Tech-powered short-term rental operator Bob W's growth trajectory continues with openings in two of Amsterdam's most fashionable districts will be exemplars of the operator's pioneering approach to 21st-century hospitality combining the quality of a hotel with the authenticity of short-term rental accommodation contactless service in locally-designed apartments within these handpicked neighbourhoods.Bob W's entry into Holland means it now has a footprint in nine European countries — including the UK Bob W Oosterpark opens its doors on Middenweg in Amsterdam The rooms are housed in a former courthouse a building steeped in history — it was the place where Napoleon Bonaparte was given the keys to the city of Amsterdam The restoration process and necessary adaptations to the building have been carried out sensitively retaining much of the original charm of the property Bob W Noord is situated on Papaverweg in Amsterdam-Noord This newly built European flagship location consists of uniquely designed apartments and lofts alongside a rooftop pool This building is part of The Republica development an exceptionally sustainable "city-state" that generates its own energy collects waste to produce biofuel and supports biodiversity with green roofs As the world's first international climate-neutral hospitality provider sustainability is also a central value at Bob W Providing accommodation to stay in style for days the launch of these modern apartment buildings aims to capitalise on this growth within the Dutch travel and tourism sector Bob W continues to expand rapidly across Europe Its reinvention of hospitality and application of distinct tech and brand standards as well as enviable sustainability credentials is already translating into brand loyalty and repeat bookings Bob W has built a reputation on redefining the hospitality experience design-led apartments offer the consistent quality of a hotel alongside the utility and authentic flair of a short-term rental provides a seamless digital front desk experience that is backed by robust digital customer service and other fail safes Interior schemes are carefully curated in partnership with local designers and the most interesting neighbourhoods are handpicked to allow guests to live like a local The authenticity and quality of guest experience is key.Bob W has grown rapidly since being founded just before the pandemic by Sebastian Emberger in May last year it acquired Estonishing Stay which was the largest short-stay apartment operator in Estonia The following October it acquired Finnish competitor KOTI Hotel simultaneously securing €21 million in series A funding This took the total raised by the company to €31 million April 2023 saw the operator make its entry into the German market with the acquisition of Charly Hospitality Hotel website Amsterdam will commemorate the 20th anniversary of the murder of filmmaker Theo van Gogh the director and opinion leader was murdered in broad daylight by Mohammed B Commemorative events will be held at the site of the incident The commemoration in De Balie is organized by the debate centre The event is dedicated to the importance of freedom of speech and the fight against violence and extremism will act out a broadcast of Van Gogh's talk show 'Een vrolijke gesprek' Two actors will play Van Gogh but are themselves unrecognizable His sister Jantine van Gogh will give a speech the performance can be followed via screens elsewhere in the building The commemoration is part of the Freethinkers Festival De Balie organized a meeting about Van Gogh's legacy Amsterdam city councilor Marjolein Moorman the murder of Theo van Gogh will also be commemorated on Saturday a commemoration will take place at the original crime scene on Linnaeusstraat and at the statue The Scream in Oosterpark The filmmaker's death is also being commemorated on television NPO is broadcasting several films and series about Van Gogh the film Interview will be shown with Katja Schuurman in the role of a soap star who is interviewed by an elite journalist played by Pierre Bokma Theo van Gogh.....20 jaar geleden. pic.twitter.com/YPGvQ35851 killed Van Gogh by shooting him and cutting his throat then used a knife to stab a threatening letter addressed to the then MP Ayaan Hirsi Ali into the director's body is currently serving a life sentence for the murder of Van Gogh Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Amsterdam the best parks in Amsterdam are stunningly serene Amsterdam is one of those cities that actually does it all It’s got a world-leading nightlife scene Restaurants serving up everything from classic Dutch to world cuisine Some seriously nice green spaces too. The best parks in Amsterdam offer total tranquillity for clearing the head These are beautiful spots for a morning jog or an afternoon stroll although don’t be surprised to happen upon a playground At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  What is it: The most popular park in Amsterdam attracts around 10 million visitors per year it’s easy to find a quiet corner to yourself despite the high visitor count here in Vondelpark Why go: There’s a neat selection of bars and cafés on the grounds free open-air concerts throughout the summer and ice-skating in the winter Look out for Picasso’s fish sculpture What is it: A little further west than most tourists venture Rembrandtpark is just the kind of bucolic place you’d expect the world-famous artist to enjoy Revel through the dense woods and sparkling lakes Why go: During the longest days of the year locals flock to the park with their portable BBQs to make the most of the pleasant weather and enjoy biertjes (a few beers) with friends Photograph: ShutterstockWhat is it: Well and truly under the radar this modern park—opened just recently by Dutch standards (1938!)—is scattered with sculptures Families love the on-premise children’s paddling pool Why go: There’s a romantic ‘Doctor’s Garden’ filled with medicinal herbs and wild vegetables to forage What is it: As part of the Westergasfabriek complex home to some of the city’s coolest bars and restaurants (plus an arthouse cinema) Westerpark hosts an all-star line-up of food and music festivals throughout the year Why go: Besides offering plenty of space and trees to perch under park staff encourages visitors to hire a boat and cruise along the Harlemmerweg canal into the city centre The green space adjoins an enchanting community garden complex What is it: Originally created to host the 1972 world garden fair Amstelpark still draws foot traffic thanks to its perfectly manicured botanical gardens including a rose garden and rhododendron valley Why go: Play a round at the mini-golf course check out the brass Rembrandt statue and see the monumental Rieker windmill If you’re only in town for a short trip and want to see a few iconically Dutch sites What is it: A serene escape in the bustling West the park is intersected by a series of canals making it a unique blend of nature and urban design.  and you’ll see there’s more than meets the eye here The park was designed to follow the style of famous Dutch artist Mondrian lines and dimensions of the plants and landscape What is it: Frankendael is the last 17th-century country home in Amsterdam The surrounding grounds have been meticulously maintained and include two unique the stylish organic restaurant in an old greenhouse There’s also an organic market on the last Sunday of every month What is it: Located on the outskirts of the city It’s home to the ‘Geitenboerderij Ridammerhoeve,’ an organic goat farm and petting zoo loved by kids and grown-ups alike.  