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Showing posts with label Europe. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Europe. Show all posts

Amsterdam is one of the most famous cities in the world, known for its picturesque canals, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. As the capital of the Netherlands, it attracts millions of visitors each year who come to experience its museums, nightlife, and laid-back atmosphere.



Located in the western part of the country, Amsterdam is built on reclaimed land, with much of the city sitting below sea level. If you are planning to visit Amsterdam from a different country, here's a guide on where and how to Apply for a Schengen Visa

Here are ten key things to know about this fascinating city:

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1. Amsterdam is the Official Capital of the Netherlands

Many people assume that The Hague is the capital of the Netherlands because it houses the Dutch government and royal offices. However, Amsterdam has been the official capital since 1814, as stated in the Dutch constitution. Despite this, it does not serve as the political center of the country.

Colorful apartments in Amsterdam

Instead, Amsterdam functions as the cultural and economic heart of the Netherlands. It is home to the country’s largest airport, Schiphol, and major international businesses. While it lacks government buildings, it remains a globally significant city due to its historical importance and financial influence.


2. The City is Famous for its Canals

Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canal ring is one of its most defining features. The city has over 100 kilometers of canals, with the three main ones—Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht—forming a horseshoe around the city center. These waterways were built in the 17th century to improve trade and transportation.

Keizersgracht at night

Today, the canals are a major tourist attraction, with boat tours offering stunning views of Amsterdam’s historic architecture. Many of the city’s canal houses are centuries old and were originally built by wealthy merchants during the Dutch Golden Age. The canals also serve as a unique backdrop for cultural events, such as the Amsterdam Light Festival in winter.

FAMOUS ACTIVITY: Amsterdam Canal Cruise



3. Bicycles Rule the Streets

Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, with more bicycles than residents. The city has an estimated 900,000 bicycles, and cycling is the preferred mode of transportation for locals. Dedicated bike lanes and priority traffic rules make it easy and safe to navigate the city on two wheels.

Bicycle in Amsterdam

The city’s flat terrain and compact layout make cycling an efficient way to get around. Tourists can rent bikes from shops like MacBike or Yellow Bike to experience the city like a local. However, first-time visitors should be cautious—Amsterdam’s bike traffic can be intense, especially in the city center.

Go for a Guided Bike Tour in Amsterdam!


4. Amsterdam is Home to Some of the World’s Best Museums

Art and history lovers will find plenty to explore in Amsterdam, which is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums. The Rijksmuseum houses masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, while the Van Gogh Museum showcases the life and works of the famous Dutch painter.

Rijksmuseum

One of the most visited sites in the city is the Anne Frank House, where visitors can see the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. The museum offers a moving experience, providing insight into one of the darkest periods of European history.



5. The Red Light District is One of its Most Controversial Attractions

Amsterdam’s Red Light District (De Wallen) is famous for its legalized sex work and adult entertainment. Prostitution has been regulated in the Netherlands since 2000, and the area is known for its distinctive red-lit windows where sex workers legally offer their services.

Red Light District (De Wallen) in Amsterdam

While some see it as a progressive example of legalized sex work, the district has been at the center of debates regarding safety and ethics. The city government has introduced new measures to reduce overtourism and improve conditions for workers. Despite its reputation, the area is also home to historic buildings, cultural landmarks, and lively nightlife.



6. It Has One of the Oldest Stock Exchanges in the World

Amsterdam has long been a center of trade and finance, dating back to the Dutch Golden Age (17th century) when it was the world’s leading economic hub. The city is home to the Amsterdam Stock Exchange (AEX), which was founded in 1602 by the Dutch East India Company. It is considered the world’s first official stock exchange.

 Hendrick de Keyser Exchange, Amsterdam's first exchange building

Today, the Amsterdam Stock Exchange operates under Euronext, a pan-European exchange. The city remains an important financial center, with multinational companies, banks, and fintech startups based in its Zuidas business district.



7. The City is Famous for its Liberal Policies

Amsterdam is known for its progressive and open-minded culture. The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001, and the city has long been a center for LGBTQ+ rights. The annual Amsterdam Pride parade, held on the canals, is one of the most famous Pride events in the world.

Amsterdam Pride Parade

The city is also known for its relaxed stance on cannabis consumption. While marijuana is technically illegal in the Netherlands, it is tolerated under the "gedoogbeleid" (tolerance policy). Coffee shops, which are different from cafés, legally sell cannabis in small quantities to adults. However, in recent years, Amsterdam has introduced measures to curb "weed tourism" and promote responsible use.

Explore Amsterdam with Grand Holland Full Day Tour (Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague & Madurodam Miniature Park)


8. King’s Day is Amsterdam’s Biggest Celebration

Every year on April 27, Amsterdam turns into a giant orange-colored party for King’s Day (Koningsdag), celebrating the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. The entire city is filled with street markets, live music, and boat parties, as people wear orange—the national color of the Netherlands.

