Amsterdam Guide

Having lived in Amsterdam for over 15 years now, we can say we are well-established locals. Over the years we have collected the best restaurant tips, shops and events. They might come in handy for first time visitors. Enjoy the Wander-Lust Amsterdam Guide and feel like a local!

22 jan 2020
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KARAVAAN AMSTERDAM | The All Day Food & Drink Spot

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They secretly opened last week, but it didn’t happen unnoticed. Karavaan is open for business and we think this one is here to stay.

Situated in Amsterdam West, Karavaan – translated from the Dutch word Caravan, is located on the perfect corner on Kwakersplein. The building – previously occupied by Bar LouLou, was empty for months on end and people wondered what was coming. Ultimately, three experience entrepreneurs (the guys behind Panache, Waterkant and Ebeling) decided to turn it into the ideal place for breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails.

Karavaan Amsterdam interior

Karavaan can be anything you want it to be – the all day hangout, your morning coffee spot, the place for Friday night drinks, a neighbourhood cafe, city oasis, or breakfast club.

Karavaan lounge area

The Menu at Karavaan

For one thing, Karavaan doesn’t want to stick with the same menu. However, you can describe the current menu as a journey across the globe with Mediterranean style food for dinner, European breakfast and a mix between no-nonsense Dutch and International lunch. In other words, the menu is ever changing with boundaries. We tried the pumpkin salad and the bagel with beet and feta cheese, which was fresh and tasty! Additionally, we are especially curious about the dinner menu to say the least.

Karavaan Menu

At Karavaan the evenings are all about food, speciality beers, cocktails and tasty wines!

The Interior

With 3 bars, the total space unfolds into different directions indicated by changes in colours, interior finishes and light objects. The morning breakfast/coffee bar is located at the entrance and has a structure of mirrored light panels hanging above the bar, which can be flipped, changing from ‘Caffeine’ to ‘Cocktail’ Karavaan. This way the venue is suitable for all occasions and Studio Modijefsky designed the interior with this intention. Using earthy colours and patterns, the space feels warm and inviting. Parents, freelancers, friends and couples, Karavaan attracts a wide audience. If you need a located for a party or presentation, you can also do it here.

Karavaan Amsterdam Chairs, table

Drinks & Hangout

To enumerate their all-day-night concept, Karavaan is open until 1AM during weekdays and 3AM in the weekends. Additionally, DJ’s will be playing tunes on Fri, Sat and Sun from 10PM, making it the perfect spot for dinner and drinks with friends or colleagues. And let’s not forget about their massive outside terrace! From this coming March you will be able to soak up that sunshine and we cannot wait.

All in all, we are happy Karavaan has struck down in the city. We think this will be one of Amsterdam’s finest places to be, for a long while at least.

Karavaan
Kwakersplein 2h, Amsterdam
Website

Love,

Elke

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17 jan 2020
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These are the Best Spa’s in Amsterdam

Sticky Post By On januari 17, 2020 With 4 Comments

Time for some YOU-time. Luckily, Amsterdam has a wide variety in Spa’s where you can pamper yourself.

These are some of the best spa’s in Amsterdam that are worth your while.

Akasha Spa, Conservatorium Hotel

This one is considered as one of the best spa’s in Amsterdam. located in the middle of the museum district inside the Conservatorium Hotel. Complete with a swimming pool, sauna and amazing treatments, this is a place where you walk out as a new you. I enjoyed an aromatherapy massage for 75 minutes and it was heaven. Prices are what you expect of a top notch hotel like this but let’s be real, everybody deserves a treatment like this once in a while!

Akasha Spa
Van Baerlestraat 27
www.conservatoriumhotel.com

Akasha-Moderne-Hippies-winactie2
Total zen at the Akasha Spa

Skins Institute at Hotel De L’Europe

This amazing Spa is located at the 5 star Hotel De L’Europe in the heart of Amsterdam. They used to have 2 locations, but they’ve now put everything under one roof. They do body, face, waxing, beauty and even hair treatments. I tried and tested one of their signature facial treatments and wow…heaven! Seriously, I should do this more often! You can even create your own exclusive oil base by getting your skin analyzed. A full day at the spa will cost you 30 euro’s and you can use the swimming pool (pictured), sauna’s, steam room and relax area where you can read. They serve lunch from the hotel and during spring and summer, you can enjoy the patio outside overlooking the Amstel.