Why go: Alongside the many winding bike paths and lush meadows to take in you can also explore the lake by pedal boat or catch a rowing competition at the park’s canal What is it: Though just steps from the busy Albert Cuyp Market (open every day except Sunday) bike-free oasis with a large lake at its centre and a lively duck population to boot Why go: Great for people watching or enjoying a picnic on the grass the park also happens to be in one of the city’s trendiest neighbourhoods What is it: At this expansive park in the multicultural Oost neighbourhood and glimpse sculptures from Dutch and Surinamese artists locals gather at the ‘speaker’s stone’ to witness people take advantage of the designated free-speech time and place It makes for an out-of-the-ordinary park day indeed Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! About us Contact us The exterior of Bob W Noord [Credit: Bob W] Finland / Netherlands: Tech-powered short-term rental operator Bob W’s growth trajectory is continuing with openings in two of Amsterdam’s most fashionable districts will be exemplars of the operator’s approach to 21st-century hospitality Guests will be able to experience a “five-star contactless service” in locally-designed apartments within the handpicked neighbourhoods The startup’s entry into the Netherlands means that it now has a footprint in nine European countries — including the UK, Germany, Spain Bob W Oosterpark will opens its doors on Middenweg in Amsterdam a building steeped in history — where Napoleon Bonaparte was given the keys to the city of Amsterdam the newly-built European flagship location for Bob W Noord consists of uniquely designed apartments and lofts alongside a rooftop pool The building is part of The Republica development described as a sustainable “city-state” that generates its own energy Claiming to be the world’s first international climate-neutral hospitality provider A record number of tourists are booking overnight stays in the Netherlands according to Statistics Netherlands [CBS] holiday parks and group accommodations received a total of 14.6 million guests [15 per cent more than in the same period last year] meanwhile hotel guests increased by 130 per cent in Amsterdam over the same period Aiming to capitalise on the growth within the Dutch travel and tourism sector Bob W is continuing to expand rapidly across Europe with its mission to offer the consistent quality of a hotel alongside the utility and authentic flair of a short-term rental said: “We can’t wait to open our doors to Amsterdam and introduce a whole new category of hospitality to the city “These apartments have been designed to satisfy the modern traveller’s desire to live like a local We choose cities that make financial sense match our brand and appeal to the next generation of both business travellers and consumers art and design are tailored to the destination to bring the flavours of the neighbourhood to the guest  Interior design has been delivered by a soon-to-launch Amsterdam-based studio Bob W’s local design team and international design agency Holloway Li co-founder and managing director of Holloway Li we aim to create truly authentic spaces that combine Bob W’s quality hotel-level standards with a nomadic home experience that feels intimately connected to the destination.” including custom Oosterpark-inspired art by designer Aafke Bouman Bob W Noord will boast limited edition rooftop lofts featuring AI art Urban Living Festival 2025 The Serviced Apartment Awards 2025 Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s destinations The 30 best countries, cities and regions to visit in 2025 Plan your trip with Elsewhere, by Lonely Planet See where a Lonely Planet Membership takes you Subscribe to our weekly newsletters to get the latest travel news, expert advice, and insider recommendations Explore the world with our detailed, insightful guidebooks Stay ahead of the curve with our guidebooks Uncover exciting new ways to explore iconic destinations Every month, we release new books into the wild Search Search Close search menu Explore Best in Travel 2024 Africa Close menu Countries Antarctica Antarctica Close menu Regions Asia Asia Close menu Countries Australia & the Pacific Australia & the Pacific Close menu Countries The Caribbean The Caribbean Close menu Countries Central America Central America Close menu Countries Europe Europe Close menu Countries Middle East Middle East Close menu Countries North America North America Close menu Countries South America South America Close menu Countries From Vondelpark to Sloterpark here are the top parks in Amsterdam © Kirill Chernyshev / Shutterstock Amsterdam’s parks are much more than prime places to experience the Netherlands’ famous gardening skills – they embody the freedom tolerance and laissez-faire attitude that this particular European city is all about The city’s green lungs are highly egalitarian spread out in size and packed with activities that bring people delight – whether it be sun-bathing there is always more than enough room for everyone to mix These are the best city parks in Amsterdam Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s fun-loving festival spirit epitomized you’ll see cyclists and in-line skaters weaving past parents pushing strollers eclectic vibe spans across a whopping 116 acres (47 hectares) of landscaped lawns don’t miss sitting out at one of the several cafes plunked amidst the greenery or checking out a free theater or dance show courtesy of the Vondelpark Open Air Theater Oosterpark is a beautiful scenic park – think wild parakeets in treetops and herons pecking around the ponds – but it also holds much important history It was established in 1891 as a pleasure park for diamond traders who struck big in South African mines An entire centuries-old cemetery was relocated to make it happen people are encouraged to come and openly voice their opinions or debate under the midday sun Family-friendly outdoor spaces don’t get much better than Amstelpark It’s the perfect green space for little ones (and those who are still young at heart) with a petting zoo featuring free-roaming chickens and rabbits a labyrinth maze and a miniature train chugging around vibrant gardens of roses and rhododendrons The park was first established in 1972 for the prized Floriade flower show which only takes place across the Netherlands every decade Art exhibitions are held in the Glazen Huis (Glass House) Tucked into the cool, creativity-loving de Pijp area, Sarphatipark is the perfect greenery for people-watching It’s a rather compact open-air space – rolling meadows and woody outskirts – so it gets quite packed with crowds of multicultural locals and tourists chilling on blankets by the fountain You can certainly pack a good picnic from nearby neighborhood shops like ‘t Kaasboertje and Bier Baum. It’s also a lovely stop before or after checking out Albert Cuypmarkt or one of all the surrounding trendy boutiques and restaurants Amsterdamse Bos is lush forestland masquerading as the city’s largest park nearly 2471-acre (1000-hectare) expanse of tranquil ponds woodland and meadows make this area feel miles outside the city despite it only being a 20-minute cycle south of Vondelpark (nearby Schiphol Airport) canoeing and horseback riding here followed by a sit-down in one of many lovely spots like De Bosbaan Cafe and the farmhouse restaurant Boerderij Meerzicht The forest’s springtime cherry blossoms are also a real treat Rembrandtpark might be formally dedicated to Amsterdam’s favorite Golden Age painter but there are some funky modern art statues scattered here With lots of walking and cycling paths spread across 45 hectares it’s a great place to stroll about and stumble upon surprises like Rembo by Bastienne Kramer (a sculpture of a gruff green man) or graffiti art Don’t let the residential buildings surrounding the expanse fool you; there is abundant wildlife and an overall air of calm here. On afternoon weekends, the vibe gets more buzzy with family-friendly draws like a water-play area, adventure playground and the Kinderboerderij de Uylenburg petting zoo This little park out in Amsterdam West is an ideal for sun-worshippers who are keen on bucolic countryside blooms with a little arts and culture thrown in. It’s also one of the few parks in Amsterdam where barbecuing is allowed from April to September (of course, with certain regulations) a magnificent flower extravaganza dreamed up by the Dutch artist Elspeth Diederix as an "outdoor atelier" for painting Numerous design elements of the Amsterdam School pepper the connecting bridges which create the park’s island-like setup Beatrixpark is a melting pot of fabulous flora planted back when the famous Floriade was also hosted here in 1972 along with Amstelpark Most of the trees and flowers are labelled to make species-spotting nice and easy and there’s also an interesting medicinal herb garden on the park’s eastern patch It’s a great place for families with a gigantic modern art piece that’s been converted into a children’s playground plus small pavilions providing shady refuge Westerpark is urban revival at its finest. The area was once part of a former gasworks – but since the industrial site closed in 1967, the pollution has been cleared away and now luscious lawns, cycling paths and dreamy wading pools are what it’s all about. The park adjoins the post-industrial Westergasfabriek cultural center attracting all kinds of city-dwellers attending festivals Sloterpark, near an artificial lake, offers a seaside vibe mixed with classic Amsterdam scenery. It’s off the beaten track in the residential area of Amsterdam West but that only contributes to the feeling of a beach vacation afternoon – no wonder the side of the lake gets quite busy with locals during the summer Sandy patches draw sun-revelers of all stripes and electronic music festivals are often held here PICTURES have revealed the eerie remains of an abandoned football stadium where one of the world's best players made his debut Stadion Oosterpark in the Netherlands has been left to the elements for years despite witnessing the start of football legend Johan Cruyff's professional career The ground opened in 1933 and was FC Groningen's home until the club moved out and to Stadion