The nice thing about revisiting a city you've been to before is you can hit the ground running. You already know your way around so no time is lost starring blankly at a map.
Although it was grey, damp and chilly day in Amsterdam, the city still shined. Nothing can dull the beauty that is Amsterdam. When I first backpacked through Europe, Amsterdam wasn't even on my radar. I chalked it up to being a sleezy city for hookers and pot heads and while I have no opinion and pass no judgment on people who participate in either of those activities, it's not my cup of tea. Why would I go there? But I had to go there --- I had to pass through to get to where I was going and no one was more surprised than me by how much I loved it there.
Amsterdam is beautiful. Stop your breath beautiful. Sure there are hookers (more on that in a minute) and pot heads, but the architecture -- the kind spirit of the inhabitants -- the endless canals... Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been to and I've been to a lot of places!
I was so happy to come back here -- and soak up one of my favorite cities. I spent the afternoon drinking beer on a quite corner along one of the canals and finished The Hunger Games, which I just started the day before. It's been a long time since I read a book in 24 hrs. (I guess that's my way of recommending.)
I'm here another day (1 day is just not enough!) and then I'm on to Germany where I will meet two Herbies!
