www.womanthismonth.com May 2018 LIFESTYLE |travel 65 Amsterdam Another of Europe’s most cool capitals, when one thinks of Amsterdam the things that automatically come to mind are tulips, canals, bicycles and, ahem, the infamous red-light district. Leaving the latter aside, the city has plenty to offer, whether for a short break or a longer holiday. The centre of Amsterdam is infinitely walkable and, in fact, there are several good walking tours. There are also bikes for rent, cheaply, all over the city – plus cycle lanes everywhere and very bike-friendly motorists. Head down to the banks of the Amstel River, where you’ll find both the flea market and a gorgeous flower market offering every kind of tulip imaginable, including fakes so good you can hardly tell the difference. If your feet get tired, take a canal boat cruise where you’ll learn about the city’s history and pass many of its notable buildings, including the house in which the teen Anne Frank penned her diary whilst in hiding from the Nazis. The house itself is now a museum which is well worth a visit, but don’t forget your tissues. Take a trip out into the surrounding countryside to see the windmills for which Holland is famous and then head back into the city to partake of the nightlife, for which Amsterdam is equally well-known. Round your evening off with a serving of fries accompanied by Ketchup and mayo, a typical Amsterdam treat, Visit the house where Anne Frank wrote her diary while in hiding. In Amsterdam you are never far from a canal or a bicycle. Tulips come in every shape, size, colour and material at the famous Flower Market. Amsterdam has one of Europe’s biggest flea markets where you will find everything from antiques to vintage clothes. The Rijksmuseum houses 7 million artworks and more than 35,000 books. 0000000000 From Mysteryland to Roots, Amsterdam hosts more than 300 festivals each year. Check out the calendar before you go. The Zaanse Schans windmills are easily reached on a half-day tour out of Amsterdam.
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