Euroborg in 2006 In an emotional Forgotten Football Clubs tribute fan Vincent Duitsch said of its closure: "Even still to this day although we all knew it was for the best the famous Oosterparkstadion is still missed." Cruyff scored on his first-team debut for Dutch giants Ajax at Oosterpark in November 1964 scoring his side's only goal in a 3-1 Groningen victory Other future Dutch internationals who made their first appearances there include Arjen Robben and Ronald Koeman A modest stand with about 500 seats was installed in 1935 Earth banks were laid around the pitch a little later Yet after the Second World War the stadium still needed expanding - struggling to cope with the 4,000 fans wanting to turn up. A new covered seating stand was then constructed - yet now it can be seen covered in dust Images of the abandoned stadium show countless rows of plastic red seats eaten away by grime and dirt The pitch is overgrown with untrimmed grass while weeds can be seen sprouting from cracks in the concrete flooring - all overlooked by empty wooden seats It might fuel the imagination to picture it as the first-team introduction for Cruyff now regarded as one of the greatest players in history and as the finest Dutch footballer ever He won the Ballon d'Or for world footballer of the year three times he scored 257 goals and provided more than 170 assists He moved to Spain's Barcelona in 1973 for a world record transfer fee, helping the team win La Liga in his first season - and would score 60 goals in 180 games for the club He later managed both Ajax and Barcelona, where he inspired players such as current Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola Robben came through the youth system at Groningen and spent two years in the team before being bought by PSV Eindhoven Oosterpark continued to grow through the 1980s and 1990s and set a record attendance of 19,500 in 1988, in a UEFA Cup match against Swiss side Servette But the following decade he Dutch Football Association closed down standing sections and converted the area into seating Chilling wooden puppets were put in the standing sections to make the stadium look less empty Groningen's last match there came on December 22 2005 - signing off with a 3-0 cup tie victory over Voldendam Much of the ground was subsequently demolished Yet the modern homes nod to the lost ground with a mural on the side of one flat reading "1933-2005" Nearby streets are called after other ex-stars such as Piet Franssen or honour the names of original stands Langezijde and Parkzijde Oosterpark is not the only stadium to have been left abandoned Casement Park is currently derelict and yet is set to host fixtures at Euro 2028 Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/ SaveSave this storySaveAll products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links there was one commodity that induced a kind of mania among the residents of the capital’s canals: the humble tulip a couple of bulbs could cost as much as some houses in the city.) Sure today you can nab a few tubers for a handful of euros at the city’s floating flower market—but that hasn’t stopped green-thumbed travelers from assembling every spring to experience tulip fever anew one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens I spent the best part of a morning gazing at the dazzling array of plants that tower under the soaring glass ceilings of its greenhouses.) and a different atmosphere is conjured: With its flickering candles and dusky palette it has all the convivial charm of a picaresque Frans Hals canvas The Danish Home Lighting Trend That Can Improve Your Mental Health In America’s Cities, Saunas Are Becoming the Hottest Social Spot Millie Bobby Brown Shares Her Favorite Paella Recipe—and Details About Her Wedding to Jake Bongiovi A Day-by-Day Guide to Hiking the Legendary Nakasendo Trail in Japan Never miss a Vogue moment and get unlimited digital access for just $2 $1 per month Located in the evergreen Oosterpark and housed in a historic building dating from 1909 the newest project from Pillows Hotels mixes timeless elegance and contemporary aesthetics with gastronomy and events taking centre stage a 20th-century monumental building has been given new life as a luxury five-star hotel following a delicate and meticulous transformation process Maurits at the Park is the seventh property from Pillows Hotels the acclaimed hospitality brand known for its refined hotels and restaurants in the Netherlands and Belgium the hotel is set to become Amsterdam's newest hot spot and curated experiences drawing inspiration from its beautiful natural surroundings Maurits at the Park is next to Tropenmuseum and a short walk from Artis Amsterdam Zoo this iconic building has been re-imagined from its origins as a university to a welcoming Offering a different kind of hospitality experience in Amsterdam it combines privacy and instant access to the buzzing city centre "We couldn't find a more fitting way to celebrate our fifth anniversary than to return to Amsterdam with the first five-star property in our portfolio" "Maurits at the Park is everything our brand stands for: exceptional hospitality in intimate Located in a monumental building in the heart of the city the hotel is seamlessly connected with a vibrant park offering guests numerous experiences without having to leave its premises" Thoughtful and opulent interiors nod to the past indispensable part of the neighbourhood where everyone is welcome Over 4,000sqm of parkland will be returned to the people of Amsterdam removing any existing partitions and fences The hotel's open invitation is also extended to the park's cute feathery friends The evergreen gardens are a constant highlight of the scenery "We are adding the hotel to the park; usually who took into account the building's unique location and the intricate features of its past This is especially evident in the hotel's new wing where different types of windows seamlessly connect the indoors with the outdoors; the new and the old intertwine harmoniously The warm lighting transforms the monumental space at night adding a serene touch and creating a relaxed vibe This careful consideration of the building's heritage has been applied to the interiors as well as the firm won an award for its work at Pillows Hotel Ter Borch Zwolle connecting the meticulously selected interior elements earthy colour palette create a calming harmony while the comfortable furniture is ideal for lounging away from the hustle and bustle of the city It's the perfect counterpart to the robust exteriors Touches of Parisian elegance are combined with Dutch sophistication setting a relaxing tone in the 88 gracious rooms and suites the rooms are like high-end sanctuaries ready to nurture and nourish the soul With striking individual artworks by established painter Raphaël Hermans and every detail in the room thoughtfully planned for maximum comfort guests are sure to cherish every moment spent here Great attention has been given to the hotel's culinary offerings helmed by rising star chef Floris van Straalen is a fine dining restaurant serving heavenly dishes prepared in an open kitchen This truly magnificent space with fifteen-meter-high ceilings and design elements from a bygone era pays homage to the illustrious Tropenmuseum next door Spring Cafe Brasserie adds a playful touch to the mix with mouth-watering dishes inspired by Italian and French cuisine Its generous outdoor seating area in a large green urban garden blends perfectly into the atmospheric Oosterpark Guests also have the chance to experience signature cocktails at Fitz's Bar The rooftop bar's stunning views of the park and the city make it the ultimate setting for summer drinks a private lounge accessible only to staying guests offers an impressive library and luscious design includes various events and activities curated by local creatives By offering a new take on luxury hospitality the new Pillows Maurits at the Park is a breath of fresh air it's an inviting retreat where dreamy rooms and star-studded cuisine mix with irresistible cocktails served at a stunning rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline Hotel website Brand OwnerPillows Hotels The municipality of Amsterdam is asking that visitors to Oosterpark not enter the park's water as it potentially contains bacteria that is toxic to both animals and humans Visitors should also keep their pets away from the water dead fish and ailing birds with botulism have been found in the park was likely caused by bacteria in Oosterpark's ponds The municipality says these signs will likely remain in place until at least Sept The presence of harmful bacteria is also heightened by recent rainfall Amsterdam water company Waternet is conducting research to verify whether toxic bacteria are present in Oosterpark's water the animal ambulance is caring for ill animals Get your weekly dose of armchair travelling AmsterdamA sophisticated