Revive after Amsterdam’s Anne Frank House:Cheese Museum, snacks on Prinsengracht [classic article]

After an emotional visit to the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, you are likely to become what we call, verklempt. Climbing up to the attic where the Holocaust victim hid for months on end inspires no joke claustrophobia. As one of the most popular — and important, I dare say — tourist attractions in Europe, most of the time you’ll find yourself crowded in the tiny rooms. Seeing Anne’s actual handwriting, looking at photos and video interviews, reading about the horrific struggles of Amsterdam’s Jews during WWII, would take its toll on anybody not made of stone. Here are some ideas on how to revive yourself, so that you can continue sightseeing in Amsterdam. The city does warn against pickpockets on Prinsengracht (“Prince’s Canal”) right by the Anne Frank House, which all of these places are on. Disturbingly, the lady in the picture kinda looks like me, when I’m sightseeing. Just be careful and don’t let strangers get too close.

As it turns out, there are several “cheese museums” in and around Amsterdam, serving to lure in tourists. However, I found this one most appealing, because it did have a more boutique look than “buses welcome here” look. They had the most fantastic free samples, too, including rare extra-aged cheese and Gouda with truffles! Their sampling program works, too. I never in a million years thought I’d be able to take legally and safely take cheese back to the US, but they have sealed cheese that stays good unrefrigerated for a whole month!!

Also on Prinsengracht is a tea, coffee and artisan chocolate shop, Simon Levelt. It’s been open since 1817 and seems to be frequented by locals, opposed to tourists. Though people probably wish they’d serve their items there, turning it into a cafe, they are pretty generous with offering chocolate samples. The employees are extremely knowledgeable about the products and will gently steer you away from touristy souvenirs.

Poor little Anne Frank. After visiting her attic, you’ll probably appreciate the opportunity to sip on a cool drink, maybe get something light like a muffin. The cafe’ is quiet and serene, with vast floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the Prinsengracht. It really gives you the chance to take in the scene and contemplate life.