In the Holiday issue of Delighted, Michael and Christina Townsend shared their travel journal and amazing photos from their visits to Amsterdam, Paris and Budapest. Today I'm posting their Amsterdam trip and in the coming weeks will share the Paris and Budapest photos and all of the great details and tips. If you've ever been to any these places, Michael's pictures are sure to bring it back to life for you. And if you've never been, you'll no doubt want to!
Written by: Michael & Christina Townsend
Photos by: Michael Townsend
From Michael and Christina: Amsterdam was our favorite city of the six that we visited. Even in the rain, the city is beautiful: A medieval town built in the 1200’s and full of charm. It is dense, yet feels small and manageable. Very few cars clog the streets as most everyone rides bikes; iconic dutch classics only distinguished by their variety of bucket and basket attachments. Our brief dips into the city center confirmed that your time is best spent away from the red light district and civic center and better spent in the canal belt, weaving through places like the 9 Straatjes (streets). We had several memorable meals while visiting, and also don’t forget to try Poffertes since the Dutch are known for their fluffy pancakes.
TIPS & FAVES IN AMSTERDAM
Natural Element
Flowers, canals, house boats
Cultural Attribute
A city built on the foundations of cultural tolerance
Tour/Museum
Anne Frank Museum, Amsterdam Museum
Architectural Details
Shutters, brick, various baroque style gables and hoist beams, narrow house footprints
Location
Avoid central/red light. Spend your time wisely; in the canal belt and beyond… Jordaan, De Pijp, Vondelpark
Eats
Moeders - An eclectic restaurant with pictures of mothers covering the walls. They are still accepting photos, so bring one along if you’d like. Deeply traditional, deeply delicious meat and potatoes dishes (and Christina doesn’t really like red meat)
De Kas - Nestled on the outskirts of the centraal in a park, DeKas grows all of it’s produce on site in an array of greenhouses. Meat is sourced locally and a serves it all up in an exquisite three course meal. Be sure to pack a nicer clothes if you’re planning to dine here and be sure to book a table two to three weeks in advance.
de Reiger - mussels, fries, and a pint
Drinks
Winkel (mint tea? apple pie? yes please)
Don’t leave home without
A raincoat
Don’t leave Amsterdam without
Riding a bike… everywhere
