Amsterdam, Netherlands - Travel Guide
The rich history of Amsterdam has always been connected to water - from the first
fishing settlement located on the marshy land at the mouth of the Amstel River, to the pumping windmills used to drain the polders, to the necessity of building and maintaining a system of protective dikes. Bold adventurers crossed the oceans in search of trade and, consequently, the construction of the magnificent canals and stately homes in the 16th and 17th centuries was financed, in part, by the wealth brought to the city by seafaring traders. In its Golden Age the city became the most important trading center in Europe and the hub of a massive trading empire spanning the globe. As early as the 18th century the city had become a major financial center and continues to be one. Increased industrialization moved the city forwards. It has survived Napoleon, two World Wars, internal political conflicts, great fires, intolerance during the Inquisition, famine, disease, deportation and partial destruction. However, Amsterdam continues to change, evolve and integrate, always persevering, experimenting and planning its future.Nothing short of an adventure is in store when exploring Amsterdam. While this pancake-flat country provides a study in contradictions, Amsterdam is a destination unto itself; emerging as a well-planned city with abundant history, numerous museums, fine dining - from the unpretentious to the exotic. This is a modern city with all the amenities and the reputation of being a place where just about anything goes: liberal laws permit prostitution which has been tolerated since the 17th century; special cafes sell cannabis; it is considered to be Europe's gay capital where same-sex marriages are permitted, as is euthanasia. Apart from the garish glare of tacky signs and its decidedly seedy side, the city also offers old-world charm, from the elegant to the sublime, with its changing schedule of entertainment and special events, ranging from exhibitions of local and international interest, concerts from classical symphonies to jazz and pop, all kinds of festivals and an abundant nightlife in more than 1,200 cafes and nightclubs. Every day some 40 concerts and theatrical performances take place, around 16,000 annually in 55 theaters and concert halls. There are also 61 cinemas with film selections from around the globe.
Works by renowned artists Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh along with artworks by other internationally acclaimed artists can be seen in 54 museums. The flavour of the city today is expressed in a mix of architecture ranging from medieval to contemporary, centered by a variety of offerings from street vendors to open markets and shops selling anything from the wacky to the unique. Its friendly inhabitants comprise a multicultural melting pot of 174 nationalities whose diversity gives the city its international allure. Amsterdam residents are sociable and helpful and most speak several languages. The city is also a dynamic economic powerhouse with many international businesses operating here, as well as the commodities exchange.
The city has the feel of a large village, even though the population is almost 750,000. Amsterdam is compact, easy to get around and well marked. Walking is really the best way to discover the city and a glass-topped canal boat cruise is a good way orientate yourself as it opens up a perspective which you just can't get on land. Amsterdam is a wonderful city to discover - it can be amusing, surprising, shocking, scenic, entertaining, educational and great fun, but it is certainly never dull. Nicknamed the "Venice of the North", the concentric rings of the canals circling out from Central Station to Dam square and beyond promise hours of enjoyment and discovery. You can meander from one scenic location to the next, immersing yourself Amsterdam's unique ambiance.
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