BUTOHI ODYSSEY

I have successfully checked out of my hotel in Brussels and now I’m making my way towards Brussels-North train station. From there, I will be taking a bus to Amsterdam Sloterdijk. The journey is estimated to be around 3 hours, but the time will fly by without you even noticing. Moreover, the comfort level is truly remarkable.

I stayed at the IBIS hotel near Amsterdam airport, and after checking in, I had the option to take a train or bus that conveniently dropped me off right at the hotel. After dropping off my luggage and taking a shower, I decided to head back to Amsterdam city center. I took the train from the airport, which brought me back to Amsterdam Sloterdijk. Once again, I couldn’t help but notice something that is unique to Amsterdam. There seems to be a certain craze among tourists to use bicycles to get around the city, often travelling in groups. Interestingly, it appears that the traffic police pay more attention to the cyclists than to motor vehicles.

It is always delightful to witness the charm of a city that has its own distinctiveness. Amsterdam, with its network of canals, is truly amazing. Exploring the city via the small boats traversing the canals is a special experience.
Amsterdam is also known for its liberal atmosphere, where many things are allowed, except for serious crimes. It is fascinating to observe individuals casually smoking marijuana even in the presence of the police. Moreover, the city has a lively red light district, where sex workers can be seen behind glass windows, waiting for their clients.
Additionally, Amsterdam offers unique theatrical performances, including live sex shows, adding to its diverse selection of entertainment.

I had a fantastic day exploring the streets of this place. Dam Square, being an iconic landmark, had my attention. The street shows happening around it, from dances to music performances, truly brought the square to life. I decided to make my way back to the hotel. Tomorrow holds even more excitement as I plan to uncover the Picasso sculpture in Vondelpark, Visit Flower Market, and find the array of architectural styles representing various European countries.

On my second day, I headed straight into the flower market which looks so amazing in the morning as fresh flowers and tulips make way into those small shops and the atmosphere around it is so vibrant.
I then made my way to vondelpark in search of the Picasso sculpture. Despite the park’s vastness, and after an hour of exploring, I stumbled upon Picasso’s artwork, Figure decoupee which beautifully depicted a fish.

Continuing my explorations, I set out with great anticipation to find the seven buildings near Zevenlandenhuizen, each representing a unique European country. To my surprise, I had unknowingly passed by these houses several times before. It wasn’t until someone pointed them out to me that I finally realized what I had previously overlooked. I felt elated as I witnessed the diversity of these buildings that had initially seemed so similar.
As I pondered my next destinations, I considered visiting the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. While their tragic histories weighed on my mind, Finally I decided to skip it.

Now the day has arrived for me to head back to London, but I wanted to make my return journey from Netherlands to England more exciting, so I booked a ferry. I hopped on a train from Amsterdam to Hook of Holland, where the Stena Line ferry awaited me for my journey back.

The scenic eight-hour ferry ride to Harwich was nothing short of mind blowing. I had the pleasure of booking my own cabin with a window overlooking the vast ocean, enhancing my journey even further. It truly was a remarkable experience, filled with sun setting views and the vastness of Sea.

From Harwich, I boarded a train that took me on a two-hour ride to Liverpool Street in London. As I purchased my ticket, the ticket collector informed me that a return journey to Harwich was actually cheaper than a single journey. It was a pleasant surprise, and I couldn’t resist the idea of returning and continuing my tour.

However, upon reaching London, I realized that it was time to bid farewell to my adventures and return home and rest. Although my journey had come to an end, the memories and excitement would be on for my future travels.