boutique hotel at the intersection of historic and contemporary designAll listings featured on Condé Nast Traveller are independently selected by our editors To transform your typical city break into a lavish reset inside the walls of a historic building in a lesser-known part of Amsterdam Maurits at the Park is seamlessly set on the edge of Amsterdam’s leafy The hotel found its home in a 20th-century university building dating back to 1908 giving you the warm feeling that the hotel has been greeting both guests and city residents for a century We are whisked up the stairs upon entering the lobby and are immediately inspired by the immense detail put into preserving this historic building The arched ceiling towers above you; glazed blue and terracotta bricks line the walls; and considered artwork drapes across the room The living area sits comfortably behind the lobby where guests finish checking in with a choice of tipple (we had bubbles) and snacks (there are unlimited macaroons) This is the point at which you really start to feel relaxed melting into lush velvet chairs and taking in the Klimt sketches that pepper the walls Pillows Hotels are fairly new to the hospitality industry, having started its journey in 2017, but the group is already known for sophisticated hotels and restaurants across the Netherlands and Belgium Each of the six hotels is located in listed buildings and showcases the group's meticulous efforts to breathe new life into old buildings The team have a knack for embodying timeless elegance while embracing the personality of the location – whether that be slap-bang in the city or surrounded by nature The team also places importance on creating spaces that you want to spend time in – there are delicious and respected restaurants in their hotels composite tub for soaking away the day with bath crystals (these are provided daily) Maurits at the Park has not one but two restaurants and the other is for a six to 10-course fine-dining experience The Spring Brasserie serves delicious breakfasts every morning switching to a lunch and supper menu later in the day Expect dishes such as buttery lobster thermidor and rich foie gras paired with brioche VanOost is the hotel's upscale restaurant which provided us with dishes that celebrate global flavours utilising local ingredients A few stand-out dishes include the North Sea king crab tail (typically thrown back into the ocean in favour of the legs) and deliciously lean quail leg and breast where each bartender puts an immense amount of care and creativity into the cocktail menu which is accompanied by a perfume atomiser to spray your perfectly balanced and refreshing cocktail with hints of orange blossom Urban Spa is all earthy colours that masterfully create a warm and relaxing environment There are quick treatments such as relaxing scalp massages There’s even a sauna that you can book after a trip to the small (but lovely) gym conversational and incredibly accommodating Every single staff member we spoke to took the time to converse with us in a meaningful way showcasing their passion – whether that be creating cocktails or teaching us about the building’s incredible art collection I’ve visited Amsterdam many times over the years but this was my first weekend spent in Oosterpark We took a stroll through the lively park and then found our way to Dappermarkt a daily street bazaar where you can find everything from local produce to flowers There are plenty of shops to peruse and tables to book We recommend stopping at De Gooyer for a Brouwerij beer in the last windmill standing on the city’s 17th-century bastions to round off a lovely day The hotel makes a concerted effort to respect the history and surroundings of the building, providing nesting boxes, feeding areas and an aviary to protect the park birds. The restaurants and bars also have a no-waste policy, showcasing their dedication to sustainability The hotel is wheelchair accessible, with dedicated rooms for individuals with mobility impairments. Rent some bikes and experience Amsterdam like a local. The lovely team at Maurits at the Park will set you up with a bike, adjust the saddle to ensure you don’t look like a tourist (much appreciated), and provide you with a personalised route. The Keti Koti celebration in July will be relocated to Museumplein this year, the municipality announced on Thursday was deemed too small due to an anticipated higher turnout The commemoration will take place at the National Slavery Monument in the park as usual This year marks 150 years since the practical abolition of slavery in Suriname and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom the Netherlands commemorates two dates: July 1 The first marks the official abolition of slavery in Suriname and the former Dutch Antilles by the Kingdom of the Netherlands it took ten years for enslaved people to be fully free from being compelled to work on the plantations in Suriname For the first time, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will participate in the ceremony in Amsterdam this year. Strong rumors surfaced this weekend suggesting the King will deliver a speech during the commemoration and possibly expand on the Dutch State’s apologies for its connections to slavery and the slave trade In January, Prime Minister Mark Rutte formally apologized on behalf of the Netherlands for its slavery past Various experts in the field of discrimination and the Dutch slavery history have expressed their opinion that apologies should come from the king since he is head of state Activists have also called the King to apologize on July 1 In recent years, there have been calls from associations and activists to make July 1 a public holiday. In January, Minister Hanke Bruins Slot of Home Affairs declared she was open to the idea. After the commemoration, which will last from 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. and will be broadcast live on NPO1, the annual Keti Koti festival will take place on Museumplein, instead of the park where the monument is located, as in the past. Artists such as Berget Lewis, Akwasi, Trijntje Oosterhuis, Jeangu Macrooy, and Alain Clarke are scheduled to perform at the festival. There will also be a FunX stage, a children's stage, and a stage with traditional music, as well as opportunities for debate. Large screens will be set up at Museumplein so that festival attendees can watch the commemoration ceremony in Oosterpark. “Keti Koti has been remembered and celebrated in Amsterdam for many years,” the municipality wrote. “It is a time when we reflect together on this crime against humanity, and think back to what enslaved people have gone through in the past. And of the consequences that still seep through.” © 2012-2025, NL Times, All rights reserved. Photo: S BoztasApologies cannot be unmade – but they can be the start of an honest future That was the message at the emancipation day festival in Amsterdam known as Keti Koti when the Netherlands remembers “breaking the chains” of slavery The festival had sparked controversy before it even started. An invitation to the parliamentary speaker, PVV politician Martin Bosma, was rescinded because he refused to retract derogatory statements about slavery and anti-slavery freedom fighter Tula But at the 22nd edition of the event in Amsterdam’s Oosterpark outgoing members of Mark Rutte’s government campaigners and Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema said the Netherlands should not go backwards Linda Nooitmeer, chair of national slavery institute NiNsee, marked the end of a year of remembrance following a heartfelt apology from the Dutch king Willem-Alexander “Nobody can go back to the broken silence around this history again,” she said “The run-up to this July 1 remembrance was the parliament is not formally represented citizens and officers of state: at a time when it is much easier and more tempting to stand against one another alongside outgoing minister for legal protection Franc Weerwind junior minister for commonwealth relations Alexander van Huffelen and foreign affairs minister Hanke Bruins Slot The only representatives of the new right-wing coalition were the VVD’s Dilan Yeşilgöz and NSC party leader Pieter Omtzigt a campaigner for justice and good governance But the event was overshadowed by fears of what will come, in a government led by far-right Geert Wilders’ PVV. His manifesto called to “take back” apologies for almost three centuries of profiting from enslaving 600,000 Africans and an unknown number of Asian and indigenous Caribbean peoples Last year marked the 160th anniversary of the day slavery was officially banned by the Dutch and 150 years since forced labour in the colonies stopped talked of physical and emotional scars carried through generations and the recent social progress that has been made in recognising this past “To the people who want to turn back our progress who are proud of looking away and denying