Elke Salverda

14 Aug 2018

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Vergina: The historic hotspot of Greece

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On August 14, 2018 With No Comments

Vergina, a small town in northern Greece, will surprise you with historic treasures.

The town became more famous after the important archeologic discovery’s of Mr Andronikos in 1977. He found the skull of Phillip II with a damaged right eye which indicated that he was hit with an arrow. You’ll learn a lot more when you get a guided tour in one of the many archeologic museums Vergina has to offer.

How To Get There!
If you want to stay for a more than a week, plan your stay in Thessaloniki. Vergina has a lot to offer but after a couple days, you’ll be done with all the history and museums. Then it’s nice to get some city-life and enjoy a cocktail or two. It’s easy to get to Vergina from Thessaloniki with a rental car. It takes about an hour and a half.

Tip: take a detour en route and spot the lovely lunch places with an amazing view of the Techniti Rimi Lake.

Get Historical
Make sure not to miss the Museum of Royal Tombs of Aigai. Here you’ll find the grave of Phillip II and Alexander IV of Macedon. The guide told us a lot of complicated stories about their death, marriages and traditions. For example, one of the wives of Phillip II was buried in a chamber next to him in the tomb. Where she came from, it was a tradition to follow the husband into the grave. And so she gave up her life.

You can park the rental car next to this museum. The museum is open on Monday from 12:00 to 20:00 and on Tuesday till Sunday from 08:00 to 20:00. A normal ticket is €12. Unfortunately, I was not allowed to take pictures in the museum.

Get Local
If you want to stay the night in this small historic town, I recommend hotel Esperides. The owner (Mr Mantsios) is a lovely host and most of all: an amazing chef! Usually, he doesn’t serve dinner at the hotel, but if you smile friendly and ask nicely you might have a chance. At least don’t miss his homemade olive breadsticks and plum jam during breakfast. This hotel also includes a small spa with sauna and steam bath.

Come to Vergina if you love history, great weather and a wonderful Greek atmosphere. (the food is a huge bonus ;-))

Love,

Larissa

*Larissa is our brand new guest editor! She lives in The Netherlands and has accomplished a lot for her age. She works as an editor in Chief at BLVD

14 Aug 2018

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The Corner Amsterdam, an oldie but a goodie

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On August 14, 2018 With No Comments

If you follow us, you’re probably used to see the latest hotspots in and around Amsterdam on our platform. But that doesn’t mean that the café’s, restaurants and lunchrooms, that have been around for a while, aren’t any good. I got an invitation from a café/restaurant in Amsterdam that has been around for ages. After some research I found out that apparently, they serve one of the best tomato soups in Amsterdam! Time to find out..

The Corner has been around for many years, but the latest owner, has run her business for the last 18 years. She invited me so I could test the menu and write an honest review. And if you know me, I’m honest as can be! What I immediately noticed, is that The Corner has a huge terrace, facing the RAI. Why haven’t I been here before? I wondered. The sun shines here from the early afternoon until about 5pm, so it’s the perfect lunchspot.

The meatball, tomato soup and the mussels at The Corner, have been voted the best in Amsterdam

Once inside, I am welcomed by the owner Danielle and the manager. True local Amsterdammers, all the way though. Spirits are high and the music is loud. The bar is the center piece of The Corner and the bar seats are rarely empty. Yes, The Corner has many locals that come in for the occasional beer and chitchat. Danielle tells me that up until a few years ago, The Corner was a typical Dutch café, where you could drink and party until the early hours. But even though this was very successful, it was time for an upgrade. They refurbished 5 years ago and Danielle decided to put more focus on the menu, instead of just being a night café. And with success! Last year their meatball, tomato soup and mussels have been voted as the best in town by popular newspaper Het Parool.

