Our flight to Amsterdam was bumpy but uneventful. They took away our "too large" toothpaste so we replaced that at the airport. We found our way out of the airport, to the bus stop and onto the appropriate bus. Upon arrival in Haarlem we were very turned around and with the wind blowing it felt 
freezing cold, so we took a taxi for E$7.50 to our hotel arriving at 3:50pm. The meeting time for orientation was 4:30pm so we just had time to get to our room, freshen up and make it there on time. Everyone was there on time and we had an approximate two hour orientation, informal and fun. After the orientation we headed off to our Indonesian dinner. Indonesia used to be a Dutch Colony and therefore many Indonesians live in the area and Indonesian food is what they are know for here. The only other foods they are known for is pancakes, per our guide Roelinka. It was an interesting dinner where they brought all this food out and set it on the tables and 
then explained what each dish was. Only then did they give us a plate and we began to eat. It was delicious and we were stuffed. After dinner a local resident/guide named Hans met us and took us on a brief but chilling walk around the neighborhood explaining culture, customs, and many old buildings. He was 52 but seemed younger, very happy, and very entertaining. One very wonderful site we saw from the outside was the store and home of Corrie ten Booms family. If you have ever read The Hiding Place you know of this home. If you have not, do so as it is very moving. Boy am I glad I did bring my coat and scarf. Our room is clean and adequate, not fancy as the lobby looked in previous photos. However, it is stuffed with lovely woodwork and antiques. One great thing they have free Wi-Fi that actually works! Therefore, I can actually post this blog and hope to read and reply to email tonight also. Tonight while out on our walk it was 50*F. Believe me we enjoyed walking just to stay warm. WE ARE IN AMSTERDAM!!! I can barely believe it!
1 comment:
Wow you have really seen the sights. I's hard to keep up with you. One day in Ireland then France and now in Amsterdam. Have fun on this part of your trip. its hard to believe you have been gone so long already.
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