Amsterdam
Canals, bicycles, tulips, weeds, red-light district. Amsterdam by day and Amsterdam by night are completely different.
Preserving memories of Amsterdam shouldn't rely on sight but on scent. What sets Amsterdam apart from other European cities is likely the occasional whiff of weed wafting from the alleys.
In terms of architectural appearance alone, Amsterdam seems somewhat old-fashioned and monotonous. The buildings in the old town are basically combinations of several shades of red and gray, and with the straight canals, it feels pretty much the same no matter where you go. However, the red lights and leaves constantly remind you that this place is quite vibrant.
NEMO (Science Museum) is a highly recommended place. It's a rare find that's designed for children, yet adults can also have a great time. Perhaps the science museums you've seen before are filled with kids running around and adults slumped on benches, exhausted and glued to their phones. But here, you'll see adults and children queuing up equally for the rides because they're genuinely fun.
NEMO's section on sex education was really good. It was direct, realistic, and scientific. Actually, I think this part reflects the Netherlands' openness even more than the red-light district, since that's where most children frequent.
-- January, 2026 --
