Eats:

Poffertjeskraam De Haan
No visit to Deutschland is complete without sampling the regional specialty known as "poffertjes," or Dutch waffles. And this restaurant serves up some of the best in town. Super service in an historical setting make this restaurant a favorite with locals and tourists alike.

Address: Brink, 1251 KR Laren, Netherlands
Telephone: 035-5312599
link here

De Prinsemary
If cozy/romantic is what you're looking for, look no further than De Prinsemary. Enjoy a lovely French meal in a beautifully appointed and charmingly arranged restaurant, with flowers on the tables, an outside patio, and a friendly, helpful staff. Cest si bon!

Address: Sint Janstraat 1, 1251 KX Laren, Netherlands
Telephone: 035-5341895
link here

 

Shopping:

Gooi', Laren a different way of shopping
Despite the fact that Laren is rather small, it has an excellent shopping center filled with haute couture, shoes shops, gift, book and craft shops, and antique and art galleries. With a nod to tradition and old world charm, there is a flower stall on the Brink, the central square of the 'Coeswaerde,' where blooms can still be purchased for a 'song.'

http://www.laren.nl/

Boudisque
Boudisque has been located in the city center for over 30 years, and it is known far and wide as the best record store in the city. Not only is it a great venue to checking out the latest hits including techno, ambient, hardcore, punk, reggae, bass and pop (among many other styles), it is a great resource for information on the music industry. The staff is pretty knowledgeable and helpful too.

Address: Haringpakkerssteeg 39373, Amsterdam, 1012 LR, Netherlands
Telephone: +31 (0)20 623 2603
link here

Taart van m'n Tante (De)
Edible works of art are the star here at “My Aunt’s Cake.” Local faves are the huge puff towers and firework pies (you have to see it to believe it). The bakery uses only natural ingredients and everything is hand-made to your specifications. Order up something special or just pop in for a visual and edible treat.

Address: Ferdinand Bolstraat 10, Amsterdam, 1072 LJ, Netherlands
Telephone: +31 (0)20 776 4600
http://www.detaart.com

 

Lodgings:

Golden Tulip Loosdrecht Hotel
Biking? Hiking? Water sports? Enjoy it all at the Golden Tulip Loosdrecht Hotel, a "home away from home." Located in the awe-inspiring Loosdrecht Lakes region, this hotel abounds with nature and first-class amenities.

Address: 253 Oudloosdrechtsedijk, Loosdrecht,1231 Z Netherlands
Telephone: 035-5824904
http://www.goldentuliploosdrecht.nl/

Hilton Royal Parc Soestduinen
The Hilton Royal Parc is in the Hills of Utrecht, close to some of the most beautiful woodlands in the heart of the Netherlands. All 85 rooms and suites have large balconies, some overlooking the 9-hole golf course. The historical city of Utrecht is close by and also well worth a visit for its many picturesque canals.

Address: Van Weerden Poelmanweg 4-6, Soestduinen, 3768 Netherlands 3768 MN
Telephone: 31-35-6038383
link here

Mercure Baarn Kasteel de Hooge Vuursche
Imagine a 19th century castle complete with spacious and luxurious guest rooms, a fine dining restaurant with a king-size fireplace, beautiful gardens with ethereal fountains, bike rentals, swimming and a nearby golf course, and you've realized the Mercure Baarn Kasteel de Hooge - the perfect getaway. Netherlands style.

Address: Hilversumsestraatweg 14, BAARN, 3744 KC Netherlands
link here

 

Hangouts:

Keukenhof gardens, Flowers in Laren
A spring cruise to Holland and the Netherlands is never complete without a shore excursion to the Keukenhof Gardens near Amsterdam. Open only a few weeks out of the year, Keukenhof is the world's largest flower garden. Canvassing hundreds of acres, this breathtaking garden attracts over 800,000 visitors each year in the span of just a few weeks. Pretty impressive. The tourists think so, too.

http://www.keukenhof.nl/nm/english.html

Boom Chicago
Enjoy an evening of laughter with some pretty funny expat comedians. Located in the main square in Amsterdam - just a hop, jump and a skip from Laren - Boom Chicago is a popular comedy club that serves up laughs, Chicago style.

Address: Leidseplein 12, 1017 PT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Telephone: +31 20 423 0101
http://www.boomchicago.nl/en/

The NOON Coffeeshop
If the words "low-key local hangout" inspire you, stop by the NOON coffeeshop. Although the locals prefer to hang out at this joint pre dinner/pre theater. Plop down on a comfy bench covered with pillows and bid a local "hallo" like a true Amstervite. Roll your own and enjoy a cup of joe. No worries.

Address: Zieseniskade 22, Amsterdam
Telephone 0031 (0)20 6250720
http://www.indexo.pionexnet.co.uk/coffeeshop/Database/ShopsA/Noon.html