Colors of Amsterdam - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Residents of Amsterdam have always been famous for honesty and sincerity, as well as thrift (this concerns many issues, for example, respect to environment). A rich man here will never show his high position and try to attract attention. Moderation in everything – this is one of the main traits of this nation’s character. The locals are very friendly; they greet everyone, even in public transport and stores. This fact often surprises visitors.

When dealing with the natives, do not express the feeling of superiority as it will certainly cause a lot of negative emotions. Loyalty to distribution and use of soft drugs and has also long become a hallmark of the local way of life. It is worth noting attraction and respect for everything made in the UK from the side of the local residents. Many people here speak English perfectly and are well aware of the lifestyle, culture and worldview of the British.

As it has been mentioned already, the locals show much respect and care for the environment, so visitors of the city will also need to show respect and in no way disturb the natural harmony of this place. The local people are very hospitable and are always ready to help. Probably, this is one of the reasons why Amsterdam remains a popular tourist destination for so many years. Tulip remains one of the most famous symbols of the Netherlands. Each April the grand opening of Keukenhof Park is held in Amsterdam. This is one of most beloved and anticipated national holidays of the country. Every year several millions of tulip bulbs are planted in this beautiful park, so in spring Keukenhof is painted in all colors of a rainbow. The period starting from April and up to May is the time for colorful fair trades dedicated to flowers. Late summer is the time for a large sale of tulip bulbs, which attracts florists from all countries of the world. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Another striking feature of Amsterdam is the abundance of road cyclists. Many citizens choose two-wheel transportation because of their beliefs. This way they show their care for the environment. Many people use bicycles simply to prevent themselves from spending hours in traffic jams. You will certainly see a big bicycle parking near each public institution. By the way, sometimes it’s really hard to find a free space in such parking lot.

Amsterdam is a unique and famous world capital for its legal prostitution and use of soft drugs, gay pride, food festivals and even euthanasia. This becomes even more important to the fashion industry, traditions, art, various festivals, carnivals, and festivities. When talking about Amsterdam, the first association coming to one’s mind is a notorious Red Light District and weed coffee shops. The so-called Cannabis Cup is a famous annual festival, which happens at the end of autumn. Tourists and visitors can enjoy the competition between small coffee shops, which serve munchies with a “secret” ingredient. Such competitions have a special panel of judges and only for €200, you can become its member!

Everything you have heard about the Red Light District is the truth: prostitutes in the red-light windows, vice houses, haze-filled bars and cafes, sex-shops and strip-shows. When strolling around the neighborhood - be careful and watch out for pocket lifters. Also be aware of that it’s forbidden to take photos and videos of the prostitutes in the windows – this will be taken as the sign of the disrespect, and you can say “good-bye” to your camera as well. Here you can legally purchase up to 5 grams of marijuana, space cakes, hashish, and truffles. This amount is legal, tolerated and will not be prosecuted by the authorities.

Already old hat that lots carnivals take place at every step, so each and one tourist will find an activity after his or her own heart. In April tourists have a brilliant opportunity to witness annual Flower Parade or Bloemencorso in Dutch. The procession consists of 20 huge floats and 30 decorated carts that carry and display the flower masterpieces. But you need to come early to find a good spot and enjoy the procession. Thousands of native people and visitors abroad gather at Noordwijk, from where all the floats pass a long way (42 km) to Haarlem. In Haarlem, next day, you can admire all the flower installations where the floats remain till the evening.

Amsterdam is well-known for its open mind towards equality of the gay, lesbian and transgender communities. In the middle of summer, you have a chance to observe the Amsterdam Gay Pride – one of the world’s largest celebrations that last for a week. During this week you can party, visit galleries and art exhibitions, cinema and sports events hosted by gay communities and be welcomed. In love with dance and music festivals? In summer you can enjoy your time at Pitch or Verknipt Festival, Buiten Westen or Dekmantel Weekender. Traveling with family? Take them to Sail Amsterdam and watch the most impressive sailing ships in Amsterdam Harbor, or Artis ZOOmeravonden and learn about various nocturnal rituals animals have.