the pain of other people “Surely nothing is being taken away from you Think about what we can achieve if… we are curious about each other instead of narrow-mindedly judging … Then we have something we can be proud of.” Surinamese-Dutch actress and singer Gerda LentenHavertong told Dutch News that the history is deeply relevant “I think it’s important to reflect that none of us alive now would have wanted this: not you “But it is important that Dutch people know that this is part of our history and you cannot turn away from it: it is your duty to tell it to the next generation.” Rutger Groot Wassink, Amsterdam’s deputy mayor, who last week warned that “winter is coming” with the new government said wealthy cities such as Amsterdam had a deep connection with a history of oppression and slavery “Everyone in the Netherlands needs to look this in the eye because more understanding of historical context will help us move forward,” he said Weerwind told Dutch News on his last day as minister that Keti Koti has even more weight this year it is even more important to increase awareness of this history,” he said “If we look at black communities in the Netherlands you still see social and economic differences and … I cannot imagine that anyone would disrespect our head of state [by trying to take it back] to throw open the window to a shared future.” We could not provide the Dutch News service without the generous support of our readers Your donations allow us to report on issues you tell us matter and provide you with a summary of the most important Dutch news each day Many thanks to everyone who has donated to DutchNews.nl in recent days We could not provide this service without you Please help us making DutchNews.nl a better read by taking part in a short survey The Netherlands will commemorate Keti Koti on Saturday the day slavery was abolished in Suriname and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom This year’s commemoration also marks the official start of the Slavery Past Commemoration year This year marks the 150th anniversary since the practical abolition of slavery in Suriname and the Dutch Caribbean The National Slavery Remembrance Day ceremony will be held in Amsterdam's Oosterpark at the National Slavery Monument. King Willem-Alexander will deliver a speech and is expected to formally apologize for the Dutch slave trade Queen Maxima and Prime Minister Mark Rutte will also attend During the ceremony, there will be space for a limited number of invited guests. The commemoration can be followed via screens on the large field of the park. Keti Koti celebrations will take place on Museumplein this year in anticipation of a higher turnout. Almost all ministers and state secretaries will be present at commemorative moments. Minister Ernst Kuipers (Public Health) is in Curaçao, and his colleague, Hugo de Jonge (Public Housing), is in Bonaire. Ministers Rob Jetten (Climate and Energy) and Conny Helder (Long-term Care) will attend a ceremony in Den Bosch. Minister Wopke Hoekstra will be in Suriname to give a speech during the national commemoration. "This is the first time since independence that the Dutch government has been involved," said Johan Roozer, chairman of the National Slavery Commemoration Committee. For a long time, the abolition of slavery was only commemorated on a small scale in the Netherlands, often in private gatherings. In the 1990s, a committee in Amsterdam began to organize an annual commemoration, and other cities followed. Saturday marks the first official warm day of the year. At the main weather station in De Bilt it was 20.1 degrees on Saturday at 12.30 p.m., which is a little early. On average, it is only 20 degrees or more in De Bilt on April 13. It is even warmer in other parts of the country. In Eindhoven, for instance, it is 21.6 degrees and in Enschede 22.4 degrees. In general, it is only an official warm day when the temperature reaches 20 degrees or more at the weather station in De Bilt. The first local warm day is always earlier in the year. From 1994 to 2023, this day fell on average on April 4, but from 1981 to 2010, the first warm day was not recorded on average until April 9. Last year, the first local warm day did not occur until much later, on April 21. In the south of the country, there are, on average, more than 100 warm days per year. In Eindhoven, for example, temperatures rise to 20 degrees or more on average 110 days a year. In De Bilt, on the other hand, it only gets warm enough to be called a warm day on 96 days a year. According to the weather service Weeronline, the most warm days were recorded in summer 2018. 147 warm days were recorded in Gilze-Rijen in Brabant and 146 in Arcen in Limburg. At least 140 warm days were also measured in Eindhoven, Maastricht, Twente, Hupsel, Ell and Volkel. In De Bilt, however, there were only 132 warm days in 2018. 2021 The monument to slavery in Amsterdam's Oosterpark Photo: Wikimedia CommonsThe monument to slavery in Amsterdam’s Oosterpark Photo: Wikimedia CommonsToday is Keti Koti the day in which the end of slavery in the Dutch colonies of Suriname and in the Caribbean is recognised Slavery was formally abolished in the former colonies of Suriname and the Dutch Antilles on July 1 slaves in Suriname were only fully freed in 1873 since the law stipulated that there was to be a mandatory 10-year transition period Owners were also paid compensation of 300 guilders for every enslaved person they released which means ‘broken chains’ in the Surinamese language Sranantongo has been celebrated in various Dutch cities on July 1 since 2002 The national remembrance ceremony takes place in Amsterdam’s Oosterpark from 1pm and is broadcast live on television The ceremony includes a minute’s silence and wreath laying This year numbers will be limited by the coronavirus pandemic. Normally it is accompanied by a multi-day festival in Amsterdam’s Zuidoost district July 1 is a national holiday in Suriname and there is a campaign under way to have it made a public holiday in the Netherlands as well. So far over 51,000 people have signed a petition in favour of the plan The four big Dutch cities have recently also called for Keti Koti to become a holiday ‘The stories of slavery and colonial history must be spoken about openly,’ the council chiefs of Amsterdam Rotterdam and Utrecht said earlier this month Amsterdam’s mayor Femke Halsema is expected to issue an apology for the city’s role in slavery at Thursday’s ceremony However, prime minister Mark Rutte said last year the government has no plans at the moment to offer an apology for slavery and the Dutch role in the slave trade, and only 55% of the population backs the idea two of the four coalition parties – D66 and ChristenUnie – called on the government to take a stand but a formal apology risked increasing polarisation At its height in the 1770s, slavery generated over 10% of the gross domestic product of Holland, the richest of the seven Dutch provinces which made up the republic, according to social history researchers sugar processing and shipbuilding was boosted by the use of slave labour used to grow crops on plantations according to researchers at the International Institute for Social History slavery generated some 5.2% of the Netherlands’ GDP – just slightly less than the proportion generated by Rotterdam port today The Dutch role in slavery has been largely downplayed in the past and hardly taught in schools Amsterdam is giving away a book on the city’s slavery past to everyone who wants a copy via libraries and the city hall The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is also currently hosting a major exhibition on slavery and enslaved people In addition, Surinamese resistance hero Anton de Kom and his book Wij slaven van Suriname have been included in the official Dutch history canon And the Dutch central bank DNB has authorised an independent investigation into the bank’s historical links with slavery particularly around the time it was abolished The National Archives have recently put almost two million documents and drawings online which relate to the Netherlands’ slavery past after an eight-year project to preserve and digitalise them The documents cover a variety of companies involved in the slave trade and include lost documents about Fort Elmina on the coast of what is now Ghana which was a central point in the trade of enslaved peoples This website has been translated using an AI program that never was out of business and is still fully engaged in the renovation but the most important part: the restaurant That became an all day long restaurant Park Café Restaurant Amsterdam baptized which pretty much covers it: brilliantly beautiful (okay Almost finished) is Park's entrance with a staircase leading from the Oosterpark covers the entire width of the building and leads to the large glass facade of the cafe-restaurant in front of that completely glass facade that offers a