A Birthday Weekend in Amsterdam: Experiencing the Charms of the Dutch Capital

Yerrrr! I hope you're all doing great. This past weekend, I decided to celebrate my birthday in Amsterdam, and let me tell you, it truly lived up to the hype. Before diving into the details of my weekend adventure, I'd like to share a few interesting observations I made before arriving in Amsterdam:

1. Embracing European Habits: I've become even more European now, as I've switched to exclusively drinking sparkling water. It's a refreshing change from still water.
2. Fashion and Diversity: Amsterdam is a city that exudes style and diversity. The fashion here is top-notch, but surprisingly, people don't seem to be as obsessed with sneakers as they are with their overall appearance. Also, the diversity here is unique, with various cultures intermingling effortlessly.
3. The Quirks of Belgian Hair Salons: Before heading to Amsterdam, I got my hair done at a salon in Brussels. Unlike the individualistic approach in American salons, the stylists in Brussels salons work together as a team. They did an excellent job, though they were fashionably late for my appointment.

Now, let's get into the exciting details of my time in Amsterdam:

Arriving in Amsterdam, I decided to take a leisurely 30-minute walk from the train station to my hotel—a great way to soak in the modern and vibrant ambiance of the city. Contrary to what I expected, Amsterdam felt far from old-world like Brussels, and its residents' impeccable sense of fashion stood out.

The city is undoubtedly a haven for romance, as I witnessed couples holding hands and kissing passionately throughout the streets. The sight was nothing short of enchanting, reminiscent of the romance I had anticipated in Paris.

One striking aspect of Amsterdam's charm lies in its multicultural society. Diversity isn't just about different colors and sizes; it's about people from various backgrounds genuinely mingling and forming connections. I even met individuals from Russia and Israel, making the world feel much smaller.

As you traverse the city, you'll find yourself mesmerized by the seamless coordination between cyclists, cars, pedestrians, and trams. It's like a beautifully choreographed dance, although you must stay alert to avoid any accidental encounters with the moving traffic.

As for the nightlife, Amsterdam offers an array of experiences. Bars typically operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, which might take some getting used to if you're accustomed to tabs. Absinthe is a popular choice for those seeking a night of adventure, while various drink bombs rule the scene. Unfortunately, food options dwindle after 4:30 a.m., so make sure to grab a late-night bite before then.

Now, onto some housekeeping and answering your questions:

1. Essential Tips for Traveling Abroad: Get a passport card to leave your actual passport safely at your accommodation. Also, take a photo of your passport and share it with a friend or family member back home for added security.
2. Schengen Calculator: If you plan to stay for an extended period, download a Schengen calculator to keep track of your stay within the 90-day no-visa zone over a rolling 180 days.
3. Glossary of Each Place: I'm in the process of creating a detailed glossary for each city, including areas, restaurants, accommodations, and overall rankings. It'll be an easy reference guide for fellow travelers.
4. Behind the Scenes (BTS) or NSFW Version: Perhaps in the future, I'll consider sharing more intimate and explicit stories, but only if I can ensure they're shared safely and responsibly.

In conclusion, Amsterdam has left a lasting impression on me. From its modern charm to the romance that permeates the air, this city is an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking a European adventure. Until next time, safe travels and happy exploring!