King’s Day (Koningsdag)

One of the highlights of King’s Day is the free-market (vrijmarkt), where residents set up street stalls to sell secondhand goods. The city’s canals also become packed with party boats, making it one of the most exciting and vibrant days to visit Amsterdam.

Get your eSIM for the Netherlands!





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9. The City is a Leader in Sustainability and Green Initiatives

Amsterdam is committed to being one of the most sustainable cities in Europe. The city has a strong focus on reducing carbon emissions, promoting electric vehicles, and creating energy-efficient buildings. Many of its buses and taxis are electric, and a growing number of buildings use renewable energy.

Schoonschip

The city is also working towards becoming fully circular by 2050, meaning that waste will be minimized and resources will be reused as much as possible. Innovative projects, such as floating neighborhoods like Schoonschip, show how Amsterdam is embracing sustainability in urban development.



10. It Has More Bridges Than Venice

Although Venice is famous for its canals and bridges, Amsterdam actually has more bridges—over 1,500. These bridges connect the city’s different districts and provide stunning viewpoints for photographers. Some of the most famous bridges include the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) and the charming Brouwersgracht bridges.

Brouwersgracht Bridge

The bridges add to the city’s unique charm, especially at night when many are illuminated. A canal cruise or a simple walk along the waterways offers some of the best perspectives of Amsterdam’s beauty.

Visit my Netherlands Travel Guide to know more about this beautiful country!


Final Thoughts

Amsterdam is a city that blends history, culture, and modern innovation. From its famous canals and world-class museums to its progressive policies and vibrant festivals, it offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're exploring its artistic heritage, enjoying its café culture, or cycling through its streets, Amsterdam is a destination full of character and energy.



10 Things To Know About Amsterdam (Facts and Trivia)


Traveling to Europe can be an exciting experience, but for many non-European travelers, obtaining a Schengen Visa is a necessary step before embarking on their journey. This visa allows visitors to explore multiple countries within the Schengen Area without the hassle of applying for separate visas for each nation. Whether you’re planning a vacation, a business trip, or visiting family and friends, understanding the visa application process is essential to ensure a smooth and successful trip.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the Schengen Visa, including its types, application process, requirements, and important tips to help you navigate the process with ease.



What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa that allows travelers to enter and move freely within the 27 Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, and short-term study programs.


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Schengen Area Countries

As of 2025, the Schengen Area includes the following 27 European countries:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland




Types of Schengen Visas


Uniform Schengen Visa (USV) – Allows entry to all Schengen countries for up to 90 days within 180 days.

Limited Territorial Validity Visa (LTV) – Restricted to the country or countries specified on the visa.

National Visa (D Visa) – Issued for long-term stays, often for work, study, or family reunification.



Who Needs a Schengen Visa?

Citizens from non-Schengen and non-EU countries generally require a visa unless they are from a visa-exempt country. Check the official European Union website or the respective embassy for updated visa requirements.




Schengen Visa Requirements


General Requirements:

  • Completed Schengen Visa application form (Download the form)

  • Valid passport (Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date)

  • Recent passport-sized photos (According to Schengen guidelines)

  • Proof of travel itinerary (Flight reservations, travel plans)

  • Proof of accommodation (Hotel bookings, invitation letter if staying with a host)

  • Travel medical insurance (Coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies)

  • Proof of sufficient financial means (Bank statements, sponsorship letters, salary slips)

  • Cover letter (Explaining your purpose of visit)

  • Visa fee (Typically €80 for adults, €40 for children aged 6-12, free for children under 6)

Additional Documents Based on Travel Purpose:

  • Tourism: Travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds

  • Business: Invitation letter from a company, business references

  • Family visit: Invitation letter from a family member, proof of relationship

  • Study: Enrollment letter from an institution, proof of funds

  • Medical treatment: Medical reports, appointment confirmation, financial coverage proof



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How to Apply for a Schengen Visa


Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Determine your main destination (Where you’ll spend the most time)

  2. Find the appropriate consulate/embassy for application submission

  3. Schedule an appointment (Online or through visa service centers like VFS Global)

  4. Complete the visa application form

  5. Gather all required documents

  6. Attend the visa interview (Provide biometric data, answer questions about your trip)

  7. Pay the visa fee

  8. Wait for processing (Usually takes 15 days but can take longer)

  9. Processing Time

Standard processing time: 15 calendar days

Extended processing time: Up to 45 days in some cases (if additional documents or security checks are needed)



Visa Refusal and Appeal

If your visa is denied, you will receive a rejection letter explaining the reasons. You can:
  • Reapply with corrected documents
  • Appeal the decision (Follow the embassy’s appeal process and submit additional proof)


See More Visa Guides



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


1. Can I visit multiple countries with one Schengen Visa?
  • Yes, a Uniform Schengen Visa (USV) allows entry to all 27 Schengen countries.

