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Being 25 kilometres (15 miles) from the sea, Amsterdam was hardly anyone's choice for a beach holiday until sand was tipped on the artificial islands of IJburg, where 45,000 people will come to live. While construction continues, the vast expanse of sand and surrounding fresh-water lake are being exploited for their surreal beach-like properties. The restaurant/bar Blijburg - with barbecues, bands and DJs - is on hand to cater to eating and drinking whims.