A city known for its canals, bicycles, and vices, Amsterdam never fails to entertain and excite the senses!
First on the itinerary was brunch at this marvellous hole-in-the-wall restaurant called 'The Pancake Bakery'. I had the bacon, mushroom and cheese omelette for my entree and mini pancakes with butter and sugar for dessert. This melt in your mouth concoction is simply to die for! If you find yourself in Amsterdam, this is a definite must try!
The Anne Frank house was next, but the line was unbelievably long - going all the way around the block that we decided to go elsewhere. It must have been a stroke of luck to have been able to get in in less than five minutes last year!
Spent the next few hours shopping at Dam Square, where numerous shops and restaurants are located. Here you can find artists eager to sell their wares and street performers waiting to be applauded for their talents in mime and dance. Dinner was at Haejes Claes, another popular restaurant whose staff was so obliging to accommodate our reservation for 10 at such late notice.
We then made our way to the Red Light District. This, I believe is the essence of why Amsterdam is the way it is. This is what makes them distinct and unique. Sex and eroticism is celebrated and played to the hilt. Courtesans in all their glory line the streets, separated only by full length glass windows from a gawking public, waiting for prospective clients. Once a deal is closed, a red curtain is drawn. Coffee shops selling cannabis are a common sight. Erotic museums are scattered everywhere and the one we decided to see was hilariously weird! We had so much fun that we got back to the hotel at 3 AM!
It was a one of a kind experience. Definitely one for the books! If you plan to go on a European sojourn, Amsterdam is not one to miss!
 |
| The Bulldog: first coffee shop in Amsterdam |
