Etchings And Canal Paths

It's been a dreich day in the land of dikes and tulips and windmills. A day for pink umbrellas and 

neon yellow rain capes. Not me you understand. I don’t do umbrellas and certainly not neon.

We’ve coped mind you. Who wouldn’t in such a lovely country on day one of our Amsterdam adventure. I’ve people watched to my hearts desire. Spotting characters from Rembrandt’s painting every which way I turn. There’s the burger meister and oh isn’t that one of his serving girls. There is definitely a 'dutch' look and the friendliness of the people is beyond compare.

Flybe for once gave us an on time service to Amsterdam via Southampton. The joy of smaller airports midpoint meaning less walking and much less queuing in security. The propeller planes certainly had a rubber band quality but they got us there eventually.

The hotel is a little out of the way and necessitates a short bus ride. But hey that’s how you get to see more of the local flavour. As usual we have bought into a three day pass that covers transport and main attractions. Always good value. So far The Hermitage, Rembrandt’s house and the Royal palace in Dam square have been ticked off. Plus lots of damp walking along brown edged canal sides.

Rembrandt’s house was definitely my favourite. We enjoyed the house on many floors filled with artefacts that recreated Rembrandt’s home. All the objects he would have used to paint. Plus a wonderful demonstration of how his etched prints were created.

So far we haven’t been mown down by the many cyclists. We’ve had our wits about us as we’ve crossed busy streets laced with tram tracks. Tomorrow we’re hopeful of sunshine and perhaps a canal cruise. Possibly the Rijksmuseum. So much to see and enjoy. Hopefully a pancake too.

So for now time to sleep and gather more energy for a new day. Apologies for missing some of your posts. I’ll try and catch up soon.

Hope all is well,

Barbara xxx