Amsterdam's Canals & Bridges

We started our walk at Amstel Station and followed the Amstel River into the heart of Amsterdam. Along the way we saw many landmark bridges, distinctively "Amsterdam" canals, uniquely Dutch houses and more. Some of you have not yet had the opportunity to visit my home so below is a taste of, what I feel to be, one of the most picturesque cities in the world. Perhaps these might temp you to book a flight today! All of these bridges and canals are named but I do not remember them all ... sorry I am a bad tour guide.

The canals wind their way throughout the city and are dazzling to see at night (sorry - don't have any night shots but you CAN take my word for it - been there, seen it, done it).

De Munt Tower (the mint tower) was build in 1512 and was part of the ancient defense wall of Amsterdam.

Above is a boat along the Brouwersgracht - this is the straat (straat = street & gracht = canal - simple Dutch lesson) that our dentist is on. Usually, on a trip to the dentist, I am scared CRAPLESS, so I am not always in the spirit of mind to appreciate such scenic moments!

This is another type of bridge which is common to Amsterdam urban planning. This canal & bridge are surrounded by modern architecture rather than the typical Amsterdam houses. This shows the diversity of Amsterdam: a mix of past & present which is why I have added this one it - the contrast of the white against the usual shades of brown . I know ... yet another canal with buildings but I just LOVE this shot. Small, narrow, single canals are found mixed in the variety. What inspired me to share this one was the crisp, cool, inviting, blue sky against the assorted browns & twisting leafless branches of winter.

This is one of Arnie's photos with the 350D & I just love it. I was somewhat indecisive about which collection this photo would fit: channel, houses (both in the channel and alongside) or bridges (there is one in the far distance if you look carefully). The reason I am so fond of this shot is because it captures many of the distinguishing aspects of Amsterdam.