Today I want to talk about one of the best places to live in Netherlands, Westerpark, it is a mix of green areas, emblematic architecture, intense nightlife, and a creative atmosphere. In addition to its regular exhibitions, markets, and festivals, the remodeled Westergasfabriek Gasworks is home to alternative shops, eclectic restaurants, an arthouse cinema, a craft brewery, and a nightclub. The Het Schip Museum is the highlight of the nearby residential area, where the red brick buildings of the Amsterdam School of Architecture abound. You will find on one side the Brediusbad swimming pool, full of life on summer days. Next to this is the Westcord Art Hotel, where works by the Dutch musician, painter, actor, and poet Hermanus “Herman” Brood have been seen. Top neighborhoods to explore in Amsterdam – De Pijp Today I want to talk about one of the best places to live in Netherlands, De Pijp is a bohemian neighborhood with narrow streets flanked by Middle Eastern restaurants, traditional pubs and sidewalk cafes. The sociable owners of the Albert Cuyp market stalls sell typical Dutch food such as herring and waffles. In a former brewery, Heineken Experience tells the story of its brewing in multimedia format and offers tastings. The area is also home to the Sarphatipark, with English-style gardens, ponds and meadows. And of course the Top Taal language school, where I did one of my Dutch courses on Ferdinand Bolstraat street. Without a doubt, a neighborhood to discover, go ahead and visit it! Top neighborhoods to explore in Amsterdam – Indische Buurt The multicultural neighborhood of Indische Buurt is an up-and-coming harborside area, where trendy restaurants occupy former industrial spaces and late-19th-century buildings house Surinamese restaurants, Moroccan supermarkets and Turkish bakeries. Flevopark is a popular picnic spot overlooking Lake Nieuwe Diep and has a pond, hiking trails and a distillery bar in a former pumping station with a waterfront terrace.

Buying a property in the Netherlands, or in another country, requires organization, a clear target, a defined budget, knowing what type of property you need, having a short, medium and long term projection, and taking a step forward in your decision, and of course working together with your purchasing agent and mortgage advisor is an essential part. All this may seem overwhelming, but when you face this challenge in stages, but if you develop it day by day, your goal gets closer. Based on my experience, an important phase is to take a step forward and not hesitate in the decision, this can cost you time and lost opportunities. For this, the first information you receive is essential. I encourage you to have a conversation to clarify your doubts, set your goals, and work as a team to get your dream home in the Netherlands. Do not wait any longer, get in contact to have that first conversation: info@solid-net.com https://youtu.be/KAivj648ItA?si=-vVARslF0e6Q9iXN

A time begins in which you have to be attentive to opportunities. The real estate market begins to accommodate itself in a new situation, that of rising interest, never as dramatic as the media pretends to show it, since the price of money continues to be “cheap”. And as always to the lack of supply, and of course to the need for new projects that the political class does not know, nor is it capable of solving, putting last-minute patches, and with rather erroneous creativities in the rental plot. Let’s not forget that they had already done it before, putting obstacles in the way of small investors, in different cities, and so far it has only caused the opposite effect. Even so, and going back to the beginning, the opportunities for buyers have always existed, and now they continue to be in the market. If you are a starter buyer, or you are going for your second or consecutive property, do not hesitate to enter the purchase process with us, we can advise and guide you in each step until you achieve your desired goal. Our success is proven. Get in touch today!

Around Museum Square, perhaps one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Amsterdam. A place with one of the most coveted green areas in Amsterdam, Vondelpark, located in the center of Museumkwartier, with places of interest such as the Rijksmuseum, where masterpieces such as Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” are exhibited, the Stedelijk Museum, centered in modern art, and the Van Gogh Museum. The Concertgebouw is a famous classical music concert hall and the Vondelpark has an open-air theatre. Luxury boutiques can be found in the P. C. Hooftstraat shopping center Without a doubt, an attractive area to walk and admire.

Amsterdam Nieuw-West is a municipality (Dutch: stadsdeel) comprising the westernmost neighborhoods of the city of Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It was created in 2010 after the merger of the former Osdorp, Geuzenveld-Slotermeer and Slotervaart districts. In 2017, the municipality had almost 150,000 inhabitants. Most of the Amsterdam Nieuw-West residential neighborhoods were built after 1950 under an urban expansion plan, based on the garden city concept. Located in the center of the district are Sloterplas (literal translation: Sloter lake) and Sloterpark (around the lake). You can still find buildings from the middle of the last century, but most of the houses and infrastructure are modern. Being very close to Amsterdam-downtown, makes it very attractive for family life, with houses still competitive in market price.

