We landed in Amsterdam at bit after 1pm local time. Whilst tired from the trip we were much better rested this time as we were able to get some good sleep on both flights. Upgrading to business class was a great, albeit expensive, decision but well worth it.

We are now old hands at finding our way through the airport or the train station so we were soon on our way to Centraal Station. Arriving in the city is always a great feeling and I especially enjoyed getting some fresh air into the lungs after sitting in planes for so long, fresh being the operative word as it is only 5 degrees.

Our walk to the Amsterdam Central Bed and Breakfast only takes 5 minutes and we were greeted by Gani, our host for the next 4 days. Gani bought the B&B business from Kees who was our host 4 years ago when we last stayed here. We are staying in our loft room again at the top of the very steep and long staircase. Gani gave us a tour of the kitchen and is very friendly and I’m sure we’ll get to know him better over the coming days.

After a quick shower to freshen ourselves up we then embarked on a walk around to reacquaint ourselves with my most favourite city in the world.  We wandered down to Dam Square then around the red light district. I can wander around these streets and canals for hours looking at the old buildings and taking in the ambiance and energy. We decided to have a drink at a couple of our favourite bars but was disappointed to find some of the trees around the Oude Kerk have been removed and coupled with some building works and renovations the ambience of our favourite spot to sit and take in the city is not what it was. Not to worry though as there are plenty of other great options to sit and take in the atmosphere as well as people watch, one of my favourite pastimes.

Given we ate so well during our flights, our dinner tonight was some bittenballen and frites. I was tempted to try the stamppot on the menu but resisted as I didn’t need a big feed.

A very early night is on the cards as we adjust to the new time zone.

Tot ziens for now.