Introducing the Super-Slim Purista Coffee Machine | My Coffee with Melitta

Introducing the Super-Slim Purista Coffee Machine | My Coffee with Melitta

As part of the My Coffee series, I’m pleased to report that premium coffee machine maker, Melitta, has launched one of the narrowest fully automated bean-to-cup machines on the market today. Say good morning to the Purista!

Measuring merely 45.5 x 20 x 32.5cm, it’s the deal coffee maker for small kitchens, tight spaces and minimalist settings.

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The 8 Great Outdoor Things to Do in Minneapolis! (Miles Away)

The 8 Great Outdoor Things to Do in Minneapolis!

If you’re going to Minneapolis and think everything worth doing requires you to spend all your time indoors with the occasional cityscape stroll, you’re wrong. Sure, it’s a city known by many for its beautiful architecture, great shopping, and the famous “Skyway System” — a series of interconnected, enclosed climate-controlled walkways across the downtown area (spanning over 10 miles!). But it’s also an ideal city for almost anyone who loves being outdoors and in nature.

Most visitors would probably be surprised to learn that in Minneapolis you’re never more than six blocks away from a park. You’re also never too far from a lake, river, or another body of water either! In fact, the state of Minnesota has more shoreline than California, so its capital has a pretty sizable amount of waterside scenery.

Here’s a look at some of the best outdoor things to do in Minneapolis with an emphasis on hiking and long walks, cycling, and, of course, making a splash!

Read my complete post at Miles Away.

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To Drink. Not to Be Drunk. A Chat with Big Drop Brewing Founder Rob Fink (All Consumed)

All Consumed is a podcast about food, drink and travel hosted by Neil Davey and Chris Osburn. The latest episode features an interview by Neil with Rob Fink, founder of Big Drop Brewing, a London and Suffolk based brewery making 0.5% ABV beers.

You’ve tried Dry January. You’ve been designated driver. It can be a struggle – after all, there’s only so many Diet Cokes you can handle in any one evening – but, thanks to people like Rob Fink, it’s getting easier. Rob is the founder of Big Drop Brewing, producers of some of the finest low alcohol beers on the market, and here chats to Neil Davey about just how that happened.

Listen now:

Download and subscribe to All Consumed at Apple Podcasts.

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Parma Ham X Petersham Nurseries

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La Goccia Restaurant at Petersham Nurseries recently played host to a one-off dinner featuring a bespoke menu of Parma Ham dishes created by Chef & Restaurants Director at Petersham Nurseries, Damian Clisby, and presented by Senior Sous Chef, Mark Reid. I felt fortunate to have been invited to sit at the table for the feast.

In famous Petersham Nurseries style, tables were dressed with lavish floral displays, but the sights most pleasing to my eyes were the plates presented for the occasion.

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Plant-Based Fake Out with THIS Vegan Supper Club

Plant-Based Fake Out with This is Vegan Supper Club

About a month ago I attended an invitation-only dinner in north London featuring dishes prepared by Michelin-starred chef, Berwyn Davies, who had been experimenting a new “fine dining, guilt-free” menu concept.

I soon found out that I had been duped! I didn’t much mind though as I the food was really tasty anyway.

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The Secret Behind El Pirata’s 25 Years in Mayfair



The Secret of 25 Years of El Pirata’s 25 Years Serving Tapas in Mayfair

Mayfair mainstay, El Pirata, recently celebrated 25 years of serving quality tapas in its lively Down Street setting.

Marking such a milestone is not easily come up for restaurants and bars, especially in the cutthroat competitive straits of Mayfair. The crew at El Pirata are to be commended for keeping course for a quarter century and remaining a relevant and fun place to enjoy Spanish food and drink.

I dropped by for a taste of the restaurant’s anniversary menu a few weeks back. I had a great time and have been thinking about how delicious the food was ever since (and even trying to wedge in an opportunity to dine there again before too many more weeks pass).

So what’s the secret to El Pirata’s success?
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6 Underrated Caribbean Beaches You Need to Visit! (Going Places)

6 Underrated Caribbean Beaches You Need to Visit!

Dreaming of getting away from it all for a carefree Caribbean beach break? You’re not alone! Who doesn’t like the idea of powdery white sand beaches, turquoise waters and glowing orange and pink sunsets melting away to star-filled nights?