Houthaven is one of the newest a neighborhood in Amsterdam. Houthaven Amsterdam stands as a captivating urban development project in the heart of Amsterdam, Netherlands. This innovative initiative is reshaping the cityscape, bringing about a harmonious blend of residential and commercial spaces amidst rapid urban growth and economic equilibrium. The name “Houthaven,” rooted in tradition as “Puerto de Madera,” reflects its rich history as a bustling hub for the timber trade. Once essential for importing and exporting wooden products, this port area now undergoes a remarkable transformation, preserving its historical legacy while embracing modernity. Over the past years, local authorities in Amsterdam have made decisive moves towards revitalizing Houthaven, envisioning it as a contemporary residential and commercial district. The goal is to create a dynamic neighborhood that seamlessly merges comfort and functionality with a deep respect for the surrounding environment. At the heart of Houthaven’s design philosophy lie principles of sustainable urban development. Emphasizing high energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and thoughtful integration of green spaces, the district aims to minimize its ecological footprint while maximizing quality of life for residents. With a robust infrastructure network including water recycling systems, green areas, and bike trails, Houthaven promotes a healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle. This holistic approach to sustainability positions Houthaven as a global model for urban development projects seeking to balance progress with environmental responsibility. Architecturally, Houthaven boasts a captivating blend of modern and contemporary styles, creating a vibrant urban landscape. Residential, commercial, and service buildings seamlessly integrate into the surroundings, offering residents and visitors an inviting and livable environment. Fostering community engagement is a cornerstone of Houthaven’s vision. Public spaces, parks, and plazas serve as focal points for social interaction and community gatherings, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity. The district embraces diversity, creating a multicultural environment where all individuals can call Houthaven home.   In summary, Houthaven Amsterdam represents a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the power of vision, innovation, and community engagement in transforming urban spaces for the 21st century. As an integral part of Amsterdam’s urban fabric, Houthaven continues to set the standard for sustainable and inclusive urban development, paving the way for a brighter future.

De Pijp is a bohemian neighborhood with narrow streets lined with Middle Eastern restaurants, traditional pubs and terrace cafes. The sociable stall owners at the Albert Cuyp market sell typical Dutch food such as herring and waffles. In an old brewery, the Heineken Experience tells the story of its production in multimedia format and offers tastings. In the area there is also the Sarphatipark, with English-style gardens, ponds and meadows. Do not miss it, one of the top in Amsterdam to visit… and live!

From festive feasts, to fireworks, to partying through the night and submerging yourself in the icy sea (yes, really). There’s loads to do to welcome in the new year in the buzzing party capital of The Netherlands. Here are some festive ideas to welcome in another year, and make it a New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam to remember. Why Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam? Tourists love Amsterdam, but the locals can party just as hard. They also know how to keep thing ‘gezellig.’ There’s something for everyone here, from the party animals to the families with kids, to the couples looking to get smoochy somewhere romantic. New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam can go in pretty much any direction you like. Check out the Amsterdam Light Festival What better way to warm up for the night than by exploring the 11th edition of Amsterdam’s annual Light Festival? Putting international artists quite literally in the spotlight, this year’s edition runs through New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam and beyond. Light displays are based on the theme of imagination and are all designed to stretch yours. Expect wondrous works of art including talking lamps, virtual bridges, and water flowing upwards! Where, How, What & Why?   The Amsterdam Light Festival is illuminating Amsterdam from December 1st, 2022, through January 22nd, 2023 Work your way on foot around 20 awe-inspiring works of light art, that span canals and streets all over the city Opt to see the Amsterdam Light Festival’s showstoppers by water on a special cruise around the canals – a canal cruise in the dark is one of the best ways to see them This is a great activity for families to do with kids. It’s also a pretty sweet date night idea for couples Watch the fireworks New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam is no different to most major cities across the world when it comes to firework displays. The Dutch love lighting up the skies at midnight, and the hours either side of it, too (watch out for firecrackers!). Head to an observatory, a panoramic restaurant, or any high-rise building across Amsterdam and prepare for a visual spectacular. Where, How & Why? For the best fireworks, lights and sound displays in the city, head to Rembrandtplein, Nieuwmarkt, Museumplein, Leidseplein, or Dam Square Be sure to arrive early if you plan to be in one of the major squares – you will have competition for the best spots If you’re heading out on foot, or on a bicycle, be aware of kids letting off firecrackers – you never know when or where the next one might strike! Make friends with someone who has a rooftop – these are the best places for watching a panorama of fireworks explode all around you at midight Visit Amsterdam Winter Paradise Amsterdam RAI brings us the ultimate winter experience with the annual Amsterdam Winter Paradise. Bundle up and get down to the winter wonderland, guaranteed to keep the icicles away. By day, snake around indoor and outdoor ice rinks, put the kids on the carnival rides, bust a move in the ski village, shop at the festive stalls and treat your eyes to live shows and musical performances. And don’t miss Amsterdam’s biggest New Year’s Eve party! Where, How, What & Why? Amsterdam Winter Paradise is reopening in 2022, bigger and better than ever after a 2-year absence There’s a grand closing ceremony and special show lined up for New Year’s Day – great for all ages Start 2023 in style with the Amsterdam Winter Paradise event, open on December 31st until 3 AM on January 1st There is limited capacity for New Year’s Eve, so buy your tickets in time. Tickets (€26.50 per person) are available. More here Head to a New Year’s Eve party Amsterdammers love to party all-year-round, and New Year’s Eve is just a better excuse to go wild! There can’t be anything more fun for singles and party animals, or even families than a good old party with likeminded people. New Year’s Eve parties will be shaking up most Amsterdam clubs, pubs, restaurants, and hotels – all you have to do is find the one that floats your canal boat. Where, How, What & Why?   For the dancers HUSH 2022 NYE Party: Sssssh, it’s a silent disco at HUSH, meaning you can dance to the beat of your own chosen drum (and bass). Promising all-new lighting and some ‘sick’ beats, this is the party to be at, located in the heart of Amsterdam, a staggering distance from Leidseplein. More here.  For groups of friendsAmsterdam 2022 Nye Indoor & Outdoor Festival @ Café Oerknal, Science Park 306: Cosy up around a fire pit and watch the entertainers on the outdoor stage, or head inside and warm up to the DJ. The BBQ is a nice touch – you can’t drink champagne on an empty stomach. More here.  For the couplesW Hotel, W Amsterdam, Spuistraat 175: Get loved up or relight your fire with the W’s posh affair. Gaze out over the whole of Dam Square and beyond from the rooftop, with a cocktail and as many kisses as you like. Tickets cost €50 euro or €70 euro at the door. (8 PM – 3 AM. More here. For the music lovers New Year’s @ Zoku: The lavish Zoku is no stranger to hosting a good time. New Year’s Eve revellers will be treated to a live band and one of Amsterdam’s best rooftop views. Tickets cost €127 including entrance, food from the ‘Living Kitchen’, and unlimited drinks (champagne is included!). More here Take a cruise on the canals One of the best ways to spend New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam is to take to the water. It’s calmer than the streets! Witness the crowds from afar instead of battling through them on a winter canal cruise. It’s a great way to see the lights from a safe distance, and your cruise can be as boozy or as gezellig as you

