Richard Alexander
Based in Zaanstad, Noord-Holland
I've spent years crossing Europe — first as someone who worked in Amsterdam for years and never quite stopped exploring from there, and since then across the rest of the continent whenever time and a decent flight or train connection allowed it. I grew up between the tulip fields of the Bollenstreek, studied in Haarlem and later in Nijmegen, and now live in Zaanstad, a short cycle from the windmills of Zaanse Schans. The Wandering Clogs is where I write up the places, routes and small local details I'd actually tell a friend about — not a polished highlight reel, just what's genuinely worth your time. When I'm not travelling, I'm usually cooking, out fishing, or already planning the next trip.
- 📍 Lives in Zaanstad, Noord-Holland
- 🌷 Grew up between the tulip fields of the Bollenstreek
- 🎓 Studied in Haarlem and Nijmegen
- 💼 Worked in Amsterdam for years
- 🍳 Hobbies: cooking and fishing
Every guide by Richard Alexander
Wooden Shoe Workshop at Zaanse Schans: What to Expect
What happens at the wooden shoe workshop at Zaanse Schans? A practical local guide to the demonstration, visit length, crowds, children, accessibility and the shop.
Best Zaanse Schans Tours from Amsterdam: An Honest Comparison
Compare Zaanse Schans tours from Amsterdam: half-day coaches, small groups, private trips, bikes and combination tours—plus when travelling independently is better.
Zaanse Schans Windmills: Complete Guide to the Dutch Windmill Village
Which Zaanse Schans windmills should you visit? Compare the working saw, paint, oil and spice mills, interior access, stairs, photography and realistic visit times.
Zaanse Schans Travel Guide: Windmills, Tickets and Local Tips
Plan a Zaanse Schans visit with a local guide to the windmills, tickets, transport from Amsterdam, realistic timing, family stops and the best route through the village.
Schiphol to Amsterdam: Train vs Taxi vs Uber
Schiphol to Amsterdam compared: train, taxi and Uber prices, travel times and which option actually makes sense for your luggage, group size and arrival time.
Best Time to Visit Amsterdam by Month
The best time to visit Amsterdam, month by month. Tulip season, King's Day, museum crowds, hotel prices and real weather data from a Noord-Holland local — updated for 2027.
Zaanse Schans with Kids: Strollers, Windmills, Food and a Family Itinerary
Planning Zaanse Schans with kids? Discover the best hands-on stops, stroller advice, food, toilets, safety, rainy-day options and a realistic family itinerary.
Amsterdam Budget Breakdown: What a Trip Really Costs
A real Amsterdam budget breakdown for 2027: accommodation, food, museums and transport costs at budget, mid-range and comfortable spending levels, per day and per trip.
Volendam vs. Marken: Which Traditional Dutch Fishing Village Should You Visit?
Volendam or Marken? Two traditional fishing villages on the IJsselmeer, one easy loop by bus and ferry — and an honest look at how they really differ.
Is the I Amsterdam Card Worth It? (Cost Breakdown)
A real cost breakdown of the I Amsterdam Card: what it includes, how much you'd pay separately, and exactly which traveler types actually save money buying one.