As you may know, I am traveling back to the States after 1 1/2 years of being in Sweden. I postponed it for a variety of reasons, but the main one was I thought I would be coming home for good. But I could never quite decide, and now it is summer and hot in Arizona, but amazing in Sweden. So, I decided to just come for a visit. I traveled down 2 1/2 hours from Värnamo. Sorin drove me down and then drove back home the same day.

I booked a hotel near my old apartment in Hyllie, just across the street from where my adventure began. My friends came to have dinner with me. It was the perfect send-off. I so appreciated them doing that for me. Each brought a meat dish, and I provided cheese. We chatted for a few hours, and then they went home. I had a comfortable night and slept well. Things have changed around Hyllie since I came. New buildings that had just begun are fully complete and new ones on the way.

I took the 12 min train ride to Copenhagen and arrived at the airport and got to my gate to discover it was delayed an hour, so I would likely not make my next flight, and I was correct. So I set my mind to enjoy the time I had if there was any. To my surprise, I was booked on the next flight out the following day, which meant an overnight in Amsterdam. They gave me a very nice hotel with free dinner.

I decided to make an adventure out of it. I checked into the airport to leave my things and went back to the airport to catch the train. I looked online for tulip tours. It was too late for a tour, but the Anacortes tulip festival is amazing. Instead, I opted to take the train to central Amsterdam.

I walked towards an exit and came to the harbor. I had to cross the bicycle road, which was a bit scary as there were a lot of bicyclists at this time. So many, but so cool. Reminded me of Denmark, you will see many there as well. Sweden has plenty, but these guys are enthusiasts. I walked with hoards of tourists and locals towards town.

I popped into a couple of shops but did not buy anything as my bags are already overflowing. I have had many layovers in Amsterdam before but never had the opportunity to visit before. The train ride took 15 minutes and cost 11 euros round-trip. It was the longest commuter train I had seen. I enjoyed looking out the window at the passing scenery.

Central Station was huge and amazing. I decided to take a boat tour to get to see more of the city because my feet were getting tired, and it was chilly outside with the breeze. It was a great way to get some history and fun facts about the city. Although I have been on better tours, it was still interesting.

Fun hings I learned: they have more bicycles than residents, they use a crane from the top of their house into house because stairs are narrow, they built up rather than wide because they were taxed on width. There was the smallest house in Amsterdam, which I thought I took a photo of but can’t find. A water flower market, the most expensive hotel and house boats.

I am now ready to board my flight. It was an enjoyable surprise trip. I am glad I had the flexibility to take time and explore. I may have done more if I had someone with me, but that is the beauty of traveling alone. I can do exactly what I want, but it can get a little lonely. However, I also get the opportunity to meet new people. Met a man from Maimi and a couple of ladies from Whidbey Island. Life can be an adventure!