Skins Institute
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2-14
www.skinsinstitute.nl

PicMonkey Collage
Also on top of our list as one of the best spa’s in Amsterdam 

Sauna Deco

This Sauna and wellness Spa has been settled in Amsterdam  for 30 years already! The art decor is what you call, somewhat special. Sauna Deco is a household name in Amsterdam and many of our friends love going here. Their massages are reasonably priced and the sauna wellness area is available from 19 euro’s per person.

Sauna Deco
Herengracht 115
www.saunadeco.nl

Sauna Deco Spa
Source: Sauna Deco Spa

Spa Sport Hotel Zuiver (Spa Zuiver)

It’s where you will find mothers & daughters, couples, friends and business people. Spa Zuiver is for everyone. Sarah loves this place and returns here a couple of times a year.

Spa Sport Hotel Zuiver
Koenenkade 8

Spa_Baden_Zwembad35A3903
The pool area in Spa Zuiver. Photo by Karen Steenwinkel

These are without doubt the best spa’s in Amsterdam

The City Street Spa

Lucky for us, this Spa has 2 locations in Amsterdam! One flagship and one smaller which is called “Le Petit Spa”. From facials, pedicures, killer eyebrow and body treatments to Acupuncture and reflexology, you can find it all in one place. This popular spa also offers special face, hand and feet treatments for men so if you ever want to surprise your boyfriend, this is the place! 

The City Street Spa
Prinsengracht 764bg
Centre neuf Utrechtsestraat 120
www.thecitystreetspa.com

one of the best spa's in Amsterdam
Source: hethaartheater.nl

Cowshed at the Soho House

Cowshed
Spuistraat 210, Amsterdam
www.sohohouseamsterdam.com/en/spa

Cowshed is located on the ground floor of the relatively new Soho House Amsterdam. The Soho House is a members club but the spa is open to everyone. The Spa has six treatment rooms and four mani-pedi chairs which are divine. Men can also enjoy a traditional barber and hair treatment here, but we tested the massage. The Cowshed relaxing moody massage is wonderful and you can choose between different oils. After the treatment you can enjoy a free herbal tea and on Thursdays they serve bubbles and chocolate! Good to know: All skin products are free from parabens, petrochemicals, sulphates, and artificial fragrances. 

Cowshed spa in Amsterdam

Human Beauty

This spa is not huge but smaller and cozy than the above mentioned. This makes your spa experience more personal and customers keep returning. The interior is light and bright with a small boutique where you can buy ceramics and Jewellery from the like of Mimi et Toi.

Human Beauty
Eerste Tuindwarsstraat 1
www.humanbeauty.nl

Best spas in Amsterdam
Photographs by Lisan Timp  &  Marijn Wijs

Floatcenter Amsterdam

Floating is one of the most relaxing things you can experience. It’s weightless, silent and you and your mind is all there is. A little difficult for some of us as doing “nothing” is somewhat out of the ordinary when you have a busy schedule like us but nevertheless, very needed. This spa also offers massages, a hamam (scrub),spa capsules, beauty treatments and sauna.

Floatcenter Amsterdam
Nieuwe Kerkstraat 5k
www.floatcenteramsterdam.com

PicMonkey Collage
Me floating at the float center Amsterdam. 

Spa 1001

Most hotspots are in the city centre of Amsterdam, at least that’s what most people think. I live outside the centre so I know better. Spa 1001 is located in Amsterdam New West in Osdorp and close to the upcoming Tuinen van West area. The spa is also popular with Dutch celebrities like actrice Victoria Koblenko, footballer Justin Kluivert, vlogger Sisi Bolatini and other top sporters and well known vloggers. You can either book 2,5 or 5 hours and enjoy your private sauna, steam room with a optic star-ceiling, spacious jacuzzi or unwind in the luxurious (and large) lounge area that includes a fireplace. 

Spa 1001
Meer en Vaart 4, Amsterdam
Website, Facebook, Instagram

Spa 1001, best spas in Amsterdam

Love,

Elke

16 jan 2020
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ELLIS GOURMET BURGER AMSTERDAM

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It is years ago now, but when I lived in London and I found out that an Ellis Gourmet Burger restaurant was opening near my place, I couldn’t be more thrilled. I’ve been a vegetarian for most of my life, so why do I dig this burger place you ask?

