Sep 26 2010
Enjoy Award-Winning Waterways When You Book Flights To Amsterdam This Summer
The curved canals of Amsterdam are a key part of the city’s charm and have been attracting plenty of attention recently as the central 17th-century canal belt was awarded UNESCO heritage status. This prestigious recognition came at the ideal time – just weeks before the annual Canal Festival began on the 14th August. But regardless of the award or the festival, now is the time of year when Amsterdammers flock to the water’s edge to dine, dance and relax in the sunshine. Book flights to Amsterdam and join them in embracing life by the water.
Canalside Cuisine
Some canal scenes are all about lingering – over a leisurely meal, for example. You can tantalise your taste buds with some outstanding French fare at De Belhamel as you dine on their terrace. The food is only half the appeal, however. From this privileged spot at a T-shaped intersection you’ll be able to see boats passing by the three directions. Or for some of the most sought-after seats in town, why not head to Spanjer en van Twist for some coffee and cake. You’ll find yourself seated roughly a metre from the water. Sip a coffee, savour an apple cake and ponder the boats bobbing past on the Leliegracht.
Party on the Sand
For some Ibiza-style partying on the sand, book a flight to Amsterdam and head straight to a city beach bar, where you can relax in the sun by day and party away with the locals at night. Dig your toes in the sand and groove to tunes at Blijburg in the city’s IJburg suburb. Or enjoy a cocktail under the palm trees at Strand West – a convenient short trip from the central train station.
Travel on the Canal Buses
You probably had one image in your head on your way to Amsterdam: You, relaxed, floating on a boat with the sun on your face. Onboard the Canal Bus, actually a fleet of glass- and open-topped boats, you can cruise on vessels throughout the city’s capillary network of canals. Bonus: hop-on and hop-off as you please.
Get on Your Canal Bike
Explore the canals yourself at water level in a pedal-powered canal bike. You can splash around in the four-seater at your own pace and tool around the canal belt poking under bridges. Just steer clear of the bigger boats and you’ll be fine! And don’t forget, of course, that getting a little wet is all part of the fun.
However you choose to enjoy the Dutch capital’s canals – whether dining by the water, taking a relaxing boat ride, or even watching a floating concert – you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Book your flights to Amsterdam and get ready to indulge in the delights of the famous – and now award-winning – 17th-century waterways.