Europe's city of sin is changing radically. In an attempt to stave off the economic crisis that is affecting so many other countries across the globe, the government has brought renovation to Amsterdam's centre.

Reportedly one third of Amsterdam's illustrious red light district has converted into housing and shops. And that's on top of the smoking ban that came into play on July 1 2008.

This is excellent news for the city's citizens who are finding more affordable housing but for the hoards of tourists the Dam may never be quite the same again.

Spend the night raving at the world's premier drum and bass weekender, Innovation in the Dam in the winter.

Don't expect a cultured experience - Amsterdam really is the seediest city in Europe. And it's expensive to boot.