Amsterdam: 10 Things Amsterdam is famous for (part 2)

If you are here I hope you've also read the post Amsterdam: 10  Things Amsterdam is famous for (part 1). 

If no, you should definitely check it out after reading this post not to miss anything about this amazing capital city.

Amsterdam - My blog, coffee and camera!

If you are traveling to Amsterdam keep in mind that the weather there is rainy and humid most of the days. Traveling in winter? You should take into account that winters in Amsterdam are considered moderate varying from 2°C-6°C in the daytime. But for someone like me who is used to the mild Mediterranean climate, December was really freezing. That's why our coffee breaks in warm cafes were one of my most favorite parts of our sightseeings.

What is Amsterdam famous for and what I learned during my first visit there? 

Amsterdam - 10 Things Amsterdam is famous for

1. Ajax Stadium

Did you know that the Dutch football club Ajax was named after the Greek mythological hero Ajax who fought in the Trojan war against Troy?

Amsterdam - Johan Cruyff Arena

 If you are a football fan you should not miss the chance of visiting Johan Cruyff Arena, to experience the glory of Ajax, one of the most successful Dutch football teams in the history of football.  During your stadium tour you will be allowed to sneak peek into their dressing room, press conference room, the stadium, the museum, and the fan shop. 
It is a fun experience as it is planned and done in a very exciting way to keep the visitors entertained. 

Amsterdam - Ajax Stadium

2. Souvenir "Miffy"

Have you seen the Dutch Bunny - Miffy?

The Dutch Bunny - Miffy

When walking around souvenir shops in Amsterdam, you will come across a cute bunny soft toy with a cross mouth/nose. Firstly you may think it is Japanese and a friend with Hello Kitty.

 But Miffy is a traditional female rabbit in a series of picture books drawn and written by Dutch artist Dick Bruna. Her original Dutch name is "Nijntje", which is short for the diminutive konijntje, "little rabbit". However, "nijntje" is difficult to pronounce for non-Dutch speakers and because there are so many different words for "bunny" in other languages, Dick Bruna's little bunny is simply known as Miffy. Miffy soft toys may cost you from 18,50 to 22 Euros and this is what we got for our daughter as a gift from Amsterdam.

3. The Dutch People

Amsterdam is such a multicultural city with lots of tourists and immigrants that it was hard to meet as many Dutch people as we would like to. The only Dutch we spent a few hours communicating with was our walking tour guide, the others were the hotel staff, some salesmen or tram conductors. 

Amsterdam - Holland

If I were to characterize the Dutch people in one word, it would be directness. The Dutch people don't seem to beat around the bush, they are straightforward and speak their minds. At first you may feel surprised and even a bit shocked at this. But the thing is they are neither rude nor insulting, they are just honest. And at the end I really liked this trait of theirs. 

4. Museums

 Did you know that Amsterdam is among the 10 cities in the world with most museums?

Amsterdam - Rembrandt Square

According to Wikipedia, there are more than 90 museums in the city which are one of the major attractions for tourists. The museums we visited were: the world-famous Dutch masters Van Gogh and Rembrandt House Museums, Rijksmuseum, Clocks Museum, Wooden Clogs Museum, Tulips Museum, Red Lights Museum, Ajax Football Club Museum, Nemo Science Center Museum.

 It should be noted that the Dutch are very proud of their history and culture and museum visiting in Amsterdam is never a boring and dull thing to do. On the contrary, they have found a spectacular and entertaining way to present and illustrate the character of their nation in each museum.

Amsterdam - Van Gogh Museum

5. The Dutch Food

Dutch Cuisine is not one of the most famous or richest ones but the Dutch have successfully managed to bring all the tastiest food jewels from all over the world.

Street Food in Amsterdam is so tempting that you will find yourself taking bites every half an hour.

Spanish Churros, Belgian fries, English apple pies, French macaroons, German gluhwein, Italian, Indonesian, Argentinian, Chinese, Thai cuisines are at every corner.

Dutch pancakes - Poffertjes

What about traditional Dutch food I especially loved Dutch pea soup with sausages, their traditional small pancakes "poffertjes", fried dough pastries called Oliobollen, mint candies and waffles. 

You can also try raw herring but I'm not much a fish lover so I skipped that food experience:)

Dutch Mint Candy

Now, after reading all this, how excited are you to visit Amsterdam? 

If you have been there, would you like to add anything to the list above?

Amsterdam - 10 Things Amsterdam is famous for (part 1)

Amsterdam - City of Canals

Amsterdam, the city of bikes, canals, tulips, windmills, cheese, and beautiful architecture. 

Remember when you were a kid and you thought that the Moon was following you everywhere you went? 

