We all know Amsterdam as the city of magical-looking canals, endless rows of historic houses, and an atmosphere of a high-brow cultural scene. I’m not saying this is a misconception, but it’s certainly a limited understanding of what counts as ‘Amsterdam’. That stereotypical view of Amsterdam is the territory of the tourist, but it forgets about everything beyond the tulips, stroopwafels, weed, and clogs.
The Edge of Amsterdam: Rural-Urban Dwellers
Today the sun was shining brightly. Unfortunately, I was pretty much stuck inside with a lot of deadlines staring me in the face. When the afternoon sun started to fade, I couldn’t just stay seated behind my desk anymore. I decided to get my bicycle and get some fresh air. I had to!
What The City Looks Like Beyond the Canals
I had no destination in mind, so I just randomly headed up north from Amsterdam, towards Waterland. Lots of people were out on walks and birds were just chillin’ at their usual spots. Just outside the borders of the city of Amsterdam, you will usually find yourself immediately surrounded by vast green meadows. When it isn’t too cold, you will see cows, sheep, and a fair amount of humans riding their bicycles. Forget about the typical wafts of weed and waffles that sweep you up in the city center. Prepare yourself for the smell of manure and humid soil.
Forget about the typical wafts of weed and waffles that sweep you up in the city center. Prepare yourself for the smell of manure and humid soil.
The Red Helicopter
As I was cycling further away from the city center, I spotted a few people busily working in the water. I’m not quite sure what they were doing, but they seemed to be fixing upping and doing some kind of dredge work. I was trying to figure it out when I heard a noise coming towards me. Then suddenly, a bright red helicopter flew overhead and I managed to get a good shot just in time.
Detox from the crowds?
If I’m being honest, the edges of Amsterdam can be grey, cold, and even a little bit boring. Then again, when you look closely enough, there is so much to uncover. Imagine going bird watching in the many meadows or hiking to one of the picturesque villages along the IJsselmeer. Perhaps it isn’t really boredom, but more like a type of detoxing from all the crowds people and sensory stimulation in central Amsterdam. What are your thoughts?
Love the walkway silhouette and the heron close up – nice set! Are they shoring up reed beds?
Thank you! Possibly, but they usually don’t look like the half circle-shaped structures…