Highlights
- Exploring the quiet residential courtyard at Begijnhof
- Taking the free ferry across the water to Noord
- Viewing Dutch masterpieces inside the Rijksmuseum
The Story
I recently returned from a dreamy trip to the Netherlands where I embraced a seriously sluggish pace. My mornings involved nothing more than watching bicycles zip past while I sat by the water, nursing a drink and judging everyone's outfit choices. It was the ultimate way to recharge without needing to run around like a headless chicken.
I wandered through the quiet Begijnhof courtyard to escape the noise and later caught a ferry to Noord for a change of scenery. I snacked on stroopwafels while admiring the canal houses and ducked into the Oude Kerk to see art in a church. The Rijksmuseum was a massive undertaking, but seeing the Dutch Masters in person gave me such a rush of inspiration for my next wardrobe overhaul.
This trip was a mid-range affair, leaning into comfort rather than extreme luxury. I loved the relaxed atmosphere, though I definitely avoided those terrifying bike lanes. It was a refreshing break from the usual frantic pace of life, and I am already planning my return for more chilled afternoons.