Each year for my son, Matthew’s, birthday, we take an international trip. This year, our destination was Amsterdam. After all, what boy turning 16 wouldn’t want to go to this incredibly liberal part of Europe?
Our journey started the Saturday before Thanksgiving. With a bag full of ZED tickets, we headed to the airport. After not being able to make it to Detroit (DL) or Houston (CO), we finally boarded an American Airlines flight to Chicago to catch a United jet to Amsterdam.
We arrived bright and early Sunday morning and hit the ground running. The crew was very nice to us and insisted we ride in to the city with them instead of taking the train as we had planned. For those of you who may not have that option, you can catch the train right at the airport near baggage claim. It will take you directly to Central Station, which is in the heart of the city.
We got a great airline rate at the Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel ($142 Euro). This hotel is in a fabulous location about a block from the main square. The canal is right across the street. After checking in and dropping our bags, we headed out to exchange money at GWK Travelex. This company provided the best exchange rates in the city, and there were several locations.
Tuesday had us visiting the flower district with its beautiful offerings. Just walking through this area and inhaling the fragrances was wonderful. Booths full of breathtaking flowers lined the canals, and we walked for miles enjoying the colors and scents. From this area, we followed the tram tracks to the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Several dignitaries were arriving that day, so the guards were plentiful. The majestic palace dominated the entire area. Tours are usually available but not on this day due to all the activity. We did find a charming guard who agreed to take a picture with us.
A few blocks away from the palace, we found the Red Light District. Having heard about this area, I thought I knew what to expect. However, seeing it in person is a different story! There are truly beautiful girls in red-lit windows that one can spend 15 minutes with (for about 50 Euro). Pictures of the girls are prohibited; so don’t pull out the camera. Sex shops, peep shows, and other shocking businesses line the streets. The area is actually one of the oldest in the city and boasts cobblestone streets and wonderful architecture. Of course, you have to get past all the other sights to appreciate this. Since Matthew had just turned 16, our time here was brief!
In addition to our short visit to Red Light District, we made another brief stop in one of the local coffee houses. Matthew’s favorite was The Bulldog Café. The front of the establishment appears to be a normal coffee shop. However, if you head downstairs, you soon realize The Bulldog is anything but a normal coffee shop!
When it came time for meals, we tried out many local establishments. One of the best meals we had was at Lombardo’s. Touted as the best place for burgers and sandwiches, it did not disappoint. Most of the menu items were around $7 Euro and well worth it. Lombardo’s is small (seating for about six), so most people take their meal outside to eat. The chef personally spoke with everyone and ensured we enjoyed our meal. The restaurant is in a great location, right by Rijk’s Museum.
Amsterdam is very easy to navigate, and we walked for hours each day. By following the canals that line the city, you really can’t get lost. Low-cost trains are also plentiful for those who tire of walking. The most popular form of transportation is definitely the bike, and bikes far outnumber cars. All the hotels rent bikes as do many places across the city. Be careful of the trains. They go quite fast and are silent. All too soon, our trip came to an end.
The Amsterdam airport is huge, but checking in for our return flight was a breeze. We traveled on Delta to Detroit and then connected to American for the flight back to Dallas. There are lots of options for getting in and out of Amsterdam, so it is a desirable place to nonrev. Matthew and I had a terrific time in this cultural hub of Europe. If you visit with an open mind, you too will love Amsterdam!