Alicia Ridout

Well, I’ve been to Amsterdam 3 times. Once when I was 4, then when I was 6, and last about a year ago for my 15th birthday.

Amsterdam has most definetley changed my life. It’s a beautiful city, with history, art, friendly and worldly people, and a wonderful culture, not to mention it’s other claims to fame.

The first time I was in Amsterdam, I clearly remember reading every sign I saw aloud from my stroller, those in English and those in Dutch. For what I believe was the first time in my life, I began to pay close attention to my surroundings and to the people and places that I was passing by.

The second night of the trip in the hotel room, I grabbed a yellow napkin and a pen and, for the first time ever, wrote my name… the first legible and comprehendible writing I’d ever done. The next day or later that week, I took my first photograph, of my parents in Damn Square. And it was right on, centered, and all. (I took a picture of it with my digital camera just now to go along with the entry)

I believe that the learning I experienced in Amsterdam directly led to who I am today. I wish to be involved in travel, journalism, and photography… go figure.

Amsterdam was also my first experience viewing art and history, which continue to be my favorite subjects today. :D

oh, amsterdam….

made it shitty shitty shitty. hahaha

education… shitty
people…. shitty
housing prices… shitty
...
but, ya know, it could be worse