The MobileHCI 2008 conference was this year hosted by the Tropen Institute in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Since Düsseldorf is just located on the other side of the border it is only a 90 minute train ride to reach there. After visiting once in 2007, this beautiful city at the Atlantic Ocean became one of my favorite European cities.
sightseeing
There is much to see in Amsterdam and most sights are located in walking distance within the city center. Here some picks:
- Jordaan:
This quarter is located west of the Prinsengracht. It is considered to be the quarter of the real Amsterdamers with numerous historic buildings. There are countless Hoftjes, small yards which are open to the public but very hard to find if you do not have a guide.
- Bridges:
There is hardly any city in the world which has to many pictoresque bridges like Amsterdam. One of the most famous examples is the Magere Brug crossing the Amstel River. Bring your camera!
- Leidseplein, Vondelpark and Rijksmuseum:
south of downtown, several museums and the Rijksmuseum invite you to stroll around and see art from famous Dutch painters such as Rembrandt and van Gough.
- Rembrandsplein:
this place is located in the heart of Amsterdam and bordered by numerous restaurants and clubs.
- Red Light District:
in Amsterdam the Red Light District is one of the most famous tourist attractions. No photos allowed!
events
Don't miss a boating tour in Amsterdam. Boats leave in front of Amsterdam Centraal, the main station, north of downtown.