Without its hallucinogenic mushroom business, you could swear that the Kokopelli in Amsterdam is a trendy clothing and household goods store.

Today, let's talk about this atypical place.

Here we go!

Kokopelli in Amsterdam : article summary

Kokopelli in Amsterdam: at a glance

The Kokopelli Smart Shop is the place to go for legal psychedelic drugs and offers all the information and advice you need for a legal, beautiful and safe trip!

On site, you'll find :

• Psychoactive plants
• Seeds
• Mushrooms
• Grass

Kokopelli exudes a truly shamanic atmosphere. In addition to psychedelicsThe site also offers access to :

• Books on spirituality
• Videos
• An art gallery

The place resonates to the sound of gentle spiritual music, making Kokopelli a nice place to spend peaceful moments.

What does Kokopelli stand for?

Kokopelli is a fertility god, usually depicted as a humpback flute player. He is also depicted with plumage or antenna-like projections on his head.

It was cherished by some Native American cultures in the southwestern United States.

Like most fertility gods, Kokopelli oversees both childbirth and cultivation. He's also a trickster god who represents the spirit of music.

Where is Kokopelli located in Amsterdam?

The store is located on Amsterdam's oldest street: Warmoesstraat. Kokopelli was founded in 1996 by Véronique Verschueren. She is still the owner today.

This smartshop is just a 2-minute walk from the main station. Kokopelli is one of the Conscious Dreams boutiques and certainly among the best in Amsterdam.

The smart shop is quite spacious, but you'll feel right at home from the moment you step inside.

A group activity to take home

On site, you can take a look at the Kokopelli greenhouse. You'll discover how the San Pedro cactus grows and learn how to grow your own with a cactus growing kit.

It's a fun way to find out if you've got a green thumb!

There's also a display of Mexican tribal objects used by shamans.

What are Kokopelli's opening hours?

To visit the site, you can go to :

• Every day 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Kokopelli in Amsterdam is the place to be if you're looking for a unique shamanic experience. Here you can discover objects and rituals used by many peoples over the years. What you need make your vacation a spiritual one.

Located right next to the lively Nieuwmarkt market square and the popular red light district, the Amsterdam Chinatown is made up of several city blocks brimming with Asian markets, restaurants and stores.

Today, I'd like to take you on a tour of this place.

Chinatown Amsterdam: article summary

Chinatown in Amsterdam: an Asian community

The name Chinatown is a bit of a misnomer, as in this part of town you'll see businesses and residents from many different Asian cultures, such as:

• Thailand
• Malaysia
• Indonesia

Amsterdam's Chinese are, however, a very well-represented expatriate group in the city, and here vou'll even see road signs in Chinese and Dutch.

Discover the Buddhist temple of Zeedijk

The most important tourist attraction in Amsterdam's Chinatown is undoubtedly the Buddhist temple of Zeedijk, known as Fo Guang Shan He Hua.

The temple is located on Zeedijk Street, in the middle of all the stores and bars. It's a peaceful place to visit, in contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.

This impressive building, with its brightly-colored walls and distinctive roof, is the largest Chinese-style Buddhist temple in Europe and has stood here since 2000, when Queen Beatrix herself celebrated the inauguration ceremony.

Visits to the temple are free every day except Monday, until 5 p.m.closing date.

Chinatown in Amsterdam: De Waag

The former gatehouse, converted into the Royal College of Surgeons, forms the central building of the Nieuwmarkt and now serves as a pleasant restaurant and café.

You'll find a few Asian restaurants here, but we'll come back to those later.

Close to the red-light district

Visit red-light district of Amsterdam is mainly known for its nightlife, but it's also its oldest district.

We recommend visiting this part of the city during the day too. To find out more, I recommend reading the article I wrote about him.

Shopping in Amsterdam's Chinatown

As the center of Asian culture in Amsterdam, Chinese markets and souvenir stores are scattered throughout this district.

Oriental Commodities is a large Chinese supermarket that sells many traditional Asian specialities.

The aisles may be narrow, but making your way here can be worth it for bargains, dried fish and other Eastern wonders.

