I’ll be honest: I have the best job on the CASA26 team right now.

While the rest of the crew is buried in sponsor decks, budget spreadsheets, and speaker line-ups (huge respect — someone has to make the numbers work and get the class act talent on stage), I’ve been out on a bike, weaving through sunlit canals, on a mission of my own: finding the perfect spot for our social evening.

Because let’s be real — the sessions matter, the speakers matter, the sponsors matter. But everyone who’s been to a CASA event before knows where the real magic happens: the social evening. That’s where the hallway conversations turn into actual friendships. Where someone you just met over a cocktail becomes a collaborator, a mentor, or just a great story for next year.

So today’s “work” looked like this: cruising past centuries-old canal houses with their crooked gables and glinting reflections in the water, and checking out one of the city’s best hotspots for cocktails and food.

Good news on both fronts. I found our Monday social evening location — a club with exactly the right vibe: great drinks, great food, and just enough buzz to get people talking without drowning them out. And CASA26 itself? It’s landing at the Tobacco Theater — a stunning old building with a carved wooden door straight out of another century. One of those canal houses I passed along the way is still on the shortlist as a backup venue too.

And with that, the full social program is locked in: a canal boat tour with Sandbox and the startups on Sunday, followed by CAVE dinner for our key partners at Watergang, dinner and cocktails at TufTuf on Monday, drinks on Tuesday, and a special GSMA day on Wednesday. Every day has its own vibe, and I can’t wait for you all to experience it.

CASA26 is coming together beautifully, thanks to a team grinding through the unglamorous-but-essential stuff so the glamorous stuff (hi, that’s me) can shine. Genuinely — I love this job.

Amsterdam on a Sunday is a dream: the city feels both relaxed and buzzing, with art, food, and canals waiting around every corner. Whether you’re into museums, wandering hidden streets, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, here’s the ultimate itinerary for Sunday, September 21.

🌟 Morning: Art & Inspiration

📍 Stedelijk Museum

Kick off your day with bold colors and big ideas. The Stedelijk is home to modern and contemporary art legends like Mondriaan, Picasso, and Warhol. Perfect for sparking creativity.

📍 Foam (Museum of Photography)

Prefer images that tell a story? Head to Foam, where exhibitions range from documentary projects to avant-garde experiments.

📸 Photo idea: The striking bathtub-shaped façade of the Stedelijk makes a fun architectural shot.

💡 Insider tip: Before or after your museum fix, grab a specialty coffee at Back to Black (near Museumplein).

🚶‍♀️ Late Morning: A Walk Through History

Amsterdam is best explored on foot. Take a guided walking tour to uncover the city’s crooked houses, hidden courtyards, and quirky stories.

Prefer a DIY option? Stroll through the Jordaan district, with its narrow alleys, art galleries, and cozy canals.

📸 Photo idea: Snap the canals framed by bicycles on Brouwersgracht — one of the prettiest spots in the city.

🍴 Lunch: Tasty Pause at Watergang

Recharge with a meal at Restaurant Watergang, loved for its hearty plates and warm vibe.

👉 Foodie alternative: Try Foodhallen, a lively indoor market offering bites from sushi to gourmet tacos — perfect if you’re traveling with friends who all want different things.

📸 Photo idea: Capture the buzzing atmosphere of Foodhallen, with stalls glowing under string lights.

✨ Afternoon: Canal Life & Shopping

You’ve got two tempting paths here:

Cruise the canals with Leemstar.nl – Small, intimate boats, friendly skippers, and plenty of stories along the way. A glass of wine in hand makes it magic. Explore De Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets) – Boutique shops, vintage gems, and cozy cafés in one of Amsterdam’s prettiest areas.

📸 Photo idea: From the boat, catch a shot of the iconic Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug) at golden hour.

🌳 Late Afternoon: Green Escape in Vondelpark

After shopping or cruising, slip into Vondelpark for some fresh air. The city’s favorite green oasis is alive with joggers, kids, musicians, and picnickers.

💡 Insider moment: Bring along a pastry or a bottle of wine — locals love to sprawl on the grass for impromptu picnics.