In comparison, Ellis Gourmet Burger is a little different to other burger joints. And in recent years, they’ve made an even bigger transition when it comes to their menu. Surprisingly, vegan and vegetarian dishes are well established on the menu so when Wander-Lust was asked to test the new latest venue in central Amsterdam, we said yes in a heartbeat.

Ellis Gourmet Burger

With restaurants in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam and Breda, Ellis Gourmet Burger is doing something right in the Netherlands. It has been a while since I ate at a burger restaurant, so I invited Sarah to join at their location on the Gravenstraat so we could pick and mix. 

Wander-Lust at Ellis Gourmet Burger

The Menu at Ellis Gourmet Burger

Honestly, everyone can eat here. But oh boy, those sticky flower wings. Basically, these are deliciously disguised cauliflower parts, glazed with sweet sriracha and panko-crumbed. Still licking my fingers as we speak. They are the latest edition on the menu plus they’re 100% vegan!

Vegetarian Burger Ellis Gourmet Burger

For mains you have plenty of choice between 11 burgers, sides and salads. Sarah tried the Quinoa & goat cheese salad (it was January, so healthy orders were made), and I opted for the vegetarian burger. By the way, the buns at Ellis Gourmet Burger are crunchy and not to be compared with the soft dry burger buns you get at Mac D’s. We all have our preferences, but I prefer this. If you still like the taste of meat but you want to save the planet, you can order the revolutionary and sustainable plant-based Beyond burger!

The Interior

It has to be said, this wasn’t my favourite location I’ve seen. However, the location is perfect for visitors, as it’s located right in the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam’s shopping district, near the Dam Square. If you are looking for a more local experience, try their other locations the Prinsengracht or Singel.

All in all, I filled my tummy with some good comfort food!  Vegetarian or not, I can assure you, Ellis surely knows how to serve a tasty burger!

Ellis Gourmet Burger
Gravenstraat 20, Amsterdam
Website

Elke

 

12 jan 2020
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NHOW AMSTERDAM RAI IS OPEN

Sticky Post By On januari 12, 2020 With 2 Comments

After a 3 year period of intensive construction, the highly anticipated nhow Amsterdam has finally opened its doors on the 10th of January for guests.

The new hotel is a unique location for meetings and events, with nine different rooms on the 23rd floor that offer an amazing view of Amsterdam. A few important facts about the brand new nhow Amsterdam RAI:

Facts nhow Amsterdam RAI

  • The already iconic building between the RAI and the A10 was designed by the renowned architectural firm OMA. (fun fact, the architect used to be my father in law)
  • The interior contains colours and patterns from all over the world; the design stimulates inspiration and creativity.
  • nhow Amsterdam RAI has 650 hotel rooms and nine multifunctional event spaces on the 23rd floor.
  • Luckily, the hotel is only a ten-minute drive from Schiphol Airport.

bedroom nhow Amsterdam RAI

Food & Drink

Both international guests and locals can work and network in the lounge on the first floor. THE ENTOURAGE GROUP is launching a Kitchen & Bar and Lounge & Bar on the top floor at a height of 91 meters with a panoramic view of the city. The hotel is directly located on the RAI complex. Between the Europa Boulevard, the A10 ring road and RAI Amsterdam. Schiphol Airport is only ten minutes by car or train and the tram will take you to Dam Square within six minutes.

Restaurant nhow Amsterdam

RAI Amsterdam headquarter hotel

Needless to say that hotel is perfect for organizers, exhibitors and visitors to national and international events at RAI Amsterdam. Maurits, COO of RAI Amsterdam, adds: “As a multicultural hotspot, the hotel will be the home base for organizers, exhibitors and visitors to national and international events. With this RAI Amsterdam strengthens its competitive position on the international stock exchange and congress market and adds something special to the city of Amsterdam. “

Pink room nhow hotel

Future plans for nhow lifestyle brand hotels will be opened in the coming three years. Nhow Brussels, nhow Frankfurt, nhow Hamburg and nhow Lima are on the planning.

Book your stay here!

Love,

Elke

Find out which hotels in Amsterdam are the most sustainable!

