Elms College Field Hockey Takes Holland!: I Amsterdam!

Hey Folks!

We are now half way through our trip and are still moving full steam ahead with many different activities! We started the day with another delicious breakfast at the hotel followed by a walk through Vondel Park heading toward the Rijks Museum. Along the walk we spotted several well-behaved dogs, had to dodge a few bikes and even some runners as they participated in a local road race. As we neared the Rijks Museum, we passed the Van Gogh Museum and two "I Amsterdam" signs. The Rijks Museum, considered the pride and joy of Amsterdam, was a gorgeous building that could be seen from a mile away, with its intricate architecture and welcoming presence. This museum included many different forms of art, such as various paintings, statues, delf blue pottery, and a beautiful library that represented different time periods throughout history. While exploring, we came across a large section of "Special Collections," which included naval ships, old-fashioned clothing, antique umbrellas, and little trinkets for the dollhouses located in one of the sections of the museum. Though not all of us may be interested in art, there was a part of the museum for everyone to enjoy. It was a great experience that allowed us to learn about a different culture through forms of art and various artists.

After we finally found our way out of the museum, (we did get lost inside), we came across the "I amsterdam" sign and tried to take a team picture with everyone. However, we were not able to get the best photos in the world because the sign was full of people and our dear Stephanie decided to fall off the "M" on the "I Amsterdam" sign. After causing a scene where everyone in the vicinity went silent and stared, the mood was just not the same. Don't worry Mrs. Esposito--she's alright and is now coming home with quite the hilarious story (sorry Steph!). It was then time to make our way to lunch at "The Dutch Co." which is a fairly new restaurant in the area. Most people were thrilled to see the option of BLT on the menu. The waitress also brought out a Dutch favorite, french fries with mayo, which were devoured in the blink of an eye. By the time we left, each plate was completely cleared of its previous contents for the first time since we've arrived in Amsterdam. The next stop was the beach and a casino, which took about an hour drive. Even before we reached the highway, many people were already asleep, still trying to adjust to the changing time, while others stayed awake to view the scenic route.

We arrived at the Scheveningen beach, which included the Scheveningen hotel, considered to be the fanciest hotel in the area. Before we stepped foot on the beach, we had the chance to pass through this hotel, which seemed endless with its many rooms and palace-like features on our way to the boardwalk. Stepping out of the hotel we witnessed a beautiful scene that took our breath away, with its ongoing boardwalk and calming beach scene. We kicked off our shoes and headed for the ocean water, so that we could say we experienced a Netherland beach and waterfront. While we made our way through numerous shops along the boardwalk to buy more souvenirs that won't fit in our suitcases, others headed toward the casino to try their luck with the hopes of winning back money they have spent; they were met with a dresscode and entrance fee. Next, we came across an outdoor restaurant with many couches that allowed us to kick our feet back, relax, and enjoy the sun, which you don't always get in the Netherlands. After some time, we craved some gelato and tried various flavors. After experiencing the beach scene, we met at a McDonalds, where we found the vans ready to take us to dinner.

To Mr. Reid's request, we sat down for a nice, juicy steak at "Cafe Loetje Amsterdam." This steakhouse is considered the most popular in the area, living up to its expectations with not an empty table to be found. Again, this meal was a favorite among everyone, even Mr. Reid, given two thumbs up and cleared plates. We once again walked through Vondel Park to make our way back to the hotel, but first took a detour to the "I amsterdam" sign, which had been an item on our list, which we could now cross off. After waiting until it was clear, we each ran to a letter and posed for a picture. As we viewed the pictures, we found that we were too small and could't make everyone's faces out. We decided to do a group picture in front of the sign, rather than standing within the letters. Once we finished the pictures, we went back to the hotel where we had the rest of the night off, free to explore the area in small groups. After a busy day of walking and exploring, we are excited to see what the rest of the week will bring.

Love,

Samantha and Haleigh