Today we were supposed to take the train to visit Delft, but we didn't realize we needed to print the tickets before we left the States. We went on to Plan B, which looked like visiting the Albert Cuyp market and taking a canal cruise.
We arrived at the market intending to see and eat as much as we could with a side of shopping. We were not disappointed! Our first bite was a stroopwafel from Rudi's. So messy, but so good! We poked our heads into a few shops and took in all the sights of the market. We found a great stand with fresh juice and stopped at Bunsbar for a light lunch.
Up next, a canal cruise! We opted for one with drinks and snacks. There was cheese on the menu (obviously) and I tried tulip vodka, which is actually made with tulip bulbs! This was an unexpected way to enjoy the Netherlands' flower culture. We really enjoyed seeing Amsterdam from the water. The architecture is stunning and there is something about being on the water that just sit rights with me. It was a lovely way to spend an afternoon.
After our canal boat tour, we inadvertently meandered our way home through the Red Light District (don't tell our moms!) We were following Google Maps back to the houseboat and all of a sudden we looked up and BAM! There was a lady in a window. While we weren't intending to experience this side of Amsterdam, the perspective was refreshing and gave us lots to talk and think about when we got home.
Upon our arrival at the houseboat, we freshened up, grabbed some snacks, and decided to join the Dutch and sit canalside outside our boat. The canalside was PACKED with locals out enjoying the sunshine and the scene. It really felt like we were temporary locals partaking in this beautiful city.
Our final dinner together in Amsterdam was at Loetje, a steakhouse recommended by our Airbnb host. We had a lovely little appetizer sampler and of course I needed to get the steak at a steakhouse. It was amazing!
We returned to our houseboat afterdinner to begin packing for the next day's adventure. Lily was heading home and I was off to Haarlem to join up with the tour group!