This is an XML content feed of journal entries and reviews that have recently published by RealTravel members within Amsterdam. Use one of the buttons on the right to add this feed to your feed reader. tag:realtravel.com,2005:14234 RealTravel members http://realtravel.com/images/logo-for-feeds.jpg (c) 2006 RealTravel.com 2008-03-27T09:36:52Z 340020http://www.feedburner.comThis is an XML content feed of journal entries and reviews that have recently published by RealTravel members within Amsterdam. Use one of the buttons on the right to add this feed to your feed reader. tag:realtravel.com,2006-10-09:2480695 2006-10-09T12:37:15Z 2008-03-27T09:36:52Z Tony G http://realtravel.com/member-m2480513-tony_g.html <p><em>"As if in some surreal movie we drifted like homeless ghosts through the streets"</em></p> <p>a entry by Tony G from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>Let's get one thing straight, this trip most definitely took place in 1973. Take no notice of the above date of 1976. The fact is that the date box on this website doesn't go back that far.</p><p>So, on the tenth of October, with heads full of Kerouac and carrying little more than a change of clothes and a cheap, rolled-up sleeping bag each, we boarded the 7:30am ferry from Ryde Pier Head to Portsmouth Harbour. Under the pale-gold morning sun and accompanied by seagulls, dipping and gliding, we watched the shrinking shoreline with that leaving-home, don't know when we're coming back, ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j2480695.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_BK7gcp5NRKt6di0g.vVIpQ2GRrM_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/BK7gcp5NRKt6di0g.vVIpQ2GRrM_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_BK7gcp5NRKt6di0g.vVIpQ2GRrM_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=BK7gcp5NRKt6di0g.vVIpQ2GRrM_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j2480695.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j2480695.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-06-21:4842888 2007-06-21T20:10:40Z 2008-03-21T23:37:42Z the duck thief http://realtravel.com/member-m4760930-the_duck_thief.html <p><em>"Finally, when I thought I was going to be left behind, I got on and found my seat, right next to the toilets."</em></p> <p>a entry by the duck thief from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/schiphol-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d74990.html">Schiphol, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>Today was the day. I was going to fly to Athens and I was terrified. But I had the entire morning to wring my hands and worry and repack everything. We got to YVR (Vancouver Airport) before 3pm, international flights dictating you had to arrive three hours before departure. I said my goodbyes, hugged, took pictures and walked through Security. I always think that's the scariest part of flying. I always feel that there's the assumption everyone's carrying a banned substance or a deadly weapon. But I made it through unscathed and went to sit by my gates, for three hours. This gave me time to ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/schiphol-journals-j4842888.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_qGK7UjL0RByI8Ljaw30.P.HDxNQ_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/qGK7UjL0RByI8Ljaw30.P.HDxNQ_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_qGK7UjL0RByI8Ljaw30.P.HDxNQ_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=qGK7UjL0RByI8Ljaw30.P.HDxNQ_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Fschiphol-journals-j4842888.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/schiphol-journals-j4842888.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-11-27:6081316 2007-11-27T11:47:20Z 2007-12-07T15:59:45Z Matt&Sara http://realtravel.com/member-m5225905-mattsara.html <p>a entry by Matt&amp;Sara from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>The city is a gem. It is a canal town just as Venice is, but they do allow cars, bikes, and bladers. Everyone rides bikes in the Netherlands, so we decided to do as the Dutch do and rent bikes. We had such a great time riding around the city and we even were able to venture outside the city a bit.</p><p>We went to the VanGough Museum and lucky for us they had a special temporary exhibit about Barcelona. The exhibit was called Barcelona in 1900. It had pictures of what the city looked like and it also had a few pieces of Gaudi's furniture displayed.</p><p>We also took a great free walking ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j6081316.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_5lKXf6.x-ItLenPxbYWu2PMz9t8_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/5lKXf6.x-ItLenPxbYWu2PMz9t8_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_5lKXf6.x-ItLenPxbYWu2PMz9t8_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=5lKXf6.x-ItLenPxbYWu2PMz9t8_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j6081316.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j6081316.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-11-11:5975129 2007-11-11T11:26:59Z 2007-11-11T13:48:05Z Traveller Wy http://realtravel.com/member-m5967241-traveller_wy.html <p><em>"The collection showcased the lifestory of Van Gogh whom I then had little clue about."</em></p> <p>a entry by Traveller Wy from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>We woke up to the train inspector's knocks on our cabin door. I had a great sleep that night and was raring to see Amsterdam.</p><p>I didn't have a very good feeling of the city when we first arrived. There were lots of black people around they looked like gangsters.