People have always dreamed of traveling to distant countries and exposing themselves to new and exotic cultures. Before the Coronavirus, international travel had been the easiest it had ever been.
Although right now it is difficult to travel, it still hasn’t stopped others from taking the leap, and travel will only be able to become as we continue progressing. One place to visit is Amsterdam in the Netherlands.
Amsterdam is a city that prides itself on its progressiveness, inclusion, and appeal through the many things you can do there that might be illegal in other countries.
If you’re finally making the jump and planning a trip to Amsterdam, here are a few things to consider first.
1. Check the Visa Requirements
Table of Contents
If you are a US citizen, or from most countries in Western Europe you’re in luck. You can visit and stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.
If you are going to study or for work, you must have the necessary documentation. Luckily, all of the Netherlands’ visa applications can be conveniently found online.
2. Know the Best Time of Year
Knowing when to go visit Amsterdam will play a key role in your adventures there. If you go during spring, try to visit during May. Although you would miss their famous Koningsdag (King’s Day) which happens in late April.
During this time the crowds of tourists have died down and the accommodations are a bit cheaper too.
That’s not to say that Amsterdam isn’t cool in the fall or winter as well. Just expect it to be cold and rainy when you go if you choose this time of the year.
3. Be Abreast of the Language
You don’t have to be fluent in Dutch to get around, in fact, most people there can speak some English – but you should know the basic salutations and how to get someone’s attention.
Words like ‘Dankjewel’ or ‘Dankje’ for thank you and ‘Dooi‘ for goodbye should be staples.
4. Make Sure You Have Transportation
Transportation in Amsterdam is fairly easy, and it’s one of the most seamless in the world. You can buy individual tickets but it would be far easier for you to purchase an I Amsterdam Card.
This acts as a city pass and offers deals on public transport as well as museum entries and a canal cruise.
You can also try to explore the city on two wheels; biking in Amsterdam is easy and all the locals do it. The city isn’t that big, and all the main attractions are within the city center. However, if you want to ride in style, you can try this luxury car service company too.
Consider Planning a Trip to Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a beautiful city with both colonial and modern charm. Be sure when you are planning a trip to Amsterdam that you consider these things. It will certainly help your experience to be the best it can be.
For other fun and interesting articles like this one, be sure to browse the rest of our blog.
No Comments