NIGHT+DAY Amsterdam
Author: Neil Carlson
ISBN: 0-9766013-3-8
Price: $17.95

Web Direct Price: $15.95

Amsterdam is an international melting pot of people and cultures.
Shops and cafés mingle seamlessly with creative businesses and
cultural venues, and cars still take a backseat to bicycles. A stylish gem
of a city, Amsterdam is home to a thriving party scene by night, as well
as world-class attractions by day. Hipsters and scene-seekers flock here from around the world to experience the city's unique laid-back vibe.

August Love Letter

The 18th Julidans (julidans.com) kicked off in style. It's Amsterdam's month-long contemporary dance event, and a series of performances take place throughout the month.

De Parade (www.deparade.nl), the country's annual touring theatre event, visits Utrecht for the second half of August and, though it will be paying a visit to Amsterdam soon, I'll be joining some friends—and other anxious locals—to get a sneak preview. Performances last between three and 40 minutes and, while most of them are in Dutch, the festive atmosphere and alfresco dining opportunities will appeal to everyone. Of course, dancing and music performances won't get lost in translation, so if you're coming along, I'd stick to them.

Since I haven't yet visited the Images of St. Petersburg exhibition at the Nieuwe Kerk (nieuwekerk.nl), I plan to head down to the Dam Square to get a glimpse into the city's past—when it was still the capital and lively center of the Russian empire.

This month's most talked-about exhibition is at The Jewish Historical Museum: Art of the State (jhm.nl), which features photographs and video works by 16 artists from Israel, is highly anticipated, and looks to capitalize on controversy. Works reflect Israel's cultural and religious differences, and address the current political situation. It sounds like the makings of a great show.

I'm waiting for dance-party host Momo's to open an eponymous dance club—it'll be the first big opening in a few years, and it should shake up the late-night party scene. My ear is to the ground listening for updates on the city's hottest rumor: that Gordon Ramsay will be opening shop in the Pulitzer Hotel. The move should place the hotel at the center of the city's culinary action.

Neil Carlson

Today's savvy travelers rely on NIGHT+DAY Amsterdam—with its opinionated listings, insightful descriptions, and witty, intelligent writing—to get the sophisticated edge in travel. From the trendiest tables, hippest hotels, top shops and galleries, to the hottest nightspots and coolest attractions, NIGHT+DAY Amsterdam is packed with expert recommendations and insider tips.