Amsterdam: The Autumn And Winter Destination Of 2013

Amsterdam (Photo credit: maurobrock)

By []Harvey McEwan

Europe is one of the places in world that provides travellers unlimited choice. If you are seeking warm weather to snowy mountains there's plenty to choose from. But a specific location that is often overlooked during the autumn and winter months is Amsterdam, in the Netherlands.

Amsterdam is often associated with stag nights, which is only one of the many layers of the capital. Because of this many families or those not looking for a place that will expose themselves to this environment will most likely never consider this a an idea location.

3 Top Cities in Europe and 3 Favourite Luxury Hotels

Deutsch: Paris: Eiffelturm und Marsfeld (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Alexander Brey
European cities offer a rich culture, history and experience which the rest of the world can only envy. Cheap to fly to and easy to get around, a city break at one of these top luxury hotels is guaranteed to make your stay memorable for all the right reasons.

Paris
Cosmopolitan, chic and romantic, that's Paris! It has a reputation as one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world and there are some fabulous luxury hotels in Paris to complete your stay. Shopping in Printemps, dinner overlooking the city in one of the many Michelin starred restaurants, contemplating great artworks in the Louvre and cruising on the Seine all adds to the appeal. With great architecture, world-class museums and icons such as the Eiffel Tower, Paris cannot fail as a great destination.

Where to stay in Paris
This great location should be enjoyed from one of the centrally located luxury hotels in Paris, such as the Classic Four Season George V. With a gallery of awards and accolades this lovely luxury hotel in just one block from the Champs-Elysees.

8 Things To Do In Amsterdam

Photo credit: Wikipedia)
By Manjusha Nambiar


Are you planning to spend a weekend in Amsterdam? Here are a few things you can do to make your stay even more memorable.
1. Delve into Amsterdam's glorious past
Delve into the city's golden past by paying a visit to its celebrated museums. The Amsterdams Historisch Museum and the Museum Amstelkring are particularly popular with travelers. They showcase objects as old as 700 years.

3 European Cities You Have to Visit

Basilica di San Marco, Venice (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
By Barbara Macdonald
There are 3 European cities you have to visit if you love cities built on canals. Each city offers an opportunity to explore and experience it from the pleasure of a boat trip on the canal. These 3 cities are located on a network of canals.
Venice
Brugge
Amsterdam
Venice was founded in 421 AD, as a place where people could seek refuge from barbarian invasions. Venice was built on several islands of a lagoon, then linked by bridges. It grew to become an important city. In 828 the reputation of Venice was elevated by the acquisition of the relics of St.Mark the Evangelist, which were placed in San Marco Basilica. Venice is famous for the Murano Glass works. It has a long history of mystery, intrigue and romance. It has been exciting visitors for centuries. Authors and movie makers have set their works in Venice. Henry James said of Venice, "A visit to Venice becomes a perpetual love affair."
On your first visit to Venice you must see the famous sites. Begin at San Marco Square. Take a water taxi, a vaporetto, from the train station to the square. Sit at one of the outdoor tables and begin to enjoy your Venice experience. You can see St. Mark's Basilica, the Doges's Palace, the Campanile bell tower while you sip your tea or coffee or glass of wine. When you are ready stroll to the Tourist Information Office to plan your visit, be sure to include a romantic gondola ride.

Best Budget Hotels - Paris

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By Mike Leverency


Paris is known for its delicious food, luxurious hotels and all round decadence. But you do not have to break the bank to stay in luxury, here are the top five budget hotels in Paris:

Traveling Through Europe With Style - A Trendy European Hotel for Every Destination

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By Edo Jansen


If you're planning a trip around Europe, you most likely want to soak in as much of the culture as possible. No doubt you've got a long list of things you'd like to do and see upon your travels, but don't overlook your hotel stay as an important cultural experience. In every European city, there are a few hotel gems that truly capture the nuances of the city and make for a more culturally rich experience. We've searched though thousands of hotels, poured through visitor comments, and finally compiled a list of unique, stylistic European hotels that are certain to enhance the quality of your travel adventure.

Netherlands – The European Wonder-land

Image via WikipediaAuthor: Matrix

The football frenzy might be over, but Netherlands remains one of the world's most travelled countries. The country has an unrelenting and lively spirit, which makes it just the right destination to have a vacation in. A glance at some of the most exciting places in the country follows.

