On the most innocent level, Amsterdam’s atmosphere contained a youthful spirit. Sophisticated, yet serenely youthful, the city is more romantic than Paris. Perhaps it was the spring air, perhaps it was the fresh market food, perhaps the welcoming, yet chic locals. It’s hard to say.
SAY CHEESE -Much like my own Wisconsin home, the Dutchies love their cheese.
The locals recommend experiencing the city in three ways – by bike, by foot, and by boat. The city’s spider-web street layout made it truly impossible to navigate. Given my terrible directional skills, our extra exercise came about from walking in circles.
And oh the bikes! Crossing the street felt like a game of frogger. Look both ways and try not to get hit. The Dutch locals do find “hit the tourist” a fun game to play.
BIKER GIRLS –Rumor has it that locals sometimes forget where they lock up their bikes. They simply buy a new one instead.
Because of Amsterdam’s history as a major port, the city welcomed travelers and merchants from various religions and cultures. The city’s longevity depended on a tolerant attitude toward outsiders. This pervades its culture today, easily being one of the most diverse European cities I have seen (contrary to the very ivory Ireland).
In Amsterdam, there are coffee shops and then there are “coffee shops” – the former sells espresso, the latter sells marijuana. If you need a latte, be careful not to mistake one for the other. Traveling with two Seattle girls, we quickly found a favorite café for morning cappuccinos before heading out for the day. Caffeinated and excited to explore, we headed out for the day to explore the fields outside of the city.
The Keukenhof Gardens inhabit huge plots of land outside the city. The gardens and surrounding tulip farms are packed with flowers, painting the ground with vibrant stripes.
Clean and sleek, the tulips are like the Dutchies themselves – tasteful and stunning, but never extravagant.
Come as you are. Relax. Slow down. Stay a while.
Postcards from Ireland 