72 Hours In Amsterdam to Save my Dying Relationship…
In an attempt to resuscitate my dying relationship, I booked a flight to London, and a surprise “couples” trip to Amsterdam.
“...I was able to conceal everything from him, until we got to the gate (at the airport), and the screen revealed that we were going to AMSTERDAM! He didn’t seem too excited or enthusiastic, but I dismissed his lack of interest. “He must not have seen the screen!?” I thought! “Maybe he was indifferent?”
When we got onto the plane he said,“I didn’t think this is where we’d be going…” At that point I had to compose myself. How ungrateful? I thought! He held onto my hand (tightly) as we took off and said,“Thank you” but looked very weary! I was confused. #WhatsGoingOn?
The flight to ‘Dam was about forty-five minutes and when we arrived it was freezing cold! We checked into our hotel and walked around town as locals; taking in the sights, people, and culture. The streets were clean and there was no homelessness! The country’s infrastructure was one of the best that I’d ever seen, it impressed me! I loved the canals, trams, architecture, and the boundless history that the city had to offer—not to mention the museums!
Let me be honest! We DID NOT have the best time (as a couple) in Amsterdam. We basically had solo trips! I went and did my thing and he did his. I felt as if he was ungrateful and that I’d wasted money surprising him with the trip. He thought that I had brought him somewhere he didn’t want to be.
According to him…”
As soon as we landed we were greeted by gloomy weather.
I was still hopeful that our time abroad would be well spent, and maybe the solitude (and serenity) of this new city would provide us with some harmony.
We stayed at a boutique hotel not too far from civilization; everything we needed (food, refreshments, etc) were within walking distance.
My initial thoughts:
Rest
Relax
Explore the city
Let loose
Only succeeding in one area, I explored what I could of the city, following: spurts of frustration, mindless conversation(s), and painful silence.
I was determined to make the most of my time in Amsterdam with or without my boyfriend (now ex).
Here are 5 things that I really admired about Amsterdam (during my 72 Hour exploration):
1. Architecture - The buildings, structures, and foundation of the city was mainly brick, cement, and glass fronted. Amsterdam boasts diversity in its architectural cityscape.
2. Art Culture - Amsterdam offers a richness in art (abstract, modern, contemporary, impressionism, street art, and theatre to name a few).
I visited the Modern Contemporary Museum (infamously known as MOCO) and the Van Gogh Museum—I had to! After YEARS of art history in secondary school and hearing about Van Gogh’s cut off ear, more than his art; I needed to see his work in real life!
3. Community Spirit - Proud locals welcomed me with open arms and were extremely hospitable, readily offering insight and suggestions about the city. I also observed a lot of useful and handy people.
4. The Districts/Quarters - I loved how convenient everything was and the ease of being in a certain area which provided a variation of the same things; for all people of varying tastes.
5. Wellness - I noticed many locals/natives biking, canoeing, and walking.
This trip served as a valuable reminder to have grace, stay calm, and find peace within.
Photo Credit: Sherrise Marshalleck
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