Westerkirk Tower

Last time I was in Amsterdam I stayed on a houseboat with a beautiful view of one of the canals in the Jordaan area with a view of the Westerkirk Tower which is an old Protestant churchand never check it out. Visiting this interesting church tower was on the top ofmy list. I did follow theinformation on the internet which is not accurate. The towers are actually open until the later evening not a 3pm as much of my research had indicated. I think theconfusion has to do with the actual church which is closed at that time not the tower.

The cost is 6 euro and our guide Henrieke was so informative. She took us up the old spiral staircase something you would see in the movies with those dungeons in it. I believe she said there were 185 steps just to the middle of this tower which is the tallest building in Amsterdam.

We saw some magnificent bells along the way to the middle level and once there we were able to walk around taking in the spectacular view of this European city before heading back down. The history and stories she shared were quite interesting.

I have a great appreciation for these type of experiences which adds to the adventure of travel. If you find yourself in Amsterdam this is a must. The tour is just over :30 minutes. You can visit the Anne Franks house just next door and is well worth the visit.

Welcome to Amsterdam!

After I cleared customs I made my way to the train station which is actually connected to the airport. I went to the machine to by my ticket to the center of the city for I had some Euro change. I was only able to find one machine that took coins and it was not operating so had to go to a ticket counter. The thing about this from past experience is that it cost a bit more. I hada wonderful conversation with the ticket agent and she end up giving me the discounted rate. II arrived at the Amsterdam Centraal Train Station about noon and with a short ride on tram I made it to the place I was staying and was greeted warmly.

It is a charming small private home built in the early 1700 in

which they have 4 available rooms for guest. Right away I felt comfortable as the host showed me around. The garden view from my room was enchanting.

The room and location was perfect for my 3 night stay. After the long flight I got a great night sleep and woke to fresh croissant, coffee, and an assortment of other breakfast selections.

Over the years I have stayed in a variety of places and I would say for the money Maes Bed and Breakfast is one of my favorite places to stay here. From the property I was just a stone throw from many places I wanted to go and things I wanted to do. With the transportation system it was not difficult at all.

The host were kind and very informative. It was a great place as I made my transition in this European trip. As I was going though my affairs I realized I probably could have made it with only one of the two suitcase that I traveled with. They allowed me to leave a bag for my return stay in September where I will be spending 2 more nights before heading back to the states.

My days were full and even after the many times I've been here I was able to do things that I have not done before which I will do some sharing.

From Whose Perspective?

I am no longer surprise by the reaction from some people about places that they have never been or experienced but often times go by what they may have heard from others or the media. Consider, who's perspective is it coming from? Yours or theirs? I think it is great to hear the stories of travelers, that is one of the aspects I like about traveling but don't take it as your own (as far as your perspective) go out there if you desire and experience it for yourself to truly take it in.

On my trip to Thailand last year most people (especially men) associated to or talk about the girls and partying. With Amsterdam statements are made about drugs and prostitution. Realistically doesn't these exist in many places in the world? including United States?

When you are traveling anywhere you see all kinds of people and travelers from all over the world. Sure there are lots of young people with backpacks but you also see families with their children, older couples, and people from a wide range of economical positions.

You can't go by just what people say and what you may read, it is an experiential thing. There is lots of culture in these places and you can meet very interesting people which expands the way you see the world. A kind gesture and a friendly smile goes a long way and when you are receptive to this you see more of it. I am grateful and feel enriched by meeting and connecting with people from all over the world.

Up, Up, and Away!

The first leg was from San Diego, California to Detroit, Michigan which was about 4 hours. The lay over was short, just enough time to grab a quick bite to eat. On the flight the prices they charge for what is offered for food was not worth it.

I was actually impressed with the service that the folks at the Delta Airline counter offered with a smile. My previous experiences with them had not been so positive. When I boarded the international segment of the flight I end up at a window and sat next to a fellow that was more portly than myself. I asked the attendant if there were any aisle seats available. I was able to move and had a whole row to myself.

It was a comfortable flight and actually I slept most of the way. General I don't sleep on flights, in fact I really don't like flying (people think I do because of my previous travels) and if I do it is just a quick cat nap! I am glad I got something to eat in Detroit because the chicken on the plane was nasty and the breakfast that was served before we arrived in Amsterdam was terrible.

We touched down safely and this leg of the trip was about 7 hours arriving the next day (Thursday August 12th) at Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport.

...and Away we Go!

A beautiful day as I depart the city. I was cutting it close squaring away my business and organizing myself. My sister Wendy dropped me off and I got through check in very quick. Sitting in the San Diego Airport terminal having the lunch that I brought. I did not know that they let you bring in food, my intent was to eat it while in the security check point line. I've flown out of San Diego many times and just discovered that they now offer free WiFi. I asked around about it and it seems that it is relatively new. How convenient for travelers. My plan was to have internet card and phone turned off at airport before flight. I was able to do this sooner and now relax.