June 24-27: Amsterdam, Netherlands

After arriving at the airport in Amsterdam, we made our way to the hotel. We had reserved the most economical hotel we could find, as most other budget options were already completely booked. It was called the Hemp Hotel, and we could see why upon our arrival. All of the rooms were decorated like various hemp-producing regions around the world. We got the Afghanistan room which had painted walls like we were in a desert palace and a night-sky ceiling. The breakfast at the hotel served fresh-baked hemp bread. There was also a small bar which sold several types of hemp beers and other hemp-based snacks. The hotel in general was a very ramshackle establishment; the stairs were so steep and narrow it was more like climbing a ladder. Very fun to do with 50 lb backpacks when you are staying on the top floor. The staff, though, was very helpful and friendly.

Our first night, Jeff needed to watch the world cup game so we set out to find a bar. We came across a very local and crowded place that had the game on outside on a projector screen and was barbecuing. Since the Netherlands were playing in the game there was a huge local turnout. Everyone was very friendly, which created for a great mix with brats and chicken wings.

We had a great time at the Heineken Experience. It was filled with the history of the beer and creator, how it’s made, their advertising, horses, a cool simulator ride type thing, and of course beer samples. I answered a question correctly first so I got an extra sample. They even give you two pints at the end of the tour! While we were enjoying those, we ran into three other American kids in college who were studying abroad in Paris. They asked about our travel plans and were very jealous.

We also checked out the Van Gogh museum and, of course, the Red Light District. It’s rather strange to witness someone going in or out of those windows…

It was great weather while we were there so it was very nice to go hang out at Vondelpark, one of the city’s main parks. There was a band playing a concert, we got ice cream and hot dogs, and played cards. It was a lovely, relaxing afternoon and great way to end our stay in Amsterdam before boarding our night train to Munich.


Heineken factory!


Chicken meatballs!