Venere Travel Blog - It's our business where you sleep!

1. Artis Zoo

Artis is the perfect solution for the age old traveler’s dilemma – is there a place to explore for hours on end, each twist and turn ending in an adventure? Curious travelers seeking an answer to this dilemma might also add, “And I don’t mean 2 hours of the same-old, same-old”. “By the way,” the imaginary traveler adds while an equally imaginary travel guide hurriedly shuffles through a travel list, “Will the kids like it as well?”

Well say no more! Add in these factors and what do you get?

Lush greenery dotted with trees + nature’s wonders (big, small or perhaps sneaky like the shark) + tulips, tulips and more tulips + fun museum excursions = Artis Zoo!

Truth is, expansive grounds that house vast number of exotic animals, towering trees and blooming flowers not only appeal to people of all ages but somehow sightseeing at such a place never saps you of all your energy.

In fact, you walk out all refreshed and relaxed. It’s like a caffeine kick without the coffee.

So what’s this Artis Zoo all about, asks this curious traveler?

It is an enormous zoo in Amsterdam that dates all the way back to the 19th Century; it’s historical value will be evident from the intricate sculptures, monuments and detailed architecture of the buildings sprinkled within this area. This charming zoo boasts 700 species of animals and a sprawling botanic garden filled with a wide variety of trees (close to 200).

Tulip fans, do note – tulips usually blossom in all its glory from January to May (spring).

Did I mention it has a Aquarium, Geological Museum, Planetarium and Zoological Museum?

Where is it: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40 1018 CZ Amsterdam

Open 9 – 5pm. Entrance fee: Adult Euro 17.70, senior citizens (65+) Euro 16.50 and children (3-9 years) Euro14.50. Note: these are the prices for 2008.

 2. Molen Van Sloten ( The Sloten Windmill )

I know it sounds cliché and cheesy … but a trip to Netherlands will not be complete without a visit to a windmill.

There is definitely an air of nostalgia surrounding a windmill. It maybe minute compared to modern skyscrapers but if you think about it, this grand structure once towered over all else. A monument of ages gone past, its day-to-day motions affected the lives of local people. Call me old fashioned but for me, these building boast a smooth blend of grandeur and delicacy.

If you listen closely enough, you will hear me mumble “No one puts the intricate touches on buildings anymore”.

So if you are convinced that a tour of this beautiful work of art is a must, hop over to Molen Van Sloten.

Located on the fringes of the bustling city, it’s nowhere near the trendy urban spots. This definitely adds to its charm. This looming beauty is situated close to a quiet idyllic village called Sloten (hence I suppose the name – Molen van Sloten or windmill of Sloten village).

Dating back to the 19th century, this windmill is one of the few that is still open to public (in fact according to the website this might be the only one accessible for public viewing). Here, visitors will get a glimpse of the daily workings of the busy miller. The Coopery Museum is an added bonus; located within the premises, it contains an interesting display of age-old techniques used in food storage.

And if you want to sneak in a bit of arts and culture for the kids, be sure to check out Rembrandt in the Attic. There are sculptures and an audio-video presentation dedicated to the life and works of the man who brought us The Night Watch.

Where is it: Molen van Sloten – Akersluis 10, 1066 EZ, Amsterdam-Sloten

Open from 10 am – 4 pm.

3 & 4- Het KinderKook Kafe & Vondelpark

The café is located in the Vondelpark area and so you can kill the proverbial two birds with one stone and visit to both spots on the same day.

Firstly, Vondelpark. This is a huge sprawling park filled with great towering trees, colorful flowers as well as the occasional artistic monument. It’s like a green haven within such a high paced city.

Whether you want a quiet stroll, enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch among lush greenery or are simply looking to soak up a bit of summer sun, all of this is possible here.

The availability of pancakes definitely adds to the allure. Yes, there is a pancake joint and it is located within this pretty park. Who can say no to such a scrumptious sweet dish?

There are other attractions within Amsterdam’s largest park – Open Air Theatre, the possibility to try some skating and the Filmmuseum.

Where is it: South of Amsterdam and five minutes walk from the Leidseplein.

And now for KinderKook Kafe.

While the concept is a bit strange, at least for me, some kids seem to love this idea. Basically the little ones will conjure up a super duper meal (under the supervision of adults) for patrons.

Cheerful colors, fun cooking lessons for the kids and of course, a yummy meal at the end of the day. Definitely something novel for the children to try out.

How does it work? Kids cook (meals, dessert, the whole works) and they serve the guests. Your little ones can cook for you but do email them through the official and ask about the exact procedure.

Where is it: Vondelpark 6b, 1071 AA Amsterdam

5. TunFun

This is a child’s version of a socialize, mix-and-mingle scene – the TunFun playground!

This would be a nice break for the little ones after a few hours of grown-up style sightseeing. After roaming around a couple of museums, the kids will be eager to break out into a run, hop, skip, jump and maybe a few fits of giggles here and there.

TunFun is quite an extraordinary place. Suitable for children of up to 12 years, this indoor playground offers slides, ball pools, trampolines, soccer ground and so many other exciting activities.

And let’s not forget the set events for various months. December 3rd will usher in the jolly Santa Claus while following days promise a Lego building competition and a bauble painting event.

At this point, you almost wish you could be a kid and take part in the merry-making instead of being the bemused parent sipping cappuccino at the TunFun Cafe.

Where is it: Mr. Visserplein 7, 1011 RD AMSTERDAM

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm

Children (1-12 years) Euro 17.50. Free entrance for adults over 18 and children under 1.

Photo  of  Voldelpark, Amsterdam,  originally posted by craighwk