We recently spoke with our tour guide Caroline, who has been working in the tourism industry for over twenty-five years. She has worked all over the world, and currently spends a part of the year giving tours in Amsterdam, and part of the year giving tours in Japan. As a result, she has a great understanding of diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Here are her answers to our questions:
Q: How did you become a tour guide?
A: I’ve been working in the tourism industry worldwide for nearly thirty years. Around five years ago, I decided to do my tour guide exams and become a tour guide.
Q: Why would you recommend doing a food tour?
A: Compared to other types of tours, food tours are very informal. The groups are small, and you have more contact with each other. And it’s always nice to eat and drink together.
Q: What would be your number 1 tip for someone who has only a few days to spend in Amsterdam (besides a food tour)?
A: A boat tour is a must, because it gives you a different perspective of the city. The view from the boat is beautiful. The museums are also highly recommended. Not only the popular ones like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh, but also the smaller ones. Some good options include the Willet-Holthuysen and the Van Loon. These are both very beautiful and allow you to see the interiors and gardens of the canal-side houses.
Q: What is your favorite food, and where in Amsterdam do you most like to eat it?
A:
Indonesian food. There are so many options for this in Amsterdam. The nice thing about Indonesian food is that you can find anything from street food to fancy restaurant meals. The best Indonesian street food in Amsterdam is from Saté Charly at the Lindengracht market, which we visit on the Saturday tours. If you go to a restaurant, I highly recommend that you try a rijsttafel (rice table). You can also wake me up in the middle of the night for haring (herring)!
Q: What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned during your time as a (food) tour guide?
A: When I first started working as a tour guide, I was amazed by how many stories you can tell about haring. There’s real history and technique behind it. And, of course, you can also learn all about this on our food tours.
Q: What other tours do you provide, besides the food tours?
A: In Amsterdam, I do all kinds of tours in addition to the food tours. For example, museum tours, history walks, Jewish heritage tours, and more. I also spend part of the year giving tours in Japan.
Caroline brings many years of tourism experience and knowledge of diverse cultures to the table. During your tour, she’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about Amsterdam and its (food) culture. And if you’re looking for additional recommendations for things to do and places to go, she’ll have great suggestions for you.
Want to discover the real Amsterdam with us?