John’s Amsterdam Favourites

When I moved to the Netherlands, I instantly fell in love with the country, and especially the city of Amsterdam. John, from the popular blog John Does Amsterdam, recently shared with me why he loves his newly-adopted city. His blog is one of my favourites, as he really captures the essence of the city and seems to have a continual love affair with all things Amsterdam. Here’s what he had to say about life in this remarkable city:

Living in Amsterdam has been one of the most thrilling, stimulating and fulfilling aspects of my life that I've embarked on. Which means it can only continue to get better from here. I moved to Amsterdam in June 2008. I interned for 6 months, and found a full time job in the city after it was over. I just didn't want to leave. The city sorts of pulls you in, and at a certain point, you can't help but get lost within it- I think I have finally found home-

My 10 favourite things about living in Amsterdam.

1- The best hot and frothy cappuccinos, and the little cookies that come with them

2- My bike. It's always within a 500 meter radius of me.

3- The Dutch countryside

4- The fact that there are so many beaches close by; each a 20 minute train ride from my house.

5- Vondelpark & Westerpark

6- Getting lost in the labyrinth like streets of the Jordaan.

7- Hopping on my bike; blanket, book and ipod in bag- with nowhere to go.

8- The long summer nights I've ever experienced.

9- The most extremes of architecture ever collected in one city (in my opinion).

10- The fact that all of Europe is just out my front door; easily accessible by plane or train.

Thanks for sharing John! I always love to hear the reasons why other people have fallen in love with Amsterdam too!

{Photos courtesy of John Does Amsterdam}