AMSTERDAM

Oh Amsterdam, where do I start! 

I arrived in Amsterdam, checked in my hostel and immediately started roaming around.  It is true what they say, you can definitely smoke in Amsterdam!  I had to walk around and check this place out!

  

 

Below was one of my favorite coffee shops!  Extremely nice lounge with great colors and energy.  Very open and chill. 

Fast food anyone?  You literally put in your euros and pull a lever!

And YES, the red light district does exist!!  Basically the ladies rent out these window rooms for 50 to 175 euros a day.  They charge 50 euros for 15 minutes! 

Below is a piece of art in the red light district.  It is by an anonymous artist.  Years ago the city had it removed, then the city protested and they put it back! 

Amsterdam is known for supporting their people.  Thus allowing smoking, red light district, etc.  The red light "girls" actually get healthcare through the government.  They may not always approve of what people do, but they give their people that freedom and support.  Kind of cool....

Amsterdam is also known for another thing - ever heard of Anne Frank?  I remember reading her book growing up in school.  But actually visiting where she lived, trapped behind that wall during the war was mind blowing, and very sad.

Here is the infamous bookshelf, the hidden door..

To actually see pictures of war tanks roaming the very streets we were walking was indescribable.  To be standing in a place of such history was incredible.  

Can you imagine being trapped inside for YEARS and your only wish is to ride a bicycle and be able to whistle?  It really helps you put things into perspective huh?  Man.  So heavy.

Back in the day in Amsterdam they use to tax you based on how wide your house was..

Amsterdam is actually a very pretty city!  The Dutch have a saying "God may have build the world, but the Dutch built the Netherlands."  The Netherlands is actually below sea level and for years they have been fighting the sea, keeping it aback. 

Cities that are under sea level make me nervous.  I highly recommend you visit The Netherlands if you have the chance.  Regardless of the weed smoking and red light district, The Netherlands is actually a very pretty place.