More
then one million inhabitants contains the in the metropolitan area of
Amsterdam, 90% living outside the center. Amsterdam is positioned in
the Province of North-Holland. The Old city, as it was around 1850, is
ringed by five major concentric canals the Singel, the Herengracht, the
Keizersgracht, the Prinsengracht, and the Singelgracht . The main
tourist attractions of Amsterdam are all located within the Old Center,
while most economic activities are positioned outside the ring
motorway, away from the center.
Amsterdam is amazing all year round! Summers and springs are sunny and
warm, while winters can be cold, and take into consideration that you
only have about 8 hours of daylight, however around Christmas time, the
city has a very special atmosphere. If you are looking
for something special, visit Amsterdam on Queen’s
Day (Koninginnedag), celebrated on the 30th of April, when everything
is dressed up in orange, symbolizing national pride in the royal House
of Orange-Nassau, check out the huge flee market and enjoy live music!
There are different types of people, with different wishes and
expectations, but when it comes to Amsterdam, most of them think of the
Red Light District and the legal drugs, either to just have a look or
maybe try something that is prohibited elsewhere. For an unforgettable
experience, visit a coffee-shops, where you can buy soft drugs, like
marijuana and hash, and wonder around the Red Light District of
Amsterdam. Remember that you are not allowed to take pictures of
prostitutes, and do not try, as the area is full with police and
surveillance cameras!
The official language in the Netherlands is Dutch, but young and old,
almost everybody can speak English fluently, so for sure you will be
able to make yourself understood in Amsterdam or the other cities! The
same as in all major cities, here as well keep in eye on your handbag,
and watch out for pickpockets especially on the busy shopping street or
around stations! Be careful when crossing street, as traffic can be
busy and also make sure you are not walking on the bike lane; cyclists
are not so kind with pedestrians.
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