Things to do in Amsterdam with your closest friends during Covid-19

This pandemic has restricted all of us with its quarantines and social distancing, but despite that, there are different ways to enjoy my beautiful home city. Along with my friends, I can enjoy some of the simpler and less expensive or free activities this wonderful city has to offer. Suitably masked, gloved and aware of the dangers of getting too close to others, I and my friends, like to visit some of the more tranquil areas of the city or just stroll around and soak in the atmosphere.

A Visit to the Begijnhof

The Begijnhof or Begijnhofje is a historical oddity in Amsterdam. Hofje means a set of almshouses built around a courtyard. Back the 14th century it was the home of the Blessed Sisters or the Beguines as they were also called. It was a beaterio or Catholic convent type home for single women.

Although attached to the Catholic Church the women weren't nuns or took vows. They lived a Christian lifestyle as lay sisters with much more freedom than ordained nuns but were still accorded the title of Sisters by the outside community. During the 16th century, when the Netherlands turned to Calvinism and Catholicism was banned, the Beguines were still allowed remain and it became the only bastion of Catholicism within the country. They did maintain a clandestine chapel for a time, but that was eventually closed down. The last Sister to live there died in 1971.

The Begijnhofje is typical of Amsterdam houses dating back to the Middle Ages. I love the old world atmosphere that it evokes. The Begijnhofje is within the bounds of the Singel canal which once encircled the old city of Amsterdam. It is approached by way of Spuiplein Square through a simple brown house façade. Also on the Square, there is another fine example of Amsterdam's past.

Houten Huys

Houten Huys, built in 1528 and restored to its former glory, is one of the only two remaining wooden houses left in the city. In a world torn apart by religious conflict, my friends and I like to visit the houses of the Beguines to be reminded that the citizens of Amsterdam had the good sense to practise tolerance.

The Parks of Amsterdam

In a city famous for its canals and waterways, it surprises visitors to know that there are many parks within the city. I find the many parks in Amsterdam are wonderful places to while away some free time. In the parks, it's much easier to practise social distancing without inconvenience. My friends and I like to just relax or have a picnic. It's good to share some time in natural surroundings, but there are other activities also.

Westerpark

Westerpark was once one of the city's neighbourhood parks and fairly small, but when the gasworks beside it was abandoned, the grounds and old buildings were added to the space. As the buildings were deemed industrial monuments, they were restored and are now in use for many different things. What I like about Westerpark, out of the many parks in Amsterdam, is that you can find many cultural events happening there. My friends and I love to go dancing there. There is also a cinema, a couple of cafes and a paddling pool for children.

Vondelpark

Vondelpark is probably the park most known by both tourists and natives, as it is the largest. I love to go there to see plays and such performed at the outside theatre. It has the Blue Tea House for coffee and snacks, a playground for kids and is dotted with ponds. As the park full of trees and grass, without the usual flowerbeds, it has the feel of a forest area and I can forget that I am in a city and let nature relax me. Also within the park, there is Vondelpark3, which is the old pavilion that has been turned into a restaurant; one of my favourite places to have a meal.

The Essence of Amsterdam

What Amsterdam is best known for is its canals. To really get a feel of the city there's no better way than to walk along the canals. Although they were built as commercial avenues and are still used that way, a stroll along a few will take you into different neighbourhoods and sectors that will surprise and delight. Although many tourists take boat tours or hire bikes to see the city, my friends and I can tell you that a walk along the canals is really the best things to do in Amsterdam. It is a good way to feel the pulse and vibes of our lovely home without becoming involved in the frantic hustle and bustle of a modern commercial city.

Main canals

There are three main canals in Amsterdam - Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht and Herengracht. Each of them will lead a walker into different districts of the city and there are many small side canals to explore also. I would recommend the Brouwersgracht for your first canal stroll. It is a short walk, but beautiful. The canal is crossed by quaint little bridges and colourful houseboats line its banks. This is one of the best scenic routes in the city and will certainly encourage anyone to see more.

Other Activities

As a native of Amsterdam, the canals and old-world architecture still enchants me. Although COVID-19 has the world in limbo and has closed many places of entertainment, I am pleased to know and tell people that there are still many simple and pleasant pleasures to be had in my fair city. Many of them at very low cost or for free.