Josh:  Hey.  We are in Amsterdam today.  We got in this morning off a ferry and then took a train to Amsterdam.  A very friendly dutchman, by the name of Harry, told us all about Holland on the train.  It was cool.  For example, the country of Holland (the Netherlands) is all below sea level.  And the fact that Amsterdam is the capitol, however all of its government officials are in another city called Dan Haag.  If anyone wants to travel to Amsterdam, here is one thing you should know:  The Red Light district is very close to the train station.  You will definitely come across it, or be like us and stumble into it.  Danny and I found ourselves in the center of the Red Light District before we actually realized where we were.   We are checked in at the Anna Marie and they provide a free breakfast and free