Well designed and well-kept parks are good for people’s mental and physical health. In Amsterdam we have parks and green spaces in abundance. My favourite park, because it’s less than 100 metres walk away, is the Erasmuspark. When I moved to this neighbourhood in the 80s it was run down and more or less a no-go area because of danger of harassment or mugging. Since its renovation in the noughties and the addition of Terrasmus café, the park has grown in popularity. Events are organised there throughout the summer and it is a nice place for dog owners and young mothers to interact. While one wouldn’t think of striking up a conversation when walking along a regular concrete street, it’s far easier to chat to other dog owners or neighbours in a green setting. Nearby is also the Rembrandtpark, and of course Amsterdam’s famous Vondelpark. This time of year after the flocks of tourists have flown back home, even the Vondelpark is a pleasant place to be.

The parks have looked so lovely the last few days, I couldn’t resist taking some photos and sharing them with you. Try and head out to inhale some greenery if you can, even five minutes in a park can boost your mood. Catch these last few halcyon days of an Indian Summer.

Terrasmus Café

Erasmus park

Street cat -has an owner but prefers other people’s homes

Vondelpark

Rembrandt park

Rembrandt park

Augustana Church

Poplar trees along canal

Erasmusgracht

Erasmuspark

Erasmusgracht

Erasmuspark

Miracle Garden in Eramsus

Miracle Garden in Eramsus

Miracle Garden in Eramsus

Miracle Garden in Eramsus

Miracle Garden in Eramsus

Erasmus Park

Day of the Dog Event in Erasmuspark. Filmed by Peter Eijking