The Caribbean is the perfect destination for anyone looking for cheap flight deals and loves having seaside fun in the sun. Fortunately, it’s still possible to visit the region without contending for space for your beach towel and to feel like you have the whole sea to yourself.

Here’s our look at a few amazing hidden gems across the Caribbean to help you steer clear of the maddening crowds and enjoy a quiet, chilled out vacation in paradise.

Read my complete post at Going Places.

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Win Pass the Pigs Party Dice Game

Win Pass the Pigs Party Dice Game

COMPETITION IS NOW OVER AND THE WINNER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. THANKS SO MUCH FOR READING TIKICHRIS. PLEASE STAY TUNED FOR LOTS MORE FUN AND FREEBIES TO COME.

I’ve got a fun and quirky Pass the Pigs dice game to offer one lucky tikichris reader. This one’s the party edition of the popular all-ages game.

The party set includes eight small plastic piggies (four pairs), a deck of 30 cards, and carry case. Continue reading

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Gelato Festival Returns to London This Weekend!



Gelato Festival Returns to London This Weekend!

Here’s the scoop on a cool event coming to London this hot weekend!

Now in its 10th year, the Gelato Festival returns to London Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 June at Canopy Market off Granary Square in King’s Cross.
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How to Have the Most Relaxing Holiday

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After spending most weeks of the year working hard in your job, you owe it to yourself to embark on a relaxing holiday in a beautiful location. While active adventures and city breaks can be both fun and memorable, sometimes you need to slow everything down to fully recharge your batteries.

If you are feeling the stress of work or are longing to walk along a sun-kissed beach, you should book a break away at a tranquil destination to de-stress and unwind. To ensure you feel like a brand-new person once you head home, here are some top tips on how to have the most relaxing holiday possible.
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Could You Live in a Villa in Greece?

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There are many types of lodgings when it comes to building or buying or renting the place you are going to stay either alone or with your family for shorter or longer periods of time: a house (terraced, semi-detached or detached), an apartment, a villa, a cottage, a camper van, a tent, a lighthouse, a castle or even an igloo.

But how on earth do we (consciously or unconsciously) decide on the sort of housing at the end of the day? Is it our income, our needs, the style of the area, the climate, our personal taste or our childhood dreams?
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Win a Mixed Sixpack of Low ABV Beer from South London’s Small Beer Brew Co

Win a Mixed Sixpack of Low ABV Beer from South London’s Small Beer Brew Co

COMPETITION IS NOW OVER AND THE WINNER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. THANKS SO MUCH FOR READING TIKICHRIS. PLEASE STAY TUNED FOR LOTS MORE FUN AND FREEBIES TO COME.

The world’s first small beer brewery – Small Beer Brew Co – makes sustainably brewed low ABV beers from its south London home. I’ve had a taste of the Small Beer range and must stay these beers pack a lot of flavour without packing too much of a wallop. And that’s fine by me!

For easygoing get togethers and drinking sessions when the aim is not to get obliterated but rather have fun with friends (and remember it with clarity), Small Beer Brew Co is a smart and tasty beer to keep in mind.

Don’t believe me? Here’s a chance to win a selection of bottles from Small Beer Brew Co. 



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Charity Pop-Up for Sri Lanka at Shangri-La Hotel At The Shard

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Demi Perera reports on a pop-up for a good cause at Shangri-La Hotel.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel (2019) destination Sri Lanka suffered a devastating terrorist attack in April this year. 258 people were killed and over 500 injured. The island which depends on its tourism industry was dealt a further blow when over 34 countries issued travel warnings following the incident. However, Sri Lanka has begun its recovery. Many countries have lowered the threat level and it’s widely expected that the bans will be lifted entirely in time for the high season in December.

To assist the island on its journey Shangri-La Hotel At The Shard, London has collaborated with renowned Sri Lankan restaurant Ministry of Crab to host a pop-up seafood event. Proceeds from the evening will be donated to those affected.

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Applebee’s Fish Pop-Up: Seaside at the Southbank

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Fish Ahoy! Judith Schrut drops anchor at London’s newest Pop-Up.

