Where does the name “Kirande” come from?

Many people ask me about the heritage of my name. If you’re in a for a story. Then read on.

It all began with a dream… When my mother was a teenager, she dreamt that she had a babygirl named “Kirande” (kee-rahn-duh). She had never heard of such a name. Neither in Indonesia, her home country, nor in The Netherlands where she was living at the time.

After waking up, she still remembered the dream. She decided that if she’d ever become a mother of a girl, she’d give her this name. Many years later, I was born.

Note, I’m not saying I am nor was a dream. The trouble my mother went through to feed me, sounds more like a nightmare!

For simplicity’s sake, I also listen to the nickname “Kira”. A name given to me during my year abroad in Stellenbosch, South-Africa.

How did you get into digital marketing?

After finishing the Hotelschool (B.Sc. Hospitality Mgt), I started hosted expat events in Amsterdam in 2006. To promote these events I used Facebook. Then I started blogging and became one of the most popular “bloggers” of Amsterdam. The word influencer didn’t exist in those days.

When moving to Brussels in 2015, I started working as a digital marketing freelancer. My resume is listed below.

After the pandemic, my father Ellert Nijenhuis gave in on my plea “please travel less, teach more online and enjoy more free time”. The launch of the eAcademy in 2022 was an instant success. Although… he does not have more free time.

What should you look for in a digital marketing coach?

First, make sure (s)he’s autodidact, a self-learner. The digital landscape changes continuously. Once a trend or best-practice reaches (school)books, the insight is already outdated.

Secondly, find someone who can think strategically and translate these thoughts into practical actions. There are many growth opportunities and not all would work for you. Find a professional who can understand your unique situation and can give clear, evidence-based advice. This will allow you to make the best decisions.

Lastly, there needs to be a “click” in personalities and mutual trust. Digital marketing and SEO is an ongoing endeavour. A once in a while SEO improvement is like going to the gym once a week; it really won’t get you into shape.

Find my short guide about my favourite places in Amsterdam at the bottom of this page. These places have stood the test of time for decades, if not centuries!

Why do you sometimes publish LinkedIn posts about sex, trauma therapy and peace leadership?

I have a Master’s in Sexology. Hopefully one day I have the mental space to launch my relationship improvement app for couples.

I’m the online business manager of Ellert Nijenhuis, PhD, a leading authority in healing dissociation and chronically traumatised patients.

I volunteer for CISV Belgium – an international organisation focused on educating the next generation on tolerance and mutual respect- if not appreciation. Diversity is beautiful.

Publishing principles

Kirande writes about digital marketing for professional service providers and small business owners. What I write are my personal opinions based on 15+ experiences in digital communication, academic knowledge on psychology and human behaviour, as well as findings of my (keyword) research at the time of publication. Please note, the online world changes even more rapidly than the “real world”. My opinions can change over time. I may not report on changes of my opinion.

Ownership and funding info

This website is privately funded by Kirande herself. Commissions can be obtained via affiliate links shown on this website.

Feedback, error reporting and contributing content

You can contact Kirande at hello//kirande//com

Ethics and diversity

Kirande’s values are: respect for differences and positive curiosity.

Resume (some highlights)

Here is my professional background in seven bullets:

• Digital marketing professional for small businesses, B2C multinationals, NGO’s and professional services (2010-present)
• Influencer with steady sponsorship/ad revenue (2006-2012)
• International event organiser. Next major event: international conference in Frankfurt, Germany planned for 2025
• Director of online membership platform for trauma therapists (2022-present)
• Strategic marketing consultant for multi stakeholder partnerships and public organisations (2018-present)
• Degrees: B.Sc. in Hospitality Management, B.Sc. in Psychology, M.Sc. in Sexology (cum laude)
• Fluent in English, Dutch, Afrikaans. Basic understanding of French, German and Italian.

Kirande’s Amsterdam Guide

Written with ChatGpt based on my prompt featuring my personal recommendations. I’ve left out the major musea. And check out whether the whiskey bar L&B has reopened yet; at the time of publishing this bar was “temporarily closed”.

Also, as an Indonesian I recommend you to go to The Hague for good Indonesian food – or try getting invited to my mum’s home ;-).

