Photo: Henryhill125

I used to live around the corner of the Zeedijk, the main street of Amsterdam’s Chinatown. From the window of our tiny apartment I could see the St Nicolaas church and the bridge that tourists pass while getting into town. Nine out of ten made a photo from that bridge, and the recurrent flashes of reflecting blue lit up our room and reminded us of the wealth we could have made if we had possession of those image rights.

In small cities like Venice or Amsterdam it is easier to find a unique historical monument than to find a perfect hangout place. One of my favourites is indeed very hard to find because it’s located in the middle of a deserted shipyard.

To get there, take the boat behind the central station (direction NDSM Werf) or from the less crowdy stop at Distelweg. On the other side of the Ij-Canal, walk 50 meters straight ahead then turn to the right and walk for another 300 meters. Here, you will find yourself in the middle of the former shipyard where all kinds of artists have installed their ateliers. At the end of the docks, standing on a tiny little hill, you’ll find Café Noorderlicht. The semi-circular building recalls a greenhouse, and is especially beautiful when illuminated at night and is stunning by sunset.

Photo by Manou van der Noort

Friends tell me that it’s a bit alternative, but believe me Amsterdam was screaming for such a place. It’s still less cool and grungy than for instance Bar 25 in Berlin. On beautiful days when the terrace is overflowing, you can sit wherever you like. My place is directly at the waterfront where I can look over the water daydreaming, talk with friends or read a book undisturbed by yelling toddlers.

My hardcore city kids, when they are here, enjoy playing with dogs between the boats and exploring water plants. For me, this place has the sheer wildness and magic which I relate to an end-of-the-world mood. Not in an apocalyptic sense, but in the spirit of being liberated from everyday life; you can relax without getting bored. All kinds of people seem to be attracted by this café, so don’t worry that you’ll have to spend time with some utterly barbaric tribe.

Those who have a soft spot for flea markets will be happy that there’s a good one in this area (forget about Waterloopein). It’s not held regularly, so check this website for information.

CAFÉ NOORDERLICHT; t.t. Neveritaweg 33; Amsterdam