Shopping in Dun Yong

Dun Yong has been an integral part of Amsterdam's Chinatown since 1959, and attracts visitors for several reasons.

As well as selling delicious Asian treats, this store offers a wide range of decorations and other souvenirs, as well as cooking classes. in their Saveurs d'Extrême-Orient cooking workshop.

Discover Amsterdam's Chinatown restaurants

One of the most remarkable things about Amsterdam's Chinatown is the number of restaurants you can see everywhere.

It's impossible to miss these establishments, with their many ducks hanging in the window - an enticing sight.

Restaurants in Amsterdam's Chinatown aren't all Chinese, and here you'll find many excellent Thai restaurants as well as Asian fusion restaurants and, of course, a number of Chinese restaurants.

The best-known Chinese restaurant in this part of Amsterdam is Nam Kee. This family-run restaurant has several locations throughout the city, but the ones in Chinatown are by far the most popular.

Thai restaurants are also plentiful, with places like Snackbar and Restaurant Bird always popular. These are also favorites with locals and expats alike.

During your stay in Amsterdam, if you want to travel and discover the joys of Asia while staying in the Netherlands, I recommend a trip to Chinatown. It's a great place to shop and discover unique flavors. All you need for a great vacation!

Visit NoordermarktAmsterdam's trendiest market, was founded in 1987.

At that time, Adri Vallentin, then owner of the popular café called Winkel, set up nine organic food stalls.

Since then, the place has grown and is now one of the most popular markets in this part of town.

I'll tell you all about it!

Noordermarkt: article summary

Noordermarkt: an organic market in Amsterdam

The traditional market that took place on the Noordermarkt every Saturday morning for a century has faded, but the idea of organic food quickly won over the public.

Today, the Noordermarkt farmer's market is so popular that it draws crowds not only from the neighbourhood Jordaanand the whole city.

Customers come here from far-flung towns in the Netherlands, hoping to buy healthy food. The farmers' market has become a veritable social phenomenon a book has even been published about it.

Many organic products to discover

On site, you can find :

• Organic cheese
• Eggs
• Fresh fish
• Bread
• Honey
• Herbs
• Spices
• Nuts
• Homemade cakes

There are new products and new ideas, such as very young edible herbs. There are also beautiful fruits and flowers, and a stand with delicious pancakes.

But the real specialty of the Noordermarkt is the mushrooms. They're fresh and come in all shapes and colors, harvested in Dutch forests and imported from countries such as France and Lithuania.

Noordermarkt: three markets to discover

On Saturdays, there are 3 markets in one:

• On the left is the Boerenmarkt farmers' market.
• On the right-hand side is the Noordermarkt
• Around the corner is the Lindengrachtmarkt

Monday morning, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.Noordermarkt stalls sell :

• Antiques
• Some books
• Jewelry
• Vintage clothing
• A wide variety of collectibles.

A unique atmosphere

The Noordermarkt is a small but lively market. The general atmosphere of the Boerenmarkt is unique, so when you're planning a visit to the old Jordaan district, go there on a Saturday morning and watch the people, smell the smells and take in the sights. discover the healthy products sold on site.

You can then enjoy a chestnut cream crêpe at one of the stalls, or an apple tart - perhaps a little less healthy, but very tasty, with fresh whipped cream - at Café Winkel.

How do I get there?

You can visit us on site:

On foot, the site is about 10 minutes from the Westerkerk and Anne Frank House

Visit tramway by taking streetcars 3 and 10 and getting off at the Marnixbad stop.

What are Noordermarkt's opening times?

To take advantage of this market, you can visit :

• Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Monday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Noordermarkt is a place I recommend you visit if you're ever in Amsterdam. Here, you can enjoy fresh, organic produce. You'll find healthy eating on your trip to Amsterdam!

One of the best things you can do to pass the time at Amsterdam airport is spend some time shopping at the Duty Free.

This airport is a shopper's paradise.

On site, you can expect all the classics, such as liqueurs, tobacco and perfumes.

I'll tell you all about it in the following lines.

Here we go!

