Amsterdam Journals

Weekends in Amsterdam

A November 2004 trip to Amsterdam by backstage_diva

New Friends Photo - The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Quote: I have been to Amsterdam a few times, but during my last two trips, I really got to explore the city and see what it has to offer. One trip was alone, and the other was with a friend.

2 Photos

The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel

Hotel

Quote:

The first time I stayed there, I was in a room of six, and the second time it was four. The bunk beds are nice, sturdy, and have locks underneath them. Each room is different, especially depending on how many beds there are. The showers and toilet are in the room, with additional ones downstairs. I found it quiet, even when roomates came in at 4am. The lobby is the best area! There is a nook in front of their huge windows. In there, there are many pillows and a table. I spent much time sitting there, reading and talking to random people. There are also two or three computers, a pool table, and a full-service bar. On the weekends, they often have a DJ. The front desk/bar staff are great. They were so f...Read More

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on April 20, 2005

The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel
Nieuwendijk 100
Amsterdam, Netherlands
+31 (0)20 420 68 22

Cheer!
Flag

Febo

Restaurant

Quote:

These things are great! They are scattered about town and open most hours of the day/night. It's just a little store front open to the sidewalk that has vending-machine foods often found in hospitals. It's self-service. They usually have chicken sandwiches, hamburgers, fries, fruit, and pastries. They are great for a cheap eat on the run.

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on April 21, 2005

Febo
Damrak 6
Amsterdam, Netherlands
(020) 638-5138

Cheer!
Flag

Fries and Mayo

Restaurant | "Fries and Mayo To Go! "

Quote:

There is a great chip stand just outside the train station. The vendors are very friendly and willing to talk, though they look at you funny when you ask for no mayo or ketchup. They are super cheap, and you get plenty. Perfect for cheap drunk food or a quick snack.

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on April 21, 2005

Fries and Mayo
Throughout Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cheer!
Flag

The Bulldog

Attraction

Quote:

This may be a hostel, but I couldn't tell. It was dead, plus hard to find. The people working were decent, and some were just rude. The only fun thing about the atmosphere is when you are sitting upstairs near a window and can see the hookers. I have been to much better coffee shops, but the prices here are pretty good. I did not stay long, as I did not feel welcome here as I have in other places.

Member Rating 1 out of 5 on April 20, 2005

The Bulldog
Leidseplein 15
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cheer!
Flag

Heineken Brewery

Attraction | "Heineken Experience"

Quote:

Best thing ever! I went on this tour almost every day! Not only do you get some 'free' drinks and a glass in a tin can, but if you are nice, you usually get more! I have met some of the nicest people while on this tour, and we ended up spending the whole weekend together.

The best parts are the rides that go with the history. There is a horse-and-carriage simulator and a bottle-filling simulator. You can also sit in uber-comfortable chairs and watch commercials from the past, which is funner than it sounds!

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on April 20, 2005

Heineken Brewery
Stadhouderskade 78
Amsterdam, Netherlands 1075 AE
+31 (0)20 523 92 22

Cheer!
Flag

Van Gogh Museum

Attraction

Quote:

This is a smaller European museum, but it has recently been expanded, so it is very pretty. They have a nice collection of art in addition to a library, park area, audio, and video objects as supplements. They have handheld audio tours available as well. I found admission and the tour a little expensive. Overall, this is a great museum if you like art.

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on April 21, 2005

Van Gogh Museum
Paulus Potterstraat 7
Amsterdam, Netherlands 1071 CX
+31 (20) 570 52 00

Cheer!
Flag

Madame Tussaud

Attraction

Quote:

I love these museums! This one is much like the others, with many levels and areas. All the figures look very realistic. When you first enter, a professional takes your photo and you get it for free! On the top level, there is a wonderful view of Dam Square. The lines are kinda long, so come early or be prepared to wait.

Member Rating 3 out of 5 on April 21, 2005

Madame Tussaud
Dam 20
Amsterdam, Netherlands 1012 NP
+31 20 522 10 10

Cheer!
Flag

Sex Museum Amsterdam

Attraction | "Sex Museum"

Quote:

What can I say, it's about sex. It's very cheesy but fun. I have been here a few times just for the laughs. They have all types of sex things, ranging from current-day devices to Victorian porn to porn cakes. There is all sorts of stuff here. You have to see it to believe it. It is not for the faint of heart, as some things are very unusual or involve animals. It's better to go with a group of outgoing people.

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on April 21, 2005

Sex Museum Amsterdam
Damrak 18
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cheer!
Flag

Grasshopper 2

Attraction

Quote:

This is one of the most famous coffee shops in Amsterdam. There are two locations. If I remember correctly, the second one has somewhat outdoor seating, and the first one you can see from the train station. You cannot really miss their lighting.

I went to the original one for my first coffee shop experience alone. They were somewhat rude in showing me what to do, and I'm sure they said "dumb tourist." The goods are a little pricy, but worth it. Make sure to take a coaster--they're kinda fun.

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on April 22, 2005

Grasshopper 2
Oudebrugsteeg 16
Amsterdam, Netherlands