Sometimes I don’t have to travel far to cope with that strange feeling the Germans beautifully describe as Fernweh: the longing for somewhere faraway. I just have to grab my bike and head for the Lizboa. This steamer from the nineteenth century on Veemkade 251 offers a unique location to escape daily life and to be immersed in a friendly and welcoming world. With its cozy wooden tables arranged in long rows, the bar shining with wood, copper and water, the interior transmits the long forgotten world of sailors’ solidarity.

During the week the Lizboa hosts parties, weddings, and so on, but once a week on Sundays it’s open to public. From 5:00pm you are welcome to find a place along the long tables. If you opt for dinner you can buy a large or small plate at the bar and serve yourself at the banquet (various dishes mainly Mediterranean) downstairs. From 8:00pm live music starts playing in the same room. In wintertime you unfortunately miss the tremendous view over the water from the upper deck, but you still can enjoy thousands of little lights shining over the dark water.

Filled with sweet memories of the Lizboa, because my sweetheart gave a party there to celebrate his newly attained doctor’s title, I was pleased that it still has this relaxed informal ambiance with a totally mixed crowd. A couple of Sunday’s ago we met with friends and had a brilliant night even though I thought the African percussion was a bit too loud. So I ended up smoking on deck with a waiter who had to flee from the music as well.  Don’t let this scare you away since the bands change every Sunday, but to be sure you check the website.

For me it’s the familiar atmosphere at the Lizboa I cherish, but acknowledge it’s not a cool or trendy place. A classier alternative can be found on the nearby boat Odessa on Veemkade 259: open four days a week, with an à la carte restaurant and the possibility to dance on Friday and Saturday night.

Go further: Read here about Frederique's visit to the unique Lloyd Hotel located near Lizboa.