I first visited Amsterdam in 2007 during a multi-stop trip between Belgium and the Netherlands. Coming from sunny Barcelona, the city felt dull. I vividly remember how gray everything was. I had not experienced Northern Europe much then, so I was unfamiliar with humid weather, damp streets, and gray cobblestones (a few years living in Ireland changed that).

But I recently visited again. Excuse me. Amsterdam is so beautiful!

I’m not sure what has changed (probably me), but I had a completely different experience. It’s still the same gray and humidity, but there’s so much more to it! I loved strolling through the streets and admiring the houses, the architecture, and the canals. There are so many details everywhere!

And the vibes.

Since I was traveling solo this time, I could waste my time however I wanted. Sitting at one of the food stands at the Museumplein, eating Frietjes and watching people pass by, spending the entire afternoon admiring Van Gogh, or simply enjoying a local beer after some intense walking.

And despite having a metro, everything mostly happens above ground. Flocks of bicycles come from all directions, and pedestrians cling to super narrow sidewalks (risky business in the red light district with so many distractions).

Anyway, I love this level of chaos – it makes the city come alive. I can’t wait to be back at some point.