Did you know that the city of Amsterdam was once little more than boggy marshland? What we now know as Amsterdam was created by a dam on the Amstel River and much dredging and reclamation took place centuries ago to turn Amsterdam into the bustling city it is today. Known for its miles of canals in the city center and acres of tulip fields just outside the city, Amsterdam will be my home for the next several days as I explore its history, culture, and surroundings.
My trip started with an overnight flight in jetBlue Mint. As soon as we took off, I immediately put my seat down and attempted to get some shut-eye. I know I slept for at least a little while, but it was more dozing than sleeping. I woke up after sunrise and enjoyed a meager rosemary biscuit with honey and chia seed pudding for breakfast. My flight arrived about 30 minutes early which gave me a jump start on the immigration line. By the time I got to the baggage carousel, my suitcase was already making its way around.
I quickly found the train to Amsterdam Centraal Station, figured out how to tap in with my credit card, and 15 minutes later, I was off the train and walking to my hotel. After dropping off my luggage, I hit the ground in search of food. My midday sustenance came in the form of a cone of Flemish fries with sweet mayonnaise. Mayonnaise seems to be the most popular topping for fries in Amsterdam. They were okay, in a been there, done that sort of way. I doubt I will indulge in any more fries during my visit.
Then I was off to follow Rick Steves’ audio tour of Amsterdam. While I enjoyed learning more about the city and getting my bearings, I did not enjoy the mobs of people everywhere. Nevertheless, I wandered down the Damrak to Dam Square, then followed Kalverstraat to the Begijnhof. The Begijnhof is a courtyard surrounded by the former residences of the Beguine, a group of women who dedicated their lives to the service of others. They only allow about 50 people into the Begijnhof at a time, so I had a short wait to get in. The beautiful square surrounded by flowers was a quiet oasis from the chaotic streets just outside the courtyard. Along with the homes, there is also an English Reformed church and a small hidden Catholic church.
The walking tour ended by the Singel Canal. From there, I walked back to my hotel where I was finally able to get into my room. I relaxed for a little while and then headed out for an early dinner. Despite only sleeping for a couple of hours on the plane last night, I wasn’t overly tired and continued to push on.
Dinner was at Il Pacioccone, only a couple of minutes from my hotel. I feasted on soft, dense Italian bread, gnocchi in a gorgonzola sauce with pears and walnuts, and a glass of prosecco. I topped off the meal with tiramisu.
I made a quick stop at the Albert Heijn grocery store to pick up some snacks and soda and then came back to my room for a (hopefully) long night’s rest. I’m hoping an early start in the morning will help me avoid some of the crowds and enjoy a quiet walk before it gets too busy.
Traveling with Laura 