Our winter adventure with Amsterdam as our final destination has finally come to a close and I couldn’t be more thrilled! Amsterdam has always been on my bucket list, but I didn’t know much about the city before visiting. However, after spending time exploring the canals, trying delicious food, and visiting iconic museums like the Anne Frank Museum and the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam has grown on me. I’m so glad I finally had the opportunity to cross Amsterdam off my bucket list and would love to return for another visit.

A little background on Amsterdam: it is the capital and largest city of the Netherlands, located in the western part of the country. It is known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene and its bike-friendly culture. The city has a rich history, dating back to the 13th century when it was a small fishing village. It later grew to become an important port and trading hub, and today it is a major center for art, culture, and finance. Amsterdam is also known for its liberal attitudes, particularly towards drugs and sexuality, and is a popular tourist destination for its museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House, as well as its coffee shops and nightlife.

Our hotel was a small room, but the interior decor and terrace made up for it. The highlight for me was the hand-made embroideries on the wall and the unique yarn decoration on the ceiling. It was also centrally located and within walking distance to everything.

Most of our days were spent sightseeing through the beautiful canals, trying different cafes, visiting the Anne Frank museum, and stopping by the Rijksmuseum. When we visited Amsterdam during the winter, the weather was crisp and chilly, but my friend and I were still able to navigate the city with ease. The canals were lined with charming buildings and the streets were decorated with holiday lights. Despite the cold, the locals were friendly and approachable. Many of them spoke English which made communication easy and enjoyable. Amsterdam truly reminds me of San Francisco in many ways. The city is diverse, open and incredibly easy to walk around. The picturesque canals, charming buildings, and lively atmosphere make Amsterdam feel just as vibrant and alive as the city by the bay. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets or simply strolling along the canals, Amsterdam has a unique charm that makes it feel like a second home.