Denmark

Copenhagen
view-from-planes

View from the plane--so colorful and inviting. I can't wait to land in Denmark!

hostels-in-copenhagen

We stayed at the Generator Hostel conveniently located near the cruise port and Stroget--the shopping street. The hostel was really clean and had plenty of common areas to relax. There was a bar inside, comfy couches to lounge on, and had very modern amenities. 

cruise-port

Chilling at the cruise port-- pondering whether I want waffles or ice cream. Decisions, decisions. 

colorful-houses-copenhagen

The cruise port is beautifully festive and all lit up once the sun goes down. All the restaurants are crowded with customers enjoying a beer and staring at the gorgeous boats in the distance. I love how the restaurants provide blankets on the chairs to keep you warm. 

the-little-mermaid

A MUST SEE in Denmak is the Little Mermaid. My favorite Disney movie has always been "The Little Mermaid" so it was only natural I couldn't wait to see the statue. Its beautiful. 

museum-in-denmark

On a rainy day, a trip to the museum can be a great use of time. This museum had quite an array of cultural artifacts including he Viking exhibit--sadly I was one day too early. 

museums-in-copenhagen
best-ice-cream-in-the-world

Tivoli--where do I begin. It is a bit pricey to get in--but you can buy a pass that only grants you access to the park...well worth it. The gardens are breathtaking. The park also holds one of the top ten ice cream shops in the world. OMG--it will make your mouth water. Get the sprinkles!  

bikes-in-denmark

Bicycles are EVERYWHERE. I think there are more bikes than cars. The advanced traffic system is very similar to that of London and Amsterdam. Maybe one day, Boston. 

windmill-in-denmark

This gorgeous old red windmill is located in Kastellet, a well preserved star fortress in Copenhagen.

fortresses-in-copenhagen

Takeaways from Denmark

  • Everyone rides bikes to work

  • Great place to buy a raincoat

  • The city is very walkable

  • You can easily take a train to Sweden

  • Plenty of things to do that are free

Netherlands

Amsterdam
bikes-in-amsterdam

Biking in Amsterdam is the most popular form of getting around (they are everywhere)! It makes sense that there are more bikes than inhabitants.  I stayed at Shelter Jordan, a hostel a 15 min walk to the red light district. It was a really convenient location and breakfast was included—french toast! The bunk beds were pretty comfy and their was a sink in the room which was a bit odd—but useful? 

rivers-of-amsterdam

I ventured past four canals and I was in the red light district. It is SO busy—You have to watch out for bikes, trains, and cars as you cross the street. 

canals-in-amsterdam

There were beautiful flower shops along the canals with lush gerber daises and tulip bulbs. It is no surprise that Amsterdam is home to some of the most beautiful flowers in the world (except for my moms flower shop)!  

ricks-coffee-shop-amsterdam

There are many "coffee shops".

jewelry-making-in-amsterdam

Since it was raining, I decided to take up jewelry making for the day. 

Saras-Pancakes-amsterdam

I may have eaten my fair share of dutch pancakes. They are SO good and melt in your mouth.

dutch-pancakes

YUM. 

Amsterdam

"Venice of the North" The canals of Amsterdam are a city symbol and of great cultural value. 

Takeaways from Amsterdam:

  • Try the Dutch pancakes

  • Shelter Jordan hostel is a really nice, clean place to stay--for VERY cheap

  • Walkable city--you can walk from the train to the red-light district, hostel etc

  • Watch out for all the bikers

  • If you like beer, check out the Heineken Experience tour at the old brewery. It is a bit $$