It was autumn when I surprised Angelo with a 2-day tour of Amsterdam. I am a big fan of Europe's architecture, they preserved their infrastracture quite well.
I know a little of Dutch language so I can understand some of the basics. But Angelo learned Dutch faster than me I guess.
Tip1: For trains and buses, tourists can refer from http://www.ns.nl/ for planning the trip. This website is very helpful for bus and train schedules.
Tip2: There are "promotional tickets" with discounts, of course you need to consider your itinerary to decide which tickets suit your trip.
Tip3: For violations, fines are quite high so be cautious and read the instructions at the back of the tickets. Some bus/train staffs are considerate but better not try your luck.
Tip4: Amsterdam is crowded specially the train stations, take care of your belongings.
Tip5: There are four tourist offices in Amsterdam:
- Opposite the Central Station
A notable building marked "Tourist Info and Tickets" right to be seen when you exit the Central Station in the city direction. - Inside Central Station
Upstairs from the main station hall to platform 2b. - Leidseplein
Just off the square: corner Leidseplein and Leidsestraat. - Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Holland Tourist Information at Arrivals 2 section.
Tip6: If you really like going into museums, in tourist's offices there are museum passes with discounts.
Tip7: To know more about Rijks Museum, visit their website http://www.rijksmuseum.nl/. It is not allowed to take pictures inside. Enjoy the mystery and surprises of the museum, remember knowledge is power.
Don't forget to take your souvenier photo at I AMSTERDAM.
Tip8: Artis Zoo is like a one-stop zoo for me, a lot of animals and things to see. We really had fun in this museum, it's a must see.
Visit the friendly gorilla and the entertaining penguins and so much more, it's overwhelming.
Tip9: There are a lot of ferry tour operators in Amsterdam, we just picked by luck. Be particular of the tour schedules, most of the tour captains speak in English so tourists would understand. Ferry tours are entertaining. Holland is famous for the houseboats and in the tour you would know why. Also, their canals are intricately designed.
Tip10: Amsterdam Square is usually crowded because of tourists. There are a lot of shops, a lot of entertainment. It is common to smell cannabis and even see cannabis candies, remember this is legal in Amsterdam. There are nearby shops and restos, be adventurous and prepare for the hype of the city.
Tip11: Just adjacent the square is Madame Tussauds Museum, this musuem is very popular with tourists. It's always blockbuster, and they have a lot of human size wax statues of the famous celebrities and icons. It's a long line but it's worth the wait if you want to see Mr. and Mrs. Pitt in Amsterdam. :)
Tip12: Touring Amsterdam will not be complete if you won't visit the famous Red Light District, De Wallen. It's a long stretch of red lights. Some would call it the "heart of Amsterdam". At night it's so crowded that it's like a long procession of spectators. Different races, different ages, different sizes, all are available for all your sexual desires.
Tip13: The whole day tour can be tiring, the country is known for bicycles ( fietsen ). It's convenient to have a bicycle and cycle around the city. Lock your bike else you'll need to buy a new one.
I describe the land of windmills as the city of known secrets.
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