I'm in Amsterdam. The hostel/camp ground is about 20 minutes outside the city by metro. Each person gets their own trailer with snug little quilts and cute checkered curtains. The owner has these crazy animal sculptures all over the campgrounds, made from some kind of tinfoil/silicone/paint combination. We're a short walk from a lake, and I swear this is the most beautiful place I've ever seen. I was so glad that I was alone while walking around the lake, because I couldn't stop giggling and grinning (and no, I haven't been to a coffee shop yet). The grass couldn't be more green, and there are small canals and bridges everywhere I turn. I haven't even gone into the city proper yet, except while walking to the metro station. That looks gorgeous too, but crowded, of course. It's so nice to be in a quiet place for a while. And -- my own room. What a treat. A literal breath of fresh air. More on the city tomorrow...