What is it about Amsterdam?

I've been there twice now and there truly is something magical about the Dutch Capital.

Amsterdam: the city which encapsulates all that is liberal in modern day society with the world famous red light district and the countless number of coffeeshops being at the forefront of this image that is transmitted across the world. I had always heard of these rumours and stories of 'dam, who hasn't, but it is not until you visit Amsterdam that one really gets a feel for the place and realises some welcome truths..

I have now been to the city twice, the first time in November and the second time in February thanks in part to the great experience I had the first time. Both times the weather was cold, pouring with rain during the weekend the first time but this did not seem to quell the spirit of the city. I spent a weekend there and saw many of the tourist landmarks that Amsterdam has to offer: the Van Gogh museum, the Red Light District, the coffeeshops and that massive IAMSTERDAM sign. 

There is something though about Amsterdam that sets it apart from other large European cities that I have visited (London and Rome among others). As well as a fascinating history (Anne Frank for starters anyone?) the atmosphere of the Dutch capital is truly laid back. This will lead to all the predictable comments of those who would say 'of course it is, it's because they are all always high!' but I think that there is something beyond that. I cannot quite put my finger on it but it leads to Amsterdam being a magical city to visit and one that I recommend for all adults with all particular interests - because if their not represented  'dam it's not likely to be anywhere!

The picture as we walked down one of the many busy shopping streets on the Saturday afternoon could have been taken anywhere else so I urge you not to judge Amsterdam on pictures or word of mouth alone but to go to the city itself and truly get a feel for the place.

I love the place so much that I plan to visit again in the summer, perhaps for a bit longer to see the city in all its summer glory and also to maybe get out of the more well known landmarks to see some other places that I am sure the surroundings of Amsterdam have to offer!