HEMA is a large dutch retailer.  The first HEMA opened in Amsterdam on November 4th, 1926.  They were originally a price-point retailer (sorta like a Pound Store) but are now one of the most common department stores throughout the Netherlands.  Like many other European chains, they rely on high quality design as one of their main selling points.  For more information about them, see this page.

I have shopped at their original Amsterdam store several times and it is definitely a good place to stop when you visit Amsterdam.  There stores are also good landmarks to know about if you need to pick up travel supplies while in town … my first trip into their main store was to purchase an extra bag for the trip back to Oxford.

Luckily, they also have a sense of humor … click on this link and wait for the fun!

The Heineken Experience reopens today (3 Nov). For those who remember, it was from the Heineken Experience that Jill & I first announced our engagement. For a reminder of it, see this video.

Anyway, they have posted a video (included below) about the newly renovated Experience and a large portion of it looks very similar to the old one. Then again, it has a special place in my heart and I would probably go back next time I am in Amsterdam! Read more »