</p><p>We purchased a 2 day pass and decided to make full use of it. We walked around looking for a place to stay. We got pretty lost and ended up in the Red Light district! I never imagined that I would see skimpy dressed women selling themselves by the window. It was early in the morning and they were already looking for ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5975129.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_Ve6AVvrwQyRMciX7TJFxvB2Xyc8_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/Ve6AVvrwQyRMciX7TJFxvB2Xyc8_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_Ve6AVvrwQyRMciX7TJFxvB2Xyc8_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=Ve6AVvrwQyRMciX7TJFxvB2Xyc8_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j5975129.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5975129.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-09-30:5670727 2007-09-30T16:42:20Z 2007-10-11T01:02:23Z mochiman http://realtravel.com/member-m5667624-mochiman.html <p><em>"Great city!"</em></p> <p>a entry by mochiman from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>Had a great time in Amsterdam. Met my sister-in-law and nieces and nephew, and toured much of the old city. Although I was lost most of the time, if you know where you are going then the city is very accessible. Lots of public transportation and you can get anywhere by bike. I did a lot of walking and rented a bike for a couple of days. Unfortunately, the most rainy and wet days of my entire trip. But it was still great to be able to cover so much territory and not have to worry about getting run over. Bikes are king in Amsterdam, unlike in San Francisco or Boston (especially Boston) where you ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5670727.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_FbaqpRv7cWaVBcwNkS-LFR9gbQY_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/FbaqpRv7cWaVBcwNkS-LFR9gbQY_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_FbaqpRv7cWaVBcwNkS-LFR9gbQY_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=FbaqpRv7cWaVBcwNkS-LFR9gbQY_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j5670727.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5670727.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-08-19:5341698 2007-08-19T10:40:14Z 2007-08-19T10:40:14Z Dave & Nikki http://realtravel.com/member-m4850267-dave__nikki.html <p>a review of Stay Okay Zeeburg Amsterdam, a place to stay in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>newly opened, everything was spotless, staff friendly, good location, hard boiled eggs for breakfast on saturday a treat!! room-mates friendly.</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-b5341698.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_yVtQONk9taujCok6mtQ8h15whv4_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/yVtQONk9taujCok6mtQ8h15whv4_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_yVtQONk9taujCok6mtQ8h15whv4_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=yVtQONk9taujCok6mtQ8h15whv4_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-b5341698.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-b5341698.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-08-16:5319130 2007-08-16T19:12:32Z 2007-08-16T19:12:32Z cessna152 http://realtravel.com/member-m1425779-cessna152.html <p>a entry by cessna152 from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>“Hello gentlemen,” said the man standing beside a doorway with lurid pictures of naked couples behind him. We turned around to face him but did not stop. We knew what he was going to say. He spoke louder this time. “Come on. I know you haven’t come to Amsterdam for the flowers. You want smut and filth! In you come, see our show; we give you what you want! All in a comfortable and safe environment!”</p><p></p><p>Our early morning arrival at Schiphol Airport went smoothly, as did the train journey into the city itself. And then the seven of us, six men and one woman, headed straight for ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5319130.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_4qd6.qLJ11Q4MPMx2T.cdv3rNFI_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/4qd6.qLJ11Q4MPMx2T.cdv3rNFI_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_4qd6.qLJ11Q4MPMx2T.cdv3rNFI_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=4qd6.qLJ11Q4MPMx2T.cdv3rNFI_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j5319130.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5319130.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-23:5111615 2007-07-23T11:54:43Z 2007-07-24T12:10:12Z Shane S http://realtravel.com/member-m4831432-shane_s.html <p>a entry by Shane S from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>The first words that come to mind when you think Amsterdam are "Red LIght District". So of course... after stepping off the plane, dropping my small bag off at the hostel I take a nap. I'll need my rest! Then, I head over. It's much like you'd imagine... think greenwich village busy, except every few doors there is a red light above a window. Behind the window is a red curtain or a woman prostitute. Sorry girls, no boys behind the windows. I wonder why? Throngs of men, women, and couples line the small streets and look in the windows. And every now and again one enters. I never see ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5111615.