Their famous mussels

The Menu
The menu is quite large and has many options, for vegetarians or meatlovers alike. Some of the highlights are without doubt The Dutch meatball, The tomato soup, but you can go crazy on several sandwiches, salads, burgers with fries or special plates. I have to say that the chef was a bit keen on adding salt, so if you like your food less salty, do ask. I tried the soup and shrimp salad and my boyfriend Jesse enjoyed steak with fries. The soup was just the way I hoped it was and included a hint of pesto. Jesse was all smiles, so that says enough. I am curious about the mussels though, so if you get the chance, go try them! I know not every restaurant pulls it off.

Toasted bread and dips

The famous tomato soup!

My shrimp salad

Verdict: The Corner is a great place to meet up with friends, enjoy that Amsterdam “gezelligheid” and eat good food for a reasonable price. The large terrace get’s an extra thumbs up. It’s not your latest avocado, pink wall, unicorn cakes kinda place, but it’s an oldie that deserves a visit. If you get the chance, go and say hi to Danielle, she’s lovely and will make sure you want to come back.

Love,

Elke

09 Aug 2018

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Weekend Tip: The Vegan Food Festival in Amsterdam

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On August 9, 2018 With No Comments

No weekend plans yet? That’s great, because you can be one of the first Dutchies who can experience veganism in all her (extravagant) formations. All over the world and now finally in Amsterdam: The Vegan Food Festival. The upcoming days this lifestyle fest (no entrance fee folks!) will transform the Westergasfabriek into a real vegan food walhalla. And no…that’s not only fun for the vegans at heart. Get surprised vegetarians, flexitarians or even Burgundians.

Vegan Food Festival, where plant-based is the standard
No tree-hugging people, no atmosphere to convince you, no touchy-feely talks. Expect a three-day culinary experience with a diverse program of inspiring speakers, workshops, theatre, film and live music. It’s intended to introduce a broad and varied public to a plant-based lifestyle, and off course in a low-threshold way. For sure this event will make you hungry (or maybe even hangry). From quinoa burgers with vegan cheddar cheese till chai chocolate caramel walnut cake; savory and ultra-sweet dishes are on the menu. Take for example Vleesch noch Visch who will blow you away with their pita’s, and Sharp Sharp for the sweet touch (wish I could buy their healthy bars in Eastside day in day out, really delicious).

The location, Westergas

It’s more than food…it’s lifestyle
Vegan Food Festival is more than just a food party. Besides the variety of food stands, they’ve lots of educating talks, documentaries and workshops for you in store: live Q&A with Tarikh Janssen and Lisa stel (Lisa goes Vegan), Ron Simpson (The Avocado Show) about running a sustainable business, and Go With The Glow. There’ll be a special program for the little ones on day #3, so this don’t have to be a lazy Sunday.

Vleesch noch Visch will be there!

Confetti (vegan) cake anyone?

And for the party people, on Friday and Saturday night you don’t want to miss the special after parties!

Vegan lover or not, this is your chance to taste outside the vegan box. ‘When you know better, you do better!’ Hope to spot you there.

Love,

Sharmaine

Vegan Food Festival
Gashouder, Transformatorhuis en Westergasterras
Free Entrance!
Opening hours: Friday 15:00 – 23:00 // Saturday and Sunday 13:00 – 23:00
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08 Aug 2018

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5 places in Costa Rica you cannot miss out on

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On August 8, 2018 With No Comments

Costa Rica is the ultimate holiday destination for nature lovers and adventurous travelers. The country has 2 extensive coastlines, lots of jungle and more than half a million different plants and animals. The people and their lifestyle are considered incredibly friendly and relaxed, which rings true with the countries motto “Pura Vida”, meaning “the good life”. Below are 5 hotspots selected for you.

La Fortuna
La Fortuna is a small town at the foot of the Arenal volcano. The Arenal is one of the few active volcanoes in the world and when it is dark you can see the lava flowing down. At the foot of the volcano there are thermal baths and hot springs. It is an unforgettable experience to observe the volcano from the warm water of the springs.

