AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
More than 400 miles away from Dublin is a city where sex and drugs are sold
like coffee - Amsterdam.
For those who haven't been to this city yet, that sounded rather scary. But trust me, it is not. In fact, it is hailed as one of the safest cities around the world, and so my friend Merelle and I explored its nooks and corners.
It is true, though, that it is the sin city of Europe. Prostitution and cannabis are openly sold to the public like candies. But despite of this, the city exudes a relax and feel-good vibe (probably because of all the pot fumes I inhaled the whole time I was in the city).
We arrived late in the afternoon at the Schipol Airport, which is the fourth busiest airport in all of Europe. The wind felt cold and chilly despite the thick layers of winter clothes I was wearing. We went straight to our accomodation, which is a budget hotel located a few kilometers from the city centre.
After dropping our bags, we headed to the red light district - where the gogo girls and sex workers stand behind clear glass like manequins in their skimpy lingerie ready for their customers. It was scary, and distressing at the same time, as we stare from one girl to another.
It was snowy the next day. We headed for breakfast and walked our way to the canals, which Amsterdam is famous for. We then took the train towards the Anne Frank House. Anne Frank was a diarist who lived in hiding in a small house in Amsterdam, now a museum, during World War II. Unfortunately, we weren't able to come in as tickets had to be booked in advance for admission. We then decided to find a 'coffee shop' and try the famous 'space cakes' but we were to scared to get inside so we dropped the idea.
We roamed around the city and noticed that there are more bikes than cars in the streets. Amsterdam is a bicycle friendly city, so if you're planning to visit, the best way to go around would be through cycling.
Merelle had to catch her flight to Prague later that afternoon so I decided to go to Van Gogh Museum. Learning about Van Gogh and seeing his works up close was a dream come true. I've spent almost three hours going around the museum, and although the ticket was quite pricey, I enjoyed every single minute I spent inside.
My stay in Amsterdam was short but sweet. Watch my vlog here to see more!
