Enjoying Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a strange and two-fold reputation, neither of which accurately describes this historically significant, yet cosmopolitan city. Some think of Holland and their mind automatically darts to windmills, tulips, and wooden shoes. Others initially think of free-wheeling hippie-types partaking in the legal marijuana and cavorting around the Red Light District. While both of those facets to the city are not untrue, Amsterdam as a whole is much more complex.

 

Like the diamonds they are famous for, the city sparkles from many sides, offering different views depending on the direction in which you are looking. As a tourist, you have the choice of deciding just which angle to take: the old and traditional, or the liberal and socially free - or, perhaps just a mixture of the two. The fact that there is a choice is a trait that has been drawing visitors to Amsterdam for decades.

 

Whatever approach you choose, one experience is universal. When you glide through the Amsterdam canals in the evening, with more than 1,200 bridges sparkling with tiny lights, you will feel like as if you are floating through an enchanted wonderland. The city’s history and beauty can only be described as captivating.