Day Two We arrive in Amsterdam

It all feels like the continuation of one really long day!  The flight through the night was uneventful and arrived early. KLM seems like an efficient airline with great people - just don't go for the food!

Arriving at Schipol airport and going through Customs was probably the easiest and least stressful arrival in a country ever - why can't they all be like this?

Because we were early the rooms weren't quite ready so the hotel provided coffee and we added a late brunch.  Much better!

Refreshed (a bit!) we headed out exploring but the rain soon turned that into an exploration of a very upscale shopping attraction on the main square - de Bijenkorf. During a brief lull we ventured outside again and went to see The Duchess restaurant where a childhood friend of Alex and Hana's - Jeff Graf - is the chef.  We met up with Jeff and will certainly try to get back there for a meal during our stay, it looks lovely. 

Walking on we saw many of the smaller retailers on narrow streets away from the main thoroughfares. Beware the dutch cyclist (and scooter and drivers) though. Tourists are just one more obstacle to be avoided (if they really must!).

By late afternoon the 30 plus hours without sleep got us all and after a quick dinner back at our (new) favorite department store we went back to the hotel to crash. Had to have a Heineken though as we are in Amsterdam. 

Andy and Eleanor arrive tonight but alas we won't be up to welcome them.

Tomorrow - exploring Amsterdam.