So we chose to travel north on his recommendation, and are so glad we did! As Israel works the night shift, and we wanted to get an early start, I drove and he rested. We arrived at the Ibis Hotel West just before dinner. We had a snack, then he slept while I ventured down town to pick up our I AMsterdam passes.
This little red card was a wonderful investment - if you are planning to travel to Amsterdam, I highly recommend it! http://www.iamsterdam.com/en-GB/experience/deals/i-amsterdam-city-card We opted for the 48hr pass, which allowed us free access to public transportation and admittance to most museums for a free or reduced rate, and random freebies around the city for 48 hours!
When I returned to the Ibis, we went for dinner and then headed downtown to explore. There was so much to see! When midnight came, we were near the docks and watched a fantastic fireworks display. But that wasn't all. As we continued to wander, fireworks were lighting off all over the city. Over the red light district there was a dueling display, as if two separate parties were competing for the best show - spectacular!
Sadly, our phones ran out of juice, so we were unable to record our own footage, but this is a taste of what we witnessed: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqgqrusHxpk So, if you're wondering where to go next year, try the Netherlands!
Because we covered a lot of ground, a sleeping injury in Israel's foot was aggravated, to the point that he could not put any weight on it the next day. I left him resting as I ventured out to find him ibuprofen (he had already consumed the last of his supply), and see a bit of the city for myself! I was on a mission to find a sweater that looked cute on me. Sadly, my mission failed, but I still saw interesting things.
The day off did the trick for Israel, and with the next day we were able to see some sights! After a hearty breakfast, we set out for the Hermitage Amsterdam, a satellite of the original Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. It was very interesting! My favorite exhibit was one about how astronauts returning from space develop an interesting propensity for creating art.
We then were total tourists, taking photos with the giant I AMsterdam display, wandered through another museum (literally, the street goes right through it), and learned about distillation at the House of Bols. We intended to take a night canal cruise ride, but the line was over an hour long so we put it off in favor of taking in more sights.
Our final day in Amsterdam was a bit gray and drizzly, but that didn't slow us down! We visited the Van Gogh Museum, and through the art scavenger hunt (admittedly designed for children), I deepened my appreciation for the Dutch artist's work.
We were impressed by the Heineken experience - up close and personal with beer brewing experts. We were even able to 'help the brewer', which was of course my favorite part. Oh - bonus: I earned an extra sample of beer by answering a question from our beer tasting instructor!
The Heineken Experience was MUCH larger than we thought it would be, and we were famished as well as exhausted by the end, so after a quick Chinese dinner, we headed back to Germany!
School started back up with a brand new schedule which I really appreciate! I teach math or science first thing in the morning. There is also plenty of time to coordinate with other teachers, and one morning or afternoon devoted to just planning for each teacher.
I am starting a letter/pen pal unit with my students and need examples to show them. Please send me letters, post cards, etc. My address is: Adolf-Loos-Weg 55, 68519 Viernheim Germany. You may also send me a letter at the school: Walter-Gropius-Allee 3, 68519 Viernheim Germany. Not only would I LOVE to hear from you, but you'd be REALLY helping me out and I PROMISE you will receive a letter back! There it is, you are all caught up on my year so far. Tune in later for more updates! Tchuss!
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