Gay Amsterdam Guide
Amsterdam has long been known for its politically progressive and liberal values; hence its appeal to the gay community. Amsterdam has a thriving gay community, as is apparent in the many gay-themed holidays celebrated there, including Queensday on April 29, Liberation Day on May 5, Navigaytion on July 1, Gay Pride in the first weekend in August and Leather Pride in the last weekend of October. In addition to these celebrations, there are hundreds of gay nightclubs, and other gay-friendly businesses open year round.
One of Amsterdam's most popular gay eateries and gathering spots is the "Camp café" (Kerkstraat 45, Tel: +31 (0)20 6221506) open for lunch and drinks. With its delicious Dutch specialties and its luxurious decor, the Camp café is a must-see for gay tourists in Amsterdam.
The Getto (Warmoesstraat 51, Tel: (020) 4215151) serves up light lunches and dinners, with a diverse clientele and a friendly wait staff. The Getto is a true establishment in Amsterdam's gay community, and offers DJs and live entertainment along with great cocktails and regional cuisine.
The bar Barderij (Zeedijk 14, Tel (020) 4205132) has a specialty clientele, gay men over 50. With a drag queen working the bar and a large group of regulars, this neighborhood haunt in Zeedijk is cozy more than anything. For those who are looking for a break from the wild club scene, this is the perfect, classically Amsterdam spot.
Perhaps the most popular gay nightclub in Amsterdam, the "Cockring" (Warmoesstraat 96, Tel 31 (0)20 6239604) Saturday and Sunday nights are host to live sex shows, while other nights are for "cruising". There is an upstairs and a downstairs, and ample dark corners in this 17-year old establishment. Located in the center of Leather town, you are sure to find an array of styles, ages and preferences here on any night.
In addition to clubs, bars and restaurants, gay travelers have access to a multitude of gay-friendly hotels. A few such hotels include the Centre Apartments at Heintje hoekssteeg, (Tel (+31) (0)6 50285430), in the Reguliersdwarsstraat-area (a trendy gay neighborhood in Amsterdam) there are a number of gay-friendly hotels including the Amistad (Tel: (+31) 020-624 80 74), the ITC ((+31) 020-6230230) and the Triple Five Guest House ((+31) 020-4283809).
Amsterdam is a welcoming place for all visitors. Never has there been a city in which gay travelers can feel so completely comfortable and free of judgment. Talk to a travel agent today about planning your gay friendly holiday to Amsterdam.