On the weekend of the 2nd of August we went to Amsterdam for my birthday. Unbeknown to us however, this also happened to coincide with one of the largest gay and lesbian events in Europe, that and the fact we were in Amsterdam - one of the most open-minded cities in the world meant we were in for some sights!!!
Despite Amsterdam having a bad reputation with the red light district and their open-minded attitude to drugs it is also home to some really cool stuff- Van Gogh Museum & Anne Frank's House which we both really enjoyed.
The day we arrived there was a Canal Parade with about 100 amusing and spectacular boats, decorated with participants wearing fancy dress, navigating their way through down the Amstel River. There was about 350,000 people watching the parade so you can imagine the chaos! 
Yip things were a little crazy at ground zero of Gaysville.
Intially I thought the 3 'X' symbol was to do with the porn industry and it was in relation to being X-rated, I was pleasantly surprised to find out it is the official flag of Amsterdam. The 3 'X's allegedly represent the 3 threats to the city: water, fire and pestilence (disease).
Above- The Amstel River in quieter times
Above-Bizarre little shops dotted all around the place which has burgers, fries & all other types of hot food in little vending machines. Rumour is that the salmonella special there is excellent.
A typical shop window in Amsterdam, apparently the coffee there is super.
Above- The Van Gogh Museum was really cool, no pictures allowed inside though so you will just have to take my word for it.
Anne Franks House was packed with tourists (definatley recommend booking online if you ever go)- it's really good and a must if you ever go to 'the Dam'
No comments:
Post a Comment