Amsterdam is a city of cliches.

Whenever you mention to a friend that you're about to embark on travel to the world's most well-known haven for all things debaucherous, eyebrows are known to lurch upwards. Yet, travel to Amsterdam doesn't have to be all about sex, drugs and rock and roll (though you're likely to run into a few of those without much effort).

 

In the summer of 2018, I spent two weeks in various stages with my husband, by myself, and with my mother. All three groups (and yes, I'm referring to my lone self as a 'group') were able to explore the city without much awkwardness or trouble. 

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And yes, as a solo female traveler in the city known for bachelor parties and the world famous red light district, it's totally possible to have a grand 'ol time, free from harassment and dubious characters at every corner. In fact, I found Amsterdam to be a great city for solo travel and self-reflection canal side as well as in some of the world's best museums. 

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No matter what you're in the mood for, Amsterdam is likely to have you covered. And maybe, just maybe, not always in the ways you might originally expect either.

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