Forget Amsterdam (Utrecht)

Member Name: genny symbio

Product:	Utrecht
Date:	13/06/01 (55 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: All the benefits of Amsterdam but cheaper and more relaxed

Disadvantages: Not as 'full on' but still a great place to stay

OK, so everyone thinks it's THE place to go to have a wild time. But not so many people know that just 45 minutes away, Utrecht has just as much to offer the traveler without being overrun by tourists and pickpockets.

With its winding streets, historical buildings and endless canals, Utrecht has a lot to offer the aesthetist as well as the party animal. The Domkerk (a cathedral dating back to the 1400s that also has the tallest bell tower in the country - you can see Amsterdam from the top on a clear day), the 'Nationaal Museum van Speelklok tot Pierement' (a museum full of fairground organs and music boxes), the Catharijne Convent Museum and the Schroderhuis (a collection of some of the most bizarre modern art and furniture you'll ever see) are all worth a look.

Of course, Utrecht also has its fair share of eateries, pubs, clubs and of course, hash cafes and sex shops, so no matter what your taste you're bound to find something to keep you interested.

To be honest, the only reason I originally came to Utrecht was because I was too late in booking accommodation in Amsterdam during the Queen's Day festival. However I'm very glad I did. The Queen's Day celebrations were at least as good in Utrecht itself, without being as mobbed, and it was good to be surrounded by locals as well as tourists.

If you do go to Utrecht I definitely recommend the Hotel Strowis as a place to stay. When I originally arrived I took the only option in the guide book and stayed at the YHA - this turned out to be about half an hour by bus out of town and though the scenery was great there really wasn't much else around. The Strowis, however, is right in the middle of town, an easy walk from the train station (there is actually an interactive terminal at the station that will print you out a map too, as well as for other attractions). Around £6-£7/night for a dorm bed, there is also internet access, a good kitchen and a bo
ok exchange. (Tel: (030) 238 02 80)

If you do decide to go to Amsterdam though, hold onto your wallet. Mine was pick-pocketed about an hour into my first visit there, and I didn't even feel it go. I suppose I shouldn't let it colour my opinion too much but as any traveller who's had such an experience will know, it can be pretty scary. I think I'll wear my money-belt next time!

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