La Fortuna

Turrialba
Turrialba is located in the central region of Costa Rica. Along the town runs the river Pacuare and is considered one of the 5 best and most beautiful rivers worldwide for rafting. In addition, Turrialba is located next to a volcano where where you can go hiking.

Hiking in Costa Rica

Dominical
Dominical is located on the pacific coast and those who like to surf will find themselves right at home here. Dominical itself consists of a paved road with some shops and restaurants. It is a cozy place with a hippie-like vibe and many interesting people. Check out this surfschool if you want to learn how to surf.

There are many beautiful beaches nearby and a lot of nature reserves

Ojochal
The small community of Ojochal in Puntarenas is located in the South Pacific, about 30 minutes south from the town of Dominical. Ojochal is a perfect base from which you can do all kinds of activities. There are many beautiful beaches nearby and a lot of nature reserves. It is also worthwhile to do a horseback tour there. 2 local guides will take you through the jungle and across the beach. During this tour you will also pass Cascada El Pavon, a small-but-beautiful waterfall with a pool at the bottom for swimming. Stay at Villas Gaia to get that local feeling.

Cahuita.
Cahuita is located in the northeast of Costa Rica on the Caribbean coast. This town also has a slightly hippie-like feel about it. Take a visit to the Cahuita national park where monkeys jump around all over the place, snakes are hidden in the trees and raccoons cross the paths. The largest coral reef in Costa Rica is also in the national park, so snorkeling in the colorful underwater world is a must. In the evening you will find a variety of good restaurants, as well as locals hanging out in the streets with friends and family, which creates a nice and lively atmosphere.

Love,

Iris

*Iris is one of our guest editors from The Netherlands. She’s got a big interest for fashion, poetry and traveling. She was only 3 months old when she was on the plane for the first time, and she has been to every continent in the meantime. She’s a dreamer and would prefer to be on the beach every day. You can follow Iris on Instagram.

02 Aug 2018

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It’s Going to Snow in Brabant Today!

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On August 2, 2018 With No Comments

Temperatures are rising up to 33 degrees in Holland today, and that can be pretty tough. Brabant will officially be the coolest place in The Netherlands tomorrow.

On Friday the 3rd of August, with the motto “Cool Best”, in collaboration CoolBest and the town of Best, they will turn the Marktplein square into a true snow world, making it the coolest place in the Netherlands. From 11am till 3pm, people can sit in their shorts or swimsuits in beach chairs IN THE SNOW, make snowmen, have snowball fights, sled and enjoy cool and refreshing drinks. How COOL?!

Are you ready to play in the snow today?

The snow is provided by Polar Europe, who also does this for the Olympic Games, so it’s not going to be shabby. Around 11 am the snow is sprayed onto the square and it will then gradually melt during the day. (so be there quick!)

“In the ongoing heat wave, the idea came to cool down city Best. With this campaign we want to offer hydration to the residents and visitors of this Brabant city in a fun way. How cool is it to say that you played in the snow with 33 degrees?! “, says Sabine Blom of CoolBest.

You know where to go tomorrow!

Love,

Wander-Lust

01 Aug 2018

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Cruising the rivers of France with Nicols (without a license!)

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On August 1, 2018 With No Comments

Sailing alongside the Great Barrier reef? Yes, I’ve done it, but with help of an experienced captain of course. Cruising across a river in France WITHOUT any navigation experience or having a boat license? Yep, done that too! How? Read on..

Last week I sailed across the Saône river in France with a huge boat by Nicols, a boating company that offers a variation of boats that you can rent at different locations across Europe. The cool thing is, that you don’t need a boat or sailing license to cruise along the rivers. Boating holidays like these are well known by the French, the English and the Germans, but Funny enough, many Dutch still haven’t heard of it.

Nicols invite me to try it for one week. Cruising from Dole, all the way up to Port Sur Saône by boat. Or may I say yacht. It was huge! The boat they provided for us, was the Estivale Sixto. It had 3 bedrooms, 2 toilets, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen and a living area. Oh, and I forgot to mention the large sundeck big enough for 8 people. Instead of 8 people, me, my hubby and our child Caiden opted for the challenge.

