Amazing Amsterdam

The second stop on the long holiday weekend, was to Amsterdam! Holland in general has to be one of the coolest places to go, but Amsterdam was just plain awesome. It was definitively a place that I could call home one day. We got into amsterdam and headed to our hostel. The Van Gogh Hostel were we stayed was really similar to a hotel. It was located right across the street from the famous Van Gogh Museum and just a short distance from the center of town. There was also a great park right around the corner with the famous I am Amsterdam sign.

Our first full day in Amsterdam we decided just to explore the city. So many neat looking old buildings! Not to mention an insane amount of bikes. Bikers rule that city.

We also went to the Van Gogh Museum as it was so close to our hostel. Finally got to see so many of the paintings that I have only seen in Art History books all in one go. The Museum had a wide range of his works, along with several other paintings from artists that he admired. It was definitely worth the money to go and see the museum.

Later that day we ventured out to a flea market. This place had basically everything that in the US we have thrown out over the years. I have never seen so many sequined leggings and tops to match in my life. Not to mention a very large array of hair care products. The best part of the market was the Syrupy Waffles. A traditional Amsterdam cuisine. It is kind of like thin cookie like waffle with hot syrup on the inside.

Again the next day was spent just wandering around the city. This time we came across an American food store. Which yes, to all of you at home, it is so unexciting but for us it was a gold mine. To see Peanut Butter, Pop Tarts and Mac and Cheese was to say the least one of the greatest sights in 2 months. Not to mention being able to read what is actually in something you are eating.

Finally our last grand adventure in Amsterdam was going to the Ann Frank house. It was both interesting and sad all at once. The house which has now been turned into a museum is encased in glass to help preserve the building. It has been kept without furniture in it according to Otto Franks wishes. The Museum does a great job of showcasing the writings and the life of the Franks and there companions.

One final last treat before we left the great land of Holland, was some pancakes. Not the traditional fluffy Ihop pancakes that we are used to in the states... More crape like then pancake. I got a goat cheese, honey and walnut pancake with caramel syrup. It was delicious! The Dutch have a thing for the goat cheese, honey and walnuts. You can get it on almost anything.

Over all, Amsterdam has to be one of the coolest places on earth! Nice people, awesome views, public transport was easy to get around with and who doesn't love a good House boat. Definitely going back again!

Stay Tuned for Berlin!