A journey to The Netherlands — the country of acceptance.
A trip to the Netherlands is a must. If you are thinking of visiting the small country that prides itself for being open minded and forward thinking, I can tell you it won’t disappoint. The fact it is one of the most culturally liberal countries in the world means it is filled with LGBT friendly bars and clubs and even host a variety of accommodation options aimed at the LGBT community. The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalise same sex marriage back in 2001 and has since progressed to being a leader in the world of equal rights.
Although it is a small country, there are many places to visit! Unless you’ve been living under a rock, chances are you have already visited, or at least heard of Amsterdam. The city famous for its canals, coffee (read- marijuana) shops and prostitutes on display behind windows, is actually also the host of the largest number of gay friendly establishments. The annual Gay Pride takes place in the first weekend of August and welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors who stand along the canals to watch the Canal Parade — a carnival style parade with flamboyantly decorated boats which sail through the city. This is the absolute highlight of the event although for an entire week you will find the city filled with street parties, movie events as well as exhibitions and other cultural events. An unforgettable experience! Do make sure you book well in advance, because all hotels fill up quick in this week! You’ve just missed this years, but … TIP: Next years Gay Pride will be held between 28th July and 5th August 2018 (Canal Parade 3rd — 5th August).
If you are unable to visit that particular week, any other weekend won’t disappoint. The beautiful city has something for everyone, with endless museums, art exhibitions and musical and theatre events. The perfect place to test your bravery by hiring a bicycle and attempting to keep up with the Dutch as they zigzag their way through pedestrians, trams and traffic on rusty old bikes (watch out for those tram rails!). With over 100 gay bars and clubs, it is the ultimate place for a good party and never will you feel so utterly shameless about walking into a sex shop and coming back out with a bag filled with goodies! Amsterdam hosts the world’s first and largest tribute to the LGBT community who lost their lives during World War 2, as well as to anyone who suffered oppression and prosecution because of their sexuality. The Homomonument is situated besides the Westerkerk and the large triangle is a place to reflect, respect and appreciate how far you’ve come.
Utrecht
The Netherlands has several other cities worth exploring. Just half an hour by train from Amsterdam you will find yourself in the city of Utrecht. A historical city, which was first built by the Romans well over 2000 years ago, boasts beautiful ancient architectural points of interest such as the City Castle Oudaen (from 1276) and the Dom Tower (465 steps to amazing city views — no lift!).
However, you don’t have to be a historian to enjoy this city. Utrecht is home to a very international community as is evident in the “Lombok” district where you will find every exotic ingredient known to man in its countless interesting shops and cafes. The vibrancy of this multicultural area is addictive and you will find yourself back there again and again to try another café or browse another shop filled with strange delicacies and odd knick-knacks.
A fun filled day must lead to a good night. Luckily Utrecht has you covered there too. The city’s TivoliVredenburg location is the main host for Holland’s famous award winning PANN parties — a straight-friendly gay party where anything goes. Young and old mix well in this establishment and it’s the perfect party for all — whether you want to sip a vodka martini at the bar, lounge with a fancy cocktail or dance the night away with a bottle of champagne, you’ll have a great night either way! (Note: PANN parties are every third Saturday of the month, buy your tickets in advance on www.pann.nl/english).
Rotterdam
Don’t miss the city of Rotterdam. Once famous for being the correct answer on a Trivial Pursuit card as the largest port in the world, the city has now become more known for its modern architecture and trendy venues, rather than its industrial sites. Much of the city was bombed during World War 2, so historical buildings have been replaced by exceptional modern architecture. Places to visit include the cube houses (literally, houses in the shape of cubes resting on their sharp edge), the Van Nellefabriek which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and The New Institute — a place dedicated to architecture and a must visit for anyone with a soft spot for this discipline. Make sure you visit the ultra modern Market Halls — where your eyes will be challenged by your stomach and where architecture meets the ultimate foodie’s dream.
Rotterdam has many organisations dedicated to the LGBT community and is home to ”Hang-Out 010” - an open living room, which offers a safe haven for youngsters who need a place to hang out and be who they want to be, or be amongst others who haven’t yet figured out who they are. It is not a bar, but open for every one who needs a place to walk into where the people won’t expect you to be straight.
At night the city has a thriving gay scene with perhaps the most popular spot being Keerweer. This café turns into a pub, which turns into a bar and turns into a club has, perhaps as you guessed, day and night opening hours and gets busier (and sweatier) as the night goes on. A highlight is the monthly bingo event, a tongue in cheek evening with a well known drag queen, Esther Hofman, as a host. The rest of the time the friendly bartenders will make sure you are having a good time.
Unless there is a special event on such as Gay Pride, accommodation is plentiful throughout these cities in Holland. You will find many great locations to choose from and several who cater for the LGBT community only, if that has your preference. That is the beauty of the Netherlands; it really does cater to whatever your preference may be. You can fly into Amsterdam with all budget airlines as well as Rotterdam/The Hague airport. Public transport is easy to understand and every one speaks English! Enjoy!