Country: netherlands
Come exploring with me on this live-stream tour of the unofficial capital of tolerance, Amsterdam! With its historic architecture and fascinating gedogen culture, this beautiful and peaceful city will charm and bemuse you.We’ll start our virtual walking tour where the Amstel River once joined the sea. This point is now landlocked and dominated by the Centraal Station, built in the 1880s. We’ll weave our way through the very old town, along the old sea dike (levee) defense system, to our oldest canal, the Oudezijds Voorburgwal. From the Old Church (it’s an old area, what can I say!) which dates back to the 1300s, we’ll pass classic Amsterdam buildings from the 1600s and 1700s that line the canals. Along the way, we’ll stop by some of my favorite cafes for a quick hello and enjoy some unique and fun window shopping. Though it looks like you’ve been transported back in time, you’ll be reminded this is a modern and vibrant city by the modern shops and buildings that pop up here and there.Next up is the first China Town in main land Europe. The Dutch were so taken with Chinese food, you can find a Chinese restaurant in almost every town in The Netherlands. From here to Niewmarkt Square, we’ll see the still imposing medieval gate of the city, De Waag. With stops at the Dutch East India Company Headquarters and the smallest house in town, we’ll arrive at Dam Square, the city center. I’ll share with you how it was here that the city got its name. Crossing Singel, the old moat and the grand canal belt, we’ll complete our journey in the charming Jordaan District. Once an area for workers, it is now gentrified yet family-oriented, and very much the heart of the city.There is so much I look forward to sharing with you and discussing on our virtual tour; how Amsterdam rose and fell in fortune, only to rise again; Dutch tolerance; bike culture; coffee shops, and whatever else you would like to talk about! You’ll be able to ask me questions and chat with fellow participants as we explore this impressive city where our tradition is that all are welcome!
Highlights: Central Station, China Town & The Nieuwmarkt, Historic Wooden House on Zeedijk, Our Dear Lord in the Attic & The Old Church, Medieval Gate, Dutch East Indies Company HQ, Canal Belt, Jordaan District
Your guide: Mark Law