I Amsterdam

I've really enjoyed my time in Amsterdam, upon landing and taking the easy 10 minute train ride to the center of the city and my hotel, I already felt this city had something special about it, something that makes it unique and stand out among the other Western European capitals with their rivers, row houses, and quaint cafés.

I found the people of Amsterdam to be overwhelmingly helpful and friendly, something i found hard to believe with so many tourists - "Don't you get annoyed with all the foreigners walking crossing through the bike lanes without looking?" I asked the Dutch. They do, but then they give directions and tell you the best place to get bitterballen or an authentic Dutch pint. I guess, like Colombians and Brazilians, the pace of life here is a few notches down from the hectic lifestyle we are used to in the us. And that's what generally loved about this place - everyone is so cheerful and complacent, and equal - you don't see lots of fancy cars or handbags or sunglasses. The CEO and the janitor both cycle to work.

 Allison and I enjoying a tea and gluten-free goodies

And I was able to easily mix business and pleasure, going to a popular local nightclub with people I met at the gaming conference I was attending, and a few days later visiting the Anne frank house with one of my best friends. Business included important meetings with European clients and late supper and nightlife outings to expand my professional network. The weekend consisted of my best friend and I window shopping, exploring the entire city on foot, and leisurely sitting in cafés sipping coffee and tea and eating gluten free Dutch pancakes and other sweets. When my friend left I met up with a Dutch friend to see what the Northern part of Amsterdam was all about. I got to see the hippie, artsy, creative part of the Netherlands, going to a sushi + DJ party on Sunday night! The feeling I get now as I'm leaving is one of satisfaction but a desire to come back. I want more waffles, tea, friendly Dutch accents, canals, cheese, and bicycles!

 A seafood gem where I tried all sorts of salmon, crab, and herring.

Container student housing in the north