So close but yet feels so far far away

There are still many nice unspoiled and undiscovered spots in the world. You don't have to go far far away. Something 'Lighthouse Island' does have proven again. All the enthusiastic posts on Facebook by the few lucky ones who had the opportunity to visit the spot, made me share this great experience here as well.

 

Lighthouse Island can only be reached by a 45-60 min boat trip leaving from the quay in Amsterdam. The island is no bigger than 2 football fields.What to expect on the Island? small hills, flowers, goats, blackberries, remains of a fort, one small house occupied by 2 people for anti-theftAnd of course the lighthouse. And these days a restaurant in a glass house. A so called 'pop-up' restaurant, which is there for just one month this summer. 

A very nice couple subscribed for a competition to exploit the beautiful island, organized by the Dutch Forestry Commission (literally translated). Since the race has not been decided yet - just 2 participants are still on of which this creative couple - this couple convinced the commission to get Amsterdam acquainted with this special place already. The organic food was amazing and the atmosphere with just 20 people allowed made it an unforgettable experience. Fingers crossed that the hospitable couple will win and Amsterdam will have a new amazing spot to visit!

   (Amsterdam)

Just in ♥ with Amsterdam

I just spent 4 weeks in Buenos Aires last May, pretending being a local. Why? Because I had heard such magnificent stories about this city, I just had to experience it; the Paris of South America, the Latina Rome! And it is a beautiful city (http://joelleverkooijen.blogspot.nl/2012/04/bienvenidos-buenos-aires.html). 

But one thing I've never heard is the comparison with Good Old Amsterdam. Just because this comparison is not possible…

Yesterday evening I had a lovely diner in the East part of the city (Woo Bros is quite a new place with great service and incredible asian dishes). I live on the other part of the city center and because of the nice weather I decided to walk back home. It took me just 20 minutes to cross the center, over the canals, true small unexpected doors leading to alleys including taking shots of the lovely places I passed by. So Authentic - I just had to share these - isn't this a great city to live in!

Blue - Amsterdam at your feet

After nearly six years living in Amsterdam you would think that you would know the city inside-out by now. Fortunately not! It is still possible to be surprised by undiscovered places. I do remember to have read about this place and today I seized the opportunity to visit BLUE with her amazing view and surprising story which I'd like to share with you...


The story about two relatively young girls in their mid-twenties, who had just finished their studies when they fell in love with this magnificent 360 viewpoint high up in the sky in the heart of Amsterdam. It's been three years since the sisters got the green light to start their own business. These days, after 3 years of hard work, entrepreneurship, creativity and some support from a business partner, Loes and Lotte de Vos lead a workforce of 15 people. All started as a coffee and lunch room. During day time you still can enjoy your latte with a nice sandwich. For the evenings the location is rentable for all kinds of events in their fancy though cozy location - wine tasting, weddings, you name it. And yes, the view is stunning! Jealous? hmmm may be a bit ;-)


If you're in the neighborhood - although if you're not, Blue is worth a detour - grab your camera and enjoy the ambiance!
www.blue-amsterdam.nl