The Estivale Sixto

Which Route is right for you?
We cruised along the Saône river, which is located in North East France, but Nicols has 19 other route options in France, 2 in Germany and 1 in Portugal. All river cruises have one thing in common; it’s quiet, relaxing and peaceful. Don’t expect to visit big cities, with many bars or restaurants. Some villages are so tiny, they only count 82 inhabitants! (as long as they have a bakery right?)

Your confidence will grow after a few locks

154 km with a total of 23 locks. Locks?! I hear you think. Yes, that was a first for me too. When you cruise the rivers, you have locks to account for, and for this, you need your full attention. I must admit, the locks gave me some nerves a view times. You need to toss a rope, hope someone on shore will catch it, or otherwise you need to climb up a very steep stairs, while the boat manoeuvres it’s way into the lock. It was my job to do it right. The boyfriend would steer, while our little boy sat in in high chair, watching the spectacle with his lifejacket on.

AiAi Captain!

Tunnel vision!

ROUTE 3 : DOLE – PORT-SUR-SAÔNE
(Some of the towns & villages we passed)

Dole: starting point and such a cute town! I advise you to stay the night here and enjoy the small streets, and smell of fresh baguettes.
Auxonne: Church, castle, museum, a few small restaurants near the water
Pontallier-sur-Saône: Square de la Vierge (plantsoen), kasteel van Talmay, wasplaatsen
Heuilley-sur-Saône: La maison de l’eau, de la pêche et de la nature (museum over water, visserij en natuur)
Essertenne-et-Cecey: Very small village
Mantoche: Caste & Chruch
Gray: A bigger town with a tourist office, a nice outside terrace, some restaurants and shops. TIP: I advise you to dock the boat one lock further where you have a camping with a nice restaurant, swimming pool and BBQ’s.
Ray-sur-Saône: A big castle, other than that, not much to see
Scey-sur-Saône: Navigate your boat through a 640 meters long tunnel, very cool!
Port-sur-Saône: The final destination, park your boat in the harbour, visit the deer park, swimming pool

If you want a little more buzz, you should check out the south route from Port Lauragais or Le Somail where you pass Carcasonne.

Dole, France

In The Middle of Nowhere
You can stop whenever you want and dock almost everywhere you want. At first we docked at small harbors, located at villages, but as our confidence grew, we docked in the middle of nature a few times. Tip: buy enough water and food, because there might not be a supermarket nearby for a few miles. We took our bicycles and explored a few villages where we could only find cows, cornfields and farms. I really felt like I was in the middle of nowhere, and where wifi didn’t matter. Sometimes we stayed at campings, other times next to a cornfield, drinking vino underneath the stars. In order to get to your final docking place on time, you need to cruise about 20km a day. We did around 25 – 30 km a day, so you’ll easily make it.

Docking in the middle of nature (spiders also loved it!)

Landscapes and cows is what you are going to see a lot of

Some of the cute houses we passed

Add Some Extra’s
At Nicols you have a few add on’s you can go for. You can hire bicycles for example, which are super handy if you decide to dock in the middle of nowhere and you need to get some fresh croissants for breakfast. You can also hire an inflatable pool, which is nice for those hot days. Some boats even have a small pool on board! (see photo)

Pool on board, why not! (source: Nicols)

Le Petit Dejeunér on board

Verdict:
Such a unique experience! Mind you, cruising a river, isn’t like cruising the open sea, with the opportunity to visit (busy) jetset islands, with many restaurants, shops or bars. If you decide to rent a boat with Nicols, you will relax, appreciate nature, and add some navigation skills to your resumé. (I learned something new everyday!) It’s perfect for couples, a group of friends or families. Dogs are allowed on deck! Cost: The boat that I had with all the add on’s and Diesel, cost around €3570,-. It was big enough to share with 3 couples.

