Amsterdam Recap

So Amsterdam was my first weekend to travel around Europe. I thought why not test out my traveling skills on the most controversial/liberal place in Europe. So the first step was easy booking the train and tickets. Everyone spoke English and it was immensely easy to get around. The second part was shaking off my old conceptions about Amsterdam.
Prior to this trip I had these preconceived judgments of what it would be like,... that I would be mugged or conned into something RiSkY. However, I was contradicted. Amsterdam is so beautiful. The canals wrapped around like a snake against the stone houses. The weather was sunny with a light breeze which made it comfortable to walk around for hours. Getting lost in between the canals and streets was an exciting part about the trip because we discovered interesting people and shops. This is where we found great restaurants, shops and of course a H & M.
Also, the culture and the art were breathtaking and moving. I went to the oldest church in Amsterdam built in 1401, and stood on graves of people who were of royalty. I went to the Ann Frank house and stood where Ann once wrote in her journal. One could not be moved by such an experience. It overwhelmed me and made me realize how important life is and how much the human spirit could endure. I believe that this tour was my favorite. We also saw a mediaeval torture show...which was quite fascinating yet grotesque. I learned how they used rip tongues out and intestines very educational! I also visited the Van Gough museum and it was so beautiful and breathtaking. I saw some pictures from Monet as well and I just could not fathom that I was standing in front of some the greatest artist's work. Its a experience that is hard to describe/
Of course I checked out the red light district and a comedian show as well. I mean Amsterdam is known for these things and I wanted to see it all. The redlight district was depressing to me...all these woman just hanggggiing out....but needless to say I went down there and checked it out. The comedian show was great and was a good way to end my trip. Lets just say there are 100’s and 100’s of restaurants for “hungry” people….I never seen so much fast food in my life!!!
In conclusion to my misconceptions the only thing people need to worry about is the cyclists, trams and mopeds because they rule the world in Amsterdam. If you get in there way just know you might get injured. Other than that Amsterdam is a amazing place and I would love to go back. It is rich with history and very progressive at the same time. It is like two worlds living in one. So that is my trip to Amsterdam....I had to go back to the real world and start teaching again this week..but I have some great trips plan for the future. Love you all and miss you All!!