One of my favorite hobbies in Amsterdam is strolling down residential streets, admiring the front room of beautiful apartments. That’s the inside of the house, from the outside. Now before you accuse me of some perversity, I’ll have you know that the blinds/drapes/shades are always left open, anyway. They’re practically inviting you to look in and admire their perfectly arranged tulips, their beautiful furniture, the overall gezellig-ness of their homes.

Even if my hobby alarms you, the picture shouldn’t. It is of a friend’s living room – and was posted with permission. But still, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! You’ll be pleasantly surprised with your discovery.

Just don’t make eye contact with the inhabitants. Now that’s rude.