Duty Free in Amsterdam: article summary

Duty Free in Amsterdam: knowing the different zones

There are four Duty Free areas at Schiphol airport. All areas behind security are called lounges. You'll find :

• Le lounge 1
• Le lounge 2
• Le lounge 3
• The lounge 4.

Be careful, even if it can be confusing, don't confuse Duty Free lounges with airline lounges.

What will you find in lounge 1?

Lounge 1 is located in the Schengen zone, the EU's passport-free zone, where you can travel without passport control.

So if you're flying to France, Spain or Italy, your flight will probably leave from here.

Amsterdam's Duty-Free shopping zone is huge, spacious and pleasant.

As well as superb shopping, this is also where you'll find :

• Outdoor park (upstairs)
• Authentic Dutch coffee
• Numerous restaurants

Lounge 2 for flights to other destinations

Many flights to the UK and USA depart from this area. You're sure to enter this zone if you check in with KLM.

Once again, it's a vast commercial zone filled with the same duty-free stores as in Lounge 1.

Lounges 3 and 4

Salons 3 and 4 again offer the same stores, but are not as large as Salon 2.

You can get from one lounge to the other with no problem - just walk! following the long, store-filled corridor.

Is Duty-Free available to all travelers?

It doesn't matter whether you're traveling inside or outside the EU. If you have a valid boarding pass, you can store in any store, including alcohol and tobacco.

However, there are different limits on the amount you can buy for certain products, such as alcohol or cigarettes, depending on your destination.

Are the liquids sealed and safe to take with me?

All restricted items can be sealed at the payment office. However, many parts of the world apply different rules concerning liquids in hand luggage.

If you're going to France, or any other European country, you shouldn't have any problems. However, I advise you to ask the seller if you have any doubts.

What are the opening hours for Duty Free in Amsterdam?

Duty-free stores must be open before each flight. Whatever time you leave, the main stores will be open at least one hour before departure. They won't close until the last flight.

However, only one liquor store is usually open. So you may have to walk, for example, from Salon 4 to Salon 2, or vice versa.

In addition, some small stores and restaurants may still be closed. However, you'll find that most products are still available at any of the outlets that are open, regardless of your flight's departure time.

Find local products in Duty-Free stores

When it comes to shopping, I advise you to turn to local products. In fact, you'll be able to find :

• Cheese
• Sweets
• Flower bulbs
• Cookies

On-site establishments usually offer a wide selection, including items not always available in regular stores.

However, prices are tending to be a little higher than in Amsterdam stores.

Are there any stores at Schiphol before the security check?

There is a large shopping area before security called Schiphol Plaza. It is located on the arrivals level.

Stores are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., every day. They are not, however, Duty Free stores. They are regular stores open to the general public.

On site, you'll find :

• a complete supermarket
• A pharmacy
• A perfumery
• clothing
• Restaurants

Another advantage is that if you buy something here, you can always add these items to your checked baggage. But again, this isn't Duty Free. And coupons won't apply here.

If you're planning a trip to Amsterdam, you'll probably want to visit its Duty Free area. Here, you'll be able to make considerable savings and find the last souvenirs to bring back to your loved ones.

Just a few minutes from the city center, on the banks of the River Amstel, lies theAmstelpark.

It's the perfect place to stroll, relax or enjoy a family picnic.

Today, I'm going to tell you all about it.

Here we go!

Amstelpark: article summary

Amstelpark: at a glance

The park was created in 1972, as one of the venues for the world's second garden fair, Floriade. Since the end of the fair, the municipality has endeavored to retain some of its attractions, and the Amstelpark is today one of Amsterdam's two most popular parks.

Local families come here to spend time with their children and enjoy a picnic. If you drop by around lunchtime, you'll be able to see them enjoying the fine weather. sharing a few Stroopwaffles and a cup of hot coffee.

Amstelpark and surrounding area

Amstelpark is located along the Amstel river. If you leave the park at the rear entrance, in the direction of Amsteldijk, you may see the course of the river, a flat countryside landscape on another bank and you can walk to a large, monumental Rieker windmill dating from 1636.

Just behind the windmill is a small bronze monument to Rembrandt, who used to walk here from Amsterdam along the river and make landscape drawings. Some of these views of the Amstel River can be found in his prints.