If you’re moving to Amsterdam in spring, or moving to the Netherlands in general in late March to late June, there’s lots to keep you outdoors and feeling flower-powered. From sniffing the tulips at Keukenhof, to discovering the best places to explore by bike, to poking around a Goden Age castle, here’s our list of spring inspiration – or should that be, Springsperation? Visit Keukenhof Gardens to see the tulips in bloom From giant clogs, to authentic herring-sellers, to more tulips than you’d ever be able to count, Keukenhof has it all. In fact, moving to Amsterdam in spring and not coming to Keukenhof would be a crime. There’s so much to do in the world’s biggest flower garden, spread over 32 hectares. The garden showcases not only tulips, but also daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, lilies-of-the-valley, bluebells, snowdrops, and irises, and there’s even an entire marquee dedicated to orchids. Top 6 things to do at Keukenhof Gardens: Take pictures: Keukenhof is an amazing places for taking great pictures, especially for macro photography. There are also lots of designated “photo stops” set up around the place to point you on your way. Take a ‘whisper’ boat tour: Thanks to their electrically powered and silent whisper boat, you can sail in peace and quiet along the water, taking in the endless Dutch flower fields around Keukenhof. Rent a bike: You can’t cycle in Keukenhof itself. But you can rent a bike and cycle along the flower fields around Keukenhof. This is great introduction to what lies beyond Amsterdam in spring. Look out for the special animals made from tulips, which make an appearance in the fields every year. Visit one of the special Keukenhof events: There are numerous events and flower shows to attend in various pavilions throughout the season. Sign up for Facebook, Instagram and a free Tulip Festival newsletter to stay informed. Visit the Keukenhof Castle: Keukenhof Garden is part of the Keukenhof Castle estate, and this impressive country house dates from the Dutch Golden Age. Take a tour, be wowed by the Golden Age collections and enjoy a variety of special events held in the castle grounds. The gardens and parks are open all year. Climb the windmill: The windmill that casts its quaint shadow over Keukenhof is one of the most photographed windmills in the entire Netherlands. You can meet the miller, and climb up and see the sails from all angles. The windmill can only be visited with a Keukenhof ticket. Keukenhof is open from March 23 until May 14 2023. 8 AM – 7:30 PM every day. Grab your Keukenhof tickets before it’s too late.   2. Rent a bike and explore the countryside Amsterdam in spring is the best time to get out on two wheels and explore. Renting a bike is an excellent way to experience the Netherlands’ – unusually flat – landscapes and get to grips with its cycle-friendly infrastructure.   Most cities and towns in the Netherlands have bike rental shops, also known as “fietsverhuur” in Dutch. You can usually find them near train stations or in city centers. Some popular bike rental companies include MacBike, Swapfiets, and Black Bikes.   You can also book your bike online through websites like BimBimBikes or Bike Rental Netherlands. This allows you to reserve your bike in advance and pick it up at a designated location.   Top 5 places to cycle beyond Amsterdam in spring:   Waterland: Located north of Amsterdam, Waterland is known for its picturesque villages, green meadows and waterways. Cycle through historic towns like Volendam, Marken, and Edam, and chill out in the serene countryside. Kinderdijk: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinderdijk is famous for its 19 beautifully-preserved windmills. The area has several cycling routes that let you feast your eyes on the windmills and the surrounding polder landscape. The Flower Route (Bollenstreek): This route takes you through colorful fields of tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils, particularly during the spring months. You can also visit the famous Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse (see below for more). Zeeland: This coastal province offers stunning views of the North Sea, expansive beaches and charming villages. Cycle through the Delta Works, an impressive system of dams and storm surge barriers, and explore the twee towns of Middelburg and Veere. Limburg: The hilly region of Limburg, in the southern Netherlands, is known for its rolling landscapes, vineyards (yes! Vineyards!), and castles. Popular cycling routes include the Mergellandroute and the Heuvellandroute, which take you on breezy rides through small villages and cow-filled, scenic countryside. 3. Take a boat tour of the canals in Amsterdam There’s no better way to see a blooming, bustling Amsterdam in spring than by boarding a boat, and cruising along those infamous canals. You’ll see bridges, historic buildings and busy local life in action, all while learning more about the city, usually from a live guide or an audio guide. There are loads of canal cruise options, some at day, some at night, some with food and drink options, and some with other experiences combined. Check out a list of Amsterdam canal cruise tickets and choose what’s right for you.   4. Visit the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam Visiting the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is a must for anyone interested in art, history, and culture. Rijksmuseum: The Rijksmuseum is the largest museum in the Netherlands, boasting a huge collection of art and historical artifacts. Moving to Amsterdam means this is your best intro to Dutch art. Get up close to Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch,” Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid,” and numerous works by Frans Hals and Jan Steen. There’s a focus on the Dutch Golden Age, and a wide range of exhibits, from sculptures and decorative arts to Asian art and Dutch maritime history. Even the Cuypers-designed building is a stunning example of Dutch Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Van Gogh Museum: The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, one of the most famous and

