We spent some quality time in central Amsterdam before shifting locations to a massive campground near Leiden (located just outside of “The Hague”). If Amsterdam is the heart of Holland then Leiden must be its soul. This is the home of many famous artists including Rembrandt himself and the school that taught him to draw. It’s also the actual epicentre of the iconic Dutch tulip bulb development and industry. It’s the location of the first University in Holland with a centre for physics that has given the world numerous important technological developments over the years. Leiden was the battleground that ultimately led to Dutch independence from Spain. It was the Pilgrim’s departure point when they sailed the Mayflower to the new world and it has the oldest operating theatre in the Netherlands. But, if that’s not enough, there’s much much more that makes this place so special including how beautiful Leiden and the neighbouring historic town of Delft are with such fantastic Dutch architecture and quaint channels to walk along. There’s only one thing that could come close to overshadowing the beauty of these places and that’s the beauty of the people who live here. And not surprisingly we’ve had first hand experience with the very best of them. Thank you so much Anneke, Els, Ad, Hedy, Kees, Jan, and Marija for driving us about and guiding us through your beautiful community, entertaining us, feeding us so well and generally taking such great care of us. We are really looking forward to the day that we have an opportunity to reciprocate your special treatment with some Western Canadian hospitality of our own. Margot and I cannot thank you enough for all your kindness.

We’re now crossing the channel and about to start our grand tour of Great Britain. Looking forward to everything except driving on the wrong side of the road.

Road Rage: Campgrounds that advertise there open and aren’t… really tick me off!

After a long and squishy flight followed by a comparatively short train ride to Germany we finally arrived at our destination and took position of a fantastic “Adria Compact” Motorhome from our friend Michael at Dumo-Reisemobile in Dulmen-Hiddingsel. Michael decided we needed a larger unit then planned and so he upgraded us to this lovely camper van at no extra charge. Thanks Michael! Also, a great big “Thank-You” to Brian and Terry for the box of supplies and goodies that you left for us from your European trip. We’ve put virtually everything to really good use already and especially appreciated the canned chili dinner you bought us when we shorted ourselves on groceries that first night out. We’re having a great time so far and now looking forward to some family time in Amsterdam.
A belated “Happy Valentine’s Day” to everyone!
Road Ramble: Frustratingly slow campground WiFi issues continue to make life difficult. Downloading a single e-mail photo is a major achievement and posting even a small blog becomes virtually impossible.