You can decide to walk further along the river in a southerly direction, after about 30 minutes, you'll reach a small village called Oudekerk.

This village is well worth a visit, especially if you've never been to the Amsterdam area. Oudekerk will give you a good idea of what the Dutch province is like.

Installation of special gardens at Amstelpark

Despite a huge loss of approximately 30 percent of the largest trees to disease ten years ago, the Amstelpark remains a magnificent park in all its parts preserved as a botanical garden.

You'll also find :

• Several meticulously tended gardens
• A rhododendron valley with 139 plant species
• The Rosarium
• A Belgian cloister garden
• A butterfly garden

Unfortunately, not much remains of the Japanese garden. An interesting little house imitates the architectural style of the famous Dutch architect Rietveld.

A perfect place for children

Amstelpark is a wonderful place to visit with children. At the main entrance, you'll see the station of a small train that runs through the park all summer long.

Behind the station, a small concrete bridge leads to a labyrinth. The hedge maze is quite long (380 meters), but it's not too difficult and it's great fun for kids.

Further to the left of the main entrance, you'll find other attractions for children, including a farm with sheep and goats, and the chance to take a pony ride.

Enjoy a quiet place

Amstelpark is a large park with many attractions. It's quiet and well-maintained.

There are no bicycles on site. Silence is the order of the day, and you won't find anyone listening to music on loudspeakers.

Finally, the lanes are wide with plenty of space for safe walking.

How to get to Amstelpark

Getting there is easy. Just take :

• Visit bus line 62 and get off at the Weerdestein stop.
• Your car and take exit 109 from the A10 motorway

Amsterdam's Amstelpark is a quiet place you'll love to visit. Here, you can enjoy the quiet surroundings and get away from it all!

Visit Baba Coffee Shop is a typical example of a café in Amsterdam's red light district.

Today, I'm taking you to spend an evening in this uniquely atmospheric venue.

Here we go!

Baba Coffee Shop: article summary

Baba Coffee Shop: at a glance

Situated in a prominent corner of the bustling tourist district of Warmoesstraat, this oriental-themed coffeeshop is packed with visitors from various countries enjoying a cigarette in the subdued light of the bar.

Here, you'll find yourself in an atypical neighborhood. You'll find yourself surrounded by sex shops and adult theaters.

After your visit to the bar, you can go outside and discover the famous red windows of the red light district. A place like you've never seen before!

A unique, lively atmosphere

The bar atmosphere is lively, with loud music tending towards hip-hop and electronic dance music.

These musical styles seem at odds with the Hindu imagery that has been decided upon for the café's decoration. Sofas at the back offer a place to relax, while high tables and stools line the front of this Amsterdam café.

The large windows lining this corner building offer the perfect opportunity to observe the people on Warmoesstraat.

Fairly high prices

The café's menu, hidden away in the corner of the main bar, focuses on strong varieties. Prices are fairly typical of a red-light district café. Everything is very expensive.

Jars of herbal tobacco substitute are placed on each table, in compliance with Amsterdam's smoking ban.

For those looking for a souvenir, a fine selection of t-shirts and smoking accessories is available behind the bar. What you need take a little something back to your smoking friends from Amsterdam.

Baba Coffee Shop: a prime location

Baba Coffee Shop is one of Amsterdam's best-located cafés. You'll find it on the corner of Warmoesstraat and Oudbrugsteeg.

This street offers a nice shortcut to the lively Damrak district and its many stores. On the other side of the street begins the Red district as evidenced by the many nearby sex shops.

To get there from main stationSimply follow Damrak to the start of the Beurs van Berlage, the large red brick building on the left, and turn left along Oudbrugsteeg.

Once you're in the vicinity of the café, you'll find it hard to miss. Indeed, the place is overloaded with Hindu decor, even outdoors.

What are the opening hours?

You can visit us on site:

• Monday to Thursday 8.30 a.m. to 1 a.m.
• Friday to Sunday 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Choosing to spend an evening or two in this lively café is an excellent idea. However, there are a few things to bear in mind, expect higher prices.