Mom and I spent the past four days in Amsterdam with a day trip to Bruges and a half day trip to fishing villages and windmills in Volendam, Marken and Zaanse Schans.

I'm not sure what I was expecting from Amsterdam, but it wasn't quite like what I had imagined (and no, I have not seen "The Fault in our Stars"). Nevertheless, it was very cute and quaint... in some areas at least. I realized I had not really been in a 'European' city until I went to Amsterdam. Yes, London is in Europe, or technically in the UK, but it is not what you would imagine traveling abroad would be like. It's still a bustling city with tourists, McDonalds and Starbucks on every corner.

Anyway, we were lucky enough to have gotten an apartment in Jordaan, a quieter part of town. The area had narrow streets filled with interesting flower pots and was bordered by canals. Once we went into the center city, it was once again filled with hundreds of tourists and souvenir shops (I know, I know... we are tourists as well. But at least we are somewhatly inconspicuous about it!)

The day trips were nice but then again, I love any excuse to get out of a city setting. We traveled by coach with a tour group. Unfortunately, the groups were massive, like 80 people on each trip. We broke off from the groups and did our own thing once we got to our destinations, which turned out to be a much better way of experiencing the towns! From clogs to cheese to Belgium beers and chocolate, we really did it all! Of course, my favorite was the cheese tasting. I... ate... so... much... cheese.

I know it's not the prettiest of foods... but it was so delicious!

On our last day, we went to the Pancake Bakery, recommended by one of my friends from the London program. We had THE best french onion soup! (pictured left). Seriously, so yummy. The pancakes, or crepes as we call them, were also very good but they were a bit greasy and heavy. But after all... when in Holland!

We are now back in London and staying with some family until DAD AND AKSHAY COME!!!! I so can not wait to see those two dang boys. I will be the official tour guide for the duration of our time in London. Wish me luck.

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