4 days ago I started my highly anticipated trip of Europe...
My trip started from Melbourne airport, my flight leaving at 23:10. The first leg was certainly a long one. Within 16 hours I arrived in Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia. Although I was only grounded there for 3 hours, the heat was overwhelming and the airport was rich in culture.
My next flight was also lengthy - 8 hours. On arrival at Amsterdam airport I experienced a rush of excitement, followed by the sudden realisation that I had no idea where I was, how to get where I was going and didn't speak the local language. Thank god they have information booths!! I got on a bus - almost forgot to pay - and after 20-30 mins I was at my hostel, covered in a layer of sweat. The weather was mild and I was nervous, wearing thick clothing, walking briskly and carrying 30kg of luggage!
The next 2 and a half days were an exhilarating blur. The time I spent in Amsterdam, Holland was filled with meeting new people, exploring the culturally rich city, admiring the spectacular architecture, dodging bicycles - they are everywhere! - and getting lost countless times! Instead of taking note of streets names (not that I can pronounce any of them) I was looking at the city. This was when I decided to purchase a phone to be used in emergencies. Although most Dutch people have the ability to speak English well, it is embarrassing to not know the native tounge.
Getting over jetlag is proving to be difficult but I am gradually adjusting.
Today I am off to London, England via coach to see my old mate Will. Adapting to London should be easier than adapting to a non-English speaking country.. I hope!