Amsterdam is a popular destination for expatriates due to its vibrant culture, historic charm, and high quality of life. If you’re considering moving to Amsterdam as an expat, here are some key aspects to consider:   1. Work and Economy: Job Opportunities: Amsterdam has a strong job market, particularly in sectors like finance, technology, and creative industries. English is widely spoken in the business environment. Startup Scene: The city has a thriving startup ecosystem, with many opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals in the tech industry. 2. Housing: Availability: Housing in Amsterdam can be competitive. Start your search early, and consider areas outside the city center for more affordable options. Rental Market: Rental is common and rental contracts can be for a defined period. Be prepared to work with an expert in the field, a real estate agency (Solid Net Vastgoed) who will help you throughout the process and can assist you when applying for rental properties. 3. Cost of Living: High Living Costs: Amsterdam is known for having a relatively high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing and dining out. Salaries often reflect this, but it’s essential to budget accordingly. Healthcare: Expats are usually required to have health insurance. The Dutch healthcare system is of high quality, but insurance is mandatory. 4. Transportation: Biking Culture: Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city, and many locals and expats use bicycles as their primary mode of transportation. Public Transport: The city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro. The OV-chipkaart is the payment card used for public transport. 5. Cultural Diversity: International Community: Amsterdam is home to a diverse international community. Expats can find numerous social and networking events to connect with people from various backgrounds. Language: While Dutch is the official language, English is widely spoken, making it easier for expats to navigate daily life. 6. Quality of Life: Cultural Scene: Amsterdam offers a rich cultural experience with world-class museums, theaters, and music venues. Outdoor Activities: The city has beautiful parks, canals, and recreational areas. Outdoor activities are popular among locals and expats alike. 7. Legal and Administrative Considerations: Residence Permits: Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay, you may need a residence permit. Check the requirements with the Dutch immigration authorities. Registration: Upon arrival, you must register at the municipality (Gemeente) where you are living. 8. Education: International Schools: If you have children, there are several international schools in and around Amsterdam, offering education in English and other languages. Higher Education: Amsterdam is home to reputable universities and institutions, attracting students from around the world. Amsterdam is generally a welcoming city for expatriates, offering a high quality of life and a unique cultural experience. However, like any international move, thorough research and preparation are key to a smooth transition.