The capital of the Netherlands is the most populous city, with approximately 2.5 million inhabitants in the metropolitan area. It derives its name from the damming of the Amstel River in the 12th century. It was a leading port in the 17th century; it is now a leading center for finance and trade and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The oldest part of the city, Sloten, dates to the 9th century.
Because we had previously explored Amsterdam and had already seen the canals, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Ann Frank House, we visited several city neighborhoods, stopped for a beer and sandwich, and took in the ambiance.
We spotted several stores selling yellow ducksas we went through the tulip market to the downtown area. Supposedly, Florentijn Hofman, a Dutch artist, placed large Rubber Ducks in various places around the world. He is famous, as are his Ducks .
My father had an awning company. He would have been interested in seeing these.
Of course, Amsterdam has bikes! Many of these fall into the canal: approximately 12,000 to 15,000 cycles annually. As a result, Amsterdam employs a practice called “bicycle fishing” to remove these sunken bikes and has set a Guinness World Record for “most bicycles recovered from [a city’s] waterways.”
About a half hour after departing from Amsterdam, I noticed a strange formation in the water: Eldye Island. Dennis was thrilled to see it.
Amsterdam was one of my favorite when we lived in Europe. Bicycle story is a hoot! Thanks for the update.
Thanks Dave.
I love Amsterdam; it was the first place I went in Europe. I went on my own and found it easy to find my way around–including seeing the great museums–and visiting other towns in the vicinity thanks to the great transit system.
I watched the gannet clip and heard them by using the link in your write-up. Thanks! Hope you continue to visit these great places.
I’m glad you liked Amsterdam; what is there not to like? Thanks for following.