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_Mvlyo2iZ9D1U5G2c95tKFl8st1A_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/Mvlyo2iZ9D1U5G2c95tKFl8st1A_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_Mvlyo2iZ9D1U5G2c95tKFl8st1A_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=Mvlyo2iZ9D1U5G2c95tKFl8st1A_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j5111615.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5111615.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-23:5113799 2007-07-23T16:08:12Z 2007-07-23T16:26:56Z Shane S http://realtravel.com/member-m4831432-shane_s.html <p>a review of Kagestu Sushi, a place to eat in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>A pretty decent sushi place with 2 locations (closed Mondays). Sushi chef was from Kyoto and service was superb. Sushi was pretty decent, clearly the winner of the 3 sushi places I checked out. Worth checking out if you really want sushi. But you could do better by waiting til you get to another city.</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-c5113799.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_U7iHFGbfLEkoVXPY2Vfsq9jAVOI_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/U7iHFGbfLEkoVXPY2Vfsq9jAVOI_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_U7iHFGbfLEkoVXPY2Vfsq9jAVOI_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=U7iHFGbfLEkoVXPY2Vfsq9jAVOI_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-c5113799.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-c5113799.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-23:5113975 2007-07-23T16:23:23Z 2007-07-23T16:23:23Z Shane S http://realtravel.com/member-m4831432-shane_s.html <p>a review of Heineken Brewery, a thing to do in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>It's definitely a tourist attraction, but if you like beer (and I do!) it's a must. Plus, as a solo traveler I met tons of people at their pub. One of my best days and not too expensive either (only 11 euro admission which gets you 3 beers).</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-a5113975.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_-nqVE3H6rwarolyBErvMOFbRfnc_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/-nqVE3H6rwarolyBErvMOFbRfnc_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_-nqVE3H6rwarolyBErvMOFbRfnc_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=-nqVE3H6rwarolyBErvMOFbRfnc_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-a5113975.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-a5113975.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-23:5113948 2007-07-23T16:19:10Z 2007-07-23T16:20:59Z Shane S http://realtravel.com/member-m4831432-shane_s.html <p>a review of StayOkay Hostel Zeeburg, a place to stay in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>Hostel opened new in July 07 so everything is clean and new. The service was VERY friendly. However, the place is not complete yet - and so a lot of promised amenities simply weren't avail and construction was all over the place. There is also only a very small, not so comfortable common area in which to meet people. But the worst of all is that it is VERY far away from all the things you want to see. Unless all the other hostels are sold out - I wouldnt recommend staying here (unless you want a non-smoking hostel, of which this is one of the very few in Amsterdam).</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-b5113948.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_unxgT9Vn0DHVgZQoTbLkdulciFw_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/unxgT9Vn0DHVgZQoTbLkdulciFw_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_unxgT9Vn0DHVgZQoTbLkdulciFw_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=unxgT9Vn0DHVgZQoTbLkdulciFw_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-b5113948.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-b5113948.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-23:5113811 2007-07-23T16:08:17Z 2007-07-23T16:12:56Z Shane S http://realtravel.com/member-m4831432-shane_s.html <p>a review of Kagestu Sushi, a place to eat in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>A Japanese Teppan Yaki &amp; Sushi Bar near the Dam area of Amsterdam. I ate there for lunch 2 days... but it's crazy expensive! $20 for an Udon soup (Of course that includes the absurd US$ to Euro exchange rate of +40%). Service was below par. Of course - you say, why eat there 2x then? Well it was close to the shop where I rented my bike and I was really hungry after the long ride! Steer clear - not worth eating here - you can do better. Trust me, I tried 2x!</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-c5113811.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_0spam8KZKP2Is1gIbXftzVSDkjQ_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/0spam8KZKP2Is1gIbXftzVSDkjQ_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_0spam8KZKP2Is1gIbXftzVSDkjQ_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=0spam8KZKP2Is1gIbXftzVSDkjQ_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-c5113811.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-c5113811.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-23:5113511 2007-07-23T15:37:24Z 2007-07-23T15:37:45Z Kiera http://realtravel.com/member-m5112351-kiera.html <p>a entry by Kiera from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>The following events actually happened……</p><p>Friday 5th October, the day had arrived, I was heading off to good oul Amsterdam. Ray met me outside work in a taxi and we sped off to the airport. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, it was gona be a good weekend. Got there in plenty of time, checked in and wandered around the airport. We were flying with Ryanair (den, den, den). The plan was to head to Brussels (for the cheap flight) and then get the train to Amsterdam, piece of piss!!!