Nicols Boats
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Wesbite

Love,

Elke

More travel tips?

31 Jul 2018

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6 reasons why Madrid should be on your City Trip list

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On July 31, 2018 With No Comments

So you are looking for a weekend getaway, or maybe a sangria kinda holiday? You want to taste the tapas, enjoy culture, sunshine and wander around picturesque streets. Barcelona comes? Think again; Madrid has it all! I’m going to give you 6 reasons to choose Madrid (and if you don’t believe me, just visit both)

Food is everywhere
If you’re in the mood for Spanish food, Madrid, also known as tapas heaven, is the right destination to go to. Food is literally everywhere. Go on a stroll in the traditional Spanish neighbourhood ‘Santa Ana’ or the multicultural hipster hotspot Lavapiés. On every corner you will find something to eat. If you really can’t choose I’ll help you out; Lateral in Santa Ana is one of my all-time favourites. Which has created the perfect match between traditional recipes and modern creations.

If you want to try a diversity of Spanish dishes, try Mercado San Miguel. Order a drink and choose on of the many appetizers they offer at the market, ranging from Spanish ham to ice-cream.

Tip: Craving something sweet after a night of salsa dancing? You can find the best chorros at Chocolatería San Ginés, open 24 hours a day!

You can rent a private yacht for €6,-
Alright, it’s not a yacht and you’ll have to do the rowing all by yourself, but sailing in the middle of Parque del Buen Retiro is something you can’t miss out on. It offers you an amazing view on the parc, provides peace in the middle of the vibrant city and a free rowing workout.

You can shop 13 hours a day
Do I need to say more? And in case you’re not convinced: all stores have air-conditioning. That’s something you sure going to need in the summer of Madrid. So, where to go? You’ll find most of the big chain stores around the main square, Puerta del Sol and on Gran Via. Make sure you’re not in a hurry ‘cause most of the stores, especially on Gran Via, are huge. You can easily spend a whole day shopping just visiting 2 or 3 of those stores. A small walk further will lead you to the shopping street Calle Fuencarral, where small businesses and large retail stores alternate. Madrid is also a great city for vintage shopping. Go get lost in the pitoresque streets of the neighbourhood Malasaña while searching for unique, second hand treasure.

Tip: Tired of shopping and the buzz of the city? Take a ride on the Teleférico (cable car) in Casa de Campo and view Madrid from high above. Enjoy the peace, the view and the greenery that Casa de Campo has to offer. Unless you’re afraid of heights of course…

Perfect starting point for day-trips

If you’re staying in Madrid for a little bit longer I strongly recommend to go on a day trip to one of the many beautiful surrounding Spanish villages. For example Toledo, a city with a rich history and culture. And therefore even won a spot on the World Heritage list of UNESCO. But also the cities Segovia and Salamanca are truly something you shouldn’t miss out on.

Dance every day (from salsa to techno)
Madrid is the best place when it comes to going out. From Monday to Sunday, the city never sleeps. The party starts at midnight and continues until sunrise. One of the largest disco’s of Madrid is Teatro Kapital. This dance paradise contains 7 floors, each floor has a different music genre; from salsa to house. If you’re not in the mood for a club, Madrid offers a wide variety of bars as well. Each neighbourhood brings you a different vibe. For example the bohemian Malasaña, where you will find the most bars per square meter in Madrid.

Tip: Did you know Madrid has a lively gay community? The district of Chueca is known as the gay district of Madrid, filled with modern cafes and gay bars.

Explore by foot
Madrid is huge and full of history. Therefor it can be quite challenging to choose where to go and what to visit. It’s easy getting around by metro, busses or Uber but Madrid is actually also a great city to explore by foot. Put on some comfy shoes and wander around or search for one of the many walking routes offered online. You probably not going to walk around the whole city but will manage to visit all the well known attractions if your hotel is in the main area.

