Category: Amsterdam

How Ethnically Diverse Is Amsterdam? – Max Lang-Orsini

If you are thinking of travelling to Amsterdam, you will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test before entering.

Amsterdam is known as one of the most ethnically diverse places in the entirety of Europe. But, putting this at competition with the rest of the world, how exactly is ethnically diverse within Amsterdam and the Netherlands.

The Diverse Ethnicity Within Amsterdam

To put this in perspective, Amsterdam has one of the largest numbers of ethnic minorities not just in the EU, but across the globe. The past 5 or so decades has been the most crucial for Amsterdam’s diversity within ethnic groups and has seen many ethnicities from different countries travel here. It is said that half of Amsterdam is expected to have grandparents from another country.

The Legal Measures

Typically, diversity within a country usually means there will be legal measures put in place to avoid discriminatory beliefs. There are many put in place, regardless if it’s race or sexuality or even gender, Amsterdam speaks loudly on their stance against discrimination.

Anti-Discrimination

Since amsterdam speaks loud and clearly about their diverse society, the time and effort it devotes to protecting the fundamentals of Amsterdam is incredible. It is known that Amsterdam even funds the small formation of ethnic minority groups.

You’d be surprised to hear that in 1996, the ‘Municipality of Amsterdam’ added a code of conduct for their local authority and employees to help prevent complaints and scenarios where anti-discrimination takes place.

This Municipality has implemented five points to help the shaping policies of the incoming migrants to Amsterdam. The services in Amsterdam need to reflect its ever changing population, and these policies are in place to help reflect that.

Emancipation Of Women

Many experience discrimination, even based on their sexuality and Amsterdam stands strongly against this. Amsterdam created a service to deal with complaints regarding the legal and social aspect of women in society since 1995.

Furthermore, the addresses of hundreds of organisations that have helped provide aid for the emancipation of women have been included in the yellow pages for women. This was published by the Multicultural Emancipation Bureau.

Amsterdam & It’s Support Of The LGBT Rights

The dutch capital that is Amsterdam, is listed by the ‘International Gay Travel Association’ as the best destination to travel to for those that are of another sexuality than heterosexual. The city of Amsterdam and it’s actions are clear that they focus on fighting discrimination against members of the LGBT community.

There is a memorial (the homomonument) to remember the dark times that occurred, this is located near the Westerkerk church. The memorial includes three pink triangles dedicated to the victims of discrimination and mental & physical harm of those within the LGBT community.

The former mayor of Amsterdam saw the entire countries first same-sex marriage back in 2001. A historic event was made after four same-sex couples took a moment to sign the register, allowing them to enjoy the legal status the heterosexuals experience.

The Netherlands introduced the registration of same-sex partners back in 1998, and the legislation was approved by the Dutch government in December of the year 2000.

From reading this article, it is safe to say that Amsterdam is a well diverse city, and with it’s ever-so-fast population growth rate, the diversity will only further increase. Amsterdam has a great culture, especially in art, and I would encourage you to get a glimpse at this incredible city.

Written By: Max Lang-Orsini

What Are Must-See Attractions In Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is one of the most diverse and culture-rich cities in the world. Although Amsterdam is only small, this city is still bursting with plenty of museums and galleries to explore, whilst also boasting wonderful canal walks and outside spaces to unwind and relax in too. Famous for its liberal attitudes, Amsterdam attracts millions of tourists from all over the globe each year. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Amsterdam.

Rijksmuseum

This museum is a great place to start your trip. Here you can discover everything you need to know about Dutch history, dating back from 1200 to the present day. Along with original works by Vermeer and Rembrandt, this museum also hosts regular one-off exhibitions too, so there is always something new to see and enjoy.

Anne Frank House

The story of Anne Frank and her diary is famous throughout the world, and here at the Anne Frank House, visitors have the opportunity to see the main house belonging to Otto Frank, where the Frank family hid with two other families in the annex. Here you can also read extracts from Anne’s original diary and see personal objects that once belonged to the Frank family. The Anne Frank House also acts as an educational resource, making it the perfect place to visit for all ages.

Van Gogh Museum

Vincent Van Gogh is famous for his Post-Impressionist landscapes, portraits and self-portraits, and the Van Gogh Museum houses many of his most famous works. Along with paintings, here visitors can also enjoy reading Van Gogh’s letters which give a unique glimpse into the man behind the art.

For those who love Dutch art, current modern artist and designer Max Lang-Orsini have an exciting and emotive collection of artwork which can be viewed via his online portfolio for those looking to explore how Dutch art has evolved since Van Gogh.

Dam Square

As one of the most central points of Amsterdam, Dam Square provides a focal meeting point and is home to some of Amsterdam’s most notable and famous buildings.

Built during the 13th Century, here you can enjoy views of the Koninklijk Palace, also known as the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk, which often hosts a variety of exhibitions, along with the Dam Square monument, which commemorates those who perished during World War II. Dam Square is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and relax in one of its traditional bars and cafes.

Vondelpark

Named after the poet Vondel and opened to the public in 1865, the Vondelpark is the biggest park of its kind in Amsterdam and boasts over 10 million visitors a year. Located close to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, this park is the perfect place to unwind and relax. Aside from its natural beauty, the Vondelpark also hosts concerts and open-air theatre performances in the summer months and has a restaurant, pavilion and a children’s playground, making it the ideal place to enjoy with all the family.