How’s Amsterdam? Wet and Windy

So I knew it rained in Amsterdam, but not like this. I was lucky with the weather my first three weeks here. It was sunny, warm, and rained once. This last week showed me the true side of Dutch weather. It has rained every day this week and we’re starting to reach chilly temperatures. And this rain isn’t the cute oops I should have brought a rain jacket…

The rain can’t stop you from going places. It takes me 10-15 minutes on a bike to get to class every day. Which is 10-15 minutes in the rain. Heavy rain. Thirty seconds into my bike ride, my pants are completely soaked through. By the time I get to class I’m dripping and I wonder why I bothered to wash my hair that morning.

Then there’s the wind. Holland is known for its windmills for a reason. Once there’s a break in the buildings, a gust of wind will hit you and almost knock you over. It’s like your bike is a target. I have to work hard to keep going straight. And if you are unlucky enough to ride into a head wind, the leisurely bike to the library turns into a full body workout. Thankfully, Amsterdam is a flat city.

The weather changes rapidly too. It was a beautiful, sunny day when I went downstairs this morning to leave for brunch. As soon as I stepped outside, it was raining. And here I am now writing this, in dry clothes, and it’s sunny outside again.

Trying to warm up after the storm

So, some advice: always have a rain jacket and make sure your mascara is water proof.