It’s not like I really have to push hard Amsterdam as a hot spot for hot boys. And why not? The Dutch capital is the most liberal city on Earth; its red light district is legendary, its Gay Pride flotilla (the “parade” is actually in a canal) is the biggest event in the city, and as one of Europe’s imperial cities, Amsterdam as culture coming out of its ears.
But come April 30this a once-in-a-lifetime event. Under normal circumstances, the day is known across the Netherlands as Queensday, (“Koninginnedag” in Dutch), and is a anniversary of the reign of Queen Beatrix, who took the throne in 1980. Now closing in on her 75th birthday, the venerable but increasingly fragile Beatrix stunned the world in January when she announced her abdication in favor of her son. And so, on April 30th, at the Royal Dam Palace and Nieuwe Kerk cathedral in Amsterdam, the Netherlands and the world will witness the ascension of Prince Willem-Alexander to the Dutch throne and title of King Regnant. By his side will be his wife, Princess Maxima, who will be crowned Queen Consort.
I don’t think I have to tell you just how big the party is going to be. Like I said, there are plenty of reasons to go to Amsterdam, but to witness the coming of a king? GET YOUR TICKETS NOW.
Expect an overload of imperial splendor…and orange. All countries have official colors—the United States has red, white, and blue, after all. Holland settled on orange, which is a sly reference to the House of Orange-Nassau, of which the Dutch royal family is an offshoot. And just so you know, do not get between a Dutchman and his orange; it may be the most impossible color to wear any other time of the year, but on this day and in this country, it will be the color to see and be seen in.
Mere mortals like us won’t be able to get anywhere near the actual investiture ceremony in the Nieuwe Kerk, or the afterparty at the palace. That being said, picking a spot along the official parade route between the two to catch a glimpse of a royal or two is a perfect way to spend the day. And when the sun goes down? Hooo, boy.
Technically speaking, and in spite of all the flowing gowns, gobs of jewels, and fancy hand gesturing, Willem-Alexander’s coronation isn’t a gay event, but the gay clubs of Amsterdam aren’t going to let that stop them. For a good time, Amsterdam’s popular club of the moment is Church, which has different dance and fetish nights. NYX, attracts young guys and guys into young guys, while Fuxxx (I swear that it its name) is more cruisy. There is also Roque, which is actually a very big bar with a dance floor.
A bit of advice: Swing by a store and pick up an orange jock strap. It’ll do wonders, and you’ll thank me later. Contact Steele Luxury Travel to organize your trip to Amsterdam including great hotel rates and discounted business class and economy flights! Call 646-688-2274 for more details!
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