Most sustainable hotels Amsterdam

03 jan 2020
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WINTERLICHT AT PAMPUS ISLAND | UNUSUAL DINING

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A gem with a capital ‘G.’ An UNESCO World Heritage place with a lovely scenery and a surprising pop-up restaurant. Get ready for an incomparable culinary experience. 

Ever heard of the annually recurring dining experience Winterlicht on fort island Pampus? (you can also exclusively camp on the island during summer) It’s one of the most special hidden gems of Amsterdam.

Winterlicht, a super exclusive concept

With the festive season full of fabulous foods, blinking lights, a dose of youthful memories and lots of snow (fun) – OK we wish we had that last Christmassy one – behind us, it’s high time for some New Year’s good-for-you goals. What about enjoying life more? Having more special and, above all, unforgettable moments together with your loved ones, for example. 

Fort Eiland Pampus

Restaurant Winterlicht deserves a spot on your bucket list for 2020.

For those who’ve never heard of Winterlicht. It’s a full evening’s culinary adventure on Pampus Island. An experience that deserves the claim ‘one size fits all.’ Firstly, it’s a perfect getaway for a social gathering with friends or family or for a heartwarming date night for two. However, we didn’t know what to expect, so with expectations on mode zero we jumped on the cosy clipper Sailboat. And so the 5-hour Winterlicht adventure begun!

An unforgettable culinary experience

Together with all the other guests you sail from IJburg, Muiden or Almere (depends per date) to Pampus around 18:00 p.m. You’ll set foot on the island in approximately 30 minutes. Expect a warm welcome from the Winterlicht crew, some ins and outs about the night and a short tour through the half-hidden historic fortress. After the historical walk and talk through the enlightened fort corridors, it’s time to find two of your not so ‘cheesy’ starters in this charming atmosphere: a hot steamy Dutch cheese fondue and mini pancakes overloaded with…well see it yourself. On the other hand; don’t overeat yourself with this heavy kickstarter. Just sayin’!

Oilcan with fire

Sneak peek of what to expect at Pampus’ Winterlicht

Around 20:00 you’ll be warmly greeted by the crew of the islands’ pavilion. A surprising seasonal 3-course dinner – fixed menu – is waiting for you. It’s lovely to hear they cook exactly the same as they did years and years ago: as sustainable as possible, eye for superb quality, and they make use of local products. For the vegetarians, vegans or the ones with a food allergy, don’t you worry. Although they serve a fixed menu, suitable alternatives without juicy meat, lactose or whatever you prefer aren’t a problem at all. Share your preferences in time, and you’ll be pampered. Mark my words.

Winterlicht menu

And what about the ambiance? Well, it’s exactly what you want during the wonderful winter time: a cosy, warm, laidback and welcoming vibe. Everything but pretentious. Looking sharp or comfy, come as you’re. Sounds inviting, doesn’t it?

Winterlicht knows how to pamper their guests after short river crossings

toetje Winterlicht

Winterlicht versus Zomerlicht

Although Winterlicht is hibernating for now, they’ll be up and running again every Friday and Saturday between the 21st of February till the 28th of March. Can’t make it this winter? No worries! During summery days there’s also ‘Zomerlicht’, Winterlicht’s little sister. Instead of fire baskets, lovely red wines and X-mas carols, you can have a cosy outdoor escape with a picture perfect picknick, summer breeze and tropical drink on the side. All things considered, for the exact information, please check out the up-to-date information on the website, or keep an eye on their socials. Claim your spot before it’s go go and get enchanted by the overload of charm.

In essence, we thank Winterlicht for having us, it was an amazing experience. Let’s forget the humdrum of daily life, make beautiful new memories and jump on the Sailboat soon!

Winterlicht
Pampus Island, Amsterdam
Website 

Package price €67,50 (crossing, culinary tour through the fort, a 3-course dinner and contribution to preserve the historical heritage.)

*Photo’s by Tony Perez

Cheers,

Sharmaine

*Sharmaine is one of our guest editors from Amsterdam 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!

 

 

05 dec 2019
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SILENT DISCO ICE-SKATING AT MUSEUMPLEIN AMSTERDAM

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This winter the first silent disco ice skating club will open on the Museumplein in Amsterdam.

