LEADING LIGHT

With its famous canals, wonderful architecture and renowned art galleries, Amsterdam offers a great weekend escape any time of year. Of course, the city also has a thriving gay scene — make time to see the Homomonument, a memorial to all LGBT+ people who have suffered persecution — and the famous “coffee shops” selling space cake for those wanting a blissful trip. That legal high may be all the more fun during the 7th annual Amsterdam Light Festival which runs from 29 November to 20 January. The event sees international designers, architects and artists transforming the city’s canals with light- themed sculptures.