Applebee’s loves fresh fish, that’s for sure. And if (like me) you’re already a fan of the light, crispy fish and chips and succulent rock oysters served in Applebee’s popular Borough Market restaurant, then their newly opened summer Pop-Up at London’s Southbank will be excellent news.

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What to Look for When Getting a Watch: The Ultimate Guide

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A watch is a very important fashion accessory more so if you are style conscious. Apart from telling the time, watches play an integral role in how you look overall and if paired well it can really accentuate your fashion style.

Watches come in very many designs utilizing a vast array of materials, feature and also shapes. As a fashion statement, you need to know that there are timepieces for men, women and also unisex pieces. The problem comes when you want to get an authentic time accessory to complete your look. If you do not know your way through watches it may be a daunting task to get the perfect timepiece. However, there is no need to worry as you go through the main focal points when getting a nice watch.

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Good Stuff #91

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Good stuff and lots of it!

Here’s the low down on some fine things to see, sip, savour and more – all of which I’ve recently come across and thought were worth sharing with you. Enjoy.

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OKN1, New City College Hackney

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Enjoy delicious wholesome food at a nice price in a welcoming setting while helping shape London’s culinary future at OKN1 near Hoxton Square.

OKN1 is a collaborative kitchen of student and professional chefs and a training restaurant for New City College Hackney. Just off Hoxton Square, it’s a lovely spot for a quick coffee, laidback brunch, evening meal … you name it.

I attended the launch a couple of weeks back. I’d be happy to return, am keeping it in mind for future rendezvouses in the are, and would not hesitate recommending it to anyone looking for a quality dining experience.

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The World’s Most Wheelchair Friendly Cities That You Can Visit (Going Places)

The World’s Most Wheelchair Friendly Cities That You Can Visit

It’s surprising that, even in today’s world, wheelchair accessibility is not as widespread as it should be. But, some destinations are better than others. If you’re looking for affordable domestic or cheap international flights and are planning your next vacation, but also need to take into account wheelchair accessibility, then we’ve got you covered.

From wheelchair airport assistance to accessibility at famous sites and monuments, this list of exciting and dynamic cities will dispel any mobility concerns you may have.

Read my complete post at Going Places.

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Peabodys Coffee, Holborn Viaduct

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Looking for a spot to grab a coffee, quick bite, or lunch near Farringdon Station (and not all that far from Chancery Lane, City Thames Link, Barbican, St Paul’s or Black Friars)? Keep Peabodys Coffee on the Holborn Viaduct in mind.

I visited this newly opened cafe recently and found it to be an affordable and comfortable place for decent coffee and food and a great space for doing some OOO work.

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Daddy Donkey | Lucky 13



Daddy Donkey | Lucky 13

2019 is the 13th anniversary of tikichris.com. I’m marking the seemingly inauspicious milestone with Lucky 13: a yearlong miniseries about 13 places to eat and drink that helped shape and define what I love about the London food and drink scene.

Next in the queue of my longtime London food faves is Daddy Donkey; and I say queue because there always seemed to be one new to its burrito-mobile when it first parked at Leather Lane Market. The queue always moved quickly though, and I never minded waiting for what was on offer. In 2013, the truck was swapped for a permanent site on Leather Lane. Avid fans of this street food hero still don’t seem to mind lining up for fully loaded burritos (and not much else).

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More Sun for Fun: Here’s How You Can Enjoy the Summer Solstice in These Northern Cities (Miles Away)

More Sun for Fun: Here’s How You Can Enjoy the Summer Solstice in These Northern Cities

Summer’s here with daylight hours stretching well into the evening. The extra sunshine brings all sorts of added fun as well as bright opportunities to explore exciting destinations during the most vibrant time of year. Nowhere is this more true — or more truly fabulous — than in the far north where summer days last the longest and the sun sets late (if at all).

With summer solstice coming soon, we thought now would be an ideal time to take a look at a few of our favorite far north cities so you can find cheap international flights to go experience the midnight sun in its full glory.

Read my complete post at Miles Away.

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London Art Openings | Leonardo da Vinci at the Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace

Leonardo Da Vinci, the Head of Leda c 1505-8 Royal Collection Trust (c) Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2019

A spectacular new exhibition salutes the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci, the original Renaissance Man. Judith Schrut pays a visit.

