Missing Leiden

Having returned to Old Blighty for New Year, I noticed there were certain things I missed about Leiden, and living in Holland. Putting aside mushy stuff such as my boyfriend and my friends (whom I did miss, a lot -bleurgh-), there were some things I didn’t even expect to miss. Perhaps it’s the same for you when you leave Leiden?…

Bikes
I notice that in Britain I am one of very few who is constantly peering over their shoulder, even when on the pavement, in fear of being run over by a tweewieler. I realise I may have looked a bit furtive and shifty, but when I visited Cambridge this uncontrollable tick came in handy as there were a good deal of bicycles ready to mow you down if you took one hesitant step off the pavement.

Obligatory photo of bikes

Independent bars and coffee shops
Sadly Britain (and I have a strong suspicion America) is overrun with chain shops, restaurants and coffee houses, most noticeably the demon overlord Starbucks. I can’t tell you how much I missed the little coffee houses in Leiden, the sophisticated bars and the intimate little restaurants. Chains have no soul!

Twee Spieghels- Favourite bar

Dutch
Having grown used to hearing the ‘melodic’ tones of Dutch, and furthermore, the recent awakening of a vague understanding, hearing English constantly was actually quite jarring. There are many accents in Britain and many of them are not lovely.

Cobbles
Yes, I was able to wear heels, but did I want to anymore? Not really.

Favourite cobbled street

Excellent Transport

Sometimes I hear Dutch people complaining about the transport and I have to stifle a laugh.

Canals
It seems obvious but it won’t even cross your mind until you see a river and think it could try a bit harder.

Obligatory picture of canal

What do you miss when you go home?