Why Getting Lost Is So Much Fun
When on a city trip, I catch myself heading in the same direction. Leaving the hotel, I take a turn that goes to the city centre and I always follow the same streets. But on my last trip, I decided to play a little game that guaranteed a more interesting way to explore any city.
You can play this game too. The result is you get a little lost. The bonus is that you’ll discover hidden gems and areas of the city not mentioned in most travel guides. Besides, it’s a chance to get away from the tourist routes that every city has.
The Basics
Veer away from the city centre, turn right, take another right turn and finally head left. Walk on for a bit and do it all over again. I suggest taking along your Amsterdam guidebook, and a street map just in case you get too lost.
Getting Lost
Start from your hotel and walk in the opposite direction from where you went earlier. That way you won’t walk down the same streets over and over again. Do the turn right, turn right, turn left, but every time you spot a street you recognize or one that looks unattractive walk on and take the next turn. You may wish to set yourself a time limit, twenty minutes or less or more. When you have done enough walking, sit down in one of the many outdoor cafes en route. Study your map to find out where you are. Your guidebook will tell you if there are fascinating sights nearby.
Amsterdam is a safe city and there are no dangerous or unsafe neighbourhoods. However, if you start getting uncomfortable, retrace your steps. It is no shame scooting away from stressful places.
When I tried the game in Amsterdam, I didn’t get lost because I know the city better than the contents of my handbag. However, my getting-lost walk was still great fun, and I found some attractive statues and a stone tiger at the entrance to Westerpark. (map)
Play the game in any city of the world. Let me know what wonderful and out of the ordinary things you spotted and where you ended up.
photo credit: personal collection
