4/20. Weed Day!

I'm sure you have all heard the myths and legends surounding 420 and how it became associated with Cannabis. I am not gonna write about which one is true as I have noticed that different cultures seem to believe different stories but I do know that 20th April (4/20) has firmly become a day of celebrations for Cannabis lovers all over the World. In some places it has become quite political with organised rallies to legalise, arranged for this particular day.

And in Amsterdam...... its just one massive day of partying! Most Coffeeshops get on board with organised meet ups and events throughout the day and theres even 420 Fest! A festival full of competitions, awards and live music. I hear the atmosphere is amazing. 

Many people plan their trip aound this and Kings Day which is always celebrated on 27th April plus the opening of Keukenhof Gardens at the end of March also brings lots of visitors to Amsterdam in April so I cannot stress enough to book your Hotel/Hostel extremely early to save disappointment.

Although I am sure this year's celebrations will sadly be very different due to Covid-19 restrictions and the third wave just hitting Europe. But it doesnt stop you planning your 2022 visits.... plus you'll get your Hotels secured at a really good rate :)

If you do need Hotel suggestions, pop on over to the DAM'D facebook page and join the group DAM'D Life. There's always lots of helpful Amsterdam lovers on there to give you plenty of top tips and suggestions.

Please stay safe and stay dreaming of Dam...

Happier times are on their way

Claire x

Hi 

Finally we may see an end to Lockdown and the Travel Bans! I am so hopeful that by Summer 2021 we will all be back visiting our happy places in Amsterdam. Have you booked any trips yet? I've booked late July and October but wow the price increases are unreal! From Flights to Hotels, there's such a huge jump. I understand all parties need to recoup lost takings over the past 18 Months but surely they would attract more tourists if they keep it real and fair. 

I've scanned through quite a few Hotels in the centre and the most reasonable seem to be The Exchangs on Damrak, Hotel CC on Warmoesstraat in the Red Light Area or just up from that is the Travel Hotel on Beursstrast which is pretty basic but great for a cheap and cheerful trip. Further out of the centre, the prices do seem to become much more reasonable abd day Tram pass doesn't cost a lot so that's a great option too. Flights all were very similar price but KLM and Easyjet did seem to be the least expensive. Whereas the Minicruise options are still on hold and currently are not been advertised on P&O Ferries but DFDS Seaways is taking bookings on their Website for overnight sailing.

I guess after all this time at home I'm prepared to pay the extra just to finally get back to Amsterdam but it does feel really frustrating looking at the steep prices. What's the first thing you will do when you get there? I have such a long list of things I want to do on my first trip back. From visiting my favourite restaurant on Damrak, Pasta Bar for a late lunch to waking up extra early to get the sunrise shots in De Wallen. My Camera has being redundant for so long, it really needs a workout!  

For the next few months I'm going to get back to blogging about the amazing places in Dam that you must visit to help us all get back into trip planning. Don't forget to visit our webshop for new DAM'D stuff too. Our new Hoodies are perfect from Spring and you can only buy them here. As usual No Wholesale Junk on our site.

Keep Safe and Stay Dreaming.... 

Claire xx