!
Sounds banal.
I'll take one of the smaller cities. If I go to the Netherlands I'd prefer to enjoy Dutch culture.
by Anonymous | reply 166 | September 29, 2019 3:29 PM |
banal??
by Anonymous | reply 167 | September 29, 2019 5:11 PM |
“You’ll find an exotic mix of flavours in Amsterdam! From the Caribbean to Suriname, from Indonesia to Middle-Eastern, from African to Chinese. This applies to both the cuisines and Amsterdam’s inhabitants!”
This IS Dutch culture, [166]. And if you can’t stomach that, or condescendingly find that banal, we’d rather you stayed away.
by Anonymous | reply 168 | September 29, 2019 5:25 PM |
I bet R166 is a Brit who hasn't had his first pint of the day.
by Anonymous | reply 169 | September 29, 2019 5:51 PM |
[quote]This IS Dutch culture, [166]. And if you can’t stomach that, or condescendingly find that banal, we’d rather you stayed away.
Multicultural hodge-podges are all over the place. Distinct Dutch culture isn't.
[quote] Haarlem and Utrecht are only a 30 minute train ride away. Lovely cities for a day trip, both very Dutch
I'll take "very Dutch"
by Anonymous | reply 170 | September 29, 2019 6:09 PM |
[quote]I still like it but prefer the smaller towns for a real Dutch vibe.
What do you mean by "a real Dutch vibe" ? "
by Anonymous | reply 171 | September 29, 2019 6:12 PM |
He must mean actual Dutch people.
by Anonymous | reply 172 | September 29, 2019 6:54 PM |
Dutchie, is there anywhere besides Drake’s (video parlor) and NZ (sauna) where one can partake in some freewheeling homosex?
by Anonymous | reply 173 | September 29, 2019 6:55 PM |
Lots of whores - and horses
by Anonymous | reply 174 | September 29, 2019 7:28 PM |
[quote]He must mean actual Dutch people.
Exactly.
It's no different than what I wrote at R166
by Anonymous | reply 175 | September 29, 2019 7:35 PM |
R173 - the Web and Cuckoos Nest are fun, if less busy than they used to be. Amsterdam used to have the best backrooms in the world in the 90s. Now it’s Berlin.
by Anonymous | reply 176 | September 29, 2019 7:50 PM |
The women in Amsterdam have bigger feet than I do, and I’m a men’s size 12 US.
by Anonymous | reply 177 | September 29, 2019 7:55 PM |
In my day everyone was in business, including me: The making of pictures from prophets and profits from pictures, you might say. I trained many artists in my studios. I even once had a small monkey named Franz who I taught to paint a bit. Was this what angered God so?
by Anonymous | reply 178 | September 29, 2019 8:22 PM |
What's the pollution situation like? There's an assumption that the air and water in the Netherlands are cleaner than in the US. Is it true?
by Anonymous | reply 179 | September 29, 2019 8:47 PM |
This guy thinks doing a few sentences means speaking a languages.
by Anonymous | reply 180 | September 29, 2019 10:24 PM |
R173: You could try ‘Church’, a nice little bar with a darkroom in the upper floor. I used to hang out there, but never visited the darkroom (not my cup of tea).
R179: Not much pollution, but bear in mind it’s still a city. Nowhere near the levels of pollution one encounters in London and Paris.
by Anonymous | reply 181 | September 30, 2019 6:12 AM |
We have enjoyed more and better quality 9 inch plus uncut sizemeat in Paris than in Amsterdam!
by Anonymous | reply 182 | September 30, 2019 7:24 AM |
I’ve never had good sex in Paris. Amsterdam always. I stay in Amsterdam and take a quick train ride to Paris for a night or two to see some pretty stuff. But no desire to spend time there - horrible nightlife and a hassle of a city.
by Anonymous | reply 183 | September 30, 2019 3:02 PM |
Are the Dutch all giants, and champion speed skaters and tulip growers?
by Anonymous | reply 184 | September 30, 2019 3:12 PM |
Yes and they all wear wooden shoes and put their fingers in dykes -- even the gay ones!
by Anonymous | reply 185 | September 30, 2019 3:13 PM |
I like the Amsterdam Dutch and the Rotterdam Dutch and all the other damn Dutch.
by Anonymous | reply 186 | September 30, 2019 3:23 PM |
Rotterdam is turning into the third world.
