Windmills

I never imagined visiting the famous windmills in Netherlands. I have always considered this place as my favorite in the world. Fortunately, I had the chance to travel to Amsterdam two years ago. When I arrived there, I did not doubt it for a second, and I took a tour to the countryside where the windmills are. My dream came true! 

Since I knew I was going to visit that place, I was so eager. However, it was a mix of emotions because my travel partners did not want to come with me to the windmills. Therefore, I had to travel alone in a foreign country. As any other amateur traveler, I was extremely nervous. Yet, I took the risk. Luckily, everybody, local people, tourists and tourist guides, were extremely kind and hospitable. They were always willing to take a photo wherever I asked for. That was amazing.

At the beginning, I believed that there were two or three windmills, but I was wrong. When I got there, I noticed that it was a whole park with traditional colorful houses and a lake. It was stunning. From a distance it was already possible to see the sails of the windmills turning slowly.  It was a serene image. This amazing open-air museum, besides historical windmills, has walking routes, boat tours, and shops where people can find either souvenirs or food. There is nothing more Dutch than cheese, clogs, and tulips. They are the most popular handicrafts and souvenirs that are sold. Cheese was tasty with strong flavor, but I also tried a home-made hot chocolate that helped me a lot with the cold weather. It was simply perfect.

However, windmills are the main attraction. These are imposing on the outside and bigger than they look in photos. But inside them it is a completely different world. Even though they are more than 200 years old, they have a complex system of moving parts where oil, flour, spices, and pigments are milled. These windmills were crucial for the industry development in this area. In this attraction, it is also possible to climb up to the deck through small stairs. That is a bit difficult, but it is worth it. On the top, people can enjoy an outstanding view and see how colorful windmills are distributed around the lake.

To sum up, it was a worthwhile experience where I could visit an incredible place as well as meet amazing people. I could learn more about Dutch culture. It was rewarding because it was something that I have always wanted to see. Now I know that travelling alone is as good as travelling in group, specially to places like these windmills. I can not wait to travel again.