Sunday, April 12, 2009

Hello from Holland

Hubby and I are in Amsterdam.

Unfortunately, the internet cafe we are visiting right now does not allow uploading of photos, but when I can do it, I'll have lots of really great ones to post.

We planned this trip about a year ago after NWA and Delta merged. I was afraid I'd lose all my frequent flyer miles, so we got free tickets and then just saved up Euros.

Once the markets and economy started to tank, we thought long and hard about taking the trip, but decided to just forge ahead.

Hubby and I love to rent apartments when we travel, and we found a couple real bargains via http://www.vrbo.com/ for places in Amsterdam and Paris.

Our apartment here is right across the street from Vondelpark. The place is very spacious and has huge windows in the front and back, letting in lots of light and air. We have a little balcony where we sit and watch the world go by.

We left about three days ago. We went to Keukenhoff gardens -- wonderful, green fantastic flowers. After we toured the gardens, we rented bikes and wandered through the little villages and tulip fields. Unbelievable colors, interesting archeticture and landscapes.

We went to the Van Gogh museum -- there is a special exhibit of his work that focuses on evening scenes, including "Stary Night". Wonderful.

Yesterday, we wandered the neighborhoods. We found a great open air market where vendors sold fresh fish, veggies, cheese, clothes, bakery and more. Great bargains; great people watching.

We also ended up at Westerpark -- a little off the beaten path for tourists, which we love.

We've been eating great food; drinking rich coffee and finally, finally FINALLY unwinding.

We leave for Paris tomorrow -- we'll be there for a few days; then to London for one day and then to Cologne, Germany before we fly back.

Fortunately, we've got a great house sitter, so the cats won't be lonely and I don't have to worry about them.

I only have to worry about finding the next interesting place to have coffee...

3 comments:

Sunshine said...

Now that's what I call a First Class way to enjoy tulips for Easter! Enjoy!

Nat said...

YAY! I am so glad you are having fun! Enjoy your time, look forward to seeing you soon!

Beth said...

Sounds like you are having a wonderful trip. Have fun!