by Anonymous | reply 187 | September 30, 2019 3:40 PM |
My neighbors from the Netherlands once gave me some Double Zout, a salty licorice "candy." Don't ever put it in your mouth; it is awful.
by Anonymous | reply 188 | September 30, 2019 4:12 PM |
I love the apfelbollen in Den Haag. That isn’t a double entendre.
by Anonymous | reply 190 | September 30, 2019 4:52 PM |
R189: It was a pristine experience up until 10 years ago. And then it got published in a Japanese newspaper...
by Anonymous | reply 191 | September 30, 2019 6:23 PM |
So besides the (apparently close to extinct) tall, average looking, but hung natives—-no other redeeming factor to Amsterdam.
The Loud Brit trash on Holiday and Muzzies can have it.
Some of you all are aging yourself in this thread.
by Anonymous | reply 192 | September 30, 2019 9:24 PM |
R189, I went last year. It was a beautiful day. And it was the scene of the only unpleasant situation I’ve ever had with somebody-it was a French cunt who tried to jump the line for the bus from the train station.
by Anonymous | reply 193 | September 30, 2019 9:31 PM |
Hah, of course I need to clarify it was the only unpleasant situation I’ve had while in the Netherlands. And that was my third visit.
by Anonymous | reply 194 | September 30, 2019 9:32 PM |
Just go to Barcelona.
The locals are just as nasty and unwelcoming of tourists but at least the weather and city are more attractive.
Not to mention lots of horny tourists looking to indulge so the cunty locals are at least used to fly by night slutty adventures.
by Anonymous | reply 195 | September 30, 2019 9:35 PM |
I'm going there this week for 4 nights. I've never been there before. I figured I'd just take the hop on hop off bus but I am not sure where they match up to other people's suggestions. I mapped a few of those locations out, roughly, but I'll probably just figure it out when I am there. A lot of people in this thread seem to have negative opinions on Amsterdam & I wonder ifI am spending way too much on a hotel for a city that seems to be described as average here. The hotels were universally very expensive - basically London prices.
Here are some things I picked to do, having no clue about the city at all but knowing I like food tours and was curious about the red light district (and have done a lot of sandemans tours)...and reading the reviews online. I'm going to a few other cities in Europe after this... but this one is more expensive than most of the others as far as hotels go.
- Taste of Amsterdam at Twilight - Meeting location: At the corner of Ten Katestraat and Jan Hanzenstraat (not sure what neighborhood this is...Dutchie?)
- Sandemans Red Light District Tour - 2 hrs. Meets @ National Monument on the Dam Square
- Tour to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken (outside Amsterdam - full day)
- Van Gogh Museum Ticket (was advised to buy in advance)
The hop on hop off bus is actually a boat... and I guess I'll just take one trip through it all and go back for whatever looked interesting. Nothing really seems "central" there. When I asked my hotel about going to different places, they answer "it's just a short 30 minute walk" and the hotel is in Utrechtsestraat.
by Anonymous | reply 196 | October 15, 2019 11:22 PM |
Last time I was there was over 20 years ago. I found it a gloomy bore. Hopefully Amsterdam has gotten more interesting
by Anonymous | reply 197 | October 15, 2019 11:43 PM |
The sandeman's tour is fab! Enjoy!
by Anonymous | reply 198 | October 15, 2019 11:54 PM |
Ah r196, it's too bad you're not going in November, when they have their Festival of Lights- we took a canal dinner tour and it was really fabulous:
by Anonymous | reply 199 | October 16, 2019 3:10 PM |
Don’t believe the negative Nellys. Amsterdam is a fabulous unique city. I much prefer it to London.
Personally I find tours to be annoying. Amsterdam is a small city that is fun to just walk around. Just follow some of the main canals - Keizersgracht, Herengracht, Prinsengracht - which will take you around city. You are The best neighborhood to stroll is the Jordaan - basically between the Heren and Prinsen with some additional streets west (?) of Prinsen like Lauriergracht and Bloemengracht.
You are kind of on the eastern edge of the core city - not horrible and you can walk to the Reguliersdwrtstaat which is the gay strip. Though some gay bars have sprouted elsewhere like Queens Head - nice bar close to the Central Station with a little nook overlooking the canal. The Web and Cuckoos Nest are in a different location and are the sex cruise bars.
