Back in late November through early December of 2022 I had the opportunity to take my dream vacation to the Netherlands. I ended up going to Iceland for a bit as well. As you might imagine, the two places couldn't have possibly been more different.
The first 6 images are of the Sólheimajökull Glacier that I got to hike up. The hike was made better with a guide who shared folklore about trolls. The view from the top of that glacier was one of the most remarkable that I've ever had! Images 7-9 are of Skógafoss. Being as I was there in December the sun barely rose and it was like walking right from a sunrise into a sunset. The 10th is of the Blue Lagoon. Image 11 is Reynisfjara. And number 12 is artwork on a building in Reykjavik.
Overall Iceland was so much more gold and orange than I expected. Truly some of the most breath taking scenery. I'm not going to lie, I went in with not much research put in and a certain image in my mind (lots of snow). Even though it didn't match my more naive expectations, I was awed by the raw power of the landscape and nature that I got to see.
Images 13 & 14 were taken in Amsterdam on the way to a pancake making class. 15 was captured on the way back; it was very rainy and foggy during my trip and, honestly, I wouldn't have had it any other way. 16-18 were taken in Zaanse Schans the place had quaint and cozy vibes and plenty of early morning fog. The bunny's name is Miffy/Nijntje and sculptures of her can be found throughout the Netherlands. Apparently she has been compared a lot to Hello Kitty! The last two images were taken in the beautiful Giethoorn.
I am very glad that I came during the off season as Zaanse Schans had very few tourists so I got to take photos that didn't have many other tourists in them. Likewise with Giethoorn, although many restaurants were closed. I highly recommend going to the Netherlands in the off season. The Netherlands is such a cozy country. Loved Amsterdam so, so much and I usually hate cities. The public transportation was amazing and so easy/accessible. Affordable too.