view of perhaps the most beautiful park in Amsterdam (sorry Westerpark but I don't think the Oosterpark is any nicer) A little inside and a little outside still - again: that glass front - thanks also to the yellow-brown sidewalk that continues from outside to inside a clever combination has been found of the chic (blue velvet chairs white starched tablecloths and set table with tall wine glasses) that can also appeal to business people (and us spacious (read: vandal- and kid-proof) and cozy (bam-not-to-be-missed-bar-in-the-middle and colored vintage chairs) With city-centre rents soaring in recent years first-time buyers and forward-thinking startups are among those who have headed east creating a buzz in this once shady corner of the Dutch capital Wilde ZwijnenFar removed from the Old Centre's gabled townhouses and Jordaan's boutique-lined canals Amsterdam Oost's low-slung housing blocks and reclaimed industrial land - flanked by the Amstel Canal to the west and the Jewish Quarter to the north - has always hosted an eclectic patchwork of residents from across the Dutch diaspora a characteristic as central to Oost's identity as its newly manicured Oosterpark cutting-edge concept stores sit side by side with Ethiopian coffee houses high-end dining alongside zesty Indonesian street food while the area's after-dark scene has been reinvented by entrepreneurial locals at the 3wo group which has founded not one but 10 venues in the area including the popular Basquiat and Bukowski bars Garden at Grand Cafe de TropenStudio AicoAn emerging coterie of boutiques has bolstered the area's shopping credentials Middenweg and Czaar Peterstraat and luring in visitors from across the city The bustling stalls at Dappermarkt remains a trading post for daily essentials while at the other end of Javastraat vintage markets organised by the founders of mid-century specialists Jansen Vintage showcase up to 20 local businesses helping turn Javaplein - already a hub for design enthusiasts - into an alfresco treasure trove Other local gamechangers include innovative arts spaces such as independent cinema Studio/K theatre space Oostblok and expansive gig venue Q-Factory all of which have forced the area onto the radar of the city's tastemakers several high-end accommodation openings are set to bolster the existing options further confirming Amsterdam Oost's unlikely revival as the city map is redrawn in the vision of a new wave of creative Amsterdammers The restaurant at Studio K CinemaWhere to eat in East AmsterdamGrand Café de TropenBoasting views of the Oosterpark from the stately grounds of the Tropenmuseum the Grand Café makes for a sophisticated brunch spot AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 568 2000Website: amsterdamdetropen.nl Dish at Wilde ZwijnenDe Jonge AdmiraalWith its mismatched second-hand furniture this snug café feels more like a friend's living room Kick back on a Seventies sofa with a drip-brewed almond-milk coffee in a retro teacup and a hunk of still-warm carrot cake Address: De Jonge Admiraal, Javastraat 149HS, 1094 HE AmsterdamTelephone: facebook.com/dejongeadmiraal The coolest vegetarian restaurant in Amsterdam although they do serve some meat too Slip into a smart banquette alongside a wall of pickled veg in backlit jars at the coolest vegetarian restaurant in the city Indonesian-inspired plates - summer rolls with peanut dipping sauce tempeh satay and fries - can be washed down with on-tap local ales Address: Bar James, Javastraat 49, 1094 HA AmsterdamTelephone: barjames.nl A local favourite Gallizia serves up generous antipasti, homemade pasta and a winning wine list in a sleek industrial setting.Address: Gallizia, Javastraat 67, AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 370 6204Website: gallizia.nl View of the kitchen at Wilde ZwijnenWilde ZwijnenModern Dutch cuisine served up in minimal surrounds - think wild boar Address: Wilde Zwijnen, Javaplein 23, AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 463 3043Website: wildezwijnen.com dark-wood floors and lovingly homemade treats make this cake shop the ultimate in gezelligheid (Dutch for cosy and calm) Scan the chalkboard menu and choose from multicoloured macarons raw cacao brownies and red-velvet cupcakes Address: Majesteit Taart, Javastraat 5, 1094 GX AmsterdamTelephone: majesteittaart.nl Rum BarrelThe best bars in East AmsterdamRum BarrelAt this Caribbean joint the cocktail list is packed with delicious rum smoothies infused with mango and cinnamon or apricot brandy and lime There's also a snacks menu of chicken-and-pineapple quesadillas for late-night hunger pangs Address: Rum Barrel, Javastraat 143, 1094 Amsterdam, NetherlandsTelephone: rumbarrel.nl The bar at Rum BarrelBrouerie T'IJSet in the shadow of Holland's largest windmill this award-winning microbrewery boasts a fragrant array of artisan beers Address: Brouerie T'IJ, Funenkade, AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 528 6237Website: brouwerijhetij.nl The founding member of a new wave of eastside bars Bukowski's impressive list of gins and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect place to start an evening the sister bar of Bar BukowskiMaarten WillemsteinAddress: Bar Bukowski AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 370 1685Website: barbukowski.nl Bar BasquiatYou'll find falafel-stuffed sandwiches and Lebanese pita-style pizzas topped with truffled mascarpone at this enviable corner spot The trestle tables outside are well-placed for people-watching and the drinks menu covers everything from cold-pressed juices to craft beers Address: Bar Basquiat, Javastraat 88-90, 1094 HM AmsterdamTelephone: barbasquiat.nl VolkshotelWhere to stay in East AmsterdamVolkshotelBeyond its offbeat design touches characterful rooms and packed cultural events schedule the Volkshotel's rooftop - featuring a spa restaurant and the buzzing Canvas nightclub - with panoramic views of the city is the key selling point of this former newspaper HQ Address: Volkshotel, Wibautstraat 150, AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 261 2100Website: volkshotel.nl Housed in an imposing gothic structure that used to be an asylum the dramatic Hotel Arena backs onto the leafy Oosterpark and features luxe suites enhanced by designer collaborations Address: Hotel Arena, 's-Gravesandestraat 51, AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 850 2400Website: hotelarena.nl All the Luck in the WorldAll the Luck in the WorldThis mother and daughter-run concept store pairs a coffee bar with craft-focused furniture and the most covetable homeware and accessories including typographic art and jewellery Address: All the Luck in the World, Linnaeusstraat 20, Amsterdam, AmsterdamWebsite: alltheluckintheworld.nl Within their minimally appointed men's and women's outposts on Javastraat DIV's founders feature a sharp edit of local designers and hip streetwear brands Address: DIV. Herenkabinet, Javastraat 8 and DIV. Damesboudoir, Javastraat 100, AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 694 4084Website: divamsterdam.com Step beyond the shabby-chic café (the coconut açaí bowl is good banana and date smoothie) and you'll find a tastefully curated collection of womenswear and home accessories There's beautiful handmade jewellery and design books displayed artfully on wooden racks Address: Hartje Oost, Javastraat 23, AmsterdamTelephone: +31 20 233 2137Website: hartjeoost.nl [RelatedContent##default.41941##Display¬Normal##Have you seen...?##KeepInline] [RelatedContent##default.34684##Display¬Normal####KeepInline] [RelatedContent##default.48418##Display¬Normal####KeepInline] That total increased to four a few weeks later Details about the claimants and the amounts sought remain confidential The Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations citing the sensitivity of the ongoing legal proceedings including personal data and information that could reveal the State's legal position a ministry spokesperson told the broadcaster The documents cover a period from January to May and include details and talking points from earler a position which Rutte reaffirmed during his weekly press conference on December 16 The request was sent by RTL Nieuws shortly after the king's apology speech but the ministry did not state in its letter to the broadcaster why eight months was needed to comply with the request The broadcaster had a periodic back-and-forth discussion with the ministry demonstrating incremental process A total of 950 documents were reviewed as a result of specific cross-referenced searches Some of the redacted material was held back so as to not damage relations with Sint Maarten the constituent country in the Dutch kingdom "We are entitled to reparations for 300 years of colonialism." Despite the government's current stance against reparations legal experts warned of potentially lengthy court battles as the claims move forward The possibility of future claims