</p><p>Our plane was delayed and by the time we got to Brussels, all the trains going to ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5113511.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_74CkbNZcKdfpWc5nXJEWRVDSFVs_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/74CkbNZcKdfpWc5nXJEWRVDSFVs_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_74CkbNZcKdfpWc5nXJEWRVDSFVs_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=74CkbNZcKdfpWc5nXJEWRVDSFVs_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j5113511.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5113511.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-21:5099213 2007-07-21T14:59:50Z 2007-07-21T14:59:50Z AnnaandMichaelinEuro http://realtravel.com/member-m4900919-annaandmichaelineuro.html <p><em>"Ge Zellich - cosy, nice atmosphere"</em></p> <p>a entry by AnnaandMichaelinEuro from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>Hello Everyone.</p><p>Well- we have just spent a busy couple of days in the famous city of Amsterdam. It has been a very interesting and educational experience overall. We also had the great opportunity to spend one of the days sightseeing with our friends Emilie and Robin. Even though they dont live in Amsterdam our friends still knew lots about the city and we were really lucky that they could guide us through our sightseeing journey.</p><p>The first night we spent figuring out the city for ourselves, the place we stayed was a little further out from the city. This was a good thing as we ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5099213.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_B8qVgq.32NSQoh6fHs1eQv7iJSg_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/B8qVgq.32NSQoh6fHs1eQv7iJSg_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_B8qVgq.32NSQoh6fHs1eQv7iJSg_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=B8qVgq.32NSQoh6fHs1eQv7iJSg_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j5099213.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5099213.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-17:5070501 2007-07-17T20:17:14Z 2007-07-20T14:33:58Z cake and alberto http://realtravel.com/member-m4596158-cake_and_alberto.html <p><em>"Now for the sinful stuff."</em></p> <p>a entry by cake and alberto from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>You've heard about Amsterdam.. it's every college kid's party destination and probably every worried parent's nightmare (am I right?). What we found was a laid-back place with a lot of justified history for being free with sex and drugs, that somehow felt safe and caring. It sounds kind of evil saying it that way, and it sounds paradoxical - but it's not.</p><p>Let's start with the family-oriented stuff. We saw the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House while there, and checked out some outdoor markets - the flower-filled Bloemenmarket and a book market that happens every Friday. We walked ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5070501.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_MeN8uMKKBqvkkkz0tF7BkI6WQeU_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/MeN8uMKKBqvkkkz0tF7BkI6WQeU_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_MeN8uMKKBqvkkkz0tF7BkI6WQeU_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=MeN8uMKKBqvkkkz0tF7BkI6WQeU_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j5070501.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j5070501.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-16:5062681 2007-07-16T19:36:43Z 2007-07-16T21:15:28Z Andrew and Jessica http://realtravel.com/member-m4794104-andrew_and_jessica.html <p>a entry by Andrew and Jessica from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/utrecht-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d74750.html">Utrecht, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>The Kasteel De Haar was amazing and is definitly worth a visit. It was partially demolished but fully rebuilt in the early 20th century with all mod-cons including running water and electricity.</p><p>Unfortunately, in recent times too much water is being sucked out of the water table and the whole structure is sinking at different points. There is a plan to install 400 concrete posts under the castle to shore it up.</p><p>Both the allies and the Nazies had "protection orders" on the castle during WWII.</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/utrecht-journals-j5062681.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_E-MMSYWQaJtdZkl20btxkTNdIFQ_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/E-MMSYWQaJtdZkl20btxkTNdIFQ_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_E-MMSYWQaJtdZkl20btxkTNdIFQ_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=E-MMSYWQaJtdZkl20btxkTNdIFQ_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Futrecht-journals-j5062681.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/utrecht-journals-j5062681.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-06-29:4914159 2007-06-29T16:00:27Z 2007-07-03T16:31:08Z Jason and Guy http://realtravel.com/member-m4741610-jason_and_guy.html <p><em>"It finally occured to me that I really am on vacation, with the surprise bonus of having three more weeks still to come."