I could go on for centuries with convincing you to visit Madrid. Cause whether you seeking for a party weekend, a romantic get-a-way or cultural adventure, Madrid has it all. Let yourself be carried away by the Spanish culture, getting los was never before a better idea.

Love,

Eva

*Eva is one of our guest bloggers from Amsterdam. She’s a city girl who only leaves her heels at home when wearing a backpack. Living by the urge to be where she’s not, to explore, experience, fall and get up. You can follow her on Instagram.

Need accommodation in Madrid? Use our booking.com code and get €25,- back on your booking!

25 Jul 2018

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7 x Amazing Accommodations in The Black Forest!

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On July 25, 2018 With No Comments

The black forest is a huge forest located in the South of Germany, which is well known by many outdoor fanatics. I’ve been coming here for years, because my sister lives in the area. After all these years, it was about time that I wrote something about it. Planning to visit? These are 8 unusual but must visit accommodations in or near the Black Forest.

The Black Forest is stunning and yet not known by everyone

Waterfalls and green at the Black Forest

Bubble Tent at Furtwangen
Sleep underneath the stars and wake up my the morning skies. The bubble tent is equipped with a bed, a small table, 2 chairs and a fridge with free drinks and a separate bathroom with free towels. Mind you, when it’s hot, it can be quite steamy inside the bubble during the day. However, this stay would definitely be a memorable one with a view like this! www.bubble-tent.de

Source

Hotel Liberty at Offenburg
If you love pretty boutique hotels, this is a must visit. This former prison that dates back from the 1800’s turned into a beautiful design hotel with 38 rooms. They’ve kept some of the original prison doors and steel windows to add some details. The rooms are incredible! The beds are huge and there is a separate bathtub standing in the room, which makes it such a treat to jump in straight away. Guests can use the swimming pool & spa down the road (5 minute walk) for free. www.hotel-liberty.de

The old prison doors

Waking up in a prison, has never felt so good

Schwarzwald Camp
This campsite is located about 45 minutes from Freiburg. Sleep in a Tipi Tent, normal tent, in a tree or in a gondola! The outdoor options are endless here and it’s certainly special! www.schwarzwaldcamp.com

Source

Black Forest Lodge at Feldberg
Recently opened back in December, this huge wooden lodge, offers guest apartments throughout the seasons. During the winter you can ski down the Feldberg and during the sunny season, you can stay here while exploring the beautiful surroundings of the Black Forest. All apartments are equipped with a kitchen, bedroom, a very modern and spacious bathroom, and living area. All guests can use the sauna and relaxing area, and there are many villages nearby for supermarkets or restaurants. The best thing? Your own porch with a view of the Feldberg. www.black-forest-lodge.com

My view from the Black Forest Lodge

Sleep in a Wine Barrel at Titisee
I haven’t stayed at this particular one, but I have stayed in a wine barrel before! It’s a must do if you love to snuggle up to your loved one, because it’s very romantic and cozy. My advise is to book between June and September as it can get quite chilly otherwise.

Zeitraum at Elzach-Yach
If you’re into sustainability like me, you’re going to love this hotel. This holiday home in the middle of nature with ecological structureBuild from wood and other natural materials, gently support the Feng Shui of the house. The outside jacuzzi and spa, complete your visit. It’s located 30 minutes away from Freiburg city. www.imzeitraum.de

NaturTräume in Schiltach
This is for brave and free from giddiness people! Sleep in a tent that hangs from a zipeline, over the trees of the Black Forest. Would you dare? www.de/uebernachtung.com

So, where would you stay?

Love,

Elke

22 Jul 2018

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Branie, a surprise Indonesian restaurant with Balls

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On July 22, 2018 With No Comments

When I arrived at new joint Branie, on the Ten Katestraat in Amsterdam, I had no idea what to expect. The front window had a crack in it, and there was only a small sign. You would walk straight past it, to be honest. Once inside, I was welcomed by the owner and the wonderful Indonesian hostess (who is also co-responsible for the menu). I was totally blown away by the innovating dishes and incredible spices. Let me introduce..

