Day 1 Amsterdam Tues. May 24/11

 We arrived at the River Queen from Amsterdam airport by 10 a.m. on a River Queen bus transfer.  We could board and leave our luggage but not check into our rooms yet.  Having been up for 36 hours we were feeling a bit strange. After a bite to eat in the lounge we set off to explore town on foot.  As always, town maps were provided and we needed to put in time until 2 p.m. when our cabins would be ready.  I am not sure of the significance of these cows but of course felt the urge to photograph them!

It wasn't long before Little Wally found a pub.  We thought this might help with jet lag.  I was surprised at how many canals and boats were right in the city.  

There were sight seeing boats such as this one that could turn on a dime.

We quickly discovered that cycling is the main means of transportation all over Europe.  The cost of fuel is very high, yes more than ours!  I envy them their bike path system.  Everywhere we went bicyclers were accommodated with 2 way paths, parking areas and lots of space in general.  Amsterdam was no exception.

Amsterdam has a reputation for its tolerance of marijuana use and prostitution.  We saw evidence of both and felt very safe.

Tulip season was not evident...likely over...but you could buy lots of seeds!  

A visit to Amsterdam could not be complete without seeing the famous "Red Light" district.  We only had a couple of hours but it was right there in the middle of everything.  Even in the bright sun light of the early afternoon the ladies were showing their wares in windows.  Live mannequins.  No pictures please!  Gisele found that out the hard way.  You will have to use your imagination.  

As we sailed out of Amsterdam we saw this amazing sight in the distance on one of the buildings.  Spiderman training centre?

As you can see we did not see much of Amsterdam but it was enough to get a taste of it.

Still feeling a little off kilter we ventured into the dining room at 7 after freshening up.  What a marvellous feast they had in store for us and this was only the beginning.  The restaurant staff and service added immensely to the joy of this trip.  Very personable and entertaining waiters, maitre d and chefs were at our beck and call.  The wine flowed.  Lovely!