12 new sites on UNESCO World Heritage List

From a Western Australian coastline to the deserts of the Middle East to the coffee plantations of Colombia, here are 12 more places to add to your must-go list. FULL STORY

Get to Amsterdam! Quick!

Many people of a certain generation were upset to learn about the Dutch government's new plan to stop tourists from purchasing and smoking cannabis in the infamous coffee houses of Amsterdam. I met with a nice woman last week who was eager to plan her trip to Amsterdam as quickly as possible. Along with her sister, she plans to "relive the 70's one more time" this coming August. Her wish was for a small boutique hotel as near to the coffeehouse area as possible. After just a bit of research, I learned that many of the historical boutique hotels in Amsterdam do not have lifts, so unless you are happy lugging your suitcases up and down several flights of stairs, you would do well to stay at one of these lovely and historic hotels.

The Convent Hotel Amsterdam is a 4-star hotel with a unique history that makes it the perfect place to stay. Its location in the center of Amsterdam is ideal for visiting the city. It is a five-minute walk from Centraal Station, Dam Square and the Royal Palace. The hotel building previously housed 2 monasteries from the 13th & 14th centuries, plus a printing house and now has 148 rooms, including 11 Junior Suites, each with their own history and character.

Opened in 1896, Hotel De L’Europe is often referred to as the other “Royal Palace of Amsterdam”.  The hotel’s impactful décor sets it apart, surrounding its visitors with original Dutch Masters paintings from the private collection of Alfred “Freddy” Heineken. Plush furnishings, discreetly anticipatory service, and contemporary comforts create a sophisticated luxe guest experience. Located on the Amstel River in Amsterdam’s center and five minutes from several of the world’s most heralded museums and attractions, the hotel offers breathtaking views of the city and river to its visitors.

Overlooking two of the city's most picturesque canals, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht, Hotel Pulitzer is ideally located in the middle of the old city center of Amsterdam, is comprised of 25 restored 17th and 18th century canal houses. Each of the 230 distinctive guest rooms represents a small piece of Dutch history and culture.

There is much more to explore in Amsterdam than just the coffeehouses. Be sure to take several boat trips along the canals, and visit the Anne Frank House, the Heineken Brewery, the wonderful Flower Market, the Rijksmuseum and of course, the Van Gogh Museum!

Finally, here are a few free tips from your trusty travel advisor, Sara Jane Crane

1. To book your stay in any of these hotels, be sure to call me so that you can partake in the very worthwhile Virtuoso amenities available. These usually include complimentary upgrades, free full breakfasts, late check out times and much more.

2. Hard soled walking shoes are very important when exploring Amsterdam. The cobblestone or brick streets and sidewalks will raise havoc with your ankle and calf muscles at the end of the day if you don't have good shoes. (Trust me on this! I was brought to tears with pain after my first day of exploring Amsterdam in sandals)

3. Here's a handy map of the coffeehouses in Amsterdam.  Don't get lost or you might end up in the nearby Red Light District. (wink wink nudge nudge)

Call or write me if you'd like help in planning your trip to Amsterdam.
nearandfarjourneys@gmail.com
913-677-6336