When in Amsterdam, do the following. Take the ferry behind central station. Choose the one that says NDSM-Werf. Enjoy the free 10 minute commute and the view over the river Ij (technically it's a canal, but who cares). Arrive at the wharf. If upon walking a few meters you see a sign stating "Sexyland", you're at the right place.
NDSM stands for the unpronounceable Nederlandsche Dok en Sheepsgebouw Matschappij; in English, Dutch Shipbuilding Company. As the name suggests, this is a former shipbuilding site, an industrial area which was abandoned after 1984, following the bankruptcy of the NDSM. The massive site, where you still can see a huge slipway that led the tankers to the water, got populated by artists and squatters in the 90s. This was the original movement that turned a desolate area into a free haven of creativity, in which MTV Benelux settled their headquarters in 2007.
The huge ship warehouse became a breeding ground for artists, the Kunststad or Art City, which can be visited daily. This community repurposed the space, building ateliers, and a sustainable energy and water system, self-managing the enterprise all the way.
The NDSM ground is fruitful in street art, including an enormous homage to Anne Frank by the renowned graffiti artist Cobra. Home to cool cafes, restaurants, markets and festivals, this is surely the best place for a sunny afternoon spent marvelling at the great wide open and the banks of the Ij. As for conceptual club Sexyland, oh well, go see for yourself.
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I know that sounds dramatic, but their pastries are irresistible! Everything is sourdough based, which means they make their own yeast for the bread.
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They have many choices when it comes to sandwiches and their toppings, but I always go for their famous sandwich called 'Broodje Boljeri'...
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Good beans belongs to the roastery of 'Fucking Strong Cofffee' and they make blends from beans all over the world. Their slogan: It's coffee, not caviar.
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This ice cream shop in the heart of the 'De Jordaan' neighborhood, is the absolute best! If you can't decide what you want, try the limoncello ice cream.
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There is also a greenhouse where locals can bring their compost. In the other garden, there are bees and apple trees, and they sell their honey as well.
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They serve lunch, dinner, and finger food. Their Burrata, which is optional all day, is my personal favorite. And my favorite beer is Saison Dupont.
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It's a gallery with art only made by (people who identify as) women and also a breakfast/lunch (try their pancakes) place where you can chat with a friend.
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The food here is amazing and that is really the reason locals go here. The menu has a lot of options but my favorites are the dim sum and the Peking duck.
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Zizou stole my heart right away. It is simple, yet you get exactly what you need: a good coffee, a chill moment, and a friendly face.
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"Bimhuis" is a legendary jazz club in Amsterdam. Top artists claim that it's one of their favorite venues to play at. I love it for its adventurousness!
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"Concertgebouw" in Amsterdam is a veritable temple of classical music. Come here to see the best performers in the world play in the best circumstances!
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"Community Kitchen MKZ": one of thew few legalized squats left in Amsterdam. They serve three-course vegan meals for 5 euros, and you're washing your dish!
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173 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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