Visit off season – I travelled in early February and the weather wasn’t too cold (luckily) so I could still walk around and enjoy myself, the plus side was less tourists! There were less people in the museums which made my experience more relaxed.
Most museums did not take cash and I had to use my credit card. It was the one trip I had not topped up my cash passport and brought a lot of cash with me so that’s something to keep in mind.
Book museums online to save money and jump the queue (which can be very long in tourist season). If like me you want to use cash some hotels sell tickets at usually the same price.
you can buy a museum pass but personally I like to spend my time in each museum so it wouldn’t have worked out cost effective for me to buy the pass, as I also like to have some flexibility in my schedule on what I feel like doing on the day, but it’s an option. I would also advise getting up early to visit museums as it makes a big difference.
Walk everywhere! there is no need for a taxi. Walking around is really enjoyable.
If the weather is bad or you want to save time (as I did on my last few days) get a tram pass. You can purchase a pass for 24 or 48 hours but if you are only planning to use it for one or two trips you can buy individual tram passes or one hour and you can buy multiple ones which will be valid from the time you use it. Don’t forget to scan your pass out when you leave the tram! And don’t be alarmed when you see a desk style check in when you enter the tube.
Respect the cycle lanes and cyclists, be careful where you walk. If you can cycle well a cycle is a great way to get around, but it’s not recommend if you are not an experienced cyclist.
Do not take photos in the redlight district, it is disrespectful.
Do not go to the coffeeshop if you want a ‘coffee’, it’s the cafe you want!
Do visit other cities outside of Amsterdam such as Volendam, Zaanse Schans even Rotterdam they are all relatively close, less than an hour away !!! Get out of tourist central.
when it rains it pours, the rain was heavy, be prepared!
Do talk to the locals, the Dutch are very friendly !!
Faizah Haider, MSc, is an emerging author, humanitarian, traveller, and scientist whose compassion and volunteerism have both earned her the reputation as a service-centred leader. Above all else, she is an advocate of positive change and global citizen with a lifelong vision to awaken people to the infinite power of solidarity and a truly open mind. Furthermore, she is of the belief that while cultures from around the world can be distinct, an underlying thread binds us all: our humanity. To find out more about this strong-willed Palestinian activist and Hip-Hop intellectual welcome to her official blog.
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