I have heard many times about "Benelux", and always I had a strong association with something expensive and "luxurious" because of the "lux" at the end of the word. In fact, Benelux is a regional union in Western Europe made up of three countries: Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. So, the name "Benelux" comes from the first parts of each country's name: "Be" from Belgium, "Ne" from the Netherlands and "Lux" from Luxembourg.
Historically, the Benelux cooperation began during World War II. And nowadays the union focuses on practical cooperation in such areas as cross-border transport, security, energy, environmental policy and the internal market.
Actually, the Benelux is often seen as a pioneer of European integration and somehow it helped build the way for many ideas that were later adopted by the European Union.
And finally, I came up with the idea to visit all these three countries during one trip.
My first point of destination is Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The reason why I started not with Belgium is the price for the flight ticket and also comfortable departure time from Prague. But also, geographically it is better to start with either The Netherlands or Luxembourg.
It is very convenient to use the train to get to the city center from the airport. It is only 20 minutes journey! Very often I choose my destination point by the proximity of the airport or train station, and how easy I would get to my accommodation. So, Amsterdam is the ideal destination point from this point of view. You really can try and make a nice day-trip without spending much time on commuting.
Amsterdam Centraal Station was built between 1881 and 1889 on three artificial islands in the IJ (yes, this is such a name), a former bay and important harbour area. Unlike many European stations built on open land outside cities, Amsterdam Centraal was placed directly at the edge of the historic city, becoming a gateway between rail, water and the canal district.
I am staying very close to the the train station. But during a short walking towards my hotel I already have felt the historic charm of the place. The canals, narrow 17th-century houses, bridges and houseboats create a village-like atmosphere even though Amsterdam is a major European capital.
Indeed, the price of accommodation in Amsterdam is very high. This is why the hostels are very popular here. Still, I was lucky enough to find a room for only 111 euros for one night (without breakfast). And it is considered very cheap for such location in Amsterdam.
The room is small, 10 metres, located on the upper floor, without elevator. And there is only a sink inside a room. The toilet and shower are shared. Miraculously, I have a window, and even a decent view out of the window.
I have no plans for today. But maybe this map will give me some inspiration (it mentions Dutch Windmills, The EYE, This is Holland, A'dam Tower, AnneFrank House, Amsterdam Dungeons, NEMO Science Museum, Red Light District, Dam Square, Artis Zoo, Vodel park, Stedelijk Museum, Heineken experience, Van Gogh Museum, Rijks Museum, Amsterdam ArenA). Still, walking is always a good idea, or riding a bike around the city, especially here in Amsterdam, because of the numerous dedicated cycle paths and other traffic systems that protect cyclists (bike parking, priority rules, lower car speeds, special traffic lights).
Bicycles are one of the defining symbols of Amsterdam’s identity. Cycling is not mainly a tourist activity there, it is an everyday form of transport used by people of all ages for commuting, shopping, school and social life. Amsterdam became a cycling city because of several factors, including flat landscape and its compact planning. The bicycle also shapes the city’s atmosphere: Amsterdam feels slower and quieter than many large European capitals. It is one reason the city often feels more like a large village than a busy metropolis.
Time for lunch. Honestly, I have no idea what is the traditional food in The Netherlands. So, I decided to try something familiar to my taste. The asian food, which is more or less the same everywhere.
Well, it was ok. But honestly, it was much more promising from outside. Next time I will not be that lazy to find some good traditional place to eat in Amsterdam.
I continue with walking along the canals around my area.
Some pictures of me taken by strangers.
Again, walks along the canals.
And again, the pictures of me taken by another strangers.
Suddenly it is the evening time. And the city is magically transforming with all this beautiful illumination and the lights reflecting on the water.
It is always, when I have a short visit to Amsterdam, I think that one night in Amsterdam is not enough for feeling the real vibe of the city. I wish I had a chance to stay here for a week at least, in some apartment with big windows and with the clear view on some canal of course. But this trip is not only about Amsterdam. Tomorrow I will move to another country of Benelux.