At ICE ICE CLUB, founded by TV presenter Sol Wortelboer and his wife, you can go to silent disco ice-skating this winter. Besides that, Bootcamp on Ice and ice hockey lessons will be held at the famous museumplein in the centre of Amsterdam.

Burning Calories

It is said that you burn around 550 kilocalories per hour with skates and around 353 kcal per hour with dancing. “We combine the best of both worlds with Silent Disco Ice-Skating”, Says founder Sol Wortelboer. You can enjoy the silent disco ice-skating from early mornings till late. It is advised you come before 3pm, because after that, it will be quite busy on the ice-skating ring in Amsterdam.In the morning – before regular ice rink opening times – you can also visit Bootcamp on Ice and ice hockey.

Woman ice-skating at night Amsterdam

This brings the old-skool 80’s disco vibe to life!

ICE ICE CLUB

Last summer Sol Wortelboer opened the successful SUP SUP CLUB in Amsterdam and the Betuwe. With the winter version, he wants to make just as many people happy with the same elements in different conditions. And thanks to a great collaboration with Ice* Amsterdam, this dream is now coming true.

ice ring

Nice to know: ICE ICE CLUB is for everyone and accessible with Onefit and Classpass.

ICE ICE CLUB can be found from November 21 on the iconic ice rink of Ice * Amsterdam. For all info you can visit www.iceiceclub.com and www.iceamsterdam.nl.

Find out when and what Christmas Markets are on in Amsterdam this month!

Wander-Lust

 

03 dec 2019
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WILLEM DE BRUIN OPENT RESTAURANT ANNA DU PIRE

Sticky Post By On december 3, 2019 With No Comments

Gevierd solo artiest en de andere helft van de populaire hiphop groep De Opposites, slaat even helemaal een andere weg in en opent deze maand zijn allereerste bar/restaurant.

Willem de Bruin, bekend van zijn geprezen solo album Man in Nood staat voor uitverkochte zalen, speelde al eerder de sterren van de hemel in de film Catacombe, maar laat zich nu van een andere kant zien; als ondernemer. Hij opent namelijk een gloednieuwe bar/restaurant Anna du Pire, in het hart van de Pijp in Amsterdam.

Willem de Bruin

Bar Anna du Pire
Photo: Willem de Bruin

Wie is Anna du Pire?

De naam komt van de eerste vrouw van Bartholomeus van der Helst en leidde een leven vol kunst en rijkdom. Anna was een graag geziene gast in de kunst schilders wereld en was bevriend met vrouwelijk kunstschilders van die tijd. Vandaag omschrijft Willem haar als een zelfstandige vrouw. Een echte bohemian. Ze reist de wereld rond en haar ervaringen en de verhalen die ze opdoet tijdens haar leven vertalen zich in het menu en interieur. Hij heeft er voor gekozen om deze keer niet op de voorgrond te staan, maar het concept van Anna du Pire te laten spreken. Zo wordt er dus ook niet over de “eigenaren” gesproken, maar verwijst men naar Anna.

Bar
Binnen Anna du Pire is het smal en cozy. Foto Willem de Bruin

Omdat Anna du Pire als persoon ongrijpbaar is speelt ze met de rijke fantasie van haar gasten. De suggestie van haar aanwezigheid laat ruimte over voor interpretatie. – Willem

Food and Wine

Het brede spectrum van Anna’s wereld vind je terug in het menu.

Het Menu

De menukaart bij Anna du Pire zal velen invloeden kennen. Anna houdt van reizen en raakt geïnspireerd door verschillende culturen. Je vindt er dus niet één cuisine. Op dit moment kun je tot 7 december de eerste try-out kaart komen proeven en zal er daarna gewerkt worden aan vaste kaart. Een ding wat zeker is; er zal goede wijn en eten worden geserveerd. Daarnaast zullen er wine tastings plaatsvinden, gezellige Sunday Brunches en natuurlijk mogen de muziekanten en DJ’s ook niet ontbreken. En dat is dan toch het linkje met Willem.