2. How early should I apply for a Schengen Visa?
  • You can apply at least 15 days and up to 6 months before your trip.

3. Can I extend my Schengen Visa?
  • Visa extensions are granted only in exceptional cases (e.g., force majeure, humanitarian reasons).

4. Do I need a Schengen Visa if I hold a valid residence permit from a Schengen country?
  • No, residence permit holders can travel within the Schengen Zone without an additional visa.

5. Can I work with a Schengen Visa?
  • No, Schengen visas do not permit work. You need a National Visa (D Visa) for employment.



Conclusion

Applying for a Schengen Visa requires thorough planning and proper documentation. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can improve your chances of approval and enjoy a hassle-free journey to the Schengen Area.


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Here's a Guide on How to Apply for a Schengen Visa (Requirements and Fees)


Did you know that the Leaning Tower of Pisa is empty from the inside and not a multi-story residential tower?

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a cathedral bell tower in the Italian city of Pisa, built in the Field of Miracles.


Its construction began in 1173 AD and they began to establish the bases and then the walls, and after the building reached the third floor, it was noticed that there was a slope.

Can you imagine that a tower weighing 14,500 tons is built on foundations 3 m deep and installed on sand and silt?

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After discovering the slope, the engineers built the rest of the floors (external walls) so that the height of the floor in the inclined direction is greater than its height in the other direction.


Which increased the inclination of the tower due to the sinking of the foundations in a greater proportion in the soil, due to the increase in the weight of the floors.


Among the reasons why the tower did not collapse:
  • The construction continued for 199 years, and the construction halt in it for a long time is one of the reasons that allowed the soil to compact, which reduced the rate of inclination, and thus the tower did not collapse completely.


  • The clay soil helped and the main reason for the tower's tendency not to collapse and its resilience in front of 4 earthquakes.
  • The engineers calculated the center of gravity of the tower, and it was concluded from the calculations that the tower collapsed completely upon reaching a slope of 5.44 degrees.
  • The tower was closed in 1990 at a tilt of 5.5 degrees, yet the tower did not collapse.

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Attempts made to stop the tilt of the tower and not collapse:

Digging deep holes in the ground at a depth of 40 m, and installing the tower with iron cables through the holes. Liquid nitrogen was pumped, which led to the freezing of water in the soil and its expansion and contraction again, which led to the subsidence of the soil and the subsidence of the foundations, and consequently the slope of the tower at the rate of its inclination throughout these years.



They dug 361 holes and injected the soil with 90 tons of cement, which led to the tower's tilt strongly. Finally, Soil Extraction was used in 1990:
  • The soil was removed from the non-slanted side so that the tower tilts in that direction, then iron cables were used to fix the tower bases in the ground and the slope was reduced to 4 bikes, and this was what it was at the beginning.
  • The engineers could have made it vertical, but they didn't want to lose its fame and tourist value because of its tilt.

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  • After that was completed, the tower was opened.
  • It was confirmed that the tower could endure without any collapse for 300 years.

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EUROPE: The 'REAL' Story Behind the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy

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Thinking of a place to visit on your next London trip? Here's a quick list of the city's tourist spots!


London is a diverse and exciting city with some of the world's best sights, attractions and activities.


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ABOUT LONDON

London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a 21st-century city with history stretching back to Roman times. At its centre stand the imposing Houses of Parliament, the iconic ‘Big Ben’ clock tower and Westminster Abbey, site of British monarch coronations. Across the Thames River, the London Eye observation wheel provides panoramic views of the South Bank cultural complex, and the entire city.


Fun Facts

  • Population: 8.136 million (2011) Trending, United Nations
  • Local time: Thursday 2:46 pm
  • Weather: 23°C, Wind E at 19 km/h, 50% Humidity
  • Constituent Country: England
  • Districts: City of London & 32 boroughs
  • Sovereign State: United Kingdom


BEST TIME TO VISIT IN LONDON

The climate in the capital is one of the mildest in the UK, but London weather can be quite unpredictable.

In autumn and winter, take in a museum or art gallery, or head to one of London's many pop-up ice rinks over the Christmas period. Spring and summer are perfect for enjoying the outdoors at one of the many wonderful parks, or indulging in a drink in the sun at a rooftop bar.

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So here's our list of 10 spots to visit in London:
  1. Tower of London
  2. The London Eye
  3. St. Paul's Cathedral
  4. House of Parliament aka Palace of Westminster
  5. Westminster Abbey
  6. Buckingham Palace 
  7. The British Museum
  8. Tower Bridge
  9. Piccadilly Circus
  10. The National Gallery


1. TOWER OF LONDON

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Tower of London

The Tower of London, officially Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London.

