Day 12: Leiden/Amsterdam - Part 2

We got up too early (on Sunday) for the bus to the train station, so we walked there. A very relaxed, surprisingly uncrowded stroll when compared to weekday traffic. While waiting for our train we met up with the other Untours couple  (from Ohio) who were also headed for Amsterdam. They wanted to see the Rijksmuseum, and we were headed for the Van Gogh museum. On the train we sat next to a man from the Philippines who has been living in Holland for 10 years; he helped us find the right tram for the museum area.

Self Portrait in Straw Hat

Potato Eaters

We learned that Van Gogh made many copies of the same subject: self portraits, flowers, people. Often it seems you are looking at paintings you've seen in another museum. 

The museum was crowded:

A very informative and highly worthwhile experience.

Then we went on a walking tour, ending in the Red Light District:

Also a crowded tourist location.  No photos allowed of the women offering their wares. 

You can tell these buildings are not built on a rock base; look how they have tilted and shifted. 

Our overall impression of Amsterdam is that it's very, very crowded and everyone is rushing; however, there are a lot of great museums and interesting places to visit - so it is what it is.  We prefer the pace of Leiden and enjoyed Haarlem as well.

After returning to Leiden we took a break then out to dine at the nicest restaurant we've found, 'T Fust (the barrel) te Leiden.  Great atmosphere and an elegant meal:

Before a memorable (i.e., HIGH calorie) dessert.

 Tiramisu:

and Cream Brulee:

A delightful and relaxing end to a busy day.