I had the same feeling that the water, canals to be exact, were following me in Amsterdam wherever I went:). 

 Amsterdam is the coolest city I've ever been to and I can't recommend it enough. And you'd better discover it walking or cycling to enjoy the whole vibe of it:)

I Love Amsterdam

While being in Amsterdam city I kept asking myself: "Why is Amsterdam such a popular tourist destination?"

Here are 3 things I discovered to be the reasons for its popularity.

 1. Despite being tolerant to weed smoking and prostitution, from the first minutes spent here, you can't help feeling safe. At nights you may see and hear tourists singing or talking loudly (apparently too high or drunk) but that's it. 

 In fact, Amsterdam has been ranked as the 4th safest city in the world.  

2. Amsterdam has also been voted as the best-commuted city. The city has just been rebuilt to be ideal for bike riding. Public transportation with an easy and accessible system makes it so easy for tourists to get around the city. Add to that boat tours to discover the unforgettable beauty of the city.

 3. Everyone (literally everyone) speaks English fluently and this makes tourists feel home. I have a friend who has been living in the Netherlands for 12 years and yet she prefers to communicate in English.

What is Amsterdam famous for and what I learned during my first visit there? 

 1. Bicycles 

Did you know that there are more bicycles than people in Amsterdam? 

Central Station - Bicycle Parking - Amsterdam

There are 4 times more bicycles than cars in Amsterdam . Each year between 12.000 and 15.000 bicycles are pulled out of Amsterdam's canals. The bicycle parking in Central Station is one of the most photographed sights in Amsterdam. Here you can find the world's only museum you can cycle through: The Rijsk Museum.

The Rijsk Museum - Amsterdam

2. Wooden Clogs 

 Did you know that the Dutch wooden clogs are the most famous traditional footwear in the world?

The Dutch Wooden Clogs

The Dutch have been wearing wooden shoes, or clogs, or “Klompen” since medieval times. Naturally water-resistant, they protected feet from the wet Dutch climate and enabled their wearer to move across the sodden ground with ease. Wood also absorbs perspiration so that the foot can breathe. 

In Holland, wooden shoes are still worn by farmers, fishermen, factory workers, artisans, and others to protect their feet as they are very durable. 

Dutch Wooden "Klompen"

 3. Windmills

 Did you know that almost a third of the Netherlands is situated below sea level? 

The Dutch Windmills

The Dutch windmills originate from the 11th century. The Netherlands used to have 10.000 windmills, nowadays over 1.000 are still standing and most of them still work. 

Historically, windmills in the Netherlands served many purposes. The most important probably was pumping water out of the lowlands and back into the rivers beyond the dikes so that the land could be farmed. 

 4. Coffeeshops

Did you know that coffee shops are not a place to drink coffee in Amsterdam?

Coffee Cup - Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam, be careful when entering a coffee shop as it is not exactly a place to drink coffee (as I thought first) but a place to drink alcohol and where it is kind of "legal" to sell and smoke cannabis and hash. Coffee shops are allowed to sell cannabis and hash, but officially, they are not allowed to buy it. Growing marihuana is also not allowed in the Netherlands. 

Instead, look for a café if you want to drink coffee and have breakfast and snacks. The Dutch are great coffee drinkers, there are coffee machines available at every corner. They are the 5th country among the most coffee drinkers. 

  5. Tulips

Did you know that the Netherlands is the largest exporter of flowers in the world?

Tulip Souvenir - Amsterdam

In fact, it exports two-thirds of the world's flowers, the most famous among them being tulips and roses. Here you will also find the world's biggest flower garden, Keukenhof, where they plant over 7 million tulip bulbs, with over 800 different tulip variations. Unfortunately, I was not able to visit it as Keukenhof opens only during the blooming period between April and March. However, we visited The Tulip Museum and learned all about the culture of tulip cultivation from A to Z. 

The Tulip Museum - Amsterdam

It is hard to believe that tulips, which have become the trademark of the Netherlands, were originally cultivated in the Ottoman Empire, present-day Turkey, and were only brought to the Netherlands in the 16th century. At first, tulips were a luxury and in the 17th century, during the Tulipmania, the price of the tulip bulb reached dazzling heights and was equal to that of a townhouse in Amsterdam.  

Dutch Tulips

Stay tuned as I will publish Amsterdam - 10 Things Amsterdam is famous for (part 2) in a couple of days.

Meanwhile, tell me if you have ever been to Amsterdam.

If no, is it on your bucket list?

If yes, what did you most like there?

5 Tips to Pack for a Vacation

Travelling has become an anti-stress prescription that lets me discover new places, new cultures, relax from everyday chores and do what I love most, taking lots of amazing shots. It teaches you about the world, makes you more tolerant and independent and provides you with unforgettable memories and experiences.

