Netherlands Archives — Life is for Living

In Europe

4-Day Holland Itinerary: Amsterdam, Gouda & Tulip Fields

May 30, 2018 No Comments

Holland surprised me in the best possible way. I’d visited this charming city once before during a chilly weekend while studying abroad, but it was such a different experience seeing the beauty of the canals of Amsterdam, tulip fields of Keukenhof, and historic streets of Gouda in the warmth of April. We had the most perfect weather (other than a bit of rain the first night) and locals and tourists alike were out enjoying the sunshine. There never seems to be enough time or days while exploring a new place — or even exploring somewhere a second time– but I definitely got to see the magic of Holland during this trip, and I wouldn’t have changed anything about what we did, or where we went. Enjoy this itinerary, and if you have recommendations for other great places to go in the Netherlands, please share! Day 1: Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter Heineken…

In All

Why Are All Amsterdam Houses Crooked?

May 11, 2017 No Comments

Amsterdam is iconic. It is one of those places that is best experienced in your 20’s, but can be appreciated for its diversity and vivacity at any age (yes, I’m talking about you, cannabis). In just three days, the beautiful city of Amsterdam became one of my favorite places in the world. The city is shaped like a half moon or the smile of the Cheshire cat in Alice in Wonderland. Canals run through the entirety of the city, and beautiful old Dutch houses line these canals side by side in seamless rows. The houses were what made me fall for the city, not just for their beautiful architecture, but also the story behind them. Take advantage of the FREE morning walking tours through the city. If you’re staying at a hostel, ask the front desk if the tour guide picks you up, because 90% of the time they do!…

In All

I Amsterdam

February 3, 2015 No Comments

I took a huge step this past week; I made my first international excursion without the aid of my parents! Now, I didn’t say the trip went entirely without a hitch…. I accidentally left my passport at the hostel on the journey back to Ireland and didn’t realize it until an hour and a half later when I was at the airport. Needless to say, I missed my flight and had to pay a hefty price for a new one, but hey, lesson learned. I will now always check to make sure I have that little blue book before I leave. It could have been worse, I could have lost it! In just 3 days, the beautiful city of Amsterdam became my favorite place in the world (I’m sure I’ll say that about every place I go, but for now it’s Amsterdam). The city is shaped like a half moon or…