WEEK 8- AMSTERDAM

With the final weeks of our European stay upon us, I thought there is no time to waste and thus proceeded to book trips for all weekends remaining in November... first stop? Amsterdam.

I underestimated my own ability as I contemplated why I thought it was a good idea to take a night bus (approx. 7 hour journey) to our destination. In a particular moment of weakness that looked like shivering in all layers (3) of clothing, discomfort within the confines of my seat, and zero hours of sleep gained- paying a bit more just for a good night's sleep and quicker journey would have been worth it. But this thought all but dissipated as the sun rose while walking to the train hostel. I was facing the direction in which the sun was rising among other pedestrians on this walkway that seemed to cut through right in the middle of what seemed like a busy part of town... at the time, it was quiet due to the early hours. It was a most magnificent sight and instantly I was filled. Anticipation wracked me and excitement coursed through me in an effortless wave. It was beautiful. And perhaps even worth the horrible bus ride.

I felt like I did so much yet only scratched the surface of discovering Amsterdam. I took a Microbiology course over the summer that was all-consuming and challenged me to no end- I grew an immense respect for the subject as a result. When I found a microbiology museum called Micropia on Yelp, I just knew it would be good. And I am pleased to say that it was! I was able to really enjoy the fruits of my labor in that museum, appreciating how applicable my studies were in the real world.

Besides Micropia, a thorough visit to the Van Gogh Museum was obvious. 3 stories of impeccable artwork, an hour per floor. It was nothing short of awe-inspiring. I got to see my favorite Van Gogh piece and some great works by Toulouse-Lautrec.

Walking to and from destinations and sights, I was struck by how almost every picture I took was a good one. Amsterdam is so photogenic! The city is just so visually appealing and pleasing. I felt an instant attachment right away, growing stronger with each day I was there.

I have to mention our last two nights there were especially eventful as I enjoyed a most pleasant canal ride through the city and educated myself on the infamous Red Light District at the Museum of Prostitution. But particularly, the place we were staying at was a wonderful experience all on its own. I booked two nights at HotelBoat Fiep and it's exactly what you think... a boat named "Fiep" that doubles as a hotel! And it's not a dingy boat either, it doesn't even FEEL like one (which is great news to someone like me who is susceptible to motion sickness). The one-woman show running the whole thing was kindness overflowing. She cooked breakfast everyday and with such thoughtfulness and care. The place itself was warm and extremely comfortable, with two decks to get some fresh air and look out onto the body of water and of course, the beautiful city deserving of appreciation. Amsterdam was full of adventure and on the 8 hour bus ride back, I was grateful for the opportunity- even if it meant some suffering on the way there.