Merely minutes from Amsterdam, the Dutch countryside is awash with lush green pastures, flower-adorned cottages, and quaint postcard-perfect villages. For first-timers to the Netherlands, a visit to the towns of Volendam, Edam and Marken—three very beautiful (though admittedly very touristy) villages—makes for an excellent day trip from Amsterdam.   VILLAGE DAY TRIP FROM AMSTERDAM The three cities of Volendam, Edam and Marken lie less than half an hour by car from the Dutch capital. They are each steeped in character and home to local traditions that make them uniquely worth…