Sitting at a cafe in the bustling city straat (street) along the canal, my rental bike chained up to a pole, I am struck by the casual and functional nature of this city. I watch a business man descend from his office and unlock his bike, soft leather brief case in hand. The laid back lifestyle here seems to promote a sense of calm that washes through that pent up energy and frustration that seems to build in the bustle if the west. People just seem happier and more relaxed here (except for that mean lady at the steak house, who insisted that Sara ordered a tuna steak).

I love seeing families get around together. A bike with a large square bucket carrier in the front replaces the family mini van; two blonde haired helmetless children loosly strapped in.

In cars, drivers just carry on through the chaos without any signs of road rage...no flying fingers, gesturing arms or angry yells as they're cut off by the novice bikers and confident cab drivers. Just remember to yield to the tram!

A nice piece to pack in my bag back to Canada :)