Anna du Pire
Eerste van der Helststraat 72, Amsterdam
Website / Instagram

x Elke

Voor meer restaurantjes check:

 

 

30 nov 2019
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FACTORY GIRL AMSTERDAM

Sticky Post By On november 30, 2019 With 2 Comments

What would you think of a stylish Berlin breakfast and lunch spot that spreads her wings to the Netherlands? Nine years after founder Sofia Sözen started her culinary journey in the capital of cool, she proudly popped up a second ‘+Factory Girl.’ This time in another trendy district: De Pijp, Amsterdam. A youngster with a lot of potential!

Treats for belly and eyes

Let’s be honest, breakfast is the best meal of the day, right? So, it won’t be a surprise Factory Girl’s all-day breakfast concept immediately grabbed me. A spot with lots of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free delights. The idea of this boutique brand was born and raised in Berlin. I know what you’re thinking. Why ’Factory Girl’ and a ‘+’? Sofia’s first store had an architectural factory texture. The place where she created the magic. And the plus sign? It’s a creative outburst to show the simple extensibility of the concept. A concept that can be seen as a small package which you can unpack everywhere. In every country, every city. Because Sofia admires the open-minded and vibrant lifestyle of Amsterdam – feels like home -, she had to listen to her gut feeling. And so her second shiny food spot was a fact.

Food for thought at Factory Girl Amsterdam

+Factory Girl is situated nearby the slightly touristic Ferdinand Bolstraat. You must have heard about this lady otherwise there might be a change to miss this cool tasty hotspot. And hidden gem it is. A modern venue designed to ode to the ever-growing healthy eating culture and to revitalise the ‘all-day breakfast concept.’ A very welcoming, friendly environment jam-packed with comfort and bliss. The atmosphere bursts with warmth, charm and friendliness. Upon entry you’ll be surprised by the spatial and urban, industrial vibe. Without too much fuss, but with an eye for details.

Lunch at +Factory Girl Amsterdam

+Factory Girl: 0% bullshit, 100% goodness

+Factory Girl is the perfect place to pamper yourself. The place where you can begin or break your (work)day in style, or only to drop by for a kaffeeklatsch. But treating yourself doesn’t mean lots of needless E numbers, unnatural ingredients and very few nutrients. Their raison d’être? The +Factory Girls believe in a healthy lifestyle with a planet-friendly attitude. That’s why the concept provides daily fresh, healthy vegan and vegetarian food with an infinite amount of ingredients, spices and herbs. Distinctive recipes but still conventional tastes. And above all, running business with a BIG smile!

Pancakes for breakfast
Factory Girl’s pancakes, yumminess to die for!100% goodness captured in this ‘egglicious’ shot

How lovely if you can mix the tasty with the healthy? +Factory Girl is here to impress you with an abundance of goodness. Goodness without bullshit. Mix and mingle whatever you prefer. Start daydreamin’ about some of their pieces of happiness: fit & sexy mueslinola, not benedict like benedict, three brothers no sisters, the Dutch senator sandwich and Sofia’s salad. Not to mention their…pancakes with chocolate drizzle and some little dark chocolate chuncks inside. Genius! A delicious fresh ginger tea on the side, and they had me. Even the most fussy eaters will fall in love with this super tasty concept. An everyone’s friend. Still thinking of skipping a wakey breaky? Think twice! This venue knows how to rumble, aficionados.

Factory Girl’s signature dish, a must-try!

Meet your new addiction: Coco Anjéla

Coco Anjéla, remember that name. Even if you only can make a very short pitstop, please promise that you’ll try the Coco Anjéla. Coco whut? It’s +Factory Girls’ signature dish. I can tell you, my first rendez-vous with this finger lickin’ good treat tasted like more. A healthy, addictive delicacy created by Sofia herself. Pure vanilla, a pinch of gluten-free flour, a little coconut sugar, vegan cream and cookies. Mouthwatering! It’s kind of an Italian panna cotta in different flavours. Let’s say the healthy, vegan little sister. Did I mention you have to try this pretty girl?

In short, +Factory Girl really is a culinary escapade for the non-vegetarians and non-vegans. But I can tell you, a world is opening up for you! Discover meatless treats, and whole new taste variations which will saturate all your morning and lunch craves. Absolutely worth the try both for the light ánd more dark green eaters!

