Amsterdam

People have a tainted idea of Amsterdam because of its marijuana laws and red light district but I had a very pure Amsterdam experience. My favorite things about Amsterdam are the spectacular rowhouses along the picturesque canals, the Van Gogh museum, the Anne Frank house, and the plethora of stylish bike riders. I also found a fabulous chocolate shop that looked like something out of Chocolat on my wanderings near the Anne Frank house.

Touring the Anne Frank house really brought her story to life. I just imagined my rambunctious brothers in hiding, having to be silent and restrained from going outside. We would last about five minutes before some SS soldier showed up or the house went up in flames. The Van Gogh museum was one of the highlights of the whole trip. They had over 200 of his pieces and also pieces from artists he had worked with and been influenced by. I got to see Starry Night and really get a feel for his journey of expression. He saw beauty in things other people didn't quite grasp like his quest to capture his fascination of night. Our hotel in Amsterdam was charming as well, located in the midst of the most beautiful canals.