Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is a city built on water, traversed by bikes, and loved by the majority. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe with its fascinating history, vibrant culture, iconic architectures, picturesque narrow houses, bright colored tulip fields, and an elaborate canal system. Amsterdam does really have something in store for everyone. Wander around the city either by foot or bike and be surprised at every turn. In case you would like to get the latest updates on your flight status as you fly to Amsterdam, flightradar online is here to help you. Be informed of the changes to arrival or departure times, cancellations if any, location of the aircraft, and even airport information.
Here are some advice, tricks, and tips you need to know before making your way to Amsterdam:
MIND THE CYCLISTS
Always keep in mind that when crossing the street, be sure to look to the left and right to avoid being hit by a biker or get yelled at since the bikers have the right of way here. You’ll notice that as you look around, you’ll find dozens of cyclists as they dominate the roads, going all directions and at great speeds. According to the Amsterdam tourism board website, there are more bikes in the city as compared to the permanent residents.
CARRY AN UMBRELLA OR A PONCHO
You need to be prepared for all weather as you visit this remarkable destination since it can be very fickle. There are times it can go from sunny to rainy and gray in just a matter of minutes. It is advisable to bring with you an umbrella or poncho. Don’t worry, Amsterdam is a spectacular sight to see rain or shine and as the rain pours, it enhances the environment as it adds a dreamy and dewy layer to the romantic scenery, which it’s known for.
HAVE A FOLDABLE, REUSABLE BAG ON YOU
Since stores are not allowed to give out plastic bags as being mandated by law, The Netherlands then charge you €0.05 to €0.10 a bag even at stores. To save a little money, you may consider carrying one as you travel and explore the city.
COFFEESHOP & CAFÉ
Here in Amsterdam, there’s a huge difference between coffee shops and cafes which you should be aware of. Café is a shop that sells coffee. Coffeeshop, on the other hand, is a shop that sells marijuana. Some shops look like a country where you can purchase marijuana for later consumptions though there are also coffeeshops that are more like cafes which you can consume the marijuana with no tobacco since you are not allowed to smoke cigarettes in coffeeshops and even on cafes except outside. Please take note of this as so you will not be asking for weed in a shop that sells coffee.
NO PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE RED-LIGHT DISTRICT
Prostitution is legal in Amsterdam. Yes, you read it right and the famous red-light district comes alive as soon as the evening comes. If you don’t want to be caught by the cops or pay a substantial fine, please don’t photograph the workers that you see through the window. Women here are vulnerable and they want to protect their identities, security and be respected as well regardless of their job.
DON’T FORGET TO BRING A UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTOR
The plugs here in the Netherlands are C and F. If you want to save money, it is advisable to purchase an all-in-one travel adaptor which will allow you to use all your electronics in over 150 countries.
YOU MUST CARRY IDENTIFICATION ON YOU
This is actually mandated by law. If you’re a non-EU citizen or not, be sure to carry your passport with you all the time. In general, you won’t need to pull it out all the time, however, it must be shown if you intend to enter a coffeeshop or even bars.
DOWNLOAD AN OFFLINE VERSION OF GOOGLE MAPS TO USE IT WITHOUT DATA OR WIFI
It is one of the best tricks to save money on data as you explore the beautiful city of Amsterdam. Please take note that there are free wi-fi spots at Schipol Airport, some restaurants, museums, and even at Albert Heijn, the largest grocery chain the country. As you download the Google Maps, be sure to star ahead of time the places that you’d love to visit. Amsterdam is small and it’s easy to walk around with the use of the map. Here, public transportation is not always a necessity. Don’t be afraid to get lost, as it often allows you to experience extraordinary things.
ALWAYS HAVE CASH ON YOU
The currency being used here is the Euro. The majority takes cash though at some establishments they take credit cards, and no place takes a debit card unless if it’s a local Dutch debit card. ATMs here are pretty much present everywhere. One more thing, always have a small change on you like one euro, since some places may charge you if use the public restroom. Don’t worry, bathrooms here are clean and are being well-maintained.
PLAN YOUR ACCOMMODATION WELL IN ADVANCE
Amsterdam is one of the most visited destinations and almost over 7 million international travelers visit the city in a year. For you to ensure that you have the best accommodation, it is advisable to book well in advance especially for those who are visiting the city at peak season, namely on summer months and during school holidays. This is also for you to get a good rate and save a lot of time queuing on a line instead of having more time to explore the city. You’ll also save much more if you book on mid-week as compared to weekends since rates are typically fluctuating.