Gouda and Genever

Here we are in bustling Amsterdam, home to what must be one of the world's highest concentration of bicycles per square meter, scenic canals, lovely old buildings, gouda cheese, and genever!

We had a fascinating tour this afternoon with a lovely local guide who showed us how the tram system worked as we hopped on and off at various sites around the city.  The picture at top left in the collage shows the dazzling display of cheeses for sale at Henri Willig's shop where we were treated to a tasting of various flavours along with a glass of port wine.  (Yes, we did buy some cheese along with some chocolates for certain small people who will be coming to spend Christmas with us soon!)  Then off we went to the train station stop where we walked through an amazing underground parking garage with room for 7,000 bicycles all stored on racks in a spotlessly clean space.  Back on the tram again to visit a tea shop where we were given a snack of Poffertjes -- little puffed up pancakes served with melted butter and confectioner's sugar.  Next and last stop was to one of the oldest bars in Amsterdam where we were treated to a tasting of Genever and yet another snack of Bitterballen -- little fried meatballs served hot with mustard.  (See photo at bottom right of collage).  I don't think we will be needing any dinner tonight!

The bicycles hanging on the wall are  outside of our hotel window, decorating an air shaft!