Finding a Slice of Home at the Waterlooplein Market

By: Sophie Cook

Hi! My name is Sophie and I am a Tulane student studying in Amsterdam. Before coming abroad I did not have a strong opinion on where I wanted to study and chose Amsterdam on a whim, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I've ever made. Amsterdam is such a beautiful, charming, and lively city that I never expected to love as much as I do. 

My favorite aspect of the city by far is the vintage shopping. I’ve always been obsessed with hunting for unique, one of a kind pieces, and Amsterdam has been the best city for that out of anywhere i’ve ever been. My personal favorite spot is the Waterlooplein Market around the corner from the CIEE building. I find myself there almost every day after class. The flea market has multiple tents set up by locals to sell various types of clothing. There are almost always hundreds of vintage leather jackets, jewelry, shoes, vintage cameras, and so many other unique shopping tents. I even befriended one of the vendors who sets up right across from episode, one of my other favorite vintage stores, through talking about music. 

I’ve heard the horror stories of Americans getting upcharged at flea markets in Europe but I have never had any experience like that in Amsterdam. The prices are always fair and the vendors are very friendly and kind. My experience at the Waterlooplein Market has allowed me to create a daily routine and a sense of steadiness in the midst of the chaos of packing up my entire life and moving across the world. I now go to the market when I'm missing home and it always gives me a sense of comfort, even when I don't buy anything. I also have purchased one of a kind items that I will keep for the rest of life. 

I can’t wait to go back to the US and be able to share the story of how I purchased a rare red leather jacket or vintage camera in an affordable and accessible way. Having these keepsakes I bought from the quaint markets and vintage stores will allow me to forever remember the amazing and transformative experience I had while living in Amsterdam.