My Favorite Spots in Amsterdam Part I Westelijke Eilanden (the Western Islands)

If you are visiting Amsterdam, or live here, pick yourself a nice, sunny day, and take yourself for a relaxing walk around the western islands.

The Western Islands is a group of three little man-made islands in the west of Amsterdam. They were built in the 17th century, as a part of the third enlargement of Amsterdam. The three islands form a little neighborhood by themselves, with a very relaxed, village like atmosphere.

I had a meeting there on one of the first spring days, and I thought it might be a good opportunity to have a little walk around and take some pictures in one of my favorite spots…

From the first time I found myself there, I was enchanted by this charming neighborhood. It is a perfect place for an afternoon stroll, with its narrow streets, old houses and little bridges. Many houseboats are parked on the canals separating the islands from each other. There is also quite a nice mix between old houses, some of which were warehouses back in the days, and some interesting modern architecture. Walking around, you can really forget you are in the city, and not too far from central station. There is almost no motor vehicles traffic on the islands. There is no shopping area, and not many businesses are located here, so most people around are either residents or strollers. You might find a little second hand shop or a cozy cafe hiding in one of the alleys.

Get yourself a shot of relaxed, beautiful Amsterdam…

written by paramir on 2010-04-07 #places #island #islands #location #amsterdam #netherlands #dutch #westelijke-eilanden #prinseneiland #man-made #west-amsterdam #lomography-netherlands