Back in March, I travelled to the Dutch city of Amsterdam to witness the christening of Viking River Cruises’ brand-new Viking Longships. And while my schedule was fairly intensive during this short two-day trip to Europe, I still managed to find time to spend an enjoyable Wednesday morning exploring this beautiful, forward-thinking city.
Amsterdam is a stunning mix of old-world charm and new-age thinking. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
Amsterdam is home to many things, including the impressive Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank’s house, and more beautiful canals and stone buildings than you can shake a stick at. Amsterdam is also famous for its tolerant way of life, with a “red light” district that spans several blocks. Rather than being the seedy den of debauchery that most North Americans might perceive it to be, Amsterdam’s red light district is a vibrant area that attracts both tourists and locals alike, and simply has to be seen.
Uniworld’s SS Antoinette river cruise ship docked at the foot of Amsterdam’s Cruise Passenger Terminal. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
Although I was there on official river cruise business, Amsterdam is also an increasingly popular port of call and turnaround port for deep-ocean cruise ships. A look at the Port of Amsterdam’s cruise ship schedule for this year shows things are looking very good indeed for the capital of the Netherlands.
Here is a look at how I spent a glorious springtime Wednesday Morning in Amsterdam; we’re headed back there in December for another short stay before continuing on to Budapest and the magnificent Danube.
Streets narrow as you approach the red light district, situated in one of the oldest areas of Amsterdam. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
One of the most convenient ways to get around in Amsterdam. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
Take away the modern signage in the background, and things would look remarkably like they did a century ago. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
Mosaic tile on the side of a building in Amsterdam. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
Handy directional signage is everywhere in Amsterdam. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
Cafes are everywhere. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
Amsterdam’s old-world charm comes through. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
The Amsterdam Cruise Terminal can host both deep-ocean and river cruise vessels. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
Amsterdam is a very pedestrian-friendly city. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders
If only every Wednesday could be spent this way!
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