Amsterdam was much colder than back home where it still reaches the 70's during the day but I loved the Christmas spirit that was in the air. I was happy we landed safely since the wind was crazy and we actually came into the runway at a close to sideways angle. After a hefty applause to the pilot we hurried off to the hotel. We were sooo exhausted from our trip and were in desperate need for food. Luckily our hotel had a really nice restaurant and although we were not dressed the part we quickly found a table before closing time. I decided to treat myself and ordered crab cakes, salad, and some Washington wine! It was delicious! After dinner we headed to bed so we could get an early start the next day.
Prior to this trip I didn't know much about Amsterdam and had to do some research. The city was gorgeous. Our hotel was perfectly located within close walking distance of everything! Their are canals around every corner and Christmas decorations everywhere. We decided to head to Starbucks and indulge in a holiday treat. Honestly I was a bit disappointed... I thought Starbucks was the same everywhere but in Seattle it tastes much better.
Afterwards we headed straight to the Anne Frank house to get in line for our tickets. The line was wrapped around the building but was moving fairly quickly. It was truly a great experience and I really appreciate all that I saw and learned.
For lunch we hit up the local Pancake House. I had some pea soup and an apple bacon pancake (of course with powdered sugar).
More than 80 percent of the adults in Amsterdam use bikes as their major mode of transportation. The bike system is a bit crazy, they even have their own stop lights (very cool)!
We found the most wonderful reindeer hats!!!! I can't wait to wear this more!
I had to go to the Heineken Experience at the brewery. We were there for over two hours and it was sooo fun! It was very interactive and I highly recommend it.
We got to meet the Heineken horses. Due to the roads in Amsterdam they have to change their shoes every three weeks!!
We learned how to properly drink Heineken and why there is a necessary layer on the top. In order to avoid drinking flat beer the foam layer serves as protection. In order to drink the beer you need to raise the glass horizontal so that you do not consume the foam and it continues to protect the beer from getting flat.
This is a better picture of our new hats :)
This was our wonderful accommodations in the center of town!
On the way to the Vincent Van Gogh museum I had to get my pictures with the I AMsterdam letters. Luckily it was really early so not many tourists were there yet. I of course am the one next to the S.
I must have missed Santa Claus, or Papa Noel as they call him. Hopefully I will have better luck next time!! I am getting a little worn out from all this traveling but so grateful for the opportunity! Next stop, Italy.
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