i AMsterdam
Eversince I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by the Netherlands. When I learnt about it in school I couldn’t fathom the idea of a country being below sea level.
An ordinary life with a dusting of luxury.
Posted on April 7, 2018 by lifewithclottedcream
If you have been following my blog you probably have noticed that I have been banging on about the pretty flowers in Keukenhof in my recent posts, but it is totally worth it – I promise!
Here are 10 things you absolutely must have to enjoy the best day at Keukenhof (and some things I wish I knew before I went!):
You might think ‘duh’ that is a given, but you will be surprised how many people are queuing to get in. Having a valid ticket before your arrival really is essential. You don’t have to queue to get in and you don’t risk losing out on valuable time. We got our tickets from the Visitor Centre in Amsterdam at Amsterdam Centraal Station. This was really convenient and we got a great deal by buying the ticket in combination with the transport tickets.
Yup! I thought: “it is only spring, it won’t be that hot…” Boy, was I wrong! It was boiling hot on the day we went. Temperatures soared in the high twenties (to the Brits, that is melting point) and my hubby turned into a well-cooked lobster by the evening. Oh, and whilst I’m on the subject of sunscreen: aftersun! Works miracles!
Currently I do not leave the house without a tiny little (50ml) bottle of SPF 50 just for those one-of-a-kind-sunny-days.
I know. You are probably going to say: “you just said bring sunscreen, why would you need a blanket?” Well, to sit on, of course! There are quite a few spots where you can sit on the grass and parts of it could be slightly damp due to the staff watering the garden (obviously!) so having a blanket to sit on (or a jacket in my case) will make it a little more comfortable.
More specifically: one that is waterproof. Weather is unpredictable in the Spring and being prepared for all weathers is usually wise.
I don’t have a fancy camera, but I do have a half decent phone that can take some great shots. Don’t be shy to risk looking slightly odd just to get the perfect angle. You will be the star on Instagram!
Although there is plenty of lakes – you can’t drink the water! Take a refillable bottle with you as you can fill it up throughout the day.
As I said earlier – the weather is very unpredictable. An umbrella would be keeping the sun out of your face and the water off your collar! Mine folds into a tiny little blob that I keep in my handbag for emergencies such as this.
We didn’t know that we could take some snacks in with us. I really wish I did know this as we were starving by the end of the day!
You are going to be on your feet. The whole day. Please wear sensible shoes! And trousers. This way you could still cycle outside of Keukenhof through the endless tulip fields
Bet you didn’t think of this one! It is a long day. It will be busy. In order to get the perfect photo sometimes you have to exercise a little patience! It will be worth it, I promise!
Eversince I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by the Netherlands. When I learnt about it in school I couldn’t fathom the idea of a country being below sea level.
Wow! I’m in awe. Never before have I experienced such beauty…
As a teacher I can only go on holiday during peak times. That means double airline fares, double hotel fares and double every other fare you can imagine. So when on holiday, I have to get creative with the budget I have to see the places I want…
Category: Europe, Lists, The Netherlands, TravelTags: amsterdam, blog, Europe, flowers, holland, Lists, must haves, netherlands, spring, Travel, tulips, what to take
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Surprised that you got a warm day while on a Keukenhof visit! Generally it’s quite cool during spring in Holland. But really nice in a way, tulips look prettier with the sun shining bright 🙂 Adds to the color and the sparkle! Lovely pictures ❤️
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We were just as surprised – hence felt so unprepared. The sunlight was the perfect backdrop for the flower canvas! Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to comment – it is much appreciated!xx
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I missed out on the Keukenhof Gardens, heading instead to Noordoostpolder. Next time around, I guess!
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It was stunning – really hope that one day I could return. I’ve never been to Noordoostpolder – next time for me 🙂
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