“In Amsterdam the water is the mistress and the land the vassal. Throughout the city there are as many canals and drawbridges as bracelets on a Gypsy's bronzed arms.” ~ Felix Marti-Ibanez

From the train station...

like wallflowers at a dance...

our walk to the hotel... 

immediately pulled us in to the vibe of

(Ren Man was entertained by how slow I was to grasp the meaning behind the xxx)

dodging one of the 500,000 bikes as they whizzed past...

in every direction... 

 sometimes carrying an entire family.

Knowing immediately that only one night in this city.. 

would be just a tease...

we decided the best way to get an overall lay of the land...

for future reference on return trips...

was by way of...

canal boat.

Flat Stacie was all over that idea.

It really is a great way to explore the many eclectic areas of the city of Amsterdam...

and experience jealously from afar...

one of the coolest opportunities of living in Amsterdam...

 houseboat living...

on one of the canals...

that weave throughout...

forcing the need... 

for a reported 1280 bridges.

It is important to show the less glamorous side... 

of life on a canal boat...

and there is even a museum for further research.

The sights along the way...

gave us a glimpse of industries...

and neighborhoods...

and ubiquitous art.

More supporting details tomorrow...

of why Amsterdam is one of my most favorite cities in the world!

May your Monday be marvelous!