Everyone knows there are a lot of bikes in Amsterdam. But they aren’t the decked out beach cruisers you might find see in American cities. In Amsterdam, the older the better for a couple of reasons. First, bike theft is rampant. A nice, shiny bike won’t last long. Second, there is a sense of pride for the older bikes that may have been passed down in families. Scooters, on the other hand are shiny, fancy and still ultra cool. Especially this orange, super skinny model. Not to be beat, one car proved it can be even smaller than a bike. I thought Smarts looked like Flintstone cars. I would...

Europeans have a strange view of American country music in Europe. While the big stars perform at the big concert venues, it’s still an overall novelty. I stumbled upon “Country Night” at an odd art-deco hotel bar in Amsterdam one evening. The DJ proudly wore his real Texan 10-gallon hat while he played strange dance mix versions of Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash classics. Related Posts:Alternate TransportationRoman Holiday – Amster Style2 Days, 3 Markets, 4 MuseumsHappiest Place On EarthIt’s Stuck on my...

Ever since Audrey Hepburn took her Roman Holiday, it has been every girl’s dream to see Italy from the back of a Vespa. I have yet to do this, but you know what they say. When in Amsterdam… I returned to Holland tired from a night of Belgium beer and a long train ride. But with less than two days left, I still had plenty on my list to see. Most importantly, I had yet to ride a bike through the streets of Amsterdam. A friend had recommended Mike’s Bike Tours as a way to see the city and meet other people. I wanted to do the afternoon ride, then take the bike for the next day....

My time in Amsterdam was limited, so I did my research in advance and didn’t waste a moment in my first few days. Within two hours of arriving I was at my first market – the Albert Cuypmarkt. It was mostly food – from cheese to fishheads – and food stands with strange local dishes like the sandwiches of herring, pickles and onions. Usually, I’ll always try the local flavor, but had to pass on this. Instead, I had amazing tomato soup at a nearby cafe. Next I picked up an I Amsterdam card . This tourist pass gives you free access to most museums, a public transit pass and...

Sure Amsterdam is a happy place you say. You’ve heard about the coffeeshops, the bicycles and Heineken. But it is more than that. Everyone here is truly happy to help you. No matter what time of day, they smile as you pass and will volunteer information if you look lost. They gladly explain about their city, speak to you in English or help you read a menu. Two examples stand out. On an early and rare sunny morning I was crossing the Rembrandtplein bridge with guidebook in hand. A truck with three workers pulled up. One man had a ticket book, the other a chainsaw, and the third was supervising....