Opinion: Is another tourist in your way? Don't get worked up, make it fun for yourself

An Amsterdam resident reflects on the frequent frustration cyclists feel toward tourists blocking bike paths, comparing their behavior to pigeons searching for food. The author notes that because the city center is inherently crowded and infrastructure is often obstructed by parked vehicles or construction, collisions and congestion are inevitable realities of urban life. Rather than shouting at pedestrians or constantly feeling irritated, the author suggests that locals should adopt a more lighthearted attitude toward the chaos. By acknowledging that tourists are simply unaware of local cycling customs, residents can turn potential confrontations into humorous encounters. The piece encourages locals to embrace the disorder of city living with a smile or a playful remark rather than succumbing to anger. Ultimately, the author argues that letting go of this persistent frustration improves the daily experience of navigating the capital and makes the commute significantly more enjoyable for everyone involved.