Translation: Cadeau –> Gift

Hello! This morning we walked to the University of Amsterdam. Here, we took a tour of the business school. We also were able to explore the neighboring area and eat lunch at the university cafeteria. The two main differences I noticed about this school and Pitt is the tuition and the quality of food. Our tour guide asked us, “no offense, but why do you pay 15x what we do?” I couldn’t come up with a good answer. The other difference was the food we ate for lunch. It was delicious! The Eatery at Pitt can’t compete. Overall, I thought the university was pretty typical and similar to Pitt. The size, class style, and feel is about the same. Something very interesting, however, is that the class size dramatically drops after the first year. Apparently about 50% of the class flunks out of school. They mentioned it was very easy to get into the school, but very hard to stay.

After the tour of the university, we took a canal tour. This was a long boat that traveled along the massive canal system of Amsterdam. It was paired with an audio guide and turned out to be very educational. I got to learn about the history of the city and see some spectacular views. One thing I learned was that the citizens used to swim in the canals on holidays. Even the queen herself! Unfortunately, the water is now too dirty to swim in. Another thing I learned about the canals are that the bottoms are lined with bicycles. If I haven’t stressed this enough, there are way more bicycles in the city than people. And so, the old bicycles get thrown into the water. Another thing I found very cool about the canals is the amount of houseboats floating on them. Since there is a housing crisis, these boats are now somewhat of a luxury, whereas they used to a cheaper option.

Next, we walked around the city and did some gift shopping. You’re welcome parents! We also strolled though another massive flea market. I did not find anything today, which is probably a good thing (not sure how I am going to fit everything back into my suitcase). Tomorrow we have a free morning and then a visit from a presenter for Tony Chocolonely. Tomorrow is also our last day here! I am sad to leave, but simultaneously excited to return home.

Until then, doei!