May 18, 2023

When I visited the Netherlands, the legendary tulips were in bloom and full of majestic, artful color. At Keukenhof—one of the most beautiful garden parks in the world—you’ll discover and admire many statues made by Deutsch and international artists. The sights and sounds of the flowering park are stunning; magnificent art and sculptures appeared at every turn.

Upon arriving into Amsterdam, consider settling in with an hour-long wooden boat cruise along the iconic canals; float by the centuries-old townhomes and historic landmarks.  Or rent a bicycle and peddle your way along the cobblestone lanes taking in more sights, and stop at one of many cafés for a delicious Pannenkoeken.  After breakfast meander along the cobblestone lanes to the center of Amsterdam for more Dutch history at the Royal Palace; originally built, not as a palace, but as Amsterdam’s town hall. The marble sculptures were a favorite to see as were the paintings by many of Rembrandt’s students, Govert Flinck and Ferdinand Bol. Do save an afternoon to spend among the architectural gem the Eye Film Museum IJ harbour; with which it is connected to the North Sea and is the fourth busiest port in the world.  Plan your trip between late March and early May to experience in full bloom.

ART & CULTURE ///

Eye Film Museum
This architectural gem is located on Amsterdam’s IJ harbour.  An absolute must-see for anyone who is interested in film and film culture, with more than 54,000 films from all genres.  Plan four hours or more—much to experience.

IJpromenade
1
1031KT Amsterdam
https://www.eyefilm.nl/en

Keukenhof
The most beautiful garden in the world—7 million spring-flowering bulbs. In addition to the gardens, the Keukenhof is also the largest statue garden of the Netherlands. You’ll discover and admire many statues made by national and international artists—Keukenhof is currently collaborating with twenty-fine artists. The sights and sounds of a flowering park and visual art is stunning.  Plan your visit between late March and early May to experience the legendary tulips in full bloom.

Stationsweg 166A
2161
AM Lisse
https://keukenhof.nl/en/

Royal Palace Amsterdam
In the middle of the capital stands the Royal Palace Amsterdam. Originally built, not as a palace, but as Amsterdam’s town hall. Architect Jan van Campen designed a building which would reflect the power and wealth of Amsterdam in the 17th century. In the heart of the building, the grandeur of the Golden Age is still alive in the Citizen’s Hall and marble galleries. Sculptures and paintings by several famous artists—such as Rembrandt’s students, Govert Flinck and Ferdinand Bol.

Damsquare, Amsterdam
https://www.paleisamsterdam.nl/en/visit

DEVOR & SAVOR ///

Pannenkoeken
These delicious Dutch pancakes are flat, savory, and fill the plate. A Pannenkoeken is often topped with cured meat or smoked salmon, powdered sugar, and drizzled with Stroop, a thick caramel-like syrup. Best enjoyed with coffee; then a long stroll around Amsterdam’s Royal Palace or the Eye Film Museum to walk off the deliciousness.

WEATHER ///
Spring Temperatures
March: 36°F to 49°F
April: 40°F to 56°F
May: 47°F to 63°F

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