Branie stands for guts
I’m told that the name Branie is a combination between an Indonesian and a typical Amsterdam word. It means daredevil, but in a cheeky way. It totally reflects the menu and cocktails. Owner Remco, previously owner of secret cocktail bar Porem, tells me that he wanted to combine his Indonesian roots with the Amsterdam spirit.

Branie brani, b[a bakje]ráni, is an Malaysian word that means cheeky daredevil, someone with balls

The Menu
In Asian countries, people share their food. At Branie they do the same. You are advised to order about 4 to 6 different dishes and you are welcomed with some spicy popcorn. We decided to go for the soft shell crab bao (which is served as a whole crab), the tea salad, the squid, prawn wangton (available upon request), some traditional chicken saté, and the Jackfruit Semoor, that has a meaty texture but is completely vegan. The tea salad needs a little more explanation because it actually contains tea and is specially imported. It has a sour flavour and great as a cold starter. The magic truly happens in the kitchen and behind the bar.

The Branie “KFC” mushroom bucket

Remco is a cocktail master and gives a modern twist to his cocktails. From Pandan Daiquiri, to Crying at the Piscoteque or the Damsko Fizz. You must try at least three!

The decor still needs some finishing touches, but once the details are added (such as a neon light, and some plants), Branie is set to be your next “local” Asian with balls.

Branie
Ten Katestraat 26, Amsterdam
Website

Love,

Elke

19 Jul 2018

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The Birdhouse Amsterdam

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On July 19, 2018 With No Comments

Hip hip hooray summer is in the city: the sun is shining (and luckily isn’t going to stop with it), lots of smiling faces in urban parks, and a variety of birds which bring a colourful joy to Amsterdam. Our beautiful capital city in optima forma, thanks good-humoured Mother Nature! Not to mention all the new food kids in town, the hospitality industry don’t know a so called ‘cucumber season’. This time I visited The Birdhouse, almost my neighbours, or in WK football terms ‘a home match’. Definitely one of my new favourite spots in town, let’s have a look!

The urban design jungle
Sometimes my expectations aren’t sky high before I drop by a new restaurant. Mostly it’s because of what was settled there before. I had that with The Birdhouse, situated in the Lancaster hotel. It always didn’t look very vibrant, it didn’t invite me to drop by. But since a couple of months my interest has been aroused with the arrival of this picture-perfect restaurant. Expect a really stylish restaurant with a lot of different kind of cosy corners, and detail-oriented. Overall, they’ve used natural materials to highlight the hotspot background: The Birdhouse is inspired by the bird gardens of Artis, their neighbours across the street. The outdoors has been brought inside, thumbs up!

The Birdhouse for all plumage
Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, this restaurant will become in no time one of your new faves, mark my words. Breakfast bowls, savory toasts, birdhouse cocktails, every day all day long. I’ve been here for brunch / lunch on a Sunday morning, and it was one of my best hospitality experiences of 2018. I hear you think: Why? It’s the total package of genuine, welcoming staff (especially Luc, he’s born to do this), a stunning atmosphere and finger lickin’ good (looking) food. Yassss jackpot! I guess the pictures speak for themselves, no explanation needed.

Simple, green and tasty!

Juicy

I can tell you so much more ins and outs about The Birdhouse, but this one deserves your visit. And this is cool: they’ve gift cards, so you can surprise every hangry boy or girl with this really original, appetizing present. So go go go for it, you smart bird!

Love,

Sharmaine

The Birdhouse
Plantage Middenlaan 46. Amsterdam
The Birdhouse Facebook
The Birdhouse Website
Opening hours: Every day 07:00 till 22:00

*Sharmaine is one of our guest bloggers from the Netherlands with a sweet tooth. The sweeter, the better! She no kitchen princess so she’s always in search for the best hotspots in Amsterdam! You can expect an article from her once a month! Check her out on Instagram!