However, there are a few things that stress me when traveling. 

I am one of those people who takes traveling so seriously that gets very worried and anxious before every trip. One of the reasons is that I usually overpack especially when I'm back from my homeland blaming myself for all the unnecessary stuff in my suitcase. 

That's why I've been trying to improve my packing skills and I've found some tips that might help you in your packing as well.

1. Start Packing Beforehand

I usually carry a suitcase, a carry-on, a backpack and a purse with me so it needs lots of planning. A few weeks before the travel I put all my luggage open in a visible area and start packing it slowly and mindfully. I have a visual memory so it helps me keep in mind what I already put and what still needs going.

2. Make a list of the essentials

There are everyday-use essential items that you have to put only on the day of the departure. Chargers, toothbrushes, makeup. Make the list of your essentials to cross out before closing your suitcase and keep that list for later references as well.

3. Carry matching outfits

Carry clothing that is easy to mix and match. Just imagine your total outfit starting from accessories to footwear for each day. Try to minimize your clothing by sticking to neutral colors. Add bright colors with accessories. Also keep in mind that dark colors are more preferable as they may hide stains.
Assign one outfit set for the travel day both for the departure and the arrival. This way you won't have to worry about what to wear.

4. Everything should have its place

Remember where each item goes. Everything should have a place. I put all my electronics in the backpack. The carry-on is kept for light first-hand essentials, snacks and souvenirs.  Try to group items like makeup, toiletries and accessories in small bags. Place your socks in shoes. Also have clear photos of your identity cards, tickets and insurances in case your wallet gets stollen or lost.


5. Pack smartly

Whenever possible, carry samples of perfumes, creams, makeup, toothpaste. Dress with a couple of layers. Wear what you can't fit. Wear the heaviest jacket, the heaviest shoes. In case you feel hot or cold, you can always use them as a cushion or a blanket.

Is packing a struggle for you as well?

Do you usually pack beforehand or keep it to the last minute?

I am linking up with 

Inspire Me Monday

Read also: 5 Tips for Flying with Kids

Read also: 5  Ways to Beat Post-Travel Depression

Read also: 3 Things to Do When You Can't Travel

5 Tips for Flying with Kids

Are you planning a trip on a plane with your baby, toddler or small children? 

Are you scared of possible stress involved in air travel with kids?

I have done it twice and I know it.

Travelling with kids is exhausting whether it is the first time or not and flying is the most challenging part of it especially if you are not well-prepared for it.

Even a two-hour-flight trapped on a plane may seem endless unless you have planned a couple of activities, toys and snacks to kill the time and make it less chaotic and stressful.

I have gathered 5 tips based on my previous mistakes that can make flying with kids more tolerable and smoother.

1- Bring your snacks

I used to think that there is no need to carry extra weight and grab snacks for kids as we were going to be served a meal on board.

That's a huge mistake.

Kids usually don't seem to like the meals on board and their freshness is also doubtful.

So why not do some grocery shopping and put together a bag of snacks? You can include anything bite-size like pretzels, crackers, biscuits, fruit chips, baked rolls.

Lollipops can also do wonders as they will keep your kids entertained for a good deal of time (keep wet wipes nearby:)plus they are said to be good if your child has trouble with ears popping during the takeoff or landing.

Having a good amount of your kids' favorite snacks must be a success. You can use it as a little bribery and promise them their special treats if they behave well on the plane.

2- Have your child carry a backpack

Let your child carry a light backpack where you can put everything he might need during the flight: wet napkins, a favorite toy (of course not something noisy, preferably a soft toy), one new toy, one new activity.

As most of the airlines offer cups without lids, it will be wise to bring your own bottles and spill-proof cups.

I would take 2 bottles, one full of water and another empty bottle in case your kid wants to drink some juice offered on the plane. 

3- Bring your fully- charged electronics 

Even and especially if you limit your kids on screen time, it's a great idea to fully charge all sorts of electronics you own (Kindle, tablets, cell-phones) and load them with all sorts of offline games and cartoons and films.

Bringing electronics on board must be a huge success too as kids are usually not allowed to spend lots of time playing video games so this trick can be used to remind them one more time to behave well and keep quiet and not kick the chair of the passengers in front:).

4-  Carry a purse besides a backpack

I used to think that backpacks are more practical to keep your hands free but they are not really very handy when you constantly need to reach for a diaper, a napkin or your documents. 

Nowadays, when waist belts are coming back in fashion, you can get one for easy access staff while you can use your backpack for carrying your laptop, camera and chargers.

5- Watch your intake of drinks before the flight

You don't want to run to the toilet every now and then when you are checking in or boarding. 