📸 Photo idea: Capture the park’s tree-lined paths with cyclists streaming past.

🍷 Evening: Dinner with Atmosphere

Round out your Sunday with a memorable dinner:

Restaurant Amsterdam – Housed in a former pumping station, it’s spacious, lively, and delicious. Watergang (if you saved it for dinner) – Cozy and laid-back, ideal if you prefer a quieter vibe.

👉 Nightcap suggestion: End the day at Café de Prins, right on Prinsengracht canal — candles, wooden interiors, and the hum of happy locals.

📸 Photo idea: Snap the canal reflections outside Café de Prins at night.

✨ Bonus Ideas if You’ve Got More Energy

Visit the Anne Frank House (book well ahead!). Explore Westerpark, a cultural hotspot with bars, galleries, and green spaces. Catch live jazz at Café Alto, a legendary music bar.

💭 Final Thoughts

Amsterdam on a Sunday is best enjoyed slowly: mix a little art, a little wandering, and plenty of good food. Whether you’re gliding along the canals, treasure-hunting in the Nine Streets, or sipping wine under the trees in Vondelpark, September 21 promises to be unforgettable.

👉 Travel tip for CASA25 guests: All of these spots are easily reachable by bike, tram, or even on foot if you’re up for it. Amsterdam rewards curiosity — so take your time and let the city surprise you.

A month from now, a select group of industry leaders will step through the doors of Amsterdam’s Tobacco Theater — and into a world few ever get to experience. CASA25 isn’t just another conference. It’s a curated, members-only gathering that feels more like an underground speakeasy than a tech event.

Step inside the theatre.

The main stage sets the tone: intimate lighting, velvet seating, and a stage designed not for endless keynotes but for raw, unfiltered conversations. No sales pitches. No noise. Just the kind of insight you can only get when the smartest people in the room are willing to share what really matters.

Slip into the lounge.

Upstairs, leather couches and dark wood panels create the perfect space for fireside chats and whispered strategy talks. This is where connections are made — not in crowded expo halls, but in private corners where ideas flow as easily as the drinks.

Down the hidden stairway.

Follow it and you’ll find a long wooden table tucked away, waiting for closed-door workshops and roundtables. Only a handful of seats at each. The kind of sessions where real collaboration happens, because everyone at the table has skin in the game.

And when the sun goes down…

The doors open to an entirely different vibe. Think neon, velvet booths, a secret bar under cherry blossom trees, and a dance floor waiting for the first beat to drop. This isn’t networking — it’s an invitation to become part of the in-crowd. The people who know. The people shaping what’s next.

CASA25 is not open to everyone. It’s not meant to be. It’s for those who are already moving the industry forward — and for those bold enough to join them. If you’re in, you’re part of a private circle that’s rewriting the future of cloud communications, AI, and network APIs.

A month from now, Amsterdam will host the gathering everyone will be talking about — but only a few will have truly experienced.

CASA25: less talk, more impact. Don’t miss it.

Amsterdam is buzzing, my inbox is buzzing louder, and somewhere between the ‘what’s for dinner tonight’, toddler snuggles, and planning the event of the year — I’m just trying to remember where I put my coffee.

Yes, friends, CASA25 is coming. And with it: the elegant dance of coordinating venues, menus, mystery guests, and my own sanity.

🏡 CASA25: More Than an Event, It’s a Vibe

If you haven’t heard of CASA25, let me catch you up: imagine a space where creativity meets community, in the heart of Amsterdam. A gathering of minds, hearts, ideas, and maybe—just maybe—a pirate or a masseuse (we’ll get to that).

It started as a great idea. Then it became a spreadsheet. Now it’s a full-blown operation involving:

• 3 venues (each with pros, cons, and one mysterious smell),
• Menus ranging from elegant bites to “will this fill a teenager?”
• A bar debate that may start a war: wine & beer only, or do we unleash the hard liquor?
• And guest logistics that make quantum physics look chill.

