Seeing the famous 'land underwater' for the first time

by Richard Sedafor (Ghana)

I didn't expect to find Netherlands

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In 2016, I visited the Netherlands for the first time. Most of the Netherlands are known to be below sea level. Growing up, I wondered how the city survived. Being a Ghanaian who has experienced floods almost every year in Accra, I wondered how cities like Amsterdam and Delft could coup with rising sea levels and floods. Fortunately, I got a sponsored trip to the Netherlands in February, 2016. Driving through the streets of Amsterdam, I could see may buildings under water level in most places. I wondered if they had no fear of being flooded. I asked myself, what if the water level rises beyond a limit, how will people survive. My friend who escorted me through the city explained that the water levels are controlled carefully by an automated system of hydraulic works. He mentioned that a series of pumps and pumping stations have been positioned throughout the city to ensure that the water level never exceeds a target level. I was amazed to hear this. I enjoyed seeing the happy faces of people in Amsterdam as they went about their normal businesses. Friday nights are amazing in Amsterdam. Parties and night clubs are often very busy. On one night I was craving for rice dishes so I went out looking for a nice place I could eat fried rice. After a long search, I found a Chinese fried rice joint that served delicious rice cuisines that made my mouth water. For me, it was very rewarding to finally get food that I was used to eating often and to get a break from the 'bread kind of meals'! The other good part is its very easy to start a conversation with a typical Dutch person. During my last days, I had an opportunity to visit the Old Church, Oude Kerk (Delft). It is also known as the leaning tower. It was amazing to find that such a giant structure could stand as it is. I loved the architecture and the serene environment around. To crown it all, my friend and I sat at a restaurant close to the Oude Kerk to eat. The food was good, the music was soothing, and I didn't expect to find nicely cooked maize cobs available at such a restaurant. Cooked or roasted maize cob is a snack I usually enjoy in Ghana during the harvest season. I love to travel and I know, the Netherlands is exceptional in a lot of ways. I would love to go there again.