• People the world over have different opinions about the city of Amsterdam, and not all of them are positive... or accurate! The city is unorthodox, and probably not to everybody's liking in the first place. But once you are in there, there are very few cities that can match up to the unique experience the capital of Netherlands can offer you. Amsterdam has had its share of negative publicity, with immigration scandals and red light area crackdowns, but all that has quickly been swept under the rug, and permanently at that, as the local population is as enthusiastic as ever. Be it the ever popular coffee shops, the old merchants' villas, the magical Vondelpark or the Jordaan's charming lanes, every bit of the city is as influential as it was centuries ago. The museums speak highly of the Golden Age art, and everybody, from the youth to those in tehir late 40s and 50s, party like anything! Although there is no specific time to visit Amsterdam, Queen's Day is the best time to be in this city, with the world's biggest party-cum–garage sale. Talking of summers, there is an exponential number of festivals and events like the Holland Festival, the Roots Music Festival, and so on.
• Cobble-stone streets, grandiloquent churches, magnificent museums and buildings that are historical monuments in themselves – it's hard not to get addicted to a city like Haarlem after even a few day's stay. And for the ultra urban class, there are world-class restaurants, antique shops selling unique items that have stood the test of time, and bars to either savour the finest liquor or just take a shot or two on the go!
• The Hoge Veluwe National Park is the largest in the Netherlands, and was purchased by Anton and Helene Kröller-Müller in 1914. The husband wanted the land to be developed as a hunting ground, while the wife insisted on a museum. The result was an exciting amalgamation. The park is a great place to visit for the forests, marshlands, sand dunes, as well as the brilliant museum. The ownership was transferred to the state in 1930, and the museum was opened in 1938 for the remarkable art collection of Helene.
• Easily one of the most beautiful, yet relatively undiscovered cities, Maastricht, also referred to as the crown jewel of the south, is not at all comprising of windmills or tulips, much like many parts of the country. One can encounter Spanish and Roman ruins, Belgian and French architecture, global cuisine and basically, a non-Dutch atmosphere, which comes across as a welcome change to many. This difference is heightened by the fact that even the landscape gives one a feeling of being in another part of the world.

Related articles

• Switzerland - A tourist's paradise (vino-con-vista.blogspot.com)
• Amsterdam, Netherlands - The Hermitage Amsterdam (vino-con-vista.blogspot.com)
• What to See in Amsterdam (vino-con-vista.blogspot.com)

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Short Breaks To Amsterdam

Image via WikipediaNot only is it quick, easy and relatively cheap to travel to Amsterdam (you'll find some cheap Amsterdam late deals), the city also offers an amazing choice of attractions.
Not only is it quick, easy and relatively cheap to travel to Amsterdam (you'll find some cheap Amsterdam late deals), the city also offers an amazing choice of attractions.
Top 3 reasons for an Amsterdam break - Think of Amsterdam and immediately images spring to mind; tulips, windmills, cheese and clogs. Of course, there is plenty more to see and do on your short break to Amsterdam:
1. Art and museums - The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is home to the world's largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh. Some lovers of art might prefer Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum which holds the world's greatest art collections. Its most famous artists include Rembrandt and Vermeer.
2. Music and dancing - Visit Paradiso for the best live music and clubbing experience in Amsterdam. Its open every night for your enjoyment and its an experience not to be missed. Or why not try Melkweg or Escape for music and dancing? Melkweg is one of the biggest nightclubs in Amsterdam and Escape is the judged to be the most cutting edge.
3. History - A popular tourist attraction in the centre of Amsterdam is Anne Frank House. Visit the carefully maintained secret hideaway for a visit you’ll never forget.


Weather - Summers in Amsterdam are warm, but not boiling hot. So a city break to Amsterdam would not necessarily suit the sun worshipper. Winter in Amsterdam is picturesque but chilly.



Getting there - You can get a amazingly cheap flights to Amsterdam airport. Schiphol is Europe’s fourth largest airport and located just a few kilometers from the city centre.



Getting around - Amsterdam has a superb public transport system. The best way to travel is by tram, but you can also get around by bicycle, boat, bus and taxi.



Cheap Amsterdam breaks - If you're on a tight budget and really want to try a city break with a difference, then Amsterdam may well be a good choice. For the shopaholics among you, Amsterdam is renowned for its famous flea markets like the Spui Book Market. Or if you like the bar scene, there are some cheap places to drink in Amsterdam, such as Belushi’s Bar. You don't have to rely on fast food in Amsterdam in order to eat cheaply. Try Maoz for a inexpensive and truly delicious vegetarian meal.



