We’re…Different

A few observations after a couple weeks spent in Europe, specifically Den Haag (The Hague) Schiedam and Amsterdam in The Netherlands and Prague in The Czech Republic. What I had often incorrectly referred to as Holland (Holland is only two of the 12 provinces in The Netherlands) we visited for the third time to be with family and to meet our new granddaughter. My son Alexander meets a beautiful Dutch woman while going to school in Chicago. They have made their home in Den Haag where they are happy, healthy and living life.

Observation #1, language. Most Europeans speak English. Not all.  Advantage to us with two people that speak Dutch in the family, we were able to avoid language issues. The Dutch in general, speak English quite well. It is mandatory curriculum in Dutch schools. The Czechs on the other hand…not so much. If you’re considering a European trip for first time, The Netherlands is a good option for that reason.  The further you get away from the big cities, the less likely you will find locals that speak English. I do recommend learning some basic words and phrases of any of the European countries you visit. I think the locals appreciate you making the effort in their language as a show of respect. Five hours of travel in Europe may mean 3 different languages. BTW, I think we had more problems understanding the Scotts speaking English with that accent when we visited Scotland than we did understanding the Dutch haha!

Observation #2, travel. Trains, trams, bicycles, walking (an occasional Uber). I’ve driven once in Europe, in France from Paris to Normandy. If I can avoid it, never again. Their trains (for long distances) and trams (inner city) are too convenient, too easy to figure out, to add the stress of driving. If your buddy Baggs can figure out how to travel by train & tram, you can too.  These days you don’t need a rail pass to travel. Your debit or credit card act as a rail pass, swipe on the train, swipe off.  Make sure you give your bank or CC company a heads up that you are traveling in Europe. Keep your passport handy. We found that the locals are more than willing to help a Yank get on the right train if you’re confused. Be prepared to walk! We averaged 9+ miles of walking a day. Good walking shoes are a must! They have cobblestones and ancient, uneven stairs leading to virtually every location you’re going to visit.  And bicycles have the right of way! They’re everywhere. Europeans  use them to get to and from work so…lookout! And get out of the way.

#3, food/dining. Menus are smaller. Generally a restaurant will post a daily menu. It’s based on what is in season and what their in-house specialty is. A restaurant that has photos on the menu is usually less desirable and designed for tourists. If you want genuine local fare, the menu likely won’t have photos. The better dining establishments are likely going to be further away from the bigger attractions.  And they don’t include ice in your drinks unless you ask for ice.  It comes in a separate glass. Europeans don’t get our fixation on ice.  Your credit card never leaves your sight. How many times did I try to hand my CC to a server? Bout every time. They will look at you funny. They will bring the CC machine to your table. Tipping? Generally they don’t. They will know you’re American when you leave a tip. I still did cuz it just felt weird not to.

#4 and lastly, lodging. Virtually everything is smaller than what we as Americans are used to. The rooms are smaller, the beds are smaller, the showers are smaller, the toilets are smaller and the elevators (if it has one) are smaller. Sure you can find a Hiatt, Hilton, Holiday Inn etc. with rooms you’re going to be more familiar with, but if you choose a VRBO or local hotels (which I recommend), be prepared to take the stairs or cram into an elevator about the size of your hallway closet haha! They may have a coffee room with an espresso machine, but don’t expect the continental breakfast you and I might have at the Hampden Inn! BTW, I’ve become a fan of an afternoon espresso, especially as a way to get through the jet lag and make a go of it in the evening.

I love the history of Europe! I love the architecture and the art, I love the people. I can see where much of our culture comes from. I love what makes Europeans different from us. Not better, not worse, but different. And I love coming home to the USA.