Love,

Sharmaine

+Factory Girl
Saenredamstraat 32, Amsterdam
Opening hours: every day from 9:00 am till 5:00 pm
Website

21 nov 2019
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6 x NEW HOTEL OPENINGS IN AMSTERDAM

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Amsterdam currently has more than 466 hotels and even though there was a stop being regulated for the city centre, hotels are still being build like there is no tomorrow. Increasing tourism is the reason so we better embrace it. 

Recently, some pretty nice newcomers have opened in up Amsterdam. Here are 6 new hotel openings in Amsterdam we think you need to know about.

Boat & Co

Honestly, we have been waiting for this new hotel for ages and we’re happy that they have finally opened. A few years back, we published an article about the most sustainable hotels in Amsterdam and Boat & Co certainly lived up to these expectations. While building the hotel, they’ve used sustainable building materials according the Cradle-to-Cradle principles, that produce zero waste. They offer 4 different choices of luxury apartments, all equipped with a kitchen and workspace. Perfect for those on the go. Book

Apartment room in Boat & Co

Yotel

Another hotel that recently opened is the playful Yotel. Located in Amsterdam North, just a few minutes walk from the Adam Tower. With an all-day dining concept, a beautiful waterfront terrace and an outdoor cinema, the 202-room hotel offers its guests a unique experience by combining smart use of technology with a sustainable design and all at a competitive price to offer. Next to that, they are flying with drones to serve your drinks in the restaurant. Pretty cool. Book

New hotel Yotel Amsterdam

Park Plaza Vondelpark

After some major construction works, Park Plaza Hotel re-opened their doors with a lavish party. This hotel is located in the heart of the busy tourist district, right next to the Vondelpark and the museum district. Travellers from all over the world come to this hotel, but it doesn’t feel boutique style so it’s perfect for those that want to sleep and explore. That being said, everything looks great and the facilities are good. Book

The Niu Fender Hotel

This new hotel focusses on millenials and is located directly on the harbor of Amsterdam on Cruquiuseiland. The niu Fender offers you from here with its three towers a unique view of the water and lets you experience in the hotel the maritime vibe of the water city. Additionally, it offers a cool industrial design with urban details. Freelancers can chill here or you can enjoy afterwork drinks in the bar with harbour view, breakfast in the bistro or meet your friends by the fireplace. Book

Hotel room the niu hotel

Opening soon..

nhow Amsterdam RAI

If you drive your car on the A10 highway, you have surely seen this massive building. The outside is completely finished, now they are adding the final touches on the inside. Anticipated to open in the new year of 2020, the new hotel is being described as the place where contemporary art, design, gastronomy and cultural expressions come together. nhow Amsterdam RAI becomes “The Culture’s Hub” for tourists, business travellers and Amsterdammers and also acts as a headquarter hotel for RAI Amsterdam conferences. Pre-book

New Hotel nhow Amsterdam Rai

Pink room nhow hotel

Hard Rock Hotel Amsterdam American

To be fair, we felt a little sad when we heard about the new plans for the iconic Hotel American. Being one of Amsterdam’s first hotels, located at the famous Leidsesquare, they decided to turn it into a Hard Rock hotel. We are very curious if they will keep the classical retro style or if they change it into a modern rock hotel. Opening in April 2020

Café Americain
Hotel American during Christmas

Love,

Wander-Lust

For all hotels in Amsterdam check the map!

Booking.com

11 nov 2019
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11 x Christmas Markets in Amsterdam 2019

Sticky Post By On november 11, 2019 With 1 Comment

One of the things that really gets us in the Christmas Spirit are the markets in the month December. You don’t have to look far to find some of the best Christmas Markets in Amsterdam.

Here are 11 amazing Christmas Markets located in Amsterdam that you should definitely visit this winter! (plus a few bonuses!)

Kerst op de Westergas

When? from the 6th of December, Westergas terrein
Gluhwein, food, gifts and all the things you are looking for on a Christmas Market in Amsterdam. However, this event adds a little rock & roll with karaoke, naughty Christmas songs and creatives. Not to mention the ice-skating ring! In any case, the whole month December will be filled with Christmas and winter fun on the Westergas at various locations. You can see all the events here.

Vogue Christmas Market

When? 8th of December, Zuiveringshal Westergas 
It’s the 2nd Vogue Christmas market in Amsterdam, so you can’t miss this one! There will be beautifully decorated Christmas stalls with amazing brands and gifting. Drink glühwein at the Vogue café, go crazy in the photo booth and score Vogue goodies! Kids are welcome! 

