When we visited Amsterdam the first time in June 2014 we were immediately smitten. The Centrum of Amsterdam is like a fairytale with its tree-lined canals, charming 17th century architecture, and lovely locals contently riding bicycles everywhere. The more we explored, the more enamored we became. There are cute little shops around every corner and fantastic galleries featuring the work of local artists. An incredible variety of restaurants and sidewalk cafes tempted us with delicious cuisine from all over the world. We found impressive farmers markets full of fresh and colorful produce and kitschy flea markets packed with junk and treasures. We were so impressed with the large, gorgeous parks and world-class museums.

There is also an unapologetic funky and grungy side to Amsterdam. Old buildings list and teeter. People toss their old, broken bicycles into the canals. Tourists overrun the city and party too much. You really get the sense of a place that has been building upon itself and its history for hundreds of years.

And yet, Amsterdam still holds on to a warm, disarming, friendly and intoxicatingly great place to be. The credit for that goes to the people who live there. People take great pride in their gardens and houses. People keep leave their window coverings open and there are potted plants with flowers that adorn front porches and canals and houseboats everywhere. Well educated and pragmatic, quirky and creative, the Dutch exude a quality of being content in the moment. They are easy going, rarely appear rushed and relish just hanging out, enjoying each other’s company and the beautiful city where they live.

The weather in June in Amsterdam is simply splendid: the perfect temperature, clean air and a light breeze. Blue skies are decorated with puffy white clouds much like a Renaissance painting. And the quality of the light is just magical, making the city that much more irresistible to photograph.

We have been back to Amsterdam twice since 2014, and each time we’ve discovered many more hidden neighborhood gems, warm, generous people, great food and visual eye candy for us to enjoy and take home with us as memories. I can’t wait to go back!