A bit more about this wonderful city! Some excerpts from my monthly travel email…see part 1 for more info!
Canal cruises in the long boats are ultra-touristy but still a lot of fun. You can find smaller boats for a more intimate feel and there are also individual cruises for couples.
The guides are friendly on all size boats and the atmosphere is convivial. Besides, it gives you a rest from all the walking! Zone out for a bit and enjoy the canal and the houses that line both sides. The look is unique and part of what distinguishes Amsterdam from other cities.
There are a lot of other ways to explore Amsterdam but the best way we discovered is to simply walk around town. Take off with your map and phone and saunter around. It’s ok to get lost-you will find your way back. The city is relaxed; the people are friendly, and there are lots of good parks and interesting markets to explore. Strike up a conversation with the locals; stop for a coffee. Spontaneous adventure is the name of the game.
If it is your first trip, somebody will probably warn you about the bicycles. Believe them. Bicycles rule the roads in this city and they move fast. Watch out for them. The riders are experienced and very good at it, however, and despite my initial apprehension, I did not see any accidents.
Yes, there is marijuana as well as a red light district – two facts that everyone knows, whether they have been there or not. The Red Light District is two or three streets and is really not scary at all. In fact, there is a real party feel to the area. Tourists were everywhere, of course, although I was surprised that they mostly seemed to be European.
As far as marijuana goes, just make sure you know which shop you are entering. A coffee shop has marijuana. A cafe sells coffee. If you mistake the two, it will be a short-lived error! You will know as soon as you walk in, if you don’t sniff it out before!
What is the best time of year to go? Summers can be hot and winters are changeable. Spring and fall are both beautiful! We went in September and found nearly perfect weather!
Do plan to spend at least 3 or 4 days. If you get tired of walking around the city, you can always visit a flower farm or explore old windmills. Take a train for a day trip to Bruges, a wonderful city that I will write about in a future post.
Take a good pair of walking shoes, and just relax. Exhale. You will love it here!
No Comments Yet