Netherlands: Zaanse Schans

Stephanie B.
Jul 20, 2017 · 2 min read

A few tram stops away from Amsterdam is a very special place called Zaanse Schans. I was looking forward to this place because it boasts the quintessential Dutch windmills. There were also some barn-like shops where I sampled cheese and chocolate, then learned about clog-making in another and got to see wildly decorated traditional Dutch clogs. We also toured a windmills, which used to be a factory for linseed oil and used wind-power to operate the mechanical devices to process the seeds. We climbed up the ladder just like they must have done so many times back when it was a working factory. And, we were happy to find that the view from the top overlooking the river was as pretty as can be. This is the Holland I know and love!

The Zaan district used to be the largest importer and exporter of cocoa in Holland. At one point as we were walking around a nondescript factory, the air all around us filled our lungs with cocoa! And then my body spontaneously started floating as my nose led the way. I could have lived there basking in the sweet smell of the chocolate air forever! But, I have a feeling it was leading me back to this spot under the trees and across the pond towards Hansel and Gretel’s house.

Via Vida

Life by way of travel.

)
    Stephanie B.

    Written by

    Interrupting daily life to travel the world.

    Via Vida

    Via Vida

    Life by way of travel.

    Welcome to a place where words matter. On Medium, smart voices and original ideas take center stage - with no ads in sight. Watch
    Follow all the topics you care about, and we’ll deliver the best stories for you to your homepage and inbox. Explore
    Get unlimited access to the best stories on Medium — and support writers while you’re at it. Just $5/month. Upgrade