Amsterdam first impressions.
Bit too European for my taste. Feels friendly, feels safe. Not very accommodable for the disabled. Lots and lots of bikes. All the visible flags of my people makes me proud, too.
Lots of pigeons, no seagulls spotted (yet). Even ravens (I don't think it was crows, but I may be wrong). ((Editor note: no seagulls were spotted during the visit.))
Reminds me of Stockholm. And a bit of Dublin, too. The steps up to the residential houses New York, in a somewhat less grandiose style.
Exploring the city wandering with a lose plan, and then at random. This is the way to find the unexpected and wonderful. A serene retreat of nature and friendliness. A Warhammer store where the owner displayed his own painted models (they were impressive). A Guinness brown pub. A lovely old house with a KATTENCAT sign attached.
I think the overwhelming feeling is feeling safe. And I'm soaking in it. It feels like coming home. It's rare, and a bit disturbing, seldom felt.
I admit I am conflicted in regards to the city. The people are exceptionally nice and respectful, but awareness needs to be raised due to the cyclists. Plenty of American tourists. I can almost picture myself living in this city.
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From Arnhem, I ended up with an accidental long and convoluted scenic route. Got to see lots of rural Netherland: Emmerich Ward. And then I blissfully unaware walked into Germany, because there was my hotel.
I've started to realize the limits come breakfast on the continent, displeasingly so. And lack of sleep getting older. Also displeasing, for one who would trade the need of food for the ability to sleep. Thoughts lingering on last night's company. Smitten, again.
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The wedding was lovely, and the dress was complimented several times. Unfortunately picked up a runny nose and lots of sniffling. Again my ignorance of the German language made me end up in Wesel before I had to double back to Arnhem. Still, adventure. Trip to Wesel: got a compliment for my sparkling purple/pink suitcase. Worth it.
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Last day in Netherland: Amsterdam Monday with those of the wedding guests that could make it. Neither Manesni, Star or myself felt like meeting yesterday: me being slightly sick, they having house work.
The Arnhem train station toilet was an overwhelmingly positive experience. And I keep being surprised on how nice everybody is.
The four blues sisters, on bicycles, all matching black outfits, sunglasses and red lipstick. High end.
The last hotel, on the edge inside the (general) Red Light District, was super Dutch: narrow, steep staircases, twists and turns. And I got the top room.
The rooftop view is gorgeous.
And of course I walked by a restaurant called nomi.
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Don't know when I'll be back, but I will be.
And that's a promise.
