Netherlands 2015

We flew to Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, their major hub and one of Europe’s busiest airports.

 

This was kind of a last-minute trip; all accommodations in Amsterdam were either fully booked or too expensive, so we ended up staying in an Airbnb outside the centre. Not the best decision to be honest, because what we had saved on accommodation, we spent more on transportation. It also took some time. So that’s something to consider on your trip.

 

First order of business: Exploring the adorable village of Zaanse Schans! You can find a lot of exciting stuff here. Aside from the pretty windmills, there’s Cacao Lab, Cheese Farm, and, of course, clogs!

Map of Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans
Windmills!
Cacao Lab
Cheese Farm Catharina Hoeve
Wow! I didn't know there were different types of clogs! Skate clog anyone?
Clog Workshop
Lotsa souvenirs!

 

After a morning well spent at Zaanse Schans, we just walked around the city.

This bridge opened up to let a barge pass underneath.

Juliana Bridge in Zaandijk
Barge passes under Juliana Bridge

 

When you are feeling hungry, FEBO is the place to be. Lol! I didn’t try this though, I wasn’t hungry at that time.

FEBO Snack Wall
Rembrandt Square
Some stalls at Rembrandt Square
Leidsestraat for your shopping needs!

 

If you want to relax after a long day exploring the city, head to Flevo Park.

Flevopark
Caught in action
Street Art
Flevopark
Flevopark

 

Another interesting place to visit is the Bloemenmarkt–  the only floating flower market in the world. You can buy your souvenirs here.

Floating Flower market located on the Singel canal
Floating Flower Market
Cannabis everywhere!
Magnets. I know you want one. Lol!
Royal Palace of Amsterdam
De Wallen (Red Light District)

 

Another place to escape from the city hustle and bustle – Begijnhof. It is one of the oldest enclosed courtyards in Amsterdam.

Begijnhof
Begijnhof
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Begijnhof Chapel
Inside Begijnhof Chapel

 

Venture off the usual tourist trail and check out the biggest flea market, IJ Hallen, in Europe. There’s a free ferry to get there!

Centraal Station Ferry Wharf - Free GVB ferry to NDSM wharf
EYE Film Institute, a white museum building located on the northern bank of the river IJ
NDSM wharf
IJ Hallen
IJ Hallen
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IJ Hallen
IJ Hallen. Looks like they are already done for the day. Make sure you go early

 

To those who love going to museums, make sure you visit Rijksmuseum. It is a national museum dedicated to arts and history in Amsterdam.

Rijksmuseum
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Rijksmuseum
The iconic I amsterdam sign. I wonder how they got to the top. I tried to climb, but I failed miserably. Lol!
Van Gogh Museum

 

A trip to Netherlands wouldn’t be complete without admiring the picturesque canals ❤️

Canals of Amsterdam - 17th Century Canal Ring (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Magere Brug Bridge
Museumbrug bridge
Yep, there are more bikes than people!
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Amsterdam

 

This made my first Euro trip truly memorable. I’m excited for more adventures to come!

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