In change, I haven't been very good. I wasn't in the past either. It stressed me out completely. But now I'm a few years older and even though I'll never be a pro at it, sometimes change is just good. And in this case, I really think so, because as a true Amsterdammer, I never went to the center. Leidseplein, Leidsestraat, Kalverstraat... I tend to avoid it a bit. Because what would I do there? Make my way through the tourists, looking for the nice shops? Nah. Not for me.

Well, that was before. Because Kalverstraat is getting a complete makeover and a whole new look and feel. And the Heiligeweg too, by the way. So shopping here will be a good old-fashioned party again.

Not just shopping, by the way: a city walk through the streets will also be among the possibilities (if you have such a good backbone to ignore the shops, by the way — I don't have that). Kalverstraat promises to be a true experience. More attention for fashion, living, and culture. But a yoga school will also open its doors here, just like a hairdresser, and the street will become greener, and they are in talks with the municipality about various types of activities.

So don't be surprised if Kalverstraat suddenly looks very different when you stroll through it again. But to be honest: this change is really so much better.

Image: Kalverstraat.nl