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Blogs from Netherlands, Europe - page 7
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December 14th 2012
So the final countdown has begun... Just completed registering with the Foreign Office so they know (approximately) where we are going. Jerry will be flying back tonight from NL and we then have Saturday to do the final preparations.... read more
December 11th 2012
Here I am, typing on my laptop in my old bed in my old room for the last time before I leave. Yet, I still feel all Zen about leaving, which is not what I expected at all! I don't have much to say at the moment, but I will keep you up to date when I arrive in Washington!... read more
December 2nd 2012
It's been a while... Actually, this year has been a while. As far as travelling was concerned it was probably my slowest year in the last decade, with by the end of it around four months on the road (and I am including the upcoming last three weeks of December in that). A complete reversal from last year, which saw me on the road for a full eight months. You could say, this year was the yin in last year’s yang, a way of balancing everything. Now, normally I would probably have complained bitterly about my lack of travelling opportunities this year, but I have grown older and, if not wiser, at least more relaxed about such trivialities. I have learned to take it as it comes and make the best of it. I focus on ... read more
Red Lights, Pottery and Justice
Published: December 2nd 2012Europe » Netherlands » North Holland » Amsterdam
November 30th 2012
After our last day in Paris was spent in Disneyland, it was onto Amsterdam- the adults playground. Arriving at Central Station after a three hour train trip, we easily walked to our hotel- all done up like a train. As we did in Paris, we hopped on the Hop On Hop Off bus, getting off at two stops: The Heineken Experience would have to be one of the best brewery tours I have done (Sorry Guiness and Coors). Most of the attention is paid to the history of Heineken and while time is paid to how beer is brewed, it is not the focus of the tour. The tour is also very interactive which keeps it fun and comes with two free beers at the end. From there it was to Anne Franks House. Everyone knows ... read more
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November 15th 2012
UK & Europe, May 1993 This was our 2nd visit to Amsterdam as well. We stopped over for business previously for a couple of days, before heading to London. Monnickendam just outside Amsterdam was where we stayed and we both enjoyed walking around the streets. It is like a mini Amsterdam with its canals and bridges. Today it is a small fishing village but was an important port around the 15th century. The next day we went to another tourist trap – to learn a bit and look at Delft pottery. Interesting and beautiful, but of course, you were expected to buy something. We bought a tiny plate to remind us of our visit. Then we went on a canal cruise through Amsterdam. Another laid back way of seeing some of the city. I was thankful ... read more
Nov. 15 Amsterdam - Reality
Published: November 15th 2012Europe » Netherlands » North Holland » Amsterdam
November 15th 2012
Day 40 After an overnight flight, we arrived in Amsterdam at 5:30 am to 2oC. Acclimatization for Calgary - brrrrr. After we checked in at the hotel, we went for a walk down the street, found a coffee shop - had real coffee and watched - what an incredible and beautiful city. We then went on a 3 hr. walking tour and found the city to be intriguing (beyond the red light section). The history, the architecture and the people will bring us back for another visit. After the walk - a boat tour of the canals. A little nap, last minute packing and then we are off to observe the night light. ....a final blog when we are home! Thanks for sharing this "best ever"adventure! Thanks to Maureen... all happening so far without a hitch! ... read more
Getting Started
Published: November 14th 2012Europe » Netherlands » South Holland » The Hague » ScheveningenNovember 14th 2012
So the interweb Luddite has finally set up his first page for our upcoming trip to India. It is 0635 and I should be getting ready for work. It is cold and grey outside and I have a 30 min walk to the office as I still have not fixed my bike. I use the gas rings to heat the room as the central heating is as temperamental as a Dutch waiter. Work is pretty hectic after a couple of trips that need reports written, progress measured, plans made and presentations given. Still, it could be worse…... read more
November 12th 2012
Op de valreep nog een typhus-vaccinatie kunnen regelen, sloot anti-malaria pillen ingekocht, bergschoenen in het vet gezet....tijd voor vertrek! Mijn plan is vooral dat ik geen plan heb. Ik start in Chiang Mai, in het noorden van Thailand en ga daar vanuit mijn hangmat de route bepalen. Just go with the flow. Wat wel zeker is, is kerst en O&N op een Thais eiland met familie en vrienden. Yeah, heb er zin in!... read more