This year marks 500 years since the death of Leonardo da Vinci, the extraordinary Italian artist, architect and anatomist, scientist, inventor, all around genius and original ‘Renaissance Man’. His Mona Lisa is probably the most famous painting on the planet. He invented the bicycle, the airplane, the helicopter and the parachute some 500 years ahead of their time. Da Vinci also developed plans for floating snowshoes, a breathing device for underwater exploration, a life preserver and a diving bell that could attack ships from below. His private notes and scribblings reveal his eccentric habit of writing backwards, starting at the right side of the page and moving to the left.

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Fancy Crab

Fancy Crab

Fancy crab? Then consider clawing your way over to Marylebone for king crab and more seafood dishes.

Fancy Crab is the name of a Wigmore Street restaurant where the main ingredient to making diners happy is serving them a variety of dishes prepared with sustainably sourced red king crab augmented by an assortment of mostly seafood side acts. There are some beef, chicken and veggie dishes on the menu. But if you’re not all about the crab and seafood, there’s no reason to visit.
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John Gregory-Smith Talks about Saffron in the Souks (All Consumed)

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All Consumed is a podcast about food, drink and travel hosted by Neil Davey and Chris Osburn. The latest episode features an interview by Neil with best-selling author, John Gregory-Smith.

You’ve seen him on TV, you’ve probably seen his recipes in assorted weekend supplements, you may well have one of his previous four books … you might even have seen him in an airport, rushing off on a travel assignment or a research trip. Today though, John Gregory-Smith is in London – only just, he’s off to Australia after this chat – and chatting about his life, his career and, particularly, his newest book, Saffron in the Souks (available now, Kyle Books, £25).

Listen now:

Download and subscribe to All Consumed at Apple Podcasts.

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Interview: Independent Hotelier Mustafa Najmudeen on Recovery of Sri Lanka’s Tourism Industry

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Demi Perera interviews Sri Lanka independent hotelier Mustafa Najmudeen.

Sri Lanka suffered a devastating terrorist attack on Easter Sunday. Over 250 lives were lost and hundreds more injured. As ever, ripples were felt further beyond. 34 countries issued travel advisories against all but essential travel in the days that followed. Tourism which employs over half a million Sri Lankans took a severe hit. However, a month on from the incident China, India, Sweden and Switzerland have relaxed the bans to a lowered threat level. Many on the island see this as a step towards recovery. I caught up with young entrepreneur and independent hotelier Mustafa Najmudeen to find out how confident he felt about the future of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.

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Win a Mixed Case of Six Bottles from Nederburg Wines | #DoYourPart



Win a Mixed Case of Six Bottles from Nederburg Wines | #DoYourPart

COMPETITION IS NOW OVER AND THE WINNER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. THANKS SO MUCH FOR READING TIKICHRIS. PLEASE STAY TUNED FOR LOTS MORE FUN AND FREEBIES TO COME.

I’ve teamed up with South Africa’s most awarded wine brand, Nederburg Wines, to highlight the amazing work Nederburg does helping provide bicycles to people with limited access to transportation across Africa and to run a special giveaway competition offering the chance for one reader of this blog to win a mixed case of six bottles of wine and to highlight the amazing work Nederburg does providing bicycles to people with limited access to transportation across Africa.

Keep reading to learn about Nederburg’s #DoYourPart campaign and to find out how you could win a case of free wine.
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8 Destinations Where You Can Find Some Hidden Gem Spa Resorts Around the World (Miles Away)

8 Destinations Where You Can Find Some Hidden Gem Spa Resorts Around the World

Sometimes, we all need simply to turn off, tune the world out, and claim back a little “me time.” Grabbing cheap international flights to take a spa break can be a brilliant way to unwind and re-energize. But where’s best to go, especially if you’re looking to avoid crowds, genuinely relax, and not get lost in the hype about a place?

Here’s a look at a few of the best affordable hidden gem spa destinations in the U.S. and across the globe.

Read my complete post at Miles Away.

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Look Smart When You Buy Your Sunglasses

Look Smart When You Buy Your Sunglasses

Finally we’re getting to enjoy a good stretch of sunshiny days here in London. That means it’s time to start sporting sunglasses. I recently received a pair of sunglasses from SmartBuyGlasses, an interactive and personalised shopping site for anyone looking to purchase prescription lenses, designer eyewear or contact lenses.