is also a prospect The apologies have strengthened the moral appeal to politicians," said Karwan Fatah-Black The Netherlands remains one of many former colonial powers yet to offer financial compensation for its role in the slave trade While the government has implemented various measures following the apology including a 200 million euro fund for education and awareness about slavery these claims signal a potential shift towards a more complex and potentially costly future regarding reparations The Netherlands will also support the construction of the National Slavery Museum, and the government has worked to clear the name of Tula the slavery resistance leader and freedom fighter on Curaçao descendants of enslaved people can officially change their surname free of charge The four large Dutch cities - Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht - already apologized for their roles in slavery. If you’re a fan of tulips then visit the park in the months of April and May where you’ll spot them growing along the banks of this man-made lake There’s also a sand patch on one side which makes it perfect for relaxing and swimming in the summer months – but the locals do treat it like a trip to the seaside The park is also a welcome escape from the city and popular with young families because of the small zoo and winding paths which make it perfect for biking such as the Mystic Garden in the month of June Loveland in August and the West Beach Film Festival in August It’s slightly off the beaten track and west of the city centre but you can get there by catching the number 14 tram from Dam Square This magical park is definitely worth a visit it’s bursting with wildlife and colourful flowers a festival which saw gardeners from all over the world create spectacular floral displays Many of them were preserved and the area was turned into a public park the following year but the exhibition still happens every 10 years There’s also a petting zoo and playgrounds for children – but also keep an eye out for the chickens and rabbits which run free If you’re tired after exploring the city and fancy relaxing why not catch the small train which loops around the park between the months of April to October You’ll want to visit this area to take in the rich history at the Rijksmuseum There’s also plenty of high end shopping that you could do and afterwards sit in the square to enjoy Swedish landscape architect Sven-Ingvar Andersson’s work He reconstructed it in 1999 and these days it is a home for celebrations festivals and mass political demonstrations pop underground to check out the supermarket The city’s most famous park, Vondelpark is conveniently situated close enough to all the main tourist sites for visitors and locals alike to go there on sunny days and take advantage of the good weather. There are several cafes sprawled around that serve great food From June to September the Vondelpark Open Air Theater puts on free events Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips See privacy policy and discover and book spot-on stays and experiences Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in November See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in September Guides & Tips The Most Naturally Beautiful Destinations in the Netherlands See & Do Lesser-Known Summer Destinations to Visit in Europe Guides & Tips Beat the Crowds with these Alternative Summer Destinations Guides & Tips This Is Europe's Ultimate Road Trip See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in October Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in December See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Autumn Art 6 Highlights of Amsterdam's Stedelijk Museum See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Summer See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in July US: +1 (678) 967 4965 | UK: +44 (0)1630 35000 tripssupport@theculturetrip.com © Copyright 2025 The Culture Trip Ltd. All Rights Reserved. 2021 The National Slavery Monument in Amsterdam's Oosterpark Photo: Deborah Nicholls-LeeThe National Slavery Monument in Amsterdam’s Oosterpark Photo: Deborah Nicholls-LeeA museum dedicated to the relationship between the Netherlands and its former colony Suriname will be be opening its doors in 2023 The Suriname Museum, which will be situated at the Zeeburgerdijk in Amsterdam, will cover everything between ‘the moment the first Dutchman set foot in Suriname to the moment the first Suriname national set foot in the Netherlands,’ Vincent Soekra, one of the museum’s champions told local broadcaster NH Nieuws which will cost an estimated €3m and will run over several floors illustrating various periods fifth and perhaps more generations of Surinamese who live in the Netherlands and who will probably never return But they do have questions about the motherland They can just come to the museum and find some answers,’ Soekra said Fellow founder Jan Gerards said many young Surinamese know very little about their background ‘This museum will help make this part of history known to a large number of people Schools and universities are welcome too.’ The aim is to attract some 50,000 visitors a year The opening year coincides with the 160th anniversary of the official abolition of slavery in the Dutch colony Suriname was given self rule after World War II and became an independent republic on November 25 1975 After years of discussion about the lack of public toilets for women in Amsterdam, the city is investing 4 million euros into rectifying the issue. The city cannot yet say how many public toilets it will add to the supply, but expects that the first new wheelchair and woman-friendly toilet will be installed this year, NOS reports The discussion around public toilets in Amsterdam started with student Geerte Piening arguing that she had no choice but to pee in public because there were too few public toilets for women in the Amsterdam city center The court ruled that the fine was justified because Piening could also have gone to a male urinal In 2018, the D66 submitted a motion to the city council, arguing for more public toilets that are accessible to everyone. The motion passed, and the city will start implementing it this year. The first new toilet will be installed in the Oosterpark in October, according to NH Nieuws More public toilets feel like a victory for Piening, even seven years after her lawsuit. “It took a while, but the fact that it is happening is very good,” she told the Amsterdam broadcaster AT5 Dutch King Willem-Alexander issued a historic royal apology Saturday for the Netherlands’ involvement in slavery saying he felt “personally and intensely” affected His speech before thousands of descendants of slaves from the South American nation of Suriname and the Caribbean islands of Aruba but many said they wanted the Netherlands to pay compensation “Today I’m standing in front of you as your king and as part of the government Today I am apologising personally,” Willem-Alexander said to loud cheers “I am intensely experiencing this with my heart and soul,” the monarch said The “Keti Koti” (“breaking the chains” in Surinamese) event to commemorate 150 years of the abolition of slavery in former Dutch colonies was held under a light drizzle in the capital’s Oosterpark gardens Many of the participants wore colourful Surinamese clothes Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte had officially apologised in December on behalf of the government It was not certain whether the monarch would follow suit for a trade that had brought vast riches to his ancestors in the House of Orange “Slave trading and slavery is recognised as a crime against humanity The monarchs and rulers of the House of Orange took no steps against it,” he said “Slavery illustrates the injustices of these laws,” prevalent at the time which allowed trade in human beings I am asking for forgiveness for the crystal-clear lack of action We need reparations’ Those present widely welcomed the apology “He told the people from Suriname he was sorry,” said Abmena Ryssan who was dressed in bright robes and exotic headgear — a three-legged cooking pot adorned with Surinamese flags “Maybe he can now do something for black people,” Ryssan told AFP dressed in a slave woman’s traditional outfit Since the Black Lives Matter movement emerged in the United States the Netherlands has embarked on an often difficult debate about its colonial and slave trading past that turned it into one of the world’s richest countries Dutch royals have often found themselves at the centre of the debate A study released in June found that the royal family earned 545 million euros ($595 million) in today’s terms between 1675 and 1770 from the colonies were among the biggest earners from what the Dutch report called the state’s “deliberate structural and long-term involvement” in slavery In 2022 King Willem-Alexander announced that he was ditching the royal Golden Coach that