One of my favorite things to do wherever I am is to eat (and drink) the local specialties - you probably also agree if you have found this article. This is a great way to live like a local. Amsterdam is a very multi-cultural destination with a huge variety of different ethnic cuisines as well as local specialties. Here are some of my favorites:
Finding vegetarian friendly restaurants in Europe isn't too difficult. Actually, in most cities and larger towns it is quite easy. Many restaurants will indicate on the menu which items are meat-free or even vegan but some smaller towns (looking at you France) I have been served meat in dishes even after telling the waiters (in their language) that I don't eat meat. I have learned that I have to say "no chicken, no pig, no cow, no fish" for them to fully understand what no meat means. Or when in doubt I stick to pizza and cheese omelettes.
Even though I have a vegetarian diet, I am not a huge fan of "vegetarian/vegan only" restaurants.
Trains are great in Europe. They are quick and efficient. They get you from point A to B in a blur. Which sometimes that is what you want. But sometimes you may want a more relaxed and slower pace. And a slow relaxed pace is definitely what river cruising can offer.
Imagine being able to check-in to your floating hotel for at least 7-nights knowing that you will get to visit many places and see beautiful scenery without having the hassle of packing your bags every few days.
Our day consisted of visiting two different wineries, lunch at a local "off-the-beaten" path restaurant in a tiny tiny village as well as exploring hilltop towns as we went. Our wine expert guide, Davide, is from Cortona so not only is experienced with the best wineries to visit in the area but also which back roads to use to get there and where the scenic views are to stop at en route. We just sat back, relaxed and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience.