Not sure I would spend your limited time outside the center. It’s much less interesting architecturally - postwar, few canals. If anything, a quick day trip to another city like Utrecht or Delft is very easy. Transportation is great, trams all end up at Central Station and juts hop a train to another town.
Maybe a little damp and cold - but a great time to avoid the tourist insanity of prime season.
by Anonymous | reply 200 | October 16, 2019 4:28 PM |
Thanks R200. I have liked it here so far. Not to sound like a frau, but it's a very charming city (appearance wise). The way that it's built with all the row houses and canals is something you don't really see anywhere else. It's nice at night too. It's only day 1 & I had good weather - so we'll see if the honeymoon phase wears off.
The negatives so far are things that many European cities tend to do... $4 for a tiny tiny glass of water at a restaurant, of course not told to you before you order it (and meanwhile the entree is like $15 - but they get you on the water). I did a tour on a boat that was boasting all these "authentic Dutch" foods - and it was cheese & crackers that was less appetizing than what Whole Foods used to put out on Sundays. We each had 2 krentenbollen - so I guess that's why they're charging $60.
I agree with the comments about the bikes - they are everywhere and more obtrusive than Copenhagen. They come up on you like a swarm of flies. It's kind of hard to realize you're in a bike lane every time...they are everywhere. You can cross the street from a normal sidewalk into a bike lane, for example. I see what the posters are talking about. I just have to get used to it.
I can't decide if I want to see the Anne Frank house or not - I saw it from the outside on the canal tour. It's not available other than same-day now. It's gonna rain tomorrow so I don't know what I'm doing during the day now.
by Anonymous | reply 201 | October 17, 2019 8:28 PM |
Have fun, R201. See my post at R142 if you want some fresh ideas.
by Anonymous | reply 202 | October 17, 2019 9:10 PM |
Anne Frank house is overrated and crowded. Go to a museum.
The bikes - and trams - are an issue. A little chaotic. It would be lawsuit heaven in the US. Just have to always be alert - especially if stoned or drunk. Part of the excitement of the city. And the side streets aren’t as bad - like in the Jordaan.
Dutch food is a waste. Amsterdam has great Indian, Indonesian, Argentinian, Asian food. In 30 years of going, I’ve stopped eating “Dutch” food - except fries with mayo after a night out. And maybe a stroopwafel with coffee.
by Anonymous | reply 203 | October 18, 2019 1:46 AM |
FYI - Bikes have the right of way in Amsterdam legally. If a bike hits you, he gets to sue you if his bike gets scratched.
by Anonymous | reply 204 | October 18, 2019 1:50 AM |
[quote]Anne Frank house is overrated
This is one of the dumbest things I have ever read, on DL or elsewhere. The Anne Frank House serves as a constant reminder that we must learn from the past and of the tragedy of war; why we must not forget. It is not there for your entertainment.
by Anonymous | reply 205 | October 18, 2019 8:40 AM |
My hotel was able to get me Anne Frank tickets for 1:30 specifically & so I had to plan my day around that to some extent. It was a well designed museum (after over the years) - except a couple glitches with the audio device. They gave just the right amount of info & in the right places - spaced out well & somehow managed to get thousands of people through. The house gets VERY crowded, even though they do try to streamline the people into a semi-queue type of thing...reminded me of the crown jewel cattle herding into a line. The house made me kind of claustrophobic with the small size and 15+ people in each room. I didn't realize it was impossible to get tickets if you don't do it months in advance or same-day only.
The red light tour was not bad...very crowded in there & they are banning tours soon cuz the locals can't stand them. Really nice guide though. I'm curious about Albert Cuypmarkt or Foodhallen maybe tomorrow.
I tried to be one of those people who could just wander around the 9 streets or Jordaan - they are very scenic & I did walk through them for a while, but I seem to be getting lost a lot here.
by Anonymous | reply 206 | October 18, 2019 6:39 PM |
Albert Cuyp Market and the Foodhallen are fabulous. At the Albert Cuyp Market please blow a kiss to the stroopwaffel stand guy for me, please?
by Anonymous | reply 207 | October 19, 2019 12:10 PM |
One of my favorite cities, scenic, walkable and friendly, I also love Barcelona for the same reasons.
by Anonymous | reply 208 | October 19, 2019 12:17 PM |