The One in Amsterdam

After spending a week at Lake Constance with Friends (see more here: The One at Lake Constance (Bodensee)) and enjoying two wonderful days in Luxembourg (more here: The One in Luxembourg), it was time to continue our vacation. The seventh country we visited in the last two weeks was the Netherlands.

A Rainy Stop in Belgium

During the drive from Luxembourg to the Netherlands, we stopped in Belgium for a quick walk—just to see another country and to stretch after a long drive (I can relate to everyone who gets sore from hours in the car). My husband found a lovely park with wooden walkways surrounded by nature. It was beautiful. The only downside was the rain, which lasted the entire hour we were there. Fortunately, it wasn’t heavy, so we were able to walk comfortably, though sunshine would have been nicer. As we often say, we’re not made of sugar, and as my family jokes, there’s no bad weather, only bad clothes. We survived and even enjoyed the experience. The real storm started just as we got back into the car.

When Amsterdam Welcomed Us with a Lesson

After our brief stop in Belgium, we arrived in the Netherlands. We had booked a hotel in what seemed like a nice neighborhood near a park—at least that was my first impression, but more about that later. My husband accidentally booked for only one guest, so we had to pay extra for my stay, plus a parking fee—which we expected. Although this vacation was amazing and packed with beautiful destinations, we managed to choose some of the most expensive countries. But you only live once, right? I shouldn’t be too thrifty in moments like these; it’s a holiday, and I’m learning to enjoy everything more—with a little help from my husband, who loves to spoil me now and then.

Unfortunately, our luck faded that evening. We went for a walk in the park and to a local shop for groceries. The park truly looked like a botanical garden—so gorgeous that I was completely immersed in the experience. However, while paying for groceries, my husband realized he couldn’t find his wallet. We searched the shop, the path, the parking lot—everywhere—and asked the staff, but it was nowhere to be found. My husband retraced his steps to the shop again with no luck. Someone must have stolen it, which is more sad than funny since there was hardly any cash—just ID cards and payment cards. Thankfully, we had money elsewhere and use cards almost everywhere, so we rarely carry much cash. The thief probably got no more than five euros.

The situation definitely cast a shadow on this part of the trip. I later learned that Amsterdam is notorious for pickpocketing, which I hadn’t known. At least my husband now knows not to keep valuables in his pockets. After the vacation, I bought him a small bag with a zipper for his essentials, and I feel much better about it now.

Day 1: Finding Calm in a Forest Park

The next day was mostly about relaxing. After the stress of losing the wallet, we chose to visit a nearby forest park, which turned out to be calm and beautiful—just what we needed in the middle of the city. I was surprised to see so many people walking five or more dogs at a time; perhaps it’s common or even a side job there. It was fun to watch. What also caught me off guard was how expensive the accommodation was. Breakfast was included, though the selection was quite modest. The food was fine, but coffee was extra—you had to pay separately. I was happy with tea, since it was free, but it was the first time I’d seen coffee excluded from breakfast.

Day 2: Overwhelmed at Anne Frank House

The second full day in Amsterdam was much more action-packed. We visited Anne Frank House. There were so many people! Everywhere! It felt like they used every centimeter of space in the museum to fit as many people as possible and sell the maximum number of tickets. Every room was packed with tourists. It was interesting, but the crowds made it a bit overwhelming for me.

Anne Frank House - Source

After that, we went to the city center. That was absolute chaos; it reminded me a bit of southern Italy, especially with the trash on the ground. Another chaotic part was the bicycles—everyone living there seems to have one (which makes sense), and there are also tons to rent. The bikes formed messy, disorderly groups in the middle of the streets.

However, I loved the architecture. If you look up from the street, the houses and buildings are really interesting. I see why people want to visit, even though I think Amsterdam is a bit overrated. After posting about it on Threads, lots of people said other parts of the Netherlands are better: less touristy and more beautiful. Now I’m motivated to go back and see those places.

We visited the English Reformed Church, and the buildings around it had private gardens. It looked exactly how I imagined all of Amsterdam would look—neat, clean, beautiful architecture. It was so peaceful there; I loved it.

English Reformed Church - Source

Another must-see, as everyone keeps saying, is the Red Light District. My naive self thought it was a district full of red lanterns or something similar. Sometimes I still have childlike ideas. Luckily, everyone explained what it really was before we arrived, so I knew more or less what to expect. But it was still strange to see in person, and definitely an interesting experience.

The Surprise at Bloemenmarkt

The last visit of the day was a surprise for me—my husband arranged it. I had absolutely no idea what it could be, and I was tired enough that my brain didn’t try guessing. The surprise was wonderful. We arrived at the Bloemenmarkt—the most famous flower market, and the only one in the world floating on a canal. Amazing. I love plants and markets, and my energy came back after a full day of walking. I’m not big on souvenirs, but here, I wanted to buy something useful, not just dust collectors. I got two bonsai starters, and we grabbed some gifts too.

The Bloemenmarkt - Source

Day 3: Market Mania and Foodhallen Feasts

Our last day in Amsterdam was dedicated to a final walk through the city. We visited another big market—not just flowers, but anything you can imagine: clothes, food, jewelry. And even cosmetics, which surprised me; some stalls looked just like small drugstores. I love markets and enjoyed just wandering the aisles, even though I didn’t buy anything—everything was surprisingly expensive.

We finished the day at the Food hall (Foodhallen). Very interesting—we visited something similar in Britain and wanted to try it here. It wasn’t bad. For introverted me, it was a bit too much—people everywhere, noise and conversation, and scents all mixing in the air. But I get the vibe and the purpose. We tasted some food—I was craving Indian butter chicken, but they had an interesting version in a wrap (not a tortilla, but naan), and they added cabbage, cucumber, and other vegetables, which was a tad weird. But edible. My husband was very happy with his tacos.

Conclusion

I’d heard a lot about Amsterdam before visiting, and after posting about my experience, many people on Threads suggested exploring other Dutch cities instead. I believe them, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of the country someday. For me, one trip to Amsterdam is probably enough.

Pickpocket-Proof Travel: A Sensitive Person’s Guide

If you’ve ever felt that travel brings out both your curiosity and your nerves, losing something important in a new city is a crash course in vulnerability. I used to think pickpocketing was an “it happens to other people” kind of thing—until I saw how quickly and quietly it can happen. Now, take it from me: a few small changes spare you trouble and let you enjoy your adventures without that edgy feeling in the back of your mind.

Here’s what I wish we’d known—and what helps me now, as a sensitive traveler:

Zippered Bags Are Your Best Friend

I used to throw my essentials in coat pockets—so convenient! Until it wasn’t. Now, I always use a small crossbody bag with a sturdy zipper. It doesn’t just keep things safer, it helps me feel grounded—one less thing to worry about when my mind is full of new sights and sounds.

Keep Valuables in Front, Not Back

City crowds are overwhelming, and it’s easy to lose track of little things. I started carrying our ID cards and payment cards in an inside pocket or zipped pouch that hangs across my chest. Hands-on is peace of mind.

Trust Your Gut—and Move

If someone’s getting too close, or a person seems extra interested in your stuff, trust those internal alarm bells. Step aside, shift your bag, walk away. It’s okay to be assertive! Sometimes, looking confident is your quietest protection.

No Need for Paranoia, Just Awareness

I never want to travel feeling afraid. The point is calm, not constant tension. Some awareness is enough; I remind myself that most people are decent, but it’s okay to be practical.

Consider a Fake Wallet for Peace of Mind

Some travelers use a dummy wallet—a couple of old cards and small cash in one place, real valuables somewhere else. It’s extra, but it can help if you’re in a big crowd.

Don't Let a Lost Wallet Spoil Your Trip

If the worst happens? Take a breath, lean on travel companions, and remember you can solve it. You deserve your holiday—even if you need to buy a replacement bag along the way.

Travel teaches resilience and the kind of preparedness that feels gentle, not paranoid. If you’re introverted or sensitive, a bit of extra planning creates space for the joys—the flower markets, surprise gardens, and quiet park walks. And yes, even the chaotic city center feels better when your wallet is zipped and worries shrink away.