Day One in Amsterdam

Today we were up early, real early, to catch the Eurostar train to Amsterdam. We were so tired after last night’s late night and just wanted to sleep. As soon as we loaded up our luggage on the train, we closed our eyes and slept sitting upright. We encountered a delay that added 60 min to the train ride, but when we got out of the station, it was all worth it! 

Lo key, I might prefer Amsterdam to London, and I loved London! The rooflines and architecture are unmatched. It’s just beautiful! 

Our first priority was food! We didn’t eat breakfast because remember we ate our last three eggs yesterday, so when we arrived in the city at 1400 we were famished. We stopped at the first place that didn't have a wait. Satiated with food and drinks, we walked through the city to The Van Gogh Museum. We passed a charming flower shop 

and antique stores with Delft blue pottery. My pieces from the clearance rack at Hobby Lobby look just like this! 

After a walk through the city center to the museum quarter, we were tickled to see dozens of Asians in line to get a selfie - not with Van Gogh’s work but a painting of Pikachu! Evan said, “Imagine what would have happened if they chose Hello Kitty instead.” I was more thrilled to see Almond Blossom. 

And Peach Trees in Blossom.

We left the museum and the sun had set. This time we were on the hunt for dessert. We found Apple beignets,  lemon tarts, and chocolate. It was all divine!

I forgot how much I love European bakeries and specialty stores that sell one thing. Tomorrow we get to take a canal cruise to see the lights, but they were stunning from the streets reflecting on the water. 

The Christmas market has ended so we missed that, but the city is decorated like the people are still celebrating. Side note. I’m destined to be run over by a bicyclist from looking up at the buildings. This guy wanted to take me out, but rang his bike bell instead. It was his way to show a little Christmas cheer. 

This is what a beer, a Diet Coke, chocolate, and coffee will get you after only three hours of sleep. Smiles!

After a train ride to Almere and a bus ride to Muziekwijk, we found our AirB&B. The boys thought it was 🔥. This was satisfying to pick agreeable lodging after hours of walking, traveling, figuring out public transportation, and no sleep. 

It’s now raining and we are comfortable in the house. Some more than others. 

I can’t wait to see the great food and city experiences we have tomorrow. I’m hoping to eat Dutch pancakes, a Turkish doner, and maybe another pastry. I need to give oliebollen a try.