Though it is well-known that hydration on board is very low and it is recommended to drink lots of fluids, but if your flight is not that long try to reduce the intake of fluids before and during the flight as you can't keep the kids unattended most of the times.

You can always resume drinking lots of water once you have landed to avoid dehydration and headaches.

As a bonus, I have included a free four-page downloadable printable I made a few years ago when I was planning my first visit to my dream destination, Spain. 

I hope it can be of use to someone who feels anxious before travelling and wants to feel more secure and organized.

You can download the printable below

MY TRAVEL Printable by on Scribd

Even if you plan everything beforehand you can't expect everything to pass perfectly and smoothly. 

Lower your expectations and focus on the positive and enjoy the moment.

Feel free to share with your tips for flying with kids in the comments below.

I am linking up with

5 Ways to Beat Post-Travel Depression

When you travel, you are excited to visit new places, to meet new people, to experience new traditions and to try new food. Active lifestyle, no alarm mornings, nature walks and late night parties. Everything is fun and entertaining.

Then you are back home, back to work, back to the routine.

Your adrenaline is low, you feel miserable and really empty. You are hit by the Post Travel Depression, so common among travellers. It may last for weeks or months and affect your mental wellbeing urging you to procrastinate, give up everything or even book another trip:) 

I have always suffered post-travel depression except for my last short trip that I took for 10 days. 

Here are  5 ways how I beat Post-Travel Depression

1- Take some Time to Rest 

Plan wisely. Instead of getting back the night before you are supposed to go back to work, give yourself at least a couple of days to recover and relax before the working week starts.

We do need a few days to unpack, do laundry, go grocery shopping and to ease the stress of multiple time zones and jet-lag.

2- Relive your Trip Through Videos and Photos

You must have probably taken hundreds of photos and numerous videos. I like to go through them and share them with my friends and family, post some of them on my social media accounts and edit them to make home movies. Moreover, you can hang some of them on the walls to surround yourself with your unforgettable experiences and memories.

3- Organize the Souvenirs

You must have a favorite souvenir or a knick-knack that you keep bringing from the places you visit. Some people collect fridge magnets, others T-shirts or caps. Whatever you fetch, you can enjoy your time creating a visible corner for their display to keep reminding you of the wonderful time you had. I even bring traditional food and beverages with me that can take me back to my trip days. 

4-Explore your country

Look at your country with the eyes of a tourist. There are definitely many places you haven't been before, small villages, local shops and restaurants you haven't visited before, farm markets, bazars, festivals and other events happening every week. Imagine you had a guest , where would you take him first? If you are a photography lover like me, you would grab your camera and head on exploring the hidden gems of your country.

5- Plan for your next trip

Now, that you are a more experienced traveler, you can start planning for your next trip. And you can plan better, as you may have learned some useful travel tips and hacks to save money and make the most of your time.

You can even start learning the language of the country you are planning to visit.

And it doesn't matter where you have been and where you are, you can still be in a better place.  Just change your mindset and prepare for a greater adventure. And keep planning it as it is the most exciting part of it all.

What about you? 

Have you ever suffered from Post-Travel Depression? 

How do you beat your Post-Travel Depression and what's your next travel destination?

Wordless Wednesday #22 "Georgia"

I have always been skeptical about short trips. I used to think that when you are short of days and in a rush, that will cause more anxiety and stress than joy and pleasure. 
But when the opportunity occurred to take a short vacation to my homeland and our neighbour country, Georgia, I had no second thoughts.

And I must say that this trip was really worth it.

The 10 days were so full of events and new people and new experiences that it felt like a whole month. We were back fully recharged and energized. I especially liked that nature was in full bloom, the weather was excellent to wander around the city instead of going sightseeing under the killing sun of summer.

So, this Wednesday, I will feature the new country that I visited for the first time: Georgia and its capital city, Tbilisi.

Tbilisi, Georgia

 Georgia (Sakartvelo in the Georgian language) is a country that has developed rapidly in the past decades. It's an ideal place for any tourist. Old, narrow streets in the Old Tbilisi keep the traces of the old Georgian culture and its history. You may find yourself stopping by any house to just admire its authenticity and uniqueness.

Peace of Bridge, Tbilisi, Georgia

On the other hand, you will find amazing and jaw-dropping modern structures and buildings in the city center. Fully charge your phone and camera as you will want to take a photo at every corner in Rustaveli Avenue.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Even though not every Georgian speaks English, you will never feel lost in Georgia. Money exchange shops, phone recharge centers, public transport, and tourist information spots are available at every corner. If you need help, try to turn to the younger generation as they are most likely to speak English.

Tbilisi, Georgia

I am linking up with 

Natasha Musing

Claire Justine

Comedy Plus