So, if you're a lover of city breaks, and particularly if you prefer to save your cash, try the city of Amsterdam and you will not regret it. You can book a late deal to Amsterdam to save even more cash. For a romantic getaway, a family break or a weekend relaxing with friends, why not book your weekend break to Amsterdam today?



Remember! There are many short breaks to Amsterdam available on the internet. Always choose a reputable travel agent or tour operator, and preferably one which is ATOL protected and part of the Travel Trust Association.

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Travelshop365.com acts as agent for all major tour operators including Thomson, Thomas Cook and First Choice. Please visit http://www.travelshop365.com



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What to See in Amsterdam

Image by bill barber via Flickr
Finally, we are in Amsterdam! Around we see buildings which are not too tall, 4-5 storeys, but old and original in style, apparently, built with love and for the ages. The design and style are very unusual, with red, white yellow and brown colors and high roofs covered with tiles. After passing a narrow street called Paulus Potter Straat we see amazing trams of different styles, types and colors shuttling back and forth.
Now we reach one of the most stylish places in Amsterdam, opposite the National Museum (Rijksmuseum). Nearby there is an artificial lake with people resting on the lawn in different postures: lying, sitting, chewing, reading, and conversing. They were all indulging in rest and did not pay any attention to what was happening around, people walking and dogs running. Even further I saw a modern cubic building of the Van Gogh Museum with a large green field behind, crowded with people spending their leisure time.


Our tourist group, according to the program, was taken to the Royal Diamond Museum (free admission). We entered there but just in two minutes I realized that this museum is not worth seeing at all (Internet forums were speaking of it as a waste of time), and we decided to skip it and explore the environs. They were picturesque: right behind the building of the State Museum we came to one of the famous canals of Amsterdam, so quiet and colorful. Next to it there was the historic first brewery of Heineken Brouvertji, a gloomy dark-brown building. It was here that they first began to brew Heineken, now a world-class beer brand. Our next stop was a park (or rather, a green field) where I noticed how much litter was there around the city, which is strikingly different from Germany, for example. Lawns were covered with chewing gum wrappers, scraps of newspapers, just like in so many cities I have seen before where cleanness is not worshipped. Also, it turned out that finding a clean toilet in Amsterdam is quite a challenge.



After making a large circle we soon walked out to the Van Gogh Museum on its reverse side. Next to it we found busy souvenir shops selling products associated with the name of the genius artist from Amsterdam: reproductions of his paintings (10 euros), shirts (14-15 euros), mugs (5-6 euros), posters (5.4 euros), e-cards (0,5-1,5 euros) etc. Everything was fairly pricey. The Europeans are good at making money on souvenirs, I have noticed that long ago.



Very interesting was a tour through Amsterdam aboard a river tram with an open deck. After all canals, a calling card of the capital of the Netherlands. They have all been dug over the last 400 years, in concentric semicircles around the Gulf coast. On them, around 1200 bridges (!) were built, of which 400 in the historic city center. The City Centre is located on 70 artificial islands, many of them were not in existence 300 years ago, and now people live where it used to be an open sea.



We left from the river buses pier near the historic brewery Heineken, along the canal Singelgracht. Along the canal banks we saw small wooden barges, which are used as private homes: with verandas, flower-beds, and all the amenities inside. It looked very strange when you see the decks of these houses with sitting, walking or standing people who were drinking tea, watering their flowers, sweeping floors, that is, living a normal life and completely ignoring the trams with crowds of tourists staring at them. We were told that living in such homes on water is considered very prestigious in Amsterdam, and such apartments are in high demand. Such dwellings came to existence after the Second World War, when there was a shortage of housing and the city government temporarily allowed to build homes on water. Truly, there is nothing more permanent than temporary.

The canal through which we were sailing joined the bigger river Amstel, and right before us opened a majestic view of the river and the luxury hotel Amstel which sits on piles in water.



The magnificent buildings along the river originate from the Golden Age of Holland, the 17th century, when all this splendor was created. In those days, wealth just flocked to Amsterdam, as the Dutch East India Company controlled the world trade in spices from the Molucca Islands in Indonesia, making untold profits.



Leaving the harbor we passed by a giant snow-white ship hotel and at the distance we could see a huge green building of a business center with unusual architecture. Amsterdam citizens call this building 'Titanic' for its characteristic shape. Then, at the end of our tour, we saw a huge Chinese restaurant in the shape of a pagoda with 4 tiers, standing right on the water, an exact copy of the same restaurant in Hong Kong.