</em></p> <p>a entry by Jason and Guy from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>We arrived in Amsterdam late Thursday afternoon and found ourselves immensely well pleased and situated at the Golden Bear, the venerable independent gay hotel on Kerkstraat which we had never stayed at before, but knew from 2 prior stays in this street. The winding stairway is more like a luxury ladder, but not so daunting - go on, you know you want to try it. The room is clean and the last and highest in the hotel, occupying the rear attic window area of this narrow old brick house. Could not be more pleased, and are literally steps away from Leidsestraat, the ""main street"" of Jason &amp; ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4914159.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_pSojLkq0VqUIEZw6NfVKLQz2-tU_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/pSojLkq0VqUIEZw6NfVKLQz2-tU_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_pSojLkq0VqUIEZw6NfVKLQz2-tU_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=pSojLkq0VqUIEZw6NfVKLQz2-tU_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j4914159.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4914159.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-03:4952798 2007-07-03T09:37:30Z 2007-07-03T16:10:14Z Jason and Guy http://realtravel.com/member-m4741610-jason_and_guy.html <p>a review of Artis, a thing to do in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>Artis, the zoo in Amsterdam, is a wonderful zoological garden with most of the attractions and wildlife one would expect, and some great surprises. Feeding time for the crocodiles is 12:00 sharp each Sunday ... more than that, and they would get too fat.</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-a4952798.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_U5.k.ppRgrmJ3sB.m48UlQWXcX4_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/U5.k.ppRgrmJ3sB.m48UlQWXcX4_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_U5.k.ppRgrmJ3sB.m48UlQWXcX4_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=U5.k.ppRgrmJ3sB.m48UlQWXcX4_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-a4952798.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-a4952798.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-07-03:4953014 2007-07-03T09:50:32Z 2007-07-03T16:10:14Z Jason and Guy http://realtravel.com/member-m4741610-jason_and_guy.html <p><em>"We contented ourselves with exploring the streetscapes, reconnecting with friends and with the city"</em></p> <p>a entry by Jason and Guy from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>The weekend in Amsterdam sped by so quickly. We occupied ourselves with mong walks, coffee and beer, picnics (including a lovely one with friends and too much wine on a bench over the Singel canal, where gabbling ducks clamored for crumbs and finally got their way). The bars on Reguliersdwarstraat beckoned nightly, and a hearty English Breakfast fueled a Saturday outing to the zoo.</p><p>Artis is a 19th-century zoo which maintains the miniature habitats typical of a modern zoological garden. Their breeding program appears to be a rousing success - everywhere were newborn mammals, reptiles and ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4953014.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_2uvNbI5-VgUsHk7XsH6pLhMwwcE_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/2uvNbI5-VgUsHk7XsH6pLhMwwcE_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_2uvNbI5-VgUsHk7XsH6pLhMwwcE_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=2uvNbI5-VgUsHk7XsH6pLhMwwcE_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j4953014.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4953014.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-06-29:4914015 2007-06-29T15:47:07Z 2007-06-29T16:00:36Z Jason and Guy http://realtravel.com/member-m4741610-jason_and_guy.html <p>a review of Albert Heijn Supermarket, a place to eat in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>This is saving us a fortune - pre-prepared foods from the nearby Albert Heijn supermarket. NO WAY DO WE WANT TO THROW AWAY 10 HOURS OF VACATION ON PICKING RESTAURANTS!! This is also way better for keeping to a normal diet during such a long trip.</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-c4914015.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_emgIp-CJcu1VV5i7e0pDIaLmC0A_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/emgIp-CJcu1VV5i7e0pDIaLmC0A_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_emgIp-CJcu1VV5i7e0pDIaLmC0A_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=emgIp-CJcu1VV5i7e0pDIaLmC0A_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-c4914015.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-c4914015.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-06-29:4914068 2007-06-29T15:49:10Z 2007-06-29T16:00:34Z Jason and Guy http://realtravel.com/member-m4741610-jason_and_guy.html <p>a review of Shoe Shopping, a thing to do in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>Fantastic prices on shoes. Guy found \hugo Boss on severe markdown (He is having a lot of luck with that) and I got Cruyff leather sneakers. Didn't pay what you'd think we did and it took about 20 minutes on Leidsestraat, pleasantly spent too.</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-a4914068.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_fq9oFcUeobVLmVEzCC2WRVWBBQY_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/fq9oFcUeobVLmVEzCC2WRVWBBQY_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_fq9oFcUeobVLmVEzCC2WRVWBBQY_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=fq9oFcUeobVLmVEzCC2WRVWBBQY_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-a4914068.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-a4914068.