Whether you live together or a thousand miles apart, trying to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift whilst travelling can be frustrating when your mum deserves the world. Spending Mother’s Day apart might be a painful reminder just how far away mum really is, but it will allow you to source some weird, yet wonderful gifts from another country.
We have listed 8 awesome Mother’s Day gifts from Amsterdam that are sure to show mum that you’re thinking of her whilst you’re away from home.
Table of Contents
1.Tulip bulbs
(£) Where to buy: Bloemenmarkt
First imported to Holland in the sixteenth century from the Ottoman Empire, tulips have grown to become one of the most enduring symbols of the Netherlands. During their early days in Holland, tulips became so popular in paintings and festivals that they created the first economic bubble, known as “Tulip Mania” (tulipomania). Tulipomania meant that tulips were so expensive that it was seen as a luxury to receive them from a loved one.
Instead of buying tulip bulbs that are out of season near Mother’s Day, we recommend buying packaged seeds. This will allow mum to watch her tulips bloom in the comfort of her home later in the year.
Did you know? Holland is known as the ‘flower shop of the world’
Clink recommends: the best months to buy tulip bulbs are September, October and November.
2. Stroopwafels
(£) Where to buy: Albert Cuypmarkt
Arguably one of the most-loved exports of Amsterdam, the stroop (syrup) wafel (waffle) is a sweet Dutch snack packed with a caramel-like syrup and lightly dusted with cinnamon.
Legend has it that bakers would mix together leftover cookie crumbs to form a dough and then shape this mixture into waffles. To sweeten these treats, bakers glued the waffles together with sugar syrup, forming what we know today as the stroopwafel.
Packaged, they make excellent little souvenirs to bring home for mum from a trip to the Netherlands, and can be found in almost every store in Amsterdam.
Clink recommends: let the stroopwafel sit on top of your cup of tea or coffee for a few minutes to enjoy it warm.
P.S. don’t forget to enjoy one freshly made whilst you’re at Albert Cuypmarkt – you can thank us later
Source: RTL Nieuws
Heading to Amsterdam soon? Read our guide on what NOT to do in Amsterdam here
3. Postcards
(£) Where to buy: Rijksmuseum
From time differences to God-awful internet roaming speeds, we know that it’s hard to keep in touch with family whilst travelling the world. Postcards are a fun way to speak to loved ones back home, let them know where you are and what you’re doing, without feeling the need to check your Facebook messages.
A beautifully handwritten postcard is one of the most thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts from Amsterdam when you’re far from home, and can be found at almost every souvenir shop or supermarket.
4. Gouda Cheese
(£) Where to buy: Henri Willig, De Kaaskelder
Gouda is the most popular cheese exported by the Netherlands, and is known for its mild, almost sweet flavor. Did you know, studies show that Dutch people consume 25% more dairy products on average than the British or Americans – so they really know how to make a good chunk of cheese.
Whilst you can purchase cheese from stalls and markets across the city, we recommend heading to a local cheese store. They may be slightly more expensive, but they can usually vacuum seal your purchase – great for bringing cheese home with you as a gift for mum from Amsterdam this Mother’s Day!
Source: henriwillig.com
5. Delft-inspired cups
(££) Where to buy: Rijksmuseum
From blue and white milk jugs and kitchen tiles these porcelain, iconic symbols of the Netherlands are an ideal, practical souvenir for mum from Amsterdam this Mother’s Day.
The trademark blue-and-white pottery dates back to the 17th century, and was seen as a luxury imported from ancient Asia. Whilst antique pieces that are the real-deal can set you back a few hundred euros, Delft-inspired crockery can be found around Amsterdam for a fraction of the price. However, be sure to wrap it tight when travelling home – these beautiful pieces are fragile.
Source: Klevering.com
6. A bottle of Oranje Bitter
(££) Where to buy: Gall & Gall, Jodenbreestraat
Distilled with several types of oranges, Oranje Bitter is a drink developed in the 17th century in order to celebrate festivities of the Dutch monarchy, also known as Kings Day. Oranje Bitter is a great gift from Amsterdam for mum’s that love a tipple or two (we’re not judging – promise).
Clink recommends: enjoy over ice, or in a margarita if you’re feeling fancy.
image source: by the Dutch
7. Rituals Amsterdam Collection Candle
(£££) Where to buy: Rituals, Stationsplein
Okay, we know that this one is a little pricey, but she’s worth it, right?
Enhanced with the calming scent of the Dutch tulip and yuzu, the Rituals Amsterdam Collection candle is the perfect gift for mum from Amsterdam. The candle is the brainchild of both Rituals and Rijksmuseum, creating a bespoke candle set in real porcelain and finished with a delft-inspired pattern. The collection is a nod to the Golden Age, when Asia was brought to the Netherlands.
Providing up to 70 hours of pure bliss and made from sunflower wax, the Rituals Amsterdam Collection candle is a luxurious treat from Amsterdam for mum to enjoy this Mother’s Day.
8. A painting crafted by you
(£££) Where to buy: Amsterdam Canal Painting, Jordaan
Nothing beats a gift lovingly crafted by someone special. This is why we believe that this is the perfect gift from Amsterdam this Mother’s Day.
Learn the painting techniques of Vincent van Gogh and make everybody jealous with your own made masterpiece. This is a great way to paint your own Van Gogh souvenir while enjoying the beautiful Amsterdam canal (and free tea and coffee, of course).
Time: 11:00-15:00
Appointment only, email info@amsterdamcanalpainting.nl to book
Whatever souvenirs from Amsterdam you choose to buy mum this Mother’s Day, it’s important to remember that gifting is not about money, but thoughtfulness.
The best presents don’t cost the world, but are packed with love, effort and meaning. If you have ideas for mother’s day gifts from Amsterdam to add to our list, be sure to share them with us on Facebook or Instagram.