It was founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest. The White Tower, which gives the entire castle its name, was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 and was a resented symbol of oppression, inflicted upon London by the new ruling elite.

Location: St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB, UK


2. THE LONDON EYE aka COCA-COLA LONDON EYE

London Eye

London Eye, formerly Millennium Wheel, revolving observation wheel, or Ferris wheel, in London, on the South Bank of the River Thames in the borough of Lambeth. At an overall height of 443 feet (135 metres), the London Eye was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel from 1999, when it was built, until 2006, when it was surpassed by the Star of Nanchang, in Nanchang, China.

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It is one of London’s most popular tourist attractions for which an admission fee is charged and is sometimes credited with sparking a worldwide revival of Ferris wheel construction.

Location: Lambeth, London SE1 7PB, UK


3. ST. PAUL'S CATHEDRAL

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St Paul's Cathedral

St Paul's Cathedral, London, is an Anglican cathedral, the seat of the Bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. It sits on Ludgate Hill at the highest point of the City of London and is a Grade I listed building.

St. Paul’s famous dome, which has long dominated the London skyline, is composed of three shells: an outer dome, a concealed brick cone for structural support, and an inner dome.

Location: St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, UK


4. HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT aka PALACE OF WESTMINSTER

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Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster serves as the meeting place for both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Informally known as the Houses of Parliament, the Palace lies on the north bank of the River Thames in the City of Westminster, in central London, England.



Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate), the House of Commons Chamber and the Royal Gallery, to name a few.

If you're not interested in perusing the halls that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London.

Location: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, UK


5. BUCKINGHAM PALACE

Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality.

The palace has been a focal point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and mourning. It also served as the London residence of the U.K.'s sovereigns since only 1837.

Location: Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, UK


6. WESTMINSTER ABBEY

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Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, formally titled the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter at Westminster, is a large, mainly Gothic abbey church in the City of Westminster, London, England, just to the west of the Palace of Westminster.

Regular worship takes place daily at Westminster Abbey and all are welcome to attend.

Location: 20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, UK


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7. THE BRITISH MUSEUM

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British Museum

The British Museum, in the Bloomsbury area of London, United Kingdom, is a public institution dedicated to human history, art and culture. Its permanent collection of some eight million works is among the largest and most comprehensive in existence, having been widely sourced during the era of the British Empire.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's 8 million objects, consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and weekly lunchtime gallery talks and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book a highlights and special early morning tour for 14 pounds (around $20) and 30 pounds (less than $45), respectively. Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (less than $10), are also available to rent daily.

Location: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG, UK


8. TOWER BRIDGE

Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London, built between 1886 and 1894. The bridge crosses the River Thames close to the Tower of London and has become an iconic symbol of London. Because of this, Tower Bridge is sometimes confused with London Bridge, situated some 0.5 mi upstream.

Location: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, UK


9. PICCADILLY CIRCUS

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Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is a road junction and public space of London's West End in the City of Westminster. It was built in 1819 to connect Regent Street with Piccadilly. In this context, a circus, from the Latin word meaning "circle", is a round open space at a street junction.

Roads at junction: Regent Street, Shaftesbury Avenue, The Haymarket, Coventry Street and Glasshouse Street


10. THE NATIONAL GALLERY

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National Gallery

The National Gallery is an art museum in Trafalgar Square in the City of Westminster, in Central London. Founded in 1824, it houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900.

The museum was the first major American painting to be purchased by the Gallery.

Location: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN, UK


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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About London

  • Is London part of England or UK?
    London is one of the most diverse and cosmopolitan cities in the world; but where is it actually located? London is the capital city of England and is located in the south east of the country. Although a country in its own right, England is also part of the United Kingdom alongside Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales

  • What is London famous?
    London is famous for Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, British Museum, and Tower Bridge. London is also known for its rich history, double-decker buses, red phone booths, world-class museums and galleries, gigantic lush parks, financial districts, and cosmopolitan vibes.

  • Is London a city or country?
    London, city, capital of the United Kingdom. It is among the oldest of the world's great cities—its history spanning nearly two millennia—and one of the most cosmopolitan. By far Britain's largest metropolis, it is also the country's economic, transportation, and cultural centre.

  • How old is London?
    The history of London, the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, extends over 2000 years. In that time, it has become one of the world's most significant financial and cultural capital cities.

  • What is London's nickname?
    The Big Smoke: Probably the most famous is The Big Smoke, The Old Smoke, or simply The Smoke. These names refer to the dense fogs and smogs that would permeate the city from ancient times.


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