Amsterdam is a place of many wonders. If you were clever enough to buy your tickets to Sensation 2016 for the 2nd of July, you might want to add some #culture to your city-break. Below you’ll find Waffle’s top tips to make the most of your trip, even if you went on an all night bender the day before and are now suffering through your painful morning-after.
1. Let the sun heal your banging headache
Amsterdam’s largest green space is Vondelpark, a place filled with laughter, joy, and of course smoking joints. Soaking in the sun or snoozing under the shade of the lush canopy can give you a much needed boost to revitalise yourself. There are also a bunch of bars and restaurants nearby for when you won’t feel like instantly gagging.
2. Hair of the dog: continue drinking with style at a freakin’ Windmill
There are a few things we associate with Holland, but the PG ones always include tulips and windmills. If you haven’t yet visited a windmill in Amsterdam, then you’re definitely missing out (yes I’m serious) and now it’s time to right your wrongs. The most easily approachable one from the city centre is de Goyer, but that’s only a taste of what’s to come. Right by the windmill there is a (drumroll…..) ARTISAN MICROBREWERY! A selection of brews including seasonal and limited edition beers will help continue the party or just turn your frown upside down.
3. Go to a quiet and air-conditioned museum you know, for some peace
While you let your liver mop up the abuse you gave it last night, you might want to find a relaxing spot to silently regret those last two vodka shots. An ideal place to ponder on your best decisions (or worst more likely) are at some of Amsterdam’s famous museums. They’re probably the most important thing there for tourists after the RLD and Deep House music. One of the better choices is the city’s biggest art and history museum, Rijkmuseum. It has just been renovated and houses thousands of priceless pieces with 7 figure price tags. Sitting peacefully on a comfortable bench, surrounded by people who move slowly and quietly while the AC gently blows a silky cool breeze from above? Sounds like the hangover dream to me. Plus, you get to admire Rembrandt and act like you care about fine arts #Winning.
4. A raw herring might calm your stomach. Or not.
You are one lucky bastard by being right on time for the new catch of herrings. This lovely little fish served with onions and pickles in a small sandwich is THE traditional dutch street-food. However, with this wriggling fresh catch you don’t even need all the garnishes, the fish is super sweet by itself. You can find herring carts all over the city, but deciding whether you can stomach this unusual snack will be up to your boldness. But, it was unlikely that you’ll get kissed after a whole night of raving anyway, so what is some raw fish to you. Bottoms up.
5. Direct your blood flow to somewhere else ;)
A disputed way of getting rid of your headache is to let your blood run to err…your nether regions. Dam can help. The RED LIGHT DISTRICT! This charming neighbourhood is actually the oldest part of the city, offering the oldest of services to the adventurous. But you know, when in Rome… There are also plenty of sex shops for curious tourists, as well as inviting bars. No need to shy away from this beautiful part of the city just because some hanky-panky is happening behind the curtains.
6. Watch some art films
Face it, you are going to spend most of your day staring aimlessly into the distance, thinking about literally nothing. Put a movie in front of those blank eyes and you already look much less pathetic. How about doing this in a spaceship looking iconic film museum on the waterside? Get there in only 3 minutes using the free Buiksloterweg ferry from Amsterdam Central station. The EYE Filmmuseum is open everyday until late (perfect for daytime sleeping).
Looking for some new talent or music lovers? Join your Waffle community and get the party started — or rather just keep on rocking after Sensation.
