Blog

6 - 7 June : I Amsterdam

Red Light Photography Unwanted

Trippin'.
How excited were we when we arrived at Stayokay?! Throw away your pre- notion of hostels-- the crummy wasted walls, mildew mattresses, no heat and lack of sheets-- are a thing in the past. Compared to the closet of a space we had in London, this was hostel heaven. Stayokay is a short tram ride followed by a 5 minute walk from the train station. On our way to the hostel, we had to ask for directions a few times because it was slightly away from all the city center excitement. The hostel is huge and has a great business center complete with tourist guide books and maps. One of the best European hostels we've stayed at hands down.
First stop-- Heineken Experience. Tickets were cheap and we got free beer! Lunch was planned at The Pancake Company, however, we got lost and by the time we found the place, it was closed for midday break. Note to self-- Attractions and most dining spots close down midday so either come early or come late. But not all was lost, while wandering the canals of Amsterdam, we managed to stumble upon Anne Frank's House and took a picture of the front door outside. Why you ask? Because it was also closed. So we headed on over to the Red Light District. It's an eye opener and out right against all norms. We certainly enjoyed this unique part of town. However, magnets for trouble that we are, we couldn't leave without having a near death encounter when we attempted to fake a self portrait to try and capture the "you have to see it to believe it" scene that was behind us. Needless to say, we were chased out of the area by hurling screams and threats of which you can understand in any language. Scary indeed. Too terrified to even turn around, we deleted the pictures immediately in case they caught up with us.

Only in Amsterdam..
To lighten the mood, we headed on over to a nearby cafe and treated ourselves to some "space cakes". Yep.. you heard right. Talk about an eclectic menu. There was hemp in everything from the hot chocolate to the tea and sandwiches and practically everything else in between. Just imagine the possibilities! Unfortunately, it was my first time and I didn't know how I should be feeling or reacting. I didn't feel any different. But I couldn't say the same for you know who.. said he felt "spacy" and relaxed. Interesting.

Since we weren't planning on leaving until later in the evening for our overnight train to Munich, we checked out early and stored our backpacks at the train station lockers while we wandered the city some more. It was difficult to enjoy much because our allergy sinuses carried over from Brussels. Sucks! Prior to our train out, we headed back to The Pancake Company for dinner which was conveniently walking distance to the train station.

Sleeping: Stayokay Vondelpark Hostel
Attraction & Destination Checklist:
Heineken Brewery Experience
Anne Frank's House
Red Light District
Tips: DON'T take pictures in the red light district. You'll most certainly be sorry.

More Photos.