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Planning a trip to Amsterdam? Be sure to check information about Amsterdam hotels, with descriptions, rates, photos, and visitors reviews.



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Amsterdam, Netherlands - The Hermitage Amsterdam

Image via WikipediaBy Harry Preston
The city's long and abiding interest in Russian culture and art was hallmarked by the opening of The Hermitage Amsterdam in 2004. Some of the finest collections from St Petersburg's Hermitage Museum in Russia are on loan and exhibited here. Part of the 17th-century Amstelhof complex on the banks of the Amstel river, the Neerlandia building is fine example of classic monumental architecture.
The first and second floors each house three exhibition galleries. An educational studio or Children's Hermitage is planned for the attic space. The history of Russia and the Netherlands is inextricably tied. Catherine the Great. who reigned from 1762 to 1796, was an avid collector, purchasing some 4,000 paintings, thousands of drawings and engravings. She also commissioned pieces in silver and porcelain, furniture and decorative arts.
In 1697 the 25-year-old Russian Tsar, Peter the Great, was in Zaandam (north of Amsterdam) to study famed Dutch shipbuilding techniques. When he returned to St Petersburg he had the city laid out with beautiful canals similar to those that so impressed him in Amsterdam. On his study trip in 1697 he picked up more than just boat building tips; he also managed to take home "my little Dutchmen" as he referred to his collection of small canvases painted by the Dutch Masters. Relations were good between the House of Orange and Peter's family, the Romanovs. Anna Paulownia, the wife of Dutch King Willem 11, was the sister of Tsar Alexander I.
The Hermitage Amsterdam is a great site where you will learn a lot about the Russian culture and art.
For more information about Amsterdam, Netherlands visit GuidedTourAmsterdam.com.
For more information about Madrid, Spain visit GuidedTourMadrid.com.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands - Centraal Station

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By Harry PrestonThe ornate facade of this Dutch nee-Renaissance style railway station with its distinctive twin towers is an architectural highlight. Constructed on three man-made islands, the building rests en 8,687 piles to keep it stable on Amsterdam's shifting mud and sand.
Built in 1889 by P J H Cuypers and A L van Gendt, the red stone exterior is decorated in Gothic style with carvings, mosaic tiles and gold accents. Two majestic towers guard the entrance: the western tower bears a weather vane while the eastern tower carries a clock. Controversial when built, as it effectively cuts off the city from its own waterfront, the building was considered by some, particularly the Protestants, to be too decorative (or Catholic, in their view) in its Gothic embellishments, earning the building its nickname, the "French Convent". Cuypers also designed the Rijksmuseum, which stands like a mirror image on the other side of the city and came to be referred to locally as the "Bishop's House".
Centraal Station is the bustling central hub of activity in the city, enlarged many times to cope with increasing demands for travel. Just about every destination in the country and beyond can be reached from here, with some 1,500 trains arriving and departing every day. Easy access to Schiphol airport provides a convenient link for travelers. It is also the hub of tram and bus services, as well as a terminus of the metro system. Behind the station ferries traverse the IJ River, connecting travelers across the water. Platform 2 has a small tourist office, the main one is across Stationsplein in the white building. The Eerste Class restaurant with its belle epoque decor and 19th- century cafe provides a quiet respite and delicious food. In the main hall below are numerous fast-food outlets and shops.

For more information about Amsterdam, Netherlands, visit GuidedTourAmsterdam.com
For more information about Orlando and the Orlando Magic, visit GuidedTourOrlando.com.

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Tripadvisor Reveals Europe's Sexiest Hotels

Tripadvisor Reveals Europe's Sexiest Hotels
By Tripadvisor, PRNE

Amsterdam's Black Tulip Hotel Tops List of Provocative Properties

LONDON, February 11 - TripAdvisor(R), the world's largest and most popular travel community,
today announced the top 10 sexiest hotels in Europe, based on TripAdvisor
editors and travellers. From seductive city suites, to beach-side personal
butlers, these properties offer serious va-va-voom for those seeking a sultry
sanctuary à deux.

TripAdvisor site data also reveals that Paris, London and Amsterdam boast
the most sizzling hotels in Europe, based on the "sexy index", calculating
the number of times that travellers use the term "sexy" in their candid
TripAdvisor reviews.

1. Black Tulip, Amsterdam

Centrally located in a stylish 16th century canal-side building this
hotel features specially designed 'lust' rooms. All rooms boast black-out
curtains and guests can take advantage of the "fun equipment" installed in
certain suites. As one TripAdvisor traveller explains, "The rooms are
seriously sexy, complete with all the bondage gear you could wish for."