traditionally transported him on state occasions because it had images of slavery on the sides One side panel had a picture called “Tribute of the Colonies” depicting kneeling black people handing over produce like cocoa and sugarcane to their white masters Rutte in December also described slavery as a “crime against humanity” when he delivered the long-awaited apology and Dutch ministers travelled to seven former colonies that the government apology was the “start of a long journey.” Slavery was formally abolished in Suriname and other Dutch-held lands on July 1 but only ended in 1873 after a 10-year “transition” period The Dutch funded their “Golden Age” of empire and culture in the 16th and 17th centuries by shipping around 600,000 Africans as part of the slave trade THISDAY is published by THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LTD. Nigeria with offices in 36 states of Nigeria the Federal Capital Territory and around the world It is Nigeria’s most authoritative news media available on all platforms for the political professional and diplomatic elite and broader middle classes while serving as the meeting point of new ideas culture and technology for the aspirationals and millennials The newspaper is a public trust dedicated to the pursuit of truth and reason covering a range of issues from breaking news to politics sports and community to the crossroads of people and society You can email us at: hello@thisdaylive.com or visit our contact us page In the second half of the 18th century the Netherlands had one of the most developed economies in the world, and slavery played an important role in this, according to research by the International Institute of Social History in Amsterdam. In 1770, 5.2 percent of the Netherlands' gross domestic product was based on slavery, the researchers concluded, NOS reports. "The Netherlands did not make the greatest slavery gains in the slave trade, but in goods produced by slaves", researcher Pepijn Brandon said to the broadcaster. He and fellow historian Ulbe Bosma spent five years researching documents of slave owners, among other things, to do this first systematic calculation of the share slavery had in the Dutch economy in the second half of the 18th century. One in five products that the Netherlands traded at that time were grown or harvested by slaves in North, Central and South America. This involved products like sugar, coffee and tobacco. Especially the province of Holland, with its ports, had an important place in the trade, processing and export of such products. Roughly 40 percent of the economic growth in the province in that period was linked to slavery. While five percent might not sound like much to some people, it was crucial for the Dutch economy at that time, Brandon said. "The port of Rotterdam is currently responsible for more than six percent of the Dutch economy. And we can't claim that the Dutch economy can do without the port of Rotterdam. Atlantic slave labor was the cork on which the economy floated", he said. Historian and slavery expert Pieter Emmer called this study "well executed" and "very carefully constructed", according to NOS. "The [figure of] over five percent in 1770 is well-founded and will hold for a long time", he said. He does, however, have doubts about the historians' conclusions. "I would say that 95 percent is the cork on which the Dutch economy floated in 1770 and not that five percent." Earlier this week a majority in the Amsterdam city council voted for the city to apologize for its slavery past on the July 1 annual commemoration next year. The city benefited considerably from slavery, parties DENK, GroenLinks, Bij1, ChristenUnie, PvdA, D66 and SP argued. For example, the city owned a third of the Sociëteit van Suriname, which set up the slave trade after it was founded in 1683. The parties call an apology a start for "all people and descendants who suffered from slavery." Amsterdam alderman Rutger Groot Wassink said that until July 1st next year, research will be done into the exact role Amsterdam played in slavery, according to NOS. "When you apologize, you need to know for what [reason] exactly." The municipality also wants to map out the legal consequences, although the initiators don't expect that there will be claims. According to DENK councilor Mourad Taimounti, the families and descendants of slaves mainly want recognition. 📍 Brouwerij ‘t Ij, Funenkade 7, Amsterdam, Netherlands 📍 Studio K, Timorplein 62, Amsterdam, Netherlands, +31 20 692 0422 http://instagram.com/p/zKNhnKRfGg/?taken-at=179855&hl=en Roest has an unconventional style that fuses industrial aesthetics with colorful The bar is part of a larger complex that was originally used as a shipyard this site has been converted into a cultural center and the warehouses around Roest regularly host parties giving the bar a distinctive DIY charm that matches its laid-back ambience 📍 Roest, Jacob Bontiusplaats 1, Amsterdam, Netherlands, +31 20 308 0283 Roest at night | © Pablo Canvas transforms into a hip club that plays music well into the early morning 📍 Volkshotel ,Wibautstraat 150, Amsterdam, Netherlands, +31 20 261 2110 http://instagram.com/p/BKbQgdyjST7/?taken-at=553392&hl=en 📍 Distilleerderij ‘t Nieuwe Diep, Flevopark 13, Amsterdam, Netherlands Distilleerderij ‘t Nieuwe Diep | © Gouwenaar 📍 De Ruyschkamer, Ruyschstraat 34-H, Amsterdam, Netherlands, +31 20 670 3622 http://instagram.com/p/BDYMDoyyfDU/?taken-at=141687664&hl=en Bar Bukowski is named after the famous, alcohol-loving American poet and honors its namesake by hosting lively parties every weekend The bar is spread over two intimate rooms and also contains a large mezzanine that looks over its main seating area Its drinks menu mainly features beers created by local and international craft breweries alongside a fantastic selection of gin and tonics 📍 Bar Bukowski, Oosterpark 10, Amsterdam, Netherlands http://instagram.com/p/BGMt0VCg6ch/?taken-at=102663345&hl=en Tom Coggins writes about culture and travel © Copyright 2025 The Culture Trip Ltd The two biggest cities in the Netherlands did not score particularly well in the Husqvarna Urban Green Space Index On this ranking of the greenest cities in the world Amsterdam came in 58th place and Rotterdam in 68th Durban in South Africa is the greenest city in the world The Index ranked a total of 98 cities in 51 countries on the state of their vegetation Using figures drawn from satellite imagery artificial intelligence and deep learning techniques the Hugsi ranking looked at the percentage of grass and trees in a city Amsterdam scored an overall of 56.6 out of 100 The Dutch capital is made up of 18 percent trees and 53 percent other - buildings and streets and such There is 70.1 square meters of green space per resident The distribution of green space scored 27 percent Rotterdam scored an overall 49.8 out of 100 Rotterdam residents have more green space per person than their Amsterdam counterparts at 115.7 square meters The green space distribution scored 25 percent Amsterdam came in 18th place of the 24 European cities in the ranking Durban residents have 185.8 square meters of green space per person An East European man was robbed and stabbed in Amsterdam's Oosterpark on Friday night He died of his injuries in hospital later that night The police are looking for four suspects seen near the Tropenmuseum that night and are calling on witnesses to come forward in a spot in the park that is known as a meeting place for gay men there is no indication that this was a hate crime against homosexuals "At the moment we assume that he is the victim of a mugging that got out of hand" The victim was stabbed several times and robbed of his possessions This means that the police had a hard time identifying the victim After spreading surveillance photos of the man shopping at a store on Kalverstraat earlier on Friday the victim was finally identified as a 33-year-old East European man who lived in Rotterdam men visiting gay meeting spots are often robbed Victims often don't report the crimes out of fear that where it happened may come out to their friends and family The police call on witnesses to come forward Information can be given to the police anonymously Witnesses can also report to the police's LGBT team if they prefer The police arrested a 17-year-old boy from Amsterdam last week on suspicion of involvement in a fatal stabbing at a gay cruising spot in Oosterpark in Amsterdam last month. Polish man Jan Majdanski was killed in the stabbing on March 3rd The police believe that the fatal stabbing was the result of a robbery that got out of hand The victim had no valuables on him when he was found And witnesses "saw enough of the incident to assume it was a robbery" a police spokesperson said to the newspaper A total of four offenders were involved in the stabbing The police are investigating whether there is a link between the stabbing and a series of muggings in the same area