Here's a little tip that you may never use, but might one day save you from a great deal of pain.

Due to the sideffects of global warming, Amsterdam has become a sort of warm weather spring-summer getaway, or at least it will in the coming years, mark my words. (that is until the oceans level rise and it all comes to an end)

So you may get here in April, like for example this year, and look around and think - WOW, its such nice weather, let's go swimming. And you may be lucky enough to take a boat straight down the Amstel river, toward a lovely town called OudeKerk. And after enjoying all the beautiful scenery, especially the plentiful nature, you may decide -- time to jump in for a swim.

Here's where my advice should chime in. ITS COLD. No really, I mean, it's cold. It might look lovely and there might be, as there were this weekend, families bar-b-q-ing on either side of the river... but still.. its cold. Colder than you think. Cause remember, it is still April, NOT the season for swimming in a canal, no matter how appealing the water might look. Just enjoy the scenery, have some snacks and drinks, wave at the other boats and the ladies in the bikini's... and sail on. Stay out of the water until at least... June. Ouch.