📍 Exploring the Canals Differently

• Self-Guided Canal Cruise
  Instead of a touristy canal cruise, rent a boat from Sloepdelen (or a similar company) and navigate the canals yourself. You don’t need a boating license—just a sense of adventure. This is a more intimate and flexible way to explore the city’s waterways.
• Take the Free Ferry to NDSM Werf
  Take the free “pontje” (ferry) from Central Station to NDSM Werf—it runs every 15 minutes and takes about 15 minutes to cross. At NDSM Werf, you’ll find a hip, industrial vibe with street art, cultural spaces, and cool places to eat.
  What to do at NDSM Werf:
  • STRAAT Museum – A museum dedicated to street art and graffiti, featuring large-scale murals. Open daily from 11:00 to 18:00.
  • Pllek – A trendy restaurant/bar made from shipping containers, perfect for waterfront drinks and sunset views.
  • Markets & Festivals – Check what’s on; NDSM regularly hosts flea markets, music festivals, and art events.

📍 Art, Photography & Culture

• Schuttersgalerij (Civic Guards Gallery) – FREE
  A hidden gem near the Amsterdam Museum, this free gallery showcases 17th-century group portraits of Amsterdam’s civic guards, similar to Rembrandt’s Night Watch. It’s a great alternative if you want a quick history fix without a long museum visit.
• FOAM Museum (For Photography Lovers)
  A must-visit for photography enthusiasts, FOAM features rotating exhibitions of modern and historical photography. The exhibits range from conceptual art to documentary-style works.
• Mark Raven Amsterdam Art (Souvenir Tip)
  If you’re looking for a unique Amsterdam-inspired souvenir, check out Mark Raven’s prints.
• Short on time? Visit the Hidden Church Museum (Our Lord in the Attic) and Oude Kerk, the oldest building in Amsterdam. They’re close to each other and offer a mix of history and unique architecture.

📍 Authentic Amsterdam Food & Drinks

• Wynand Fockink (Traditional Liqueur Tasting)
  Near Dam Square, this 17th-century distillery offers authentic Dutch liqueurs. Try the crème caramel liqueur and remember—you must sip the first taste from the glass without lifting it!
• Café Papeneiland (Apple Pie & Cozy Dutch Atmosphere)
  If you want the best Dutch apple pie, skip the tourist-packed places and head to Papeneiland. The atmosphere here is incredibly gezellig (cozy), and you’ll get an authentic Amsterdam feel.
• In ‘t Aepjen is one of Amsterdam’s oldest bars, dating back to the 16th century. Located near Central Station, this historic wooden building has a cozy, antique-filled interior. Sailors once paid their tabs with monkeys, giving the bar its quirky name. Stop by for a Dutch beer or jenever in an old-world atmosphere.
• Albert Cuyp Market (Street Food & Shopping)
  The biggest street market in Amsterdam, selling everything from Dutch snacks to clothes and souvenirs.
  • Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels – Get a fresh, warm stroopwafel (thin waffles with caramel filling) straight off the press.
  • Tip: Buy a bag of leftover stroopwafel crumbs to take home or as a gift!
• Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room
  If you love cheese, this is a must. Enjoy a guided tasting session of aged Dutch cheeses, including Gouda varieties matured for years.
• Brouwerij ‘t IJ (Craft Beer by a Windmill – If the Weather is Good!)
  A local craft brewery located next to the De Gooyer windmill. It has a spacious terrace, perfect for a sunny day. Try their Zatte tripel or IPA.
• Proeflokaal Arendsnest (For Beer Lovers)
  A bar that serves only Dutch craft beers, perfect for those who love to try unique local brews.
• Bar Oldenhof —it’s a fantastic hidden speakeasy-style cocktail bar with an intimate, old-world charm. You’ll need to ring the doorbell to get in, but once inside, the cozy atmosphere, vintage décor, and expertly crafted cocktails make it a perfect spot for a romantic drink.
• Fancy a picnic Amstedam-style? Visit Frenzi Cucina a great spot to grab picnic supplies before heading to Vondelpark. Their selection of fresh bread, cheeses, cured meats, and Italian specialties makes it an ideal place to stock up for a relaxed outdoor meal. Alternatively, get your goods at the Albert Cuypmarket and enjoy your goodies at the Sarphatipark.
• For a luxurious break (day): book a high tea at The Amstel Intercontinental (€69 per person). Expect fine teas, pastries, and a riverside view in one of Amsterdam’s most elegant hotels. Book in advance!
• Luxury Splurge (evening):  Japanese Dining at Okura Hotel
  If you want an upscale dining experience, consider the Michelin-starred Japanese restaurants at Hotel Okura:
  • Yamazato – Traditional kaiseki cuisine.
  • Teppanyaki Sazanka – A teppanyaki experience with chefs cooking in front of you.