I couldn’t be happier with my new shades.

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Kanada-Ya Adds Gyoza to the Menu

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The tonkotsu ramen specialists at Kanada-Ya have added gyoza to the menu. Already a fan of all the other delectable morsels served at this Japan restaurant’s three London outlets, I was keen to have a taste of the most recent addition as soon as possible.

I’m pleased to report that I was not disappointed – and that the ramen is still as awesome as ever.

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Mighty Mayfair Breakfast Spot: The Guinea Grill



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Young & Co’s Mayfair mainstay, The Guinea Grill, has started serving breakfast for the first time in its long history. For a meaty start to your day, having your most important meal at this Bruton Place pub and restaurant would be a fine idea.

I certainly was glad – and set for the day – when I recently paid the Guinea a visit for a late morning repast.

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Flexing Vegan | Halo Burger

Flexing Vegan | Halo Burger

It was a visit to Halo Burger near the end of last year that was one of the chief reasons I decided to start my Flexing Vegan miniseries. So when invited to head back to Brixton for a bite of Halo’s limited run summer special, the Smoky Carolina BBQ Burger – I was keen.

Made with a Beyond Meat plant-based patty and topped with tangy BBQ sauce, smoked Gouda style cheese, crispy onion strips and mayo, the Smoky Carolina was a treat!

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Pompi: il Regno del Tiramisu

Pompi: il Regno del Tiramisu

Ever get a major hankering for tiramisu? Boy, I do! And now I know where to go (and whom to have bring it to me) here in London next time those cravings hit for this delicious Italian dessert.

Pompi is a 60 year-old family business founded in Rome with a presence in London. Key to the Pompi’s long running success is its handcrafted tiramisu served in its shops and available for delivery. I was most pleased when the London branch of Pompi reached out for me to try their traditionally made tiramisu.

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Magnificent Manila: 7 Experiences That Will Make You Want to Visit ASAP! (Miles Away)

Magnificent Manila: 7 Experiences That Will Make You Want to Visit ASAP!

The capital of the Philippines and the Pearl of the Orient, Manila is an excellent place to visit … and a destination that’s way too underrated. If you love exploring vibrant and dynamic cities and filling your itinerary with a mix of activities, then make sure to keep an eye open for cheap international flights to Manila so you can have a one-of-a-kind vacation.

Need proof you’ll have plenty of things to do in Manila? Here are just seven (of the many) experiences that will make the city #1 on your travel bucket list!

Read my complete post at Miles Away.

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Win a Free Copy of New Book, Lonely Planet’s Global Distillery Tour

Win a Free Copy of Lonely Planet’s Global Distillery Tour Book

COMPETITION IS NOW OVER AND THE WINNER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. THANKS SO MUCH FOR READING TIKICHRIS. PLEASE STAY TUNED FOR LOTS MORE FUN AND FREEBIES TO COME.

Lonely Planet has published a new book featuring the best distilleries and bars in 33 countries that you can visit with advice on what to drink when you get there.

Lonely Planet’s Global Distillery Tour offers readers the chance to discover the exciting world of artisan spirits with insights on distilleries and bars across the globe, including South Africa, Canada, the US, Mexico, Japan, Indonesia, France, Italy, Australia, New Zealand and the UK.

I’ve teamed up with Lonely Planet to go one step further by offering tikichris readers the chance to win a copy of this thirst quenching book for free.

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Ample Day in Amsterdam (Ideas for an Easygoing Day Out)

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Got a free day in Amsterdam and you’ve already done all the touristy stuff? Take a gander at these ideas based on my most recent visit so you can come up with our own easygoing outing in one of Europe’s most engaging destinations.

My ‘guide’ omits most of Amsterdam’s biggest tourist attractions. But by no means am I suggesting that you shouldn’t visit them. To be sure, the Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt House Museum, the Anne Frank House and De Wallen (to name but a few) are definitely worth checking out. It’s just that I’ve been to them during prior visits. I’ve even written about some of those experience in other post on this blog. Besides, a ton of info already exists about practically every nook and cranny you can access in Amsterdam
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So rather than say what’s been said (ad nauseam in many cases), my aim is to tell you the highlights of my last visit to help you fill your itinerary with more than just the standard stuff and must-see places.

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