You're American

Walking around the city today, I have spoken very little all day. For the first couple of hours, I might have said three words total. Yes, me. I smiled, nodded and laughed, but spoke little. Everyone at the store, the market or on the street (except for one person) spoke to me in Dutch initially.

Waiting to cross a street, this one guy said something to me of which I didn't even understand a word. I then said, "English." Awkward pause as crossing street. "I only speak English." Then he swithed over into English and told me what he had said, just pertaining to if I find it hard to be as long as I am. We chatted a little bit while walking and he "guessed" that I was American after a little while. He said, "You're American," and then told me that my English is very American. (So much for blending in; once I open my mouth, if not before, it's over.) He said that he didn't know much about America but feels that he probably knows more about America than most Americans know about Europe. I agree. His example: people who think that Denmark is the capital of Amsterdam. Wow...

So It Begins

After some changes in plans along the way over the last two months, I've finally made it to Europe. I'm not exactly sure why I'm starting this blog now, since I'm sure I won't be keeping it up for long, especially after I leav Amsterdam and pick up the pace of my travels. But I'm here, already writing this one so I might as well finish it. Don't be alarmed if I don't add anything else for a while; that will just mean that I'm busy taking pictures and creating memories that I can share later. :)

So, as far as day one of the trip goes...

Recap:

I flew in to Amsterdam yesterday morning. Fearing jetlag, I made it a point to stay up the whole day. My friend, Chris, picked me up from the airport and then we meandered around the city for most of the day, hitting up the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House.

Realizations:

1. Americans generally just don't know nearly as many languages as Europeans. The people I sat next to on the airplane had at least 3 languages they could get by just fine with.
2. For no apparent reason, I seem to occasionally, randomly speak with a mild British accent when I talk to someone with any accent. And my British accent isn't even good.
3. Bikes are THE mode of transportation in Amsterdam.
4. The U.S. needs more cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating conducive to people-watching.