After a direct flight, we took a train from the airport to Amsterdam's central station. From there, the walk to our Red Light District Airbnb gave us a quick introduction to the many faces of the city. We walked past picturesque canals, marijuana cafes, private residences, sex shops, places of worship, and lovely architecture. Self check-in and Nespresso were greatly appreciated upon arrival. Next, we combined a grocery shopping expedition with some sightseeing, finding a grocer across from De Waag in nearby Nieuwmarket. We visited Fo Guang Shan He Hua in Amsterdam's tiny Chinatown. The juxtaposition of the groping bronze hand embedded in the cobblestones outside of the Oude Kerk epitomizes the dual nature of this city. We found Café In't Aepjeu's ancient wooden façade near modern buildings. We saw candy stores next to live sex shows. We rode the free ferry from the classic old train station, past the futuristic EYE exposition site, to the developing NDSM neighbourhood. Amsterdam's strange dichotomy only intensified in this part of the city, where we discovered a pancake boat next to a submarine and a giant mural of Anne Frank near "Sexyland". This hip enclave hosts music festivals and art expositions and seems to feature much of the city's street art. The traditional Dutch windmill wasn't far from a more unique attraction. We rode the ferry back to central Amsterdam and did some more wandering. I had read about the city's predisposition to specialty stores, but was still amused by just how specific they can be.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Archives
January 2024
Categories |