So it may seem that in Amsterdam I didn't do so much. That's only half true. It turns out the most fabulous thing of any thing to do in Amsterdam is to ride a bicycle. The city begs for it.
First, there are bike lanes everywhere and cars are quite respectful of them and of bikers. Second, it's a very flat place. Third, and most importantly, it is beautiful and perfectly sized for bike sightseeing.
The canals, oh the canals! These red-brick lined canals are perfect for encircling the city on your bike, and then going right back the way you came. Their not set up to carry car traffic, so they don't do it very well. Plus, at every intersection, the street rises a little bit to allow boats to pass underneath. Once you get to the other side, it's a very pleasant whoosh as you accelerate down the hill. Preeta, Patrik, and I literally spent hours doing this, at all times of day and night. In fact, our favorite time was in the late evening, around midnight or 1am, when all was quiet. Unbelievably exceptional. Riding a bicycle around Amsterdam can make you fall in love with the place.
It's just a great way to get around and explore, too, getting to places I'd otherwise never see.
Ridiculous beauty as the sun glances down off the canal.
A very friendly duck at a random park I found while bicycling.
A redeveloped part of town that converted entrepots into housing and work space, with great red brick facades and huge windows.
Some houses on an island that were developed all with a dash of whimsy.
And a building with some bold pastels to sing out into the day.
Plus, while you're biking, you are more apt to live up to this poem that I found, inscribed on the side of a building in 10 languages.
The bicycle and Amsterdam, a match made in heaven.
(Thanks to Patrik's friend for the route recommendations!)
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