📍 Rooftop Bars & Views

• SkyLounge Amsterdam (Near Central Station) – Amazing city views. You don’t have to order expensive cocktails—just enjoy a coffee or tea while admiring the skyline.
• W Lounge (Near Spuistraat) – A trendy rooftop bar 
• NEMO Science Museum Roof Terrace – Free entry and fantastic panoramic views over Amsterdam. Reopening in Spring 2025.

📍 Music & Entertainment

• Café Alto (Live Jazz) – A cozy, intimate jazz bar with live performances every night.
• Boom Chicago (Comedy Club) – A top English-language comedy club, famous for its improv shows.
• Visit DutchNews.nl an English-language news website covering Dutch current affairs, politics, business and …. arts & culture.
• Concert Venues: Check the schedules at:
  • Paradiso (Former church, now a legendary music venue).
  • Melkweg (Diverse concerts & alternative music).
  • Concertgebouw (Classical music performances).
  • DeLaMar Theater (Theatre & performances).
  • Westergasfabriek (Cultural events & markets).

🚴 Suggested Bike Route 1: Amsterdamse Bos

If you like biking, avoid biking through town. Instead, discover different sides of Amsterdam. For example, take this route:

1. Start in the Centre
2. Ride through Vondelpark – The most famous green space in the city.
3. Pass through “Oud Zuid” – Where the wealthy families live, with beautiful townhouses.
4. Continue to “Nieuw Zuid” – A more modern, semi-affluent area.
5. Arrive at Amsterdamse Bos (The Woods) – A huge forest park with cycling paths.
6. Stop at Bosbaan Café – Overlooking a rowing course, a perfect place for a coffee or drink.

This 30-40 minute bike ride gives you a feel for the different parts of Amsterdam and shows how small the city really is.

🚴 Scenic Bike Route Along the Amstel

Start in Amsterdam’s city center and follow the Amstel River south towards Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. Along the way, you’ll pass some of Amsterdam’s most iconic buildings, historic sites, and beautiful houseboats.

What You’ll See Along the Route:

1️⃣ Stopera – The city’s opera house and town hall, right on the Amstel.
2️⃣ Hermitage Amsterdam – A former 17th-century retirement home, now an art museum.
3️⃣ Amstel Hotel (Intercontinental Amstel Amsterdam) – A luxurious 5-star hotel with a rich history.
4️⃣ Theatre Carré – One of Amsterdam’s most famous theaters, known for cabaret, musicals, and circus performances.
5️⃣ Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) – The most famous drawbridge in Amsterdam, beautifully lit at night.
6️⃣ Omval & Rembrandt Tower – The area where old meets new, with modern high-rises next to charming riverside homes.
7️⃣ Houseboats & Riverside Mansions – As you ride further south, you’ll pass classic houseboats and grand riverside villas.
8️⃣ Loetje aan de Amstel – A perfect mid-ride stop for a drink or steak by the water.
9️⃣ Ouderkerk aan de Amstel – A small, peaceful village with charming streets, old churches, and the historic Jewish cemetery.

From here, turn back for a relaxing return ride, experiencing the Amstel from a different perspective!

📍 Biking instructions in Amsterdam

• 🚲Bike on the right side of the lane – Amsterdammers bike fast and will get aggressive when you’re in their way. When it gets busy, bike behind one another, so others can overtake you.
• 🚲 Avoid Tram Tracks – If your wheel gets stuck in a tram track, you’ll fall. Always cross at an angle.
• 🚲 Stick to Bike Lanes – If you don’t see other bikers, it’s likely a pedestrian-only area, and you might get fined.
• 🚲 Lock Your Bike Properly – Bike theft is a real issue. Always lock your bike to something solid.

📍 Budget-Friendly Tips

• €5* Pizza at Korte Leidsedwarsstraat – If you’re running low on cash, grab a cheap pizza in this street near Leidseplein. *That was the price 20 years ago.
• Falafel Stalls near Leidsestraat – A great affordable meal, and most places let you refill toppings for free.
• Thai Restaurant The Bird – A well-known spot for Thai food- also has a snackbar across the street: Snackbar The Bird, which serves the same food for half the price. It’s small and popular, better visit between lunch and dinner time.
• Nam Kee – A legendary Chinese restaurant (famous for their oysters), though it used to be much cheaper.
• Note: pancake places are generally not cheap. Try having poffertjes at a food stall, instead.
• For more restaurant tips: Amsterdam Foodie is your gal. Check out her long list of budget restaurants.

Final Tip: Just Get Lost & Explore!

Amsterdam is a city best discovered on foot or by bike. Wander through the small alleyways, along the canals, and explore different neighborhoods—you’ll stumble upon charming cafés, hidden courtyards, and unique shops.

Enjoy your trip! 🚲🌷✨