Two days, three countries, four trains, and sign off

We set out at dawn on Saturday, and by mid morning we were out of Brussells, on the way to Amsterdam. It is fascinating to see the countryside unfold, and the different styles of farms between UK, France, Belguim and Holland. The last of the hyacinths were still in bloom in the fields, and the flatness of the dutch landscape intrigued us. There were little boats moored in canals between the fields, and looked as if they were on the same level, a brief shower of rain enough to flaot them into the field. It looked so neat and prosperous, a very pretty landscape.
Amsterdam on a Saturday afteroon was quite another experience. The streets were a sea of people, and bikes. They are a bike people. The photo to the left is the three level parking area in just one point for the bikes - it tells the story. They seem to coexist quite happily with the trams, which zip around everywhere, and cars and pedestrians. It was a most hectic and eyeopening city. Ofcourse the water ways and canals have such a charm, they are the personality of the city.
We felt we needed to be careful as to which streets we wandered into at night, and still saw some interesting sights! The hotel room even had a note that the use of drugs will incur an extra housekeeping charge - not something we you regularly across . But there seemed to be a wonderful spirit of acceptance in the city, - everyone is accepted.
The trip involved a change of train both ways, but they were both high speed intercity trains (one was the Eurostar), and a great way to travel The announcements on the train were made in french, dutch, and english. Never was english first - it puts you in your place .It is a fun way to see the countryside and have a meal as well. For Australians travelling, a Britrail pass, and the consequent discount on Eurostar, first class travel is quite feasible without stretching the budget, and meals and drink are all included. A couple of small bottles of french wine were appreciated as the countryside and cities flew by.
The trip is just about over, this will be the last posting,as we attempt to compress our worldly goods into the cases again. It has been the most amazing and enlightening experience. We have seen so much, done so many things, and have enjoyed being back in our beloved London. I have just returned from a wander up to Covent Garden, and come back through Trafalgar Square, and thought how lucky I am to have had this time here.
I think there must be a notice issued somewhere that I am coming over, as each time there have been awful storms and flooding. The first time, ten years ago, they called them the forty year floods. And they have arrived each time. This weekend, they are mopping up again, so it is time I left the country.
We have been mistaken for British, and New Zealanders, never Australians, but when we say where we are from, everyone without exception says either how lovely they found the country when they visited, or how lovely it looks and they would love to go. (Usually the reason is - just too far on the plane) And we agree and know, even after all the beautiful and amazing sights we have seen, and interesting things we have done, Australia is the best place.
Thank you to anyone who has visited my blog and especially to those who left such nice comments. It is much appreciated.
We know it is time to come home.
See you soon