Visited:

• Amsterdam

I was fortunate to be able to travel to Amsterdam in the summer of 2006. Though the city has a seedy reputation due to its presence of a red light district and its observance of a policy of tolerance regarding certain substances deemed illicit in the US, I found it to be one of the cleanest, safest, and most enjoyable places that I have ever visited. I experienced cobblestone streets that are miraculously free of litter and traffic, quaint architecture overlooking tranquil canals, and priceless works of art from Holland’s native sons Rembrandt van Rijn and Vincent van Gogh.

What made Amsterdam such an enjoyable city to visit, however, were its people. I could have never imagined a place that embraces such diversity and open-mindedness. As it is a popular international travel destination, I saw people from all across the globe peacefully coexisting, disagreeing only upon whose country was going to win the year’s World Cup. The carefree attitude embraced by the entire city became contagious, and I could not avoid letting it lift my spirit. It will remain one of the most positive experiences of my entire life.

-Reese Henry