Windows, Wandering

One of my favorite things about Amsterdam is that there are so many windows to peek in, both storefronts, and private homes. Street level windows tend to be really large and no one really uses curtains or blinds, so I found myself looking(discreetly, of course) into kitchens, living rooms and offices. No one seemed to mind, and I was treated to looking at some pretty amazing interiors. Mostly white and spare with interesting mixes of old and modern. Just my style.

Another thing I loved was how much gardening and outdoor living people did in very small spaces. Container gardens spilled out over people's doorways and into the sidewalk making small city streets places of greenery. Tables and chairs were put right out on the sidewalk for an impromptu patio on a warm sunny day, and people dragged oriental rugs and pillows out to their stoops to make cosy outdoor seating areas.

We spent a lot of time wandering in the Jordaan area. There were so many little corner bars and cafes, all with outdoor seating, each one more inviting that the next. We stopped often, coffee and pastry here, glass of wine and beer there, then bitterballen, olives, and cava at the next place. It's a good thing we were walking.