🍼 Family Life, but Make It a Sitcom

Planning CASA25 while raising adolescents is like hosting a philosophy panel during a TikTok dance-off. Add a grandchild to the mix, and suddenly I’m toggling between `Maisy Mouse and Google Docs. My to-do list reads: “Confirm lighting rig. Order diapers. Check on AV tech. Explain TikTok slang.”

There is no line between work and life anymore. Only snack breaks and wifi dead zones.

🧾 Invoices, Invitations & the Great Unknown

Let’s talk finances. About 30% of our invoices are still in limbo — unpaid, floating, or misdirected (I might’ve sent one to my kid’s piano teacher). And we don’t even know exactly who’s coming yet.

Do I plan food for 80? 180? Will they be hungry, or too mesmerized by the surroundings to chew? Can I estimate average canapé consumption (read ‘Bitterballs’) while mentally calculating if the teens at home are secretly ordering Uber Eats?

No one tells you this is what event planning really is.

🧘‍♀️ Pirates vs. Pampering

My current existential question: Jack Sparrow or a masseuse?

I could hire a pirate to liven up the vibes. Or offer shoulder massages to soothe the overstimulated creatives. Either way, someone’s leaving CASA25 saying “well that was unexpected.”

Budget says I can’t have both. My heart says otherwise.

🎤 Meanwhile, The Speakers Haven’t Been Invited

Yep. The line-up? Spectacular in my head and program. Just… not in their inboxes yet. I keep rewriting the perfect invite, toggling between “polished professional” and “come to our party, there might be a pirate.”

It’s all part of the process.

🎈 Amsterdam Is Turning 750 (So Good Luck Booking a Hotel)

Fun fact: the city is also throwing itself a massive birthday bash. 750 years of Amsterdam this year! So my guests may need to bunk together, pitch tents, or claim canal boats. If you’re attending CASA25: book your stay yesterday. Seriously.

💃 Life Is Full — And That’s the Point

CASA25 is about connection, energy, and realness. So it only makes sense that planning it feels like real life: vibrant, messy, layered, loud, joyful.

Between adolescence, grandmothering, creativity, invoices, birthday parties, and menu tastings — this event isn’t something I’m producing. It’s something I’m living.

And if all else fails… I’ll blame Jack Sparrow.

At CASA, we’re known for more than just great speakers and smart panels. We’re known for creating experiences—the kind you remember long after the stage lights go down. And this year, we’re doubling down on that magic.

Because here’s the truth: the best conversations rarely happen on stage. They happen over cocktails, in a corner booth, on a rooftop with the city lights in the background. They happen when we’re relaxed, open, and out of our usual context. And that’s why the social side of CASA25 is just as important as the program itself.

Monday: The Chin Chin Club — Where the Night Begins

After an action-packed first day, we’re heading to one of Amsterdam’s most iconic nightlife spots: Chin Chin Club. This isn’t your typical conference mixer. It’s an actual club—playful, edgy, and stylish, just like our community. We’ll kick things off with drinks and bites, and then… who knows? The night’s yours.

We’ll give you a little time to freshen up after the conference wraps, then we gather, toast, and connect. You’ll catch up with old friends and meet new ones. This is how we build community—with a little music, a few stories, and plenty of laughs.

Tuesday: Beer, Bold Ideas, and the Beer Factory

On Tuesday, we’ll wrap the day with something a little more grounded (but no less fun): a long, lively reception at the Beer Factory, a classic Amsterdam venue where the drinks are cold, the conversations are warm, and the vibe is all about togetherness.

Expect a few surprises, and come ready to unwind. This isn’t just about wrapping up the day—it’s about opening new connections before the event ends.

Sunday (Yes, Sunday): The CAVE Dinner for Accelerate Members

If you’re one of our Accelerate members, your CASA25 journey starts a little earlier. On Sunday evening, we host our invite-only CAVE dinner—an intimate gathering of leaders and insiders shaping the future of CPaaS. It’s not about panels or slides. It’s about alignment, insight, and deeper relationships.

If you know, you know.

Amsterdam: A City in Celebration

This year, we’re back in Amsterdam, and the timing couldn’t be better. The city is celebrating its 750th anniversary, with festivities all summer long. And right when we’re in town, one of the most spectacular events hits: Sail Amsterdam. Imagine 50–100 of the world’s largest tall ships sailing in a grand parade from the North Sea right into the heart of the city. It’s breathtaking—and it sets the tone for a week of celebration.

