Gogobot- Amsterdam

Amsterdam is something of a paradox. The Dutch capital is both progressive and traditional: it has a rich history and even richer culture, where freethinkers inhabit both coffee shops and well-maintained city parks, and the famous red lights glow blocks away from some of the best art museums on the continent. Local Maria Martens knows how to navigate many of the city’s most fascinating and diverse facets. Check out her guides to the tastiest cheese shops in the city for Foodies, the best coffeeshops (that’s Amsterdam speak for a cafe that sells marijuana) for Trendsters, and some of the best spots to learn about the city’s intriguing past for the History Buffs. Itching to go yet? First step: Book your Amsterdam hotel.

Fancy a beer and freshly baked apple pie? Try Papeneiland, one of Amsterdam’s oldest brown cafes, where you can ponder the menu and beer selection beneath tobacco-stained walls (hence the term "brown cafe"). The locale, which has been around since the 17th century, is located in a quieter part of the city along the Prisengracht canal, a perfect place for poetry-writing and people-watching.  Tweet us your best Amsterdam tips or send a postcard with the hashtag #gogoAmsterdam and we’ll feature the best!

Patrick is an Amsterdam native and a Guru in the city, with over 70 recommendations on places to eat, stay, and play. Check out his review of Werck Restaurant & Cafe Bar, a low-key alternative to the city's louder, wilder nightlife.

This is a nice bar if you want to go out on Friday/Saturday, but don't want to go to a club. No admission fee, a DJ plays music, good hip crowd... Read the full review.