We set off this morning to explore another area of Amsterdam. Although our destination was the Flower district, we meandered aimlessly through the streets enjoying all the sights to behold on our way. It doesn't take long to leave our peaceful neighborhood where it is safe to walk on the sidewalks without fear of being hit by a bike. A short 5 minute walk takes us to Westerpark. It boasts a 5 plus kilometer jogging rack and it is always crowded. But, the bikes use the jogging path too. Actually, they are all over and they seem to think they have the right of way everywhere!
From the park we headed down Haarlemmerdijk (Street) You can pronounce it any way you want! Many photos in gallery.
It is narrow and filled with 100's of little shops selling everything from chocolate and hand made candies that look like art work, to yummy looking pastries and all sorts of other Dutch delicacies. These shops are tiny, but most have a few tables in the back so you can have a coffee and enjoy something delectable. The street is also home to a myriad of small shops selling artwork, handmade clothing, soap – you name it, you'll find it here. My quest was to find a small black leather purse to replace the one that was stolen. And after a few hours, I found one. It doesn't have all the compartments the old one did but it has three and after looking at more bags than I can count, I decided that I will make it work.
Also, we did find the flower market! Tulip heaven; I have never seen so many different varieties. And besides flowers, all the stalls were selling starter kits for growing marijuana.
