The Busy Person’s Guide to Amsterdam

I’ve been on team coffee for years but I’m thinking about switching over to team tea. Coffee gives me quite the jolt, but it leaves me a little jittery and less focused. Tea may not give me the same hit that I get with coffee, but it gives me a sustained, calm focus.

What do you drink to get through the day and what do you think I should drink? 🤔

When looking through my trips, I can’t believe I haven't written about Amsterdam!
 

So let’s dive in!
 

Before we get into the real stuff, I know some of you have your minds in the gutter, so let’s get the X-rated material out of the way…

“Coffeeshop” cafes - The title "Coffeeshops" is a little misleading because it refers to places that sell marijuana. However, they also offer other items for purchase like milkshakes (sans weed). It's worth noting that marijuana is legal in the Netherlands, so if that's something you're interested in, feel free to partake in the 🌲. No one really cares. 

Red Light Alley District - If you see a girl smiling at you through the window, she’s not into you.

If you didn’t have good game in the states, why would you think your pickup lines work overseas? She’s a prostitute bruh...If you want to meet her, then Pay Up! Her profession is completely legal and she earns a salary from the government. So, avoid any shady activities like being rude or recording videos… or else you may find yourself in a Dutch jail cell on your next stop!

Got that out of your system? Now let’s get down to business.

Go on bike ride - Taking a bike ride through Amsterdam is a must to fully experience the city. However, it's important to refrain from cycling while impaired by drugs or alcohol, as it could result in a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge. Also,the Dutch treat their bikes like cars. Unlike cars, bikes can approach silently, so it's important to remain alert. I was still shell-shocked when I got back to the states.

I had difficulty capturing this picture due to the large number of people riding their bikes.

Bruin cafe - This cafe is like the Dutch equivalent of a pub. Go here if you enjoy beer and finger food.

Visit the Amsterdam Royal Palace - When it comes to royalty, most people think of England or France, but don't overlook the Dutch! The amount of wealth they acquired through colonization is astonishing and you will feel its grandeur when visiting this palace. Surprisingly, the Queen of the Netherlands used this residence, despite its draftiness. Additionally, although not frequently, executions occurred here.

Van Gogh Museum - You have to go to the Van Gogh museum, the original location. Why was Van Gogh such a significant figure? He was renowned for his use of colors, his ability to convey emotions through his paintings, and his incorporation of other styles such as the Japanese style. Many people consider him a genius. Personally, I enjoyed this museum because it demonstrates his genius despite his challenges with mental illness. 

Try Rijsttafel - Eat this! This is similar to Malaysian tapas. If you enjoy Thai food, you'll love it. P.S. Why isn't this available in the United States?!?! This dish will always have a special place in my heart because it was one of my first Instagram Reels.

Let’s Go America, GET IT TOGETHER!!!

Please do not mix the dishes as the chef will be livid. I'm serious - the chef observed me eating from the start and it created some tension. 

Try the Poffertjes- If you enjoy pancakes, Amsterdam is the place for you because they have perfected them. These small pancakes are typically served with sugar and butter. Don't leave the Netherlands without giving them a try.

FEBO - Think about going to a convenience food store where all the food is available in a vending machine. It's the best thing ever for late-night snacks. 

Foodhallen - This is a cool food hall where you can sample multiple Dutch foods at once. Even picky eaters and those who are less adventurous can find something to eat here. The place has a nice vibe.

Ann Frank House - To visit here, you need to make a reservation in advance. Seriously, if you don't, they won't let you in. I had to persuade my way in and it was a close call. Once inside, you can see the house where Anne Frank and her family lived for a few years. It makes us realize that as difficult as COVID isolation might have been, others had it much worse.

What is the first thing you would do in Amsterdam?

Cocktail of the Week

Jamaica is famous for its vibrant cocktail culture, and one popular drink is the Jamaican Rum Punch. This refreshing concoction has a rich history dating back to the colonial era when British sailors brought the tradition of punch to Jamaica. The drink evolved over time, incorporating local ingredients such as rum, citrus fruits, and Jamaican spices.
 

Recipe for Jamaican Rum Punch:

• 1 cup of Jamaican rum (preferably dark)
• 3/4 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
• 3/4 cup of orange juice
• 1/2 cup of pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup of grenadine syrup
• 2 tablespoons of simple syrup
• A pinch of nutmeg for garnish
• Ice cubes

Preparation:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker or pitcher with ice cubes.
2. Add Jamaican rum, lime juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, grenadine syrup, and simple syrup.
3. Shake or stir vigorously to mix all the ingredients well.
4. Strain the mixture into serving glasses filled with ice cubes.
5. Garnish each glass with a pinch of nutmeg.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy the tropical flavors of Jamaica in every sip!

Random Travel Thought

 I could post about climbing the Himalayas in a tank top and no one cares. But, if I slip on a rock and bust my ass, I get crazy engagement. 

Follow me on Instagram.  

The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com*: This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing*: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.
  
  *Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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