Wow, that was quick! What are the odds? I only subscribed a few weeks ago after reading an article by 'het wiskundemeisje' (thanks Ionica) in a Dutch newspaper where she mentioned the Listserve. I have enjoyed reading the various stories. It seems like everyone has a tale to tell.
Ever since I have been thinking about what to write about when I would win this lottery. And as it happens, at the moment, I am exactly doing what I would like to write about. I am writing this, in front of my tent, during my cycle tour from Spain to (the north of) the Netherlands.
Cycle touring is one of my favorite ways to spend a day, a weekend or a whole holiday. Just being underway. The freedom. The sights. The people. There is no better way to get to know a country than on a bicycle. There is always an opportunity to stop and look closer at a scenery, a church, a stone circle, an object of art, to take a photo or to talk to the people. You come to places where you would, or could, not go by car. Finding a place to camp at the end of the day and cooking your own meal. It is so satisfying.
This is what I challenge you to do. Find your bicycle. Pressure the tires. Grease the chain. And go out there, into nature. Either for a day, a weekend, a holiday or the rest of your life. Enjoy the freedom it gives and the refreshment of the body and soul.
If you want to cycle in the Netherlands and you need some advice, don't hesitate to contact me. I have cycled the Netherlands from east to west and from north to south. I can help you with cycle routes, places to stay, interesting places to visit, etc. (Some information can be found on my site: search for vanderveeke dot net but it is al in Dutch). And if you happen to come through the north of the Netherlands, near Groningen, I have a place to spend the night. Fellow cyclists are always welcome in our home.
Just do it!
Hans van der Veeke,
Baflo, Groningen.
The Netherlands
[email protected]