A Photo Tour of Amsterdam

For many people, their impression of Amsterdam is of bicyclists outnumbering vehicles or the never-ending labyrinth of canals. However you look at it, there are endless ways to spend your time here. Amsterdam is unique in the sense that it is the most progressive city in all of Europe. As you might already know, prostitution and marijuana usage are completely accepted and legal here but it is quite shocking when you see it in person. In fact, there were many times I asked myself, “How can a city function like this? What are the rules? Why aren’t the cops shutting this down?” Although this system seems taboo from an outsider’s perspective, it really makes for a travel experience unlike anything else.  Whether you support this kind of system or not, it is something you just have to see for yourself.

Once you venture outside the Red Light District, the city takes on a whole new persona. It’s easy to just wander along the canals and lose track of time or marvel at the towering brick buildings that set you back in time. One of my favorite experiences while in Amsterdam was strolling through Vondelpark at twilight. This is the magic hour where locals and tourists of all kinds come to escape the congested streets of Amsterdam.

One weekend is enough time to really get a good feel for this city.  Knowing how to manage your weekend is crucial no matter where you’re traveling.  This is why I have included some helpful tips to guide you through a weekend in Amsterdam.

Did you really go to Amsterdam without taking a picture at the "I Amsterdam" sign? This spot may be touristy, however it is a must stop when visiting this unique city. Getting a picture in front of this iconic sign is basically validation that you made it to Amsterdam.

Climb on top of the letters (if you're not too short) to claim your spot.

Amsterdam is a great place to travel with a group of friends. For most cities I would recommend to only travel with a few people, but for Amsterdam I'd say the more the merrier!

Try the local street food. Amsterdam is dotted with many french fry stands throughout the city. Grab a cone to go with one of their many unique sauces. The local favorite is a peanut sauce with mayonnaise and chopped onions. Doesn't sound very appealing? Don't worry, they still have ketchup or bar-b-que for all the Americans.

Find a nice place for a picnic . While you're visiting the "I Amsterdam" sign, go relax in the Museumplein. This grassy area is ideal for grabbing some local cheese and bread and posting up for a picnic. The Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum are all located right around this park, incase you wanted to see a few of the most well known art exhibits in the world.

Walk, Bike or Run through Vondelpark. It's nice to just meander along the dirt paths or take an afternoon nap under the trees.

Take your time exploring. Let your mind wander and daydream. Cross all the bridges because you never know what beautiful spot it might take you to.

Explore the crowded streets at night.

Go to the floating flower market to see the huge variety of tulips.

Make sure to sample the classic dutch stroopwafels. It would be a complete sin if you left Amsterdam without trying this heavenly cookie. Whether store bought or homemade, this cookie is absolutely life changing.

Go on the Heineken Experience tour. Whether you're an avid beer drinker or not, anyone can enjoy seeing the production of beer making. They do a great job in making the tour interactive for the customers and you even get a sample at the end of the tour!

Spend time on the Canals. There are 165 canals that maze there way through the city. Of course you can walk along the banks, however my recommended mode of transportation would be a canal boat ride. This is the best way to take advantage of these beautiful water ways.

Its easy to see why Amsterdam is one of the most popular destinations for study abroad students.  Soak in everything this city has to offer, be open-minded, and take it for what it is.  This is one of those destinations that will stay in your memory for the rest of your life, so enjoy it while it lasts!