The Netherlands

One of the great things about visiting Amsterdam is the fact that you can take some easy day trips to surrounding places which have their own unique charms. 

The Hague (Den Haag) should be first on the list 

since it is home to the Mauritshuis museum which houses Vermeer’s famous “Girl with the Pearl Earring” among its many gems. 

You can also visit Madurodam, a miniature village featuring 1:25 scale recreations of some of The Netherlands most famous places. 

Alkmaar is known for its colorful cheese market. 

 But of course the canals are equally charming. 

Delft 

which was the subject of Vermeer’s only landscape

is very picturesque. 

 And on the day I visited a fair brought out the crowds

to watch the clog maker demonstrate his craft. 

Just make sure you don’t forget to visit some windmills!

Ciao

PJ

© 2013 PJ Lehrer