A 14-hour layover

I like to watch Anthony Bourdain's programs on the Travel Channel. The Layover is interesting as it is a 48 hour non-stop eating program to fill one's appetite. 

Here I was in Amsterdam's Grand Central Station in a 14-hour layover at 7 pm before my flight back to New York the next day at 9 am. While snapping pictures in the station, I was wondering if I could match Anthony's quest for good food, good company, and sightseeings along the way. 

Weather was uncooperative that day. It was rainy, windy and cold. Sky was already dark when I stepped out of the station. I could see that construction was being done in and out of the main entrance. As I ventured further, I saw hundreds of bicycles parked on designated parking areas. I had never seen so many bikes before.

I walked past canal after canal and suddenly I was at Nine Streets. 

Nine Streets are famous for the quirky stores, chic boutiques, intimate cafes and restaurants as well as other specialty shops to serve the MTV generation. Most of the stores are run by local proprietors, so do not expect to see Zara or H & M here. With the clock ticking away, and my stomach growling for food, I began my quest for my first meal in Amsterdam. Not knowing where and what I would like to eat, I stumble into a place which looked pretty cool. The menu was pretty huge. I began to feel skeptical, and decided to order a soup first. It was one of the worst meals I had ever tasted. The soup tasted like a package from an instant noodle soup based in hot water with a few tiny shrimps, mussels and scallops. I was 6.50 Euro lighter when I left the restaurant!

The centuries old buildings along the canals have huge windows. I could see from outside, and judging from what I saw I could tell most are artists, sculptures, or designers by professions. As I walked, I came across galleries, and antique shops. With the cold wind blowing, I had to look for the bathroom. Finally, decided to call it a night. I found a place to sleep for the night, and left the city at 5 am the next day.

Did I match Anthony Bourdain feat? Probably not, but he has 48 hours with help from his producers. As for me, I had less than 14 hours and a city map. Call me a sore loser! 

But for my next layover, I will do a lot better as I wait for my flight back to New York.