So yes, CASA25 is serious business—but it’s also fun. It’s community. It’s connection. It’s food that fuels your brain, drinks that open the conversation, and spaces that spark serendipity.

If you’re thinking of bringing your partner, family, or even your dog—do it. Amsterdam in late September is glorious, and CASA25 will be the perfect finale to a summer of celebration.

We can’t wait to host you!

Organizing an event like CASA24 is a journey full of surprises, but I never thought one of the most difficult parts would be… tracking down a decent headshot!

You’d think that for a crowd of industry professionals, having an up-to-date LinkedIn profile would be standard. Yet here we are, a week before our big event, and let me tell you—the struggle is real. We’ve got over 65 amazing speakers lined up, from top telcos to AI pioneers, but getting a good, high-res photo of them? That’s another story.

Some of these speakers have headshots that must have been taken when Nokia was still making those indestructible brick phones. Others? A single low-resolution photo from a networking event in the distant past. We’ve spent far too many hours scouring the internet, asking marketing departments, and, in a few cases, praying to the Photoshop gods to salvage a blurry image.

It’s become an unspoken truth in this industry: the people shaping the future of communications don’t have time for an updated LinkedIn profile pic.

But because we’re all about solutions, not problems, we’ve come up with a creative fix! We’re adding something special to CASA24 this year: professional headshots for all attendees. Yup, you read that right. Along with the insights, the networking, and all the great sessions, you’ll also get a chance to upgrade your LinkedIn game. We’ve got a photographer on-site, ready to capture you in all your industry-expert glory.

So if you’ve been dodging that “Update your profile” prompt on LinkedIn for far too long, fear not. CASA24 has your back. Just show up, strike a pose, and leave with a photo that won’t leave people guessing, “Is this the same person?” every time you show up to speak.

After all, we’re in the business of communications. Let’s make sure we’re looking as sharp as the ideas we’re sharing!

End Your First Day at CASA24 in Style

We’re thrilled to unveil a highlight of the CPaaS Acceleration Summit 2024: the Speaker/VIP Drinks at Amsterdam Tower’s exclusive 360 Room. This event promises to be a perfect conclusion to the first day of the summit, offering breathtaking views, vibrant conversations, and an ambiance that embodies the spirit of Amsterdam.

Spectacular Venue:

The 360 Room at Amsterdam Tower provides a stunning panoramic view of Amsterdam Central Station and the charming old city. This modern, creative space is ideal for CASA24, providing a memorable backdrop for networking and relaxation. The venue epitomizes the blend of Amsterdam’s rich history and cutting-edge modernity, creating a unique setting for our event.

Prime Networking Opportunity:

The Speaker/VIP Drinks event is exclusively for speakers, VIPs, and sponsors (max 80), offering an excellent opportunity to network and connect with the industry’s best and brightest. It’s a chance to unwind, reflect on the day’s insights, and forge valuable relationships in a relaxed, social atmosphere. By participating as a speaker or sponsor, you gain access to this elite gathering, making it a must-attend for thought leaders and innovators.

Embrace the Old and the New:

Amsterdam Tower is more than just a venue; it’s a symbol of the city’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. Hosting the Speaker/VIP Drinks in the 360 Room reflects CASA24’s commitment to embracing both tradition and progress, offering a space that celebrates the best of both worlds. It’s an evening that aligns perfectly with the summit’s vision of fostering growth and innovation in the CPaaS industry.

Event Details:

• Date: Opening evening of CASA24
• Time: To be announced – special invite only
• Venue: 360 Room at Amsterdam Tower, overlooking Amsterdam Central Station

This exclusive event is more than just a gathering; it’s an experience that sets the tone for the entire summit. Submit your speaking proposal before the end of July to secure your place among the elite at CASA24. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of one of the most exciting CPaaS industry events of the year, and enjoy the benefits of VIP networking in one of Amsterdam’s most iconic venues.