2. Propeller Island City Lodge, Berlin

For couples looking to add some spice to their getaway the quirky art
installations within this hotel will not disappoint. Each room is uniquely
sexy - the 'Flying Bed' room includes a mattress as an iconic temple at the
top of an inclined ramp. The 'Galerie' room features a round bed with a
pedal-operated mechanism that allows it to spin on a pivot. "We stayed in the
room completely lined with mirrors. It was very tiny, but that was all part
of the fun," writes one TripAdvisor traveller.

3. The Witchery, Edinburgh

The hotel's magnificent Guardroom suite offers sheer aristocratic
decadence. If you tire of the delights of its romantic four-poster bed, the
suite has breath-taking views over Princes Street to Fife. From the brocade
and velvet bedroom furnishings to the antique double bath with its enormous
mirror The Witchery provides guests with sexiness from a bygone age. Even
X-Factor star Danni Minogue describes the hotel as "the perfect lust-den."

4. Buddha Bar Hotel, Prague

Couples seeking treats galore should add this hotel their wanton wish
list. This urban hotel offers stylish surroundings, not to mention a special
couples getaway package which includes a one-hour massage each, private use
of the jacuzzi, fresh flowers and a mood music CD. As one TripAdvisor
traveller writes, "A chilled bottle of champagne and a bowl of strawberries
waited for us along with a gift of massage oils, honey dust and feathers,
setting the pace for the most romantic honeymoon anyone could have."

5. Amour, Paris

The brainchild of a graffiti artist and nightclub entrepreneur the Amour
has everything you need for a sultry weekend. Bedrooms lead off black-painted
corridors lit by naked bulbs and each room offers something different. Some
have been decorated by named artists; others display risqué photographs.
Amour is summed up by one TripAdvisor traveller as "an ideal place to drink,
eat, sleep, find an intelligent conversation or be seduced."

6. The Hempel, London

Anouska Hempel's temple to minimalist Zen is hidden behind its discreet,
west-London, townhouse façade, giving it an instantly illicit feel. For
couples looking for something special the Lioness Den suite should be
explored. The bed is suspended from the ceiling by bars resulting in a
cage-like experience. As one TripAdvisor traveller writes, "The mattress, the
pillows and the blankets are all extremely lovable…excellent for couples."

7. Hotel Arts Barcelona, Barcelona

With its double showers and black-out blinds Hotel Arts oozes sex appeal.
The hotel's infamous art isn't the only thing that will appeal to amorous
guests - even the technology adds an air of passion. as one TripAdvisor
travellers explains, "We could lie in our fabulous, sumptuous bed, and using
a remote control, bring down electronic shutters to all the windows, they
even had their own CD called Barcelona Nights to help get you in the mood!"

8. Adam and Eve Hotel, Turkey Antalya Coast

With its sexy minimalist decor this hotel has been created specifically
with couples in mind. Not only does it provide aphrodisiac incense to spice
up your stay but guests can even select a 'fantasy box' for the room. Summed
up by one TripAdvisor traveller, "I recommend this hotel to all couples, but
come without children - it is really is a fantasy hotel…"

9. Suite Sistina, Rome

The four suites of this luxury residence bring together antique mosaics,
modern furniture and avant-garde technology to offer couples an
extraordinarily discreet and unique experience. With beds embraced by soft
silk, state-of-the-art stereo systems and romantic lighting your stay is sure
to be a passionately memorable one. As one TripAdvisor traveller notes,
"Really large round bed, twin tub in the bedroom. All electrics are centrally
controlled and the mood lighting certainly added to our stay."

10. Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, Cote D-Azur

Located in the millionaire paradise on the peninsula of St. Jean Cap
Ferrat, this hotel is a once-in-a-lifetime luxury escape. Exclusive suites
offer everything from private swimming pools to personal butler service - the
sheer scale of excess is guaranteed to get pulses racing. One TripAdvisor
traveller is impressed with the hotel staff, "He arranged a very romantic
table setting complete with candles and even snuck me a rose to give to my
wife."

"Whether couples are looking for a traditional romantic getaway or
something a little more saucy, TripAdvisor travellers recommend all sorts of
hotels for a memorable and passionate retreat," said Emma O'Boyle,
spokesperson for TripAdvisor.

For further information please contact: Emma O'Boyle, TripAdvisor, +44(0)20-3320-3210 / +44(0)777-926-2423 / eoboyle at tripadvisor.com