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Not just IDFA: Amsterdam’s wider cultural sector hit by rising hotel costs as tourist tax hike drives away key visitors

Not just IDFA: Amsterdam’s wider cultural sector hit by rising hotel costs as tourist tax hike drives away key visitors

Amsterdam's cultural sector, including major events like IDFA, ADE, and the Holland Festival, is struggling due to rising tourist taxes and hotel VAT. These increased costs are forcing organizers to raise ticket prices and reduce programming, threatening the accessibility and quality of the city's cultural offerings.

Spot the differences: Warmoesgracht in 1880 and 2026

Spot the differences: Warmoesgracht in 1880 and 2026

In 1894, the Warmoesgracht canal in Amsterdam was filled in to create the modern Raadhuisstraat. This urban renewal project resulted in the demolition of several surrounding alleys and buildings near the Singel and Spuistraat.

Children's book author Harmen van Straaten (68) traded the city center for Noord: ‘I lived in one of the most beautiful spots, but it became too busy for me’

Children's book author Harmen van Straaten (68) traded the city center for Noord: ‘I lived in one of the most beautiful spots, but it became too busy for me’

Author and illustrator Harmen van Straaten moved from the crowded center of Amsterdam to a new home in Amsterdam-Noord three years ago. The 68-year-old creator now enjoys a spacious, custom-designed property that offers him a quieter environment by the water.

At Bar Vergist they agree on one thing: The more butter, the better

At Bar Vergist they agree on one thing: The more butter, the better

Bar Vergist is a dual-focused bar on the Admiraal de Ruijterweg in Amsterdam that treats both wine and beer with equal importance. Founded by Tobias and Ramon Lurvink-Sitters, the establishment pairs its drink selection with French-inspired snacks and meals.

Anne (48) and Cynthia (39) make books full of pasted-in trinkets, like Landrot: 'The drawings engage in a conversation with the text'

Anne (48) and Cynthia (39) make books full of pasted-in trinkets, like Landrot: 'The drawings engage in a conversation with the text'

Writer Anne Lichthart and illustrator Cynthia Borst have collaborated on a book titled Landrot that uniquely integrates text and drawings with vintage photographs and handwritten notes. Each physical copy of the book is carefully assembled by hand, with the creators selecting and pasting in various personal items to create a dialogue between the visual elements and the narrative.