Exploring Amsterdam and Beyond

Hi, I’m Lily — an Amsterdam-based creative director, writer and photographer sharing curated travel guides and photo journals that highlight authentic, cultural experiences.

Focused on intentional travel, my city guides explore local perspectives and observations through my lens of curiosity and creativity. Follow along to get inspired, see the world, and welcome new discoveries — whether exploring near or far.

Start here

Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Amsterdam

Discover the best parks to photograph cherry blossoms in Amsterdam.

Lily Heaton 6/20/24 Lily Heaton 6/20/24

Lonely Planet Feature: Amsterdam Local Flavor

A local’s guide for the best places to eat and drink in Amsterdam. Lonely Planet travel writer Lily Heaton shares her favorite independent cafes, restaurants, bars, and sunny terraces in Amsterdam.

Lily Heaton 12/18/23 Lily Heaton 12/18/23

Lonely Planet Feature: Amsterdam's Five Best Independent Shops

Curious about shopping in Amsterdam? Read my latest digital article for Lonely Planet featuring five of my favorite local independent shops in Amsterdam

Lily Heaton 9/7/23 Lily Heaton 9/7/23

Visit Zurich: Summer City Guide

A summer city guide to Zurich, Switzerland—featuring must-visit spots, lakeside bathhouses, and what to see, do, and eat in Zurich. Plan the perfect summer getaway in Zurich.

Lily Heaton 10/5/22 Lily Heaton 10/5/22

City Guide: Palma de Mallorca

Explore Palma de Mallorca with the ultimate city guide featuring the best places to eat, stay, drink, shop, and experience culture on Spain’s Balearic island.

Lily Heaton 7/31/22 Lily Heaton 7/31/22

Amsterdam LGBTQ+ City Guide

Travel writer Lily Heaton curated this Amsterdam Pride City Guide for LGBTQ+ travelers. Discover safe spaces, queer-owned cafes, bars, clubs, and community organizations—created by and for the LGBTQ+ community—plus tips for celebrating alternatives to Pride in Amsterdam.

Lily Heaton 10/28/20 Lily Heaton 10/28/20

Black-Owned Amsterdam City Guide

Discover where to eat, drink and shop at diverse Black-owned businesses in Amsterdam. Spend a day supporting Black-owned businesses from restaurants to shops and cultural spaces in Amsterdam.