Vogue presents

Winterpark Christmas Market

When? 8th of December, Noordermarkt
Come to the Noorderpark on Sunday 8 December for the most fun Christmas market! You can enjoy up to 60 neighbourhood stalls and delicacies, games, music, an ice rink, photo album, baking cookies and a real Christmas clothing exchange boutique. Winterpark Christmas Market has a social approach, all stalls are filled with homemade or collected items.

Sissy-Boy’s Maison de Noël
 
When? 7th & 8th of December, West Indisch Huis
This is one of the winter markets we are looking forward to the most! Besides the usual Sissy-Boy fashion, interior and accessories, you can also enjoy glühwein, live music, nice food and of course many different stands with all your winter wannahaves! This year they are back and at a brand new location! To find out which brands you can find at this years market, check the Facebook event.

Museum Market Christmas Edition

When? 9th of December, 12pm – 6pm at Museumsquare
Every third Sunday of the Month, the Museumplein will be filled with stylish stands full of design. In between the main museums around the pond you can meet the (Dutch) designers yourself, shop for their products and enjoy the great food and atmosphere. Info

Christmas Maker Market

When? 14th & 15th of December, De Hallen
The Christmas specials of the market where it all began for Sisters James and us. If you’re stuck for Christmas gifts for friends and family, look no further. This market is jam-packed full of beautifully crafted local Amsterdam products. 

Funky X-Mas Market (Sunday Market)

When? 15th of December 12- 6pm, Westergasterrein
THE place for your funky Xmas presents! For the 10th year running you will find lots of beautiful stands full of original creations. Of course there is great food & drink (mulled wine), live music and more!

Pure Wintermarket at Frankendael Park

When?  22nd of December
Go here for your organic and fairtrade Christmas products. Local produce and goods make this one of the nicest Christmas Markets in Amsterdam and one of a kind. It’s the last Pure Market before heading into 2020 so grab your winter coat and check this one out.

Amsterdamsche Kerstmarkt

When? 20th – 23rd of December, Westergas
You may have heard of this one before. They are back in 2019 but at a new location, the Westergas. This indoor and outdoor event will be filled with music, a market, food stalls and things for the kids! Find out more.

Amsterdamsche Kerstmarkt 2019

Christmas Market at DOK

When? 21st – 22nd December until 10pm, DOK
This market is characterised by the special products that are offered. Not just typical stalls with traditional Christmas balls or lights. No, this is more funky. The atmosphere is very cozy, there is live music and of course you can also get a hot chocolate or mulled wine. The Christmas market offers a wide range of sustainable, handmade, original and inspiring (regional) products, usually offered by the maker himself. Children are free, adults pay €5.

Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs

When? 21st – 5th of January, RAI Amsterdam
Like last year, this massive winter wonderland will be open during December at the RAI in Amsterdam. This year it will be even bigger! There will be an ice-skating ring in and outside, music performances from Lil Kleine, Maan, Xander & friends, food, tube sliding, kids activities and everything to get you into the Christmas spirit. Tickets cost €5 euro, or €17,50 when you include activities. www.hetamsterdamsewinterparadijs.nl

Also worth visiting:

Sky High Winter Terrace at Floor 17

When? 11 of November – 31st of Jan 
Get into the winter spirit and get to Floor 17 this winter. Since the success of curling, ice-skating with a view of the whole city, they are bringing traditional sjoelen to the rooftop. Games can be played in combination with hot drinks.

Floor 17 ice skating

Ice Village, Museumsquare

When?  13th of December until the 26nd of December
From December 17th – 30th, Amsterdam hosts the magical and tasty Ice Village Amsterdam at the Museumplein. A true adventure of warm winter chalets who offer you a variety of lifestyle, fashion, Christmas gifts, live entertainment and delicious food. As usual, there will also be an ice-skating ring from the 11th of November!

Haarlem Christmas Market

When? 7th & 8th of December in Haarlem
Not in Amsterdam, but only 15 minutes away and so worth visiting! The main square and streets are filled with more than 300 Christmas stalls, food, wine, lights and music. Bring the whole family and go shopping. 

Which Christmas Markets in Amsterdam are you visiting?

Love,

Elke