How I Worked and Played in Amsterdam: A Travel Diary
Have you ever imagined immersing yourself in one of the world’s most dynamic and thrilling cities, all while advancing your career? This is the story of my remarkable journey.
As a young software engineer employed at a reputable multinational company in India, the opportunity to embark on a two-month onsite assignment in Amsterdam was nothing short of a dream come true. The mere thought of exploring Europe had always danced at the periphery of my aspirations, yet, as someone from India, such an adventure often felt distant and financially out of reach.
But I persevered, putting in the hard work and dedication necessary to secure this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Finally, the moment had arrived when I could set foot in Amsterdam, and I was filled with boundless gratitude for having reached this significant milestone. Now, let me share with you the captivating journey that unfolded, as I discovered the city’s perfect blend of work and play, and why it has become a place I’ll cherish forever.
One electrifying week before the grand adventure, I embarked on a whirlwind of preparations. With a fresh haircut and meticulous grooming, I was ready to step into the unknown. The day of departure finally dawned, and my parents joined me for a heartwarming farewell at the airport. The excitement in the air was palpable as I embarked on a journey I had been eagerly awaiting.
The flight seemed to stretch on, but the moment we touched down at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, I was immediately captivated by the city’s breathtaking beauty. The sight was a feast for the senses, a stunning welcome to this new chapter in my life. My heart raced with anticipation as I hopped into a sleek Tesla taxi. The streets were teeming with high-end cars, and the buzz around Tesla was infectious. Riding in one was nothing short of a thrilling adventure, marking the exhilarating start of my Amsterdam odyssey.
I arrived at my home around 5 p.m., and it was already dark outside. I had never experienced this in India, where the sun sets much later. My friend and I were so excited to be in Amsterdam that we decided to make dinner and go to bed early so that we could wake up early the next morning and start exploring.
My First Day in Amsterdam: A Nervous Start and a Warm Welcome
I was nervous on my first day at the office in Amsterdam. I had never been to the city before. But as soon as I walked in, I was greeted by warm smiles from my new colleagues and clients.
My Indian colleagues introduced me to everyone, including my Dutch clients. I was immediately struck by how friendly and welcoming everyone was. My client even asked me about my journey to Amsterdam and how I was settling in.
At lunchtime, I went out with my senior colleagues, we had a delicious meal together. We talked about everything from what we needed to settle in, to the Dutch culture, and some places to travel. I felt so comfortable and at ease.
By the end of the day, I had made a lot of new friends in the office and learned a lot about the company and the city. I was so grateful for the warm welcome I had received.
The Enchanting Beauty of Amsterdam
Through the days, I effortlessly adapted to the Amsterdam culture and people, and I also explored the city’s many attractions. I was captivated by Amsterdam’s distinctive beauty. My personal experience revealed five compelling reasons why Amsterdam stands out as an exceptional destination for both work and leisure:
Canals that Captivate: Amsterdam’s intricate network of canals is a sight to behold, earning it the nickname “Venice of the North.” The reflection of gabled houses in the still waters, along with charming bridges and tree-lined streets, creates a picturesque scene that is reminiscent of a fairytale. For example, the Prinsengracht Canal is home to many beautiful 17th-century houses, while the Keizersgracht Canal is known for its elegant mansions. The canals are also a great place to spot boats and people-watch.
Historical Charm: Amsterdam’s well-preserved architecture stands as a testament to its rich history. As you stroll through the city, you’ll encounter stunning 17th-century buildings, each with its own unique character and story, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. For example, the Anne Frank House is a poignant reminder of the city’s role in World War II, while the Royal Palace is a magnificent example of Dutch Baroque architecture. The city’s canals are also lined with historic buildings, such as the gabled houses of the Jordaan neighborhood.
Cultural Diversity: The city is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in its art, food, and people. From world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum to vibrant neighborhoods like De Pijp, there’s a cultural richness that adds to the city’s allure.
Laid-back atmosphere: Amsterdam has a relaxed and easy-going atmosphere. I appreciated the friendly demeanor of the locals, as it was quite common for strangers to exchange warm greetings with smiles. In all my travels to various countries, I had never witnessed such a welcoming attitude towards strangers.
Diverse workforce: Amsterdam has a diverse workforce, with people from all over the world living and working in the city. This diversity makes for a vibrant and exciting work environment.
Bicycle-Friendly Bliss: Amsterdam’s flat terrain and extensive network of cycling lanes make it a cyclist’s paradise. The sight of countless bicycles whizzing past historic sites, parks, and picturesque canals is not only beautiful, but it is also an embodiment of the city’s eco-friendly ethos. Conveniently, there are bicycle pumps attached to some bicycle areas for filling tires.
Exploring Amsterdam’s Delicious Cuisine
Amsterdam is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants and dishes to choose from, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. I sampled some of the city’s most famous dishes, including:
Poffertjes: Small pancakes often served with powdered sugar, fruit, or syrup.
Stroopwafels: Thin waffles filled with sweet syrup.
Stamppot: Traditional Dutch mashed potatoes with vegetables
Erwtensoep: Popular Dutch pea soup, also available in vegetarian versions.
My love for the delicious waffles was only surpassed by my visit to Zaanse Schans, Amsterdam’s old town, where I sampled a variety of delectable cheeseses. I promise you, they were incredibly tasty!
My two months in Amsterdam were an unforgettable experience. I had the opportunity to work on a challenging project, meet new people from all over the world, and explore a beautiful and vibrant city. I also had the chance to travel to other parts of Europe, which was a dream come true.
I’m so grateful for the opportunity I had to live and work in Amsterdam. It was an experience that has changed me for the better. I made lifelong friends, learned new things, and created memories that will last a lifetime.
When it was time to leave, I was sad to say goodbye to my new friends and the city I had come to love. But I know that I will return one day. Amsterdam has a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to go back and explore more.
Vincent van Gogh once said, ‘Amsterdam is a city of dreams, and I am a dreamer.’
I couldn’t agree more. Amsterdam is a city that inspires creativity and imagination. It’s a city where anything is possible. If you’re looking for a city that will challenge and inspire you, Amsterdam is the place for you.
I hope that this blog post has given you a glimpse into my experience in Amsterdam. If you’re ever thinking about visiting this amazing city, I highly recommend it!
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