Off to Leiden I go

During my first full day in the Netherlands, my main task was getting to Leiden and attending my registration appointment. Because of my experience thus far with getting around the country, I alloted myself plenty of time- and luckily, I made it!

Leiden really is a beautiful place, and the many waterways running through the city (apparently they have the most of any city in the Netherlands) make it unlike any place I've been. It was good to see the campus buildings and get a sense of where I'll be going to school.

Leiden waterway

Windmill in Leiden

Double-decker bike storage in the city

On my way home from Leiden I took some pictures of where I'm staying. Annelies' house is bordered by dunes on one side, and beach on the other. I haven't walked over to see the dunes yet, but the beach is really nice and a very close walk from the house.

Lighthouse in Kijkduin, The Hague - Near where I'm staying

Kijkduin, The Hage - My backyard

After returning from a day so full of walking I got a blister, it was really nice to sit down... Apparently Americans are as lazy as they say. I was planning to go back over to the beach, but never made it. Annelies' "second son" Danian, as she says, came by to greet me and offer assistance with anything I may need. He was very nice, and said I could call him "at any moment." This phrasing seems extra helpful! Although, he followed immediately by saying that for the next hour he'd be busy- but other than that, at any moment I was free to call!

Overall I think it was a good first day, but tomorrow is the start of the Introduction Program, so we'll see about that!