Cycling in the LowerLands

Cycling in Netherlands is an experience. From the sight of city cycling traffic in the morning and to the pristine cycle paths laid out in the middle of nowhere, the unsuspecting tourist may feel in need of some readjustment.

There are many places in Europe where having a car is a necesity. Netherlands is a notable exception. Especially if driving is not required for work or commuting, you might find yourself using the car just because you happen to have one and even then it might be hard to justify the money spent on maintenance, insurance, fuel, breakdown cover.

I remember before coming to Netherlands, reading many reports of bike theft being rife and quickly a picture was painted of rampant criminality involving bicycles. I’ve been here for three years now and I think that the problem is not worse than London for example. If nothing else, I find it safer to own an (relatively) expensive bike in Netherlands than in UK. Precautions might involve: getting a good lock (I bought mine on the recommendation from a local cycle shop, namely an Abus chain lock ),  getting a bike with an impossibly bright colour (the more it stands out, the better).