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-06-29:4913959 2007-06-29T15:45:12Z 2007-06-29T16:00:31Z Jason and Guy http://realtravel.com/member-m4741610-jason_and_guy.html <p>a review of Hotel Golden Bear, a place to stay in <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a>.</p> <p>The rooms are clean ... the staircase is among the steepest and most winding you will encounter, even in Amsterdam. Wonderful hospitality, friendly staff, clean rooms. They put in fridges this winter. Our new favorite - and affordable - Amsterdam hotel. Caters to gay clientele.</p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-b4913959.html">[Read full review]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_bp6fno4p3UOr3LH62870ArJqDiQ_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/bp6fno4p3UOr3LH62870ArJqDiQ_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_bp6fno4p3UOr3LH62870ArJqDiQ_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=bp6fno4p3UOr3LH62870ArJqDiQ_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-reviews-b4913959.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-reviews-b4913959.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-06-28:4903549 2007-06-28T20:01:35Z 2007-06-28T20:23:45Z Joan and Tracie http://realtravel.com/member-m4692160-joan_and_tracie.html <p>a entry by Joan and Tracie from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>After our cultural excursion in St. Goar, we headed off to Amsterdam, the city of sex, drugs, and rock and roll! Before we reached Amsterdam, we had a special stopover in Edam. Yes, the home of the cheese.</p><p>We were arranged to have a quick bike tour of the village, so we headed off to the rental store. Unfortunately, however, it started to rain as soon as we got out of the coach. Go figure eh? Anyhow, as we walked along, I noticed a group of people wearing what seemed to be old fashioned Dutch cheesemaking garb. I didn't think much of it, assuming that they were probably putting on a play ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4903549.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_lel1pXfvQ-pHzUs5YCutlf1KP7I_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/lel1pXfvQ-pHzUs5YCutlf1KP7I_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_lel1pXfvQ-pHzUs5YCutlf1KP7I_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=lel1pXfvQ-pHzUs5YCutlf1KP7I_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j4903549.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4903549.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-06-23:4855217 2007-06-23T19:17:27Z 2007-06-28T13:57:11Z Michael & Erin http://realtravel.com/member-m4007884-michael__erin.html <p>a entry by Michael &amp; Erin from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>We flew into Amsterdam late Wednesday, arriving at our hotel after 11 pm. It has been 8 years since Erin was last here, and about 7 years for Michael, so we wanted to briefly revisit the city together. Our hotel was located directly on the Amstel River, and was full of typical Dutch charm. The stairs were so steep you practically had to climb them like a ladder, and of course we were on the third floor. Also the whole building was tilted from subsiding, you can see it compared to the surrounding buildings. Not only was the building tilted on the outside, the entire inside was slanted, ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4855217.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_XbOAqVpwxA8kzMo2AtXXD5qU8pw_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/XbOAqVpwxA8kzMo2AtXXD5qU8pw_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_XbOAqVpwxA8kzMo2AtXXD5qU8pw_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=XbOAqVpwxA8kzMo2AtXXD5qU8pw_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j4855217.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4855217.html tag:realtravel.com,2007-06-02:4672565 2007-06-02T20:22:58Z 2007-06-02T21:12:28Z Sarah and Liz http://realtravel.com/member-m4588181-sarah_and_liz.html <p><em>"Not realizing that the "city" was actually a 3 block radius in most directions, our "tour" was much shorter than expected."</em></p> <p>a entry by Sarah and Liz from a trip to <a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-netherlands-reviews-hotels-d14234.html">Amsterdam, Netherlands.</a></p> <p>AmterDamn. We arrived in the city around 12:00 and were amazed at how easy it was getting from the train station to the city. Upon approaching our accomodation for the evening, Sarah was gently reminded that she had booked us in a Christian Youth Hostel for the evening. Ironically, it was located on the edge of the Red Light District- but we did not care, as it was the only all female dormatory available for this time period.</p><p>Once inside our hostel, despite the "God Loves You" posters everywhere, we really did not feel the love. Our "dorm" consisted of 16 other beds in one room and was ... </p> <p><a href="http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4672565.html">[Read full entry]</a></p> <p><map name="google_ad_map_jUm3DX54FahQGVQ13QLZo5LjxOY_"><area shape="rect" href="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/imgclick/jUm3DX54FahQGVQ13QLZo5LjxOY_?pos=0" coords="1,2,367,28"/><area shape="rect" href="http://services.google.com/feedback/abg" coords="384,10,453,23"/></map><img usemap="#google_ad_map_jUm3DX54FahQGVQ13QLZo5LjxOY_" border="0" src="http://imageads.googleadservices.com/pagead/ads?format=468x30_aff_img&client=ca-pub-1956712303939423&channel=3810559515&output=png&cuid=jUm3DX54FahQGVQ13QLZo5LjxOY_&url=http%3A%2F%2Frealtravel.com%2Famsterdam-journals-j4672565.html"/></p> http://realtravel.com/amsterdam-journals-j4672565.html