Amsterdam in September is a symphony of vibrant culture, crisp autumn air, and bustling events. As the organizer for CASA24, the CPaaS industry’s premier event, I’m thrilled to share why this city is the perfect backdrop for our dynamic and fun conference. Whether you’re an attendee, sponsor, speaker, or plus-one, Amsterdam has something special for you.

September in Amsterdam: A Month of Excitement

September is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam. The weather is mild, the summer crowds have thinned, and the city is alive with festivals, markets, and outdoor activities. Here are a few highlights you won’t want to miss:

Dam tot Damloop

One of the most iconic events in September is the Dam tot Damloop, a 10-mile road race that takes you through the heart of Amsterdam and finishes in the picturesque town of Zaandam. Whether you’re a runner or a spectator, this event showcases the city’s spirit and camaraderie.

Cultural Festivals and Events

From music festivals to art exhibitions, Amsterdam’s cultural calendar is packed in September. For a comprehensive list of events, visit Amsterdam Sights.

Albert Cuyp Market

Experience Amsterdam’s local charm at the Albert Cuyp Market. This bustling street market offers everything from fresh produce to unique Dutch souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to explore during your downtime at CASA24.

Relax and Recharge

After a day of networking and sessions, you might need a little relaxation. Amsterdam is home to some fantastic wellness options:

Rituals Urban Spas

Treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience at one of the Rituals Urban Spas. These spas offer a serene escape with treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate.

Ample Accommodation Choices

Finding the perfect place to stay is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Amsterdam offers a range of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. For CASA24 attendees, we’ve curated a list of top hotels that are conveniently located and offer excellent amenities. Check out our recommendations here.

CASA24: An Event Not to Be Missed

As the event organizer, I’m dedicated to creating a dynamic and engaging experience for everyone involved in CASA24. From thought-provoking sessions to exciting networking opportunities, this event is designed to bring out the best in the CPaaS industry. We’re putting together a fantastic lineup of speakers, sponsors, and activities to ensure a memorable experience for all attendees.

A Warm Welcome to All

Whether you’re attending CASA24 as an industry expert, a sponsor, or a plus-one, we’ve planned something special for you. Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome and included. From insightful panels to evening social events, there’s something for everyone. Plus, Amsterdam’s array of attractions ensures that there’s never a dull moment.

See You in Amsterdam!

September in Amsterdam is truly magical, and we can’t wait to share this experience with you at CASA24. Whether you’re here for the conference, the culture, or the cuisine, you’re in for an unforgettable time. See you soon in this fantastic city!

Laila

Mark your calendars! On Monday evening, September 18th, we’re taking the conversations from the CASA23 event to the serene waterways of Amsterdam. We’re excited to announce an exclusive canal tour aboard the “Dame van Amstel,” specially curated for our esteemed speakers, sponsors, and select VIPs. Here’s why you should be thrilled:

Where Silicon Meets Canals

Imagine drifting through Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, not just in any boat, but aboard the luxurious “Dame van Amstel.” But this is more than just a boat ride—it’s a floating think-tank. Network with the brightest minds in CPaaS as you glide past Amsterdam’s historic architecture. The canal tour is designed to give the CASA23 experience an intimate, yet impactful touch.

An Evening of Brilliance—Agenda and Highlights

Spend 2.5 unforgettable hours immersed in inspiring conversations and breathtaking sights. With artisan cocktails in hand, you’ll be networking with like-minded innovators and influencers who are redefining the CPaaS industry. The cruise sets the stage for dialogue that could shape the strategies and partnerships driving our industry toward that $100B+ future.

Get Ready to Board—Details and Logistics

Departure will be promptly at 7:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to wrap up day one of CASA23 and get ready for an adventure. Attire? Think smart casual. We’re all about fostering an environment that’s both stylish and comfortable, just like the CPaaS solutions we advocate for.

This canal cruise is by invite-only, reflecting the exclusivity of the experience we aim to deliver. However, if you believe you bring something unique to the table and should be on that boat, don’t hesitate to email laila@cpaasaa.com.

See you on the “Dame van Amstel”! 🚢🌟