Today I flew from London to Amsterdam- so much of the day was spent in transit. I train trip to the airport, a short flight, a train trip to Amsterdam’s Central Station. Than a short walk to my hotel- the Hotel Frisco. My room is on the 3rd floor, up very steep steps. There is no reception area- check in is at the bar next door. The room might be tinny but its all my own, and has its own bathroom.






Since I’m going to be here for 6 nights I took the time to unpack and settle in before going out. Just a block over is one of the main drags of the Red Light District. A couple of blocks the other way to the historic district.

Some canal homes right around the corner from the hotel.




So there really are a ton of bikes all over Amsterdam. I am immensely impressed by just how many and large the bike parking lots are.



There are little places like this everywhere- selling pastry, baguette sandwiches, and various flavored waffles; this one is on the corner across from the hotel.



I wandered the streets getting cheese toast (essentially slices of cheese on a toasted baguette,) and checking out a couple of cafes. I’m thrilled that Amsterdam isn’t nearly as expensive as London. Prices are reasonable, and everyone really does seem to speak English.