The Netherlands have succumbed to Eurovision Fever. Well, within reasonable limits, after all the Eurovision is no World Cup, nor even the Olympics. Nevertheless, this year for the first time in almost a decade, the Dutchies are sincerely excited by the fact that this year they actually stand a good shot at winning. And a lot of that excitement has to do with Anouk, the Netherlands' 2013 entry into the Eurovision Song Contest.... read more »
Once upon a time, in a low-lying kingdom far away and yet not really so far at all, the long-reigning Queen, in the dusk of her years, decided to abdicate her throne. Having ruled the kingdom for many a year, the Queen, she of the glorious hats, had begun to desire some hard-earned leisure time free of ceremonial openings, ribbon cuttings, and public hand-waving. Once the musicians of the court found out that, for the... read more »
The Netherlands has a complex legacy when it comes to World War II. Unlike the Allied nations that were in a clear position to deem themselves WWII victors after Germany was divided up, as a territory occupied from the get go, the Dutch never had that privilege. The Netherlands was home to not only the Dutch Resistance, but also many, many other brave men and women assisting Allied troops in any clandestine way... read more »
If you're looking to have some alcohol-related yet still somewhat classy fun this weekend, have I got the event for you! This weekend (that is, Saturday March 16th and Sunday March 17th 2013) the Jenever Festival is being held here in Amsterdam at the Posthoornkerk, and it promises to be a hoot. Jenever is one of those European drinks that does not get its due credit outside of Europe... or perhaps even outside... read more »
Yes, ladies and gents,we've made it. We are on the good side of February, and there are nothing but bright sunny warm days in our future. JUST KIDDING! The city we know and love and maybe even call home is unfortunately not known for its reliably clement weather. Nonetheless, Amsterdam is a bright and colorful city with plenty to do for all no matter what time of year you grace it with your presence. Spring, even... read more »
After reaching fever pitch the day after Queen Beatrix's abdication announcement, Dutch Royal Fever seems to have faded into pretty much oblivion. As a country, we now seem to be at the point where the media is digging hard to find facts that would once again get the public interested in the upcoming abdica/inaugura-tion (it's basically a two for one deal). Such indifference speaks volumes about both the Dutch public and the Dutch... read more »
...because Carnival time in the Netherlands is not for the faint of heart. Held in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday (this year falling on the weekend of February 9th and 10th), Carnival is a weekend where entire Dutch Continue reading read more »
On 18 November, expect to see the streets thronging with expectant children and harassed parents. Candy will be thrown and joyous screams heard. From the puff-puff of a steam boat to the clip-clop of hooves, the spirit is in the Continue reading read more »
There is a new event on Amsterdam's cultural calendar. The winter here is always full of things to do - markets, ice-skating and all the fun and fatty food that surround the Christmas and (more importantly) the Sinterklaas season. But Continue reading read more »
The view of the skyline of Amsterdam has a new feature - alongside the towers and spires there is a hint of bright colors and screaming tourists. It's the end of the summer and, as is tradition, the fun fair has come Continue reading read more »
