Amsterdam: A beautiful, bike-riding city

Active residents among Vondelpark in Amsterdam

Waiter offering insights & directions

After checking into our hotel, showering up for a recharge, we took on the city by foot and landed in what I called the "restaurant district." A charming, tight-nit part of town, bustling with locals and tourists alike. Our server at the restaurant we chose was wonderful and gave us, what I felt was "inside scoop" on a recommended must-see-do place we'll take his advice on this Saturday.

Amsterdam is a popular (understatement) bicycle riding city

Amsterdam impresses me. Everywhere you turn there are people riding bicycles. Whether it's a mom with her two kids, a business man or woman in his or her finest suit, or a pizza delivery person, biking is the mode of transportation in these parts. I've seen older folks doing this too, so age isn't a factor either. 

No one wears helmets either, and I haven't seen an accident yet, so what is it about these people that separates us from our helmet-toting riders? I also didn't see one person wearing skin-tight or brightly-colored  bike "garb" showing they're sponsored by some company and whatnot either. Just normal people getting to and from their destinations in a mode of transportation that is efficient, cost effective and really fitting for the city. Bikes were just bikes, too. Not fancy and some real clunkers. A key theme regardless, was that every single one was locked up when parked, which made it apparent to me they must be stolen from time to time. Scooters and motorcycles are also popular.

After crossing one of many bridges, I call this area the "restaurant district"

Another observation. No pan handlers, and no smelling pot! Despite being in a city where marijuana is legalized in public shops, I have to say, I have smelled more pot in Seattle during my walks to my office building than I have in this fine city, here. The people of Amsterdam must be doing something right.

And traffic moves, too. Cars have to share the road with bicyclists, and among this, there isn't congestion like what we see back home. 

A quaint city of canals and beautifully-designed bridges, infused with wonderful charm and character, I have to say so far, I don't just "heart" this place, I "puffy" heart this place!

Residence among Vondelpark