Amsterdam hardly ever makes the grade in anyone's hit list of Europe's top romantic cities. Paris, Rome, Venice - even London - are likely to leave the Dutch capital well behind.
Some may frown on its links with red light sleaze and its drug smoking 'coffeeshops'. Others may think Amsterdam just a little too dull. Whatever the reasons, when a romantic weekend city break is on the cards, Amsterdam rarely turns up trumps.
What a pity! Despite what you may hear, Amsterdam is not all cannabis and carnality. Amsterdam also turns out to be a gem of a city break destination that could well win the heart of the one you love. And what gives this city a romantic gloss?
Amsterdam turns out to be one of the diamond capitals of Europe. And what surer way to win her heart than a glitzy tour of one of Amsterdam's diamond workshops? It's a glittering jewel in this tourist city's crown. And what's more - it's free!
The diamond factory tour is one of Amsterdam's most popular attractions. More than 340.000 visitors see Coster Diamonds' craftsmen at work every year. During free-guided tours, which are available in more than 25 languages, the process of cutting and polishing a diamond is explained in detail by expert staff. It's a sparkling experience which you will not forget in a hurry. And afterwards visitors can admire their impressive diamond and jewellery collection.
Discover the secrets of diamond cutting in the Gassan diamond-polishing factory in the city centre, itself considered a bright spot on any city tour. Be sure to book in advance to be sure of a place, as demand for places is very strong. You will be shown where diamonds are found and how they are classified, cut. You can watch the polishers at their craft and wonder how they resist the temptation to lose the odd stone?
Amstel Diamonds is one of the oldest diamond factories of Amsterdam and has been producing gems since 1876. You can find them on the river in an old canal house in the very heart of historic Amsterdam. Here you may see the 'print test' where a diamond stone is passed over a newspaper cutting. Only the genuine gem will allow you to read the small print.
A diamond bought on a romantic holiday break will always have a special significance. And experts agree there is no more reputable place to buy than Amsterdam. Visitors will also agree that the tours are every bit as sparkling as the gems themselves. The city has been a world centre for the diamond trade since the 16th century and you will be sure to find the world's best-cut diamonds in Amsterdam.
What finer way to dazzle your partner than a trip with that extra sparkle? And if diamonds may be a trifle too expensive for your pockets what could be better than window shopping for gems and trying on some of the world's classiest jewels?
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