Healthy In Amsterdam

IAMSTERDAM

From the second you step off the train at Amsterdam Centraal you are thrust into the middle of the tram and cycle highway in the hustle and bustle of Europe’s eclectic cities.

Each of the little alleyways leading to a new corner to explore.

It can be a little daunting when you first arrive in Amsterdam as it is highly catered for tourists and you may end up in the equivalent of pizza hut in a crap part of town just because you don’t recognise the chain.

On my last trip I searched high and low to find the creme de la creme of what Amsterdam has to offer for the more health conscious traveller.

Here we go…

First: Coffee

Screaming beans

Hartenstraat 12, 1016 CB Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has a plethora of amazing coffee shops but Screaming Beans really hits that caffeine spot.
Its a cute little spot to grab your morning fix while taking in the city. If you are a serious coffee lover you can also purchase their beans to take home to make your own cup of Wake Up!

Head First 

Westerstraat 150, 1015 MP Amsterdam, Netherlands

Get on down to Headfirst for a wonderful coffee experience. They offer two different roasts for differing coffee palettes.

With a fine selection of freshly made food and cakes which appeal to those who follow more specific diets or Raw, Gluten Free and Alternative.

Their flat white was divine – a true blessing when you need a little perk in your day.

Friendly and helpful staff.

Second: Food

Dr Blend 

Herenstraat 23 1015 BZ Amsterdam

This is DEFINITELY for the HEALTH CONSCIOUS

My wonderful followers on Instagram recommended Dr Blend.

If you are in Amsterdam on business – I would highly recommend this is where you stop in to make sure you stay on top of you health goals.

Even if you’re not on a strict plan – when living out of a hotel it can be hard to get those necessary greens in your system therefore its worth having a health cafe on the radar to make sure you keep on top!

 

Their menu has every kind of juice from Green to Fruity and will help you wake up to a really healthy start to the day.

The staff are delightful and are really keen to meet any dietary need. For those who are allergic to wheat Dr.Blend uses rye bread so you can enjoy some traditional dutch sandwiches

Their Dr Green Metal is a sure fire way to boost your body alkalinity and make sure you are starting the day as you intend to go on.

If you are staying in Amsterdam for an extended period of time and fancy doing a detox – check out their range on their website. If you have overdone it and your body needs a break this is the perfect way to re-balance. Just because you’re not at home don’t let those standards slip.

Bagel & Beans 

Various locations

You will find this chain popping up all over the city. The reason I have called it out is because they have gluten free and wheat free bagels. This means if you’re in a rush and need to grab a quick bite to eat but are panicking due to allergies – then run on into one of these and choose a savvy snack to take with you

The Hoxton Hotel 

Herengracht 255, 1016 BJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

For home away from home.

If you travel a lot for work sometimes you just want a little bit of familiarity… well the Hoxton Hotel has it for you.
Immediately after you walk in… the decor, sights, smells and service has a Shoreditch vibe to it which immediately brings you home.

The Hoxton Hotel has a cute bar to catch up with friends, a restaurant with delicious classics and also hosts events for you to attend.
This is great if you are in this city alone and want to meet new people. You should make an effort to get yourself out there and enjoy new things. There is nothing worse than sitting in a hotel room by yourself. The events cover a plethora of activities from yoga to vodka infusing so the perfect excuse to burn some calories and make some friends!

p.s. When you go to the restaurant there is a photo booth upstairs! Needless to say I was in there like swimwear!

Third: Workout

Well you have a very obvious two options here:

Get a bike
Walk

This city has the most amazing architecture, hidden alleys, cool shops and local spots so get out there an explore. Don’t get a tram card and use those legs!

The city is run by bikes so if you are staying here for a while make sure you rent or buy a bike

For renting bikes check out: http://www.iamsterdam.com/en/visiting/plan-your-trip/getting-around/rental/bike-hire

If you are staying in Amsterdam for a long term project or trip then sign up to F45 or VondelGym 

Fourth: Accommodation

Again, The Hoxton Hotel ticks all the boxes for me

If you live in Amsterdam and have an recommendations please comment below! I will definitely check it out!