Explore Amsterdam in the New Year
Tuesday, 17 January 2012
Once the buzz and merriment that engulfs the country during Christmas and New Year subsides, Britain has a tendency to become a somewhat gloomy and melancholic place. The nights are longer than ever, seeming to draw in from the moment you rise for the day, while the monetary problems many face following festive spending start to bite with a vengeance. The only way to avoid these winter blues is to get away from it all and try something new, or even revisit an old favourite.
Nowhere fits this bill as perfectly as Amsterdam. The intriguing Dutch city has all the attractions a first time visitor would want, while retaining enough depth to keep previous tourists coming back for more. Also, there are few better times to visit than in January, when the cheapest flights are often available.
Taking a break in winter can be far more fiscally prudent than trying to holiday at the height of summer, when prices are at a premium. The competition and demand for seats is lower across the board at this time and therefore tickets are considerably cheaper.
Cheap flights to Amsterdam are not exactly difficult to come by and a winter visit could be memorable for many reasons, not least the fact that the city is imbued with an unmistakeable feeling of post-holiday calm. Alternating between the brisk outdoor chill and the cosiness of the controlled indoor climate is the perfect way to relax and unwind.
A walk around the city on a clear day is a real treat for the eyes while, if the wintry conditions temporarily become too much, respite can be found in the form of an unrivalled range of museums, galleries, restaurants and cafes. Those who really want to get to know the place will also be pleased to discover that Amsterdam is at its most tourist-free state in January and February.
Despite this general lull, a whole calendar of events and activities is still in full swing. The numerous ice rinks represent just one of the many seasonal perks still on offer post-Christmas. They are, of course, complemented with ringside bars for those who need or break, or just wish to spectate. Such fun and frolics are not to be missed.
As you'd expect from a city famous for its culture, Amsterdam has a veritable feast of theatrical offerings: teams of actors from all over the world regularly head for Holland to test and impress with their in front of strong audiences.
It's also the time for fashionistas to go Dutch. Amsterdam International Fashion Week runs from the 25-29th January and offers a whole host of things to do above and beyond the catwalk. While some of the elite events may be off limits, Fashion Week Downtown puts on a series of exhibitions, shows, product launches and parties for everyone to enjoy. Having acquired some inspiration, it's then time hit the shops, where the news gets even better. Discounts of up to 70 per cent are spread throughout the stores ensure all fashion fanatics depart happy with both what they've seen and what they've bought.
If one culturally phenomenal city isn't enough, why not begin or finish your trip by taking advantage of one of the many cheap flights to London and enjoy everything England's dazzling capital has to offer? Start 2012 with a bang and an unforgettable winter break.
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