I almost didn’t get to see Amsterdam. It was a cold winter morning, and after waking up at 4 a.m., everything started going wrong. Heavy fog delayed my flight for more than two hours because the plane couldn’t land. By the time I finally arrived, my best friend—who was supposed to show me around the city—had gotten sick and couldn’t make it.
So there I was, alone in Amsterdam with no itinerary, no local guide, and for the first hour… barely any city to see. The fog was so thick I could hardly make out the beautiful canal houses.
But that’s the funny thing about travel.
The older I get and the more I travel, the less I mind when things don’t go according to plan. Some of my favorite memories have come from the days that started with disappointment.
Armed with a few recommendations from my friend, I simply started walking. I found a cozy café to warm up with coffee, wandered through the famous Flower Market, picked up tulip bulbs for my mom (fingers crossed they’re still alive!), explored the charming canals, and, of course, couldn’t resist walking through the Red Light District out of pure curiosity.
By the afternoon, the fog had finally lifted, revealing the Amsterdam everyone imagines—historic houses leaning over quiet canals, charming bridges, and bicycles absolutely everywhere.
More 🚲 than people (probably)
And I really mean everywhere.
What shocked me the most was the traffic and the bikes. I can say I live in a big city now, but in Amsterdam the bike situation is on another level — you really have to watch where you’re going.
Crossing the street becomes a skill, and after a few close encounters, you quickly learn to look both ways… and then look again for cyclists.
Amsterdam reminded me that not every trip needs a packed itinerary. Sometimes all you need is a comfortable pair of shoes, a good coffee, and the willingness to see where the day takes you.
What began as a travel day full of delays ended up becoming one of my favorite city escapes—and another reminder that the best adventures often begin when the original plan falls apart.
Born in the Czech Republic, I spent 4 years in Spain, which is why the Mediterranean Sea holds such a special place in my heart. Fluent in Czech, English, and Spanish, I embrace the lifestyle of a digital nomad, currently traveling across the world. I studied at a classical music conservatory – playing the clarinet. I’m passionate about books, art, mindfulness, and the traditional slow-paced way of life. The night sky, sunsets, and the pleasure of tasty homemade vegetarian food make me excited.
