Amsterdam is how I picture Venice, only smaller. It is lively city with colorful buildings and scenic canals. To me the Netherlands was known for its relaxed drug laws, tulips, wooden shoes, and a friend I once knew, but now after having been to Amsterdam crazy bicycles riders also come to mind.
I also learned that the streets in Amsterdam are so long and diagonal that if you end up in the wrong one; you’ll be there for a while.
Does one travel to Amsterdam without visiting a coffee shop? I visited the Bulldog, but it was absolutely terrible. Smoke-filled room that literally stank us out in two seconds. There is a guard outside the door, but we did not really understand the point with him when not no one is access.
There are plenty of museums in this city, but I was not particularly interested in visiting them. Sometimes it is enough for me to see building exteriors.
Brought a bit of Bols back home…
offers drinks and fun if you’re over 18. They gave away a Dutch book of recipes and drinking games, but unfortunately this is not a language I can read.
Winterland Amsterdam on Rembrandtplein consists of many stalls selling sweets, almonds and cocoa. There is also a skating rink. We bought some food and sweets, but it was generally too sweet or disgusting.
Anne Franks Museum I’m sure is obligatory, but I won’t lie and write that I actually went there. The queue was too long, so I bought a postcard and ran over to the Pancake Bakery next door. Next time!
- Post card from the Anne Frank Museum
Amsterdam’s most famous pancake and omelet house, The Pancake Bakery, did not disappoint, but it did weird me out. What sort of stuff do you really want on your pancake? Cheese, chocolate, bacon, ice cream? Different, but good. Left my plate empty. The bakery has plenty of space, but filled with guests to we had to wait more than a moment by the door for space. Be smart enough to book in advance, and don’t miss this place.
The Pancake Bakery – Another post card purchase
We also visited the White Elephant (Indian cuisine), but it did not leave a lasting impression. What I do remember though is the very spiral staircase, stay away from alcohol untill after you’ve been to the bathroom!
Now to the best part: the DELICIOUS candy! I will come again for more candy from Jamin!
