NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELER - AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam's profusion of cultural and natural treasures--Vincent van Gogh and the Rembrandthuis museums, Artis Royal Zoo, Albert Cuyp flea market, floating flower market, antiquarian bookstores, brown cafes, tasting houses, and more--are all covered in this indispensable guide. Special tours, such as a walk in the heart of the city and a drive in the neighboring tulip-dotted countryside, are included as well as three-dimensional floor plans of famous museums and detailed architectural drawings (one of the Koninklijk Paleis). In-depth sidebars reveal the heart and soul of Amsterdam, exploring such diverse topics as houseboat living, native-son Rembrandt, and sex and drugs. The guide begins in the central part of town, with the Nieuwe Zijde; and moves outward to the Oude Zijde; Jodenburt, Plantage, and the eastern docks; the northern canals; the southern canals; and finally the Museum District and the New South. A chapter on excursions takes you to such picturesque places as Marken, Edam, Haarlem, and Delft. Other chapters detail the city's rich history and culture (with much emphasis on the arts), along with invaluable practical information and travel tips, including an extensive listing of hotels and restaurants.