Travels Around Europe

Hi all,

With the wonderful weather out - I've been a bit bad at putting photos up on the site. I wanted to post a few from three of my most recent adventures:

Amsterdam: I had the opportunity earlier this spring to work in Amsterdam for over a month. The city is one of the most lovely I have ever seen. More colour, more canals, more bicycles, and more lovely than I could have imagined. I had a chance to know Amsterdam for the people and culture, and not for the crazy party it can be (although a true Amsterdam experience does include the Red Light District). Each morning, I went running along one of the thousands of canals. And, each day, I became more and more amazed at the heart of the city. A casual, relaxed and happy culture. Colourful dress, laughter, and easy-going nature. During my time there, I also had the opportunity to see the tulip fields, the coastal towns, and Queens Day (a day when every Dutchman/woman wears Orange and parades the streets from the early morning until midnight. Filled with carnivals, music, and yes, lots of alcohol - its a day of complete and sane madness).

Copenhagen: Although my trip to Denmark was shorter, it left no less an impression on me. I had only 48 hours to work/explore/work (and a little bit of sleep in the picture as well). The city center is a beautiful place, made of brick and stone. Full of a vibrant and healthy people, who cycle nearly as much as those in Amsterdam. Large man-made lakes surround the city, and all around you can smell the sea water and hear the gulls. But what makes Copehagen special (besides the beautiful people) is a place called Tivoli - a truly wonderful and enchanting garden in the heart of Copenhagen. Filled with roller coasters, plays, opera houses, cotton candy, live music, white lights, carmeled apples, children and lovers. It is a magical park - more amazing than any disney park could be, because of it's simplicity.

Dusseldorf: I spent a weekend visiting two other work comrades (both from Seattle living abroad). We laughed, talked about life in a foreign country, bbq'd and drank far too much beer. It was fabulous to see both Kyle and Ryan, and good to get out to see a few places in Germany. I also spent a day wondering around Cologne (most of the pictures are of Cologne and the amazing cathedral in the middle of the city).

I hope you enjoy these three very unique places as much as I did visiting them.

Suzy