The longest we have stayed in one place! This was to give us 3 full days in Amsterdam. Location of the site was great, just a 20 minute walk to the free ferry straight over to the city. Day 1 we had tickets to the Anne Frank house. The museum is simply done, with an accompanying audio tour. How 8 people were able to hide for 2 years in that annexe is mind-blowing. Had a very civilised canal side drink stop before going in search of a Stroop Waffle! We decided to share as it was a decent size & complete sugar overload. We had the “Smarties” topping. Day 2 we had a slow morning before heading back over to the city in the afternoon. We tried to organise a walking tour but were too late, so we arranged for the Wednesday. We spent time exploring new districts with all the different architecture, bridges & canals. We must have seen ever bridge in Amsterdam! Headed off to the flower market, which is allegedly the world’s only floating flower market. Founded in 1862 it made up of houseboat greenhouses. The reality didn’t actually meet the expectations. It’s more of a bulb market & reminded us of garden centres at home. A few had flowers for sale but we were expecting floor to ceiling of flowers. Lot’s of wooden tulips though, an everlasting gift from Amsterdam. Day 3 & our tour was booked for 1.30pm & we were to meet in Dam Square, the guide would be carrying a white umbrella. We had a really good 2 hour tour with Gerben & learnt lots about the history of The Netherlands, Amsterdam & interesting facts about the city. We were lucky to be shown a small bit of green oasis in the middle of the city! The houses were originally occupied by nuns but due to the dwindling nun population the houses are rented out to women only, no men allowed.
No trip to Amsterdam would be complete with a wander through De Wallen, we found a couple of bars & had a few drinks whilst people watching. Human curiosity & all that. Anyway tried some Frites with cheese/topping & have to admit they were better than the Belgian equivalent. Followed by Churros with cinnamon sugar & chocco sauce. Back for a few more drinks before catching the late ferry back. In 3 days we clocked up 72,000 steps – about 36 miles.
