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Amsterdam: The Venice of the Netherlands

Forget Paris! Give me Amsterdam any day. What with its quaint streets and laid back environments, Amsterdam is a far better European choice than London or Spain for a fun, relaxing vacation.

Taking into account its water-filled landscape, complete with houseboats and water sports, no wonder Amsterdam has earned the nickname, "the Venice of the North." With a population of just under one million people, illegal residents not included, Amsterdam is European’s secret paradise.

When American business travelers need time away from the daily grind, there is no place like Holland to let you hair down. And you won’t have to worry about connectivity while you’re there. Amsterdam is one wired city, with Internet cafes and data ports on just about every block.

 

Things to do
Many Americans mistakenly believe that Amsterdam is the country and Holland the city, but wrong they are. Holland is filled with surprisingly delightful and blissfully modern cities like Dee Hag (The Hague) and Rotterdam. So popular is Rotterdam that it was named the International Culture capital in 2001.

If you’re looking for great things to do, why not take a guided tour of the Heineken Brewery. And you’ll leave with samples of the coveted beer. Heineken is to Amsterdam what Coca Cola is to America. The corporate giant sponsors everything from cultural events to little league teams. English is spoken nearly as much as the official language, Dutch. If drinking isn’t your thing, check out the wide array of art and museums. From the Van Gogh Museum to the incredible Rijksmuseum, you will likely run out of time before you’ll see all the exhibits. As a special treat, the Ann Frank house is also available for public viewing.

If you’re feeling frisky, grab your wallet and head down to the world-famous Red Light District. Amsterdamians are very sensual people; not a bit ashamed of their sexuality. As proof, you can watch XXX-rated cartoons, movies and peep shows at the Sex Museum. You should be aware, however, that prostitution is legal and


Watch out Acela! The Thalys train is like riding a smooth bullet. It travels with ease between Amsterdam and Paris, France at maximum speed of about 300 kph (180 mph).

Sex Museum, Red Light
District and More

marijuana is covered on the national health insurance.

Hard drugs are frowned upon but locals regularly frequent "brown coffee shops" where marijuana can be purchased in a display case. Your bet bet is to stay clear of this not just because it’s illegal in the States, but because you’re a tourist and Customs tends to be pretty upon returning to the US.

The American dollar is very strong in Amsterdam, trading about 2 to 1. Still, save your pennies before you go. Amsterdam has so much to see and do you may be surprised how quickly your money leaves your wallet.

With a population of just under one million people, illegal residents included, Amsterdam is European’s secret paradise.