As we approached the Nijmegen train station, we saw bicyclists looking for vacant spots in the multi-floor bike park. Imagine how much energy is saved in the Netherlands just with bike use.
It is strange for me to look for bike traffic; several times, Dennis had to yank me off the bicycle path. Unless riding for sport, most commute riders (and their children) do not wear helmets. Most bikes are older models equipped with baskets or panniers. Only a few have lights or reflectors.
We arrived at the Amsterdam Central Train Station around noon. The town’s cafe-lined streets are full of pedestrians (many tourists), trolly cars, and bicyclists. We passed several museums such as the Medieval Museum of Torture, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the Sexmuseum, Van Gogh, and others. We also walked by several Ben & Jerry’s; somehow I managed to resist the call of Double Fudge Brownie, thinking that there must be a Dutch delight in my future.
Maureen at the Tourists Office was very helpful in finding us a room and telling us about the various “must see” tours. We plan to visit Anne Frank’s house, the canals, the Red Light District (for Dennis’ sake), and take a walking tour, which we enjoyed doing in Galway and London.
We are staying at the Hotel Museumzicht in the Museum and Fashion District. To access the lobby of this ancient hotel, you need to climb what is probably the world’s most steep interior stairway–10 risers to the front door, and then another 52 to our room. We are staying on the “first” floor overlooking trees below. (See right below.)
After a delightful Indonesian dinner, we schlepped over to Anne Frank’s house. I cannot imagine living in the annex attic for two years, as she did. At thirteen, when she went into hiding, her friends recall that she was a leader, vivacious, bubbly. Once in hiding, she had to sit still and not make any noise. We are lucky her diary and writings were saved and that her father had the courage to publish them.
For the first time in about six weeks, I am warm; it is about 80 F and sunny. Perhaps this is why I love Amsterdam so much.
You are in one of my very favourite cities – and staying in my very favourite Amsterdam hotel. I am so happy to hear that it is still in business! During one of my stays, I was in a room the very very top of the hotel…above your ‘first floor’ room. If you have time, the museum about the Dutch Resistance is worth visiting, as is the City of Amsterdam museum. and, of course, the Rjiksmuseum next door to the Hotel Musemzicht. Have a wonderful time!! Enjoy the french fries with mayo!!
Mary Lynn,
Thanks for the museum recommendations. I’m planning on visiting the Dutch Resistance one today.
Amsterdam is very different from other European cities, and the people are very open and welcoming. I can see why it is one of your favorites.
Hi Jane and Dennis, I loved all the bikes. That’s simply amazing that that many people ride bicycles. I love bike riding. When I read your post about the hotel and you guys staying on the first floor, I was thinking ground level, so I was confused when you mentioned all the steps you have to walk up. But then I looked at the picture and I understood. Good thing you guys take pictures. To actually go into Anne Frank’s house where she hid, would be surreal. Her life has always fascinated me, but then almost everything about history has always done the same.
Donna Jean,
The Ann Frank House is one of the town’s most popular attractions. There are waiting lines and reservation lists. Maureen from the Visitors Office recommended going in the evenings, since they are open until 10 P.M. Last night there was a short waiting line, but the exhibitions were crowded and we needed to wait in line to read the explanations in the displays.
Since you are interested in history, this is a must see if you come to Amsterdam.