Elite Traveler HRS 2022

DISCOVER DESTINATION STYLE

by Serina Tatham

AMSTERDAM

Marrying luxury hotels and restaurants with breathtaking historical architecture, world- leading art galleries and museums, and beautiful green parks, there is so much the city of Amsterdam has to offer. The vibrant and electric atmosphere is like no other. Narrow streets are lined with vintage boutiques and high-end designer stores (often flanked by bicycles leaning precariously against them); stylish locals amble through the streets in vintage designer finds; nomads wander across the iconic bridges. Whether you come for the shopping, the scenery or the art, it will never fail to impress.

Dutch delights The best ways to discover the city are by bike and boat. With more bikes than people, it’s the transport of choice for both locals and visitors. Cycle to the Vondelpark first and head to the pretty rose garden (there are more than 70 types of roses planted in hexagonal beds), then on to the famous Vondelpark Open Air Theatre where, if you’re lucky, you might catch an impromptu show. Spend an afternoon on a private saloon boat and explore the Unesco World Heritage Site as it was intended — by water. Board Welmoed , a classic cruiser that was built in 1932 for a doctor who used the vessel to visit patients. Create your own itinerary and stop wherever you wish, or opt for a dinner cruise for a romantic evening. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent flyer, everything in Amsterdam seems a bit more magical when viewed from the water. The weather can be unpredictable, so keep yourself warm and dry with a trench coat from Another Tomorrow. privateboat.amsterdam

Amsterdam is famous for its galleries and museums. Head to Museumplein for the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, and marvel at the Dutch masters. While you peruse the Rembrandts, don a pair of classic Chelsea boots from Bottega Veneta for that off-duty style. rijksmuseum.nl; vangoghmuseum.nl Looking for something different? GASSAN Diamonds offers unique tours through their factory, where you can watch the craftsmen turning rough diamonds into dazzling brilliants. Finish the tour by visiting their high-end boutique, and bring back a souvenir that you will actually want to show off. gassan.com

Explore the city by water on a private saloon boat