December 4 Being a Tourist in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is wonderful. And so agree thousands and thousands of visitors. We headed in to the old part of town today, on the inner canals. No objective except to immerse ourselves. So many people. I wanted to walk by the house on Herengracht canal where Mike and I stayed 3 years ago. It was easy to find, and enjoyable to walk this somewhat familiar neighborhood. We had lunch at an old “brown cafe” for inexpensive beer and pea soup.

One has to be really careful of the bikes: they have their own lanes, and unlike cars, do not cede right of way.

Our big event was an nighttime canal cruise. It was an underwhelming tourist trap however we did get to see the winter light instillations.

Ok so tonight I’m going to end with an observation. Maybe I’m feeling like an old lady but this place is dangerous! The pavement is uneven and little steps and holes materialize everywhere. Stairs don’t have bannisters. There are no barriers along the canals! The bikes, cars and buses are silent and sneak up on you. I felt a little woozy and off balance today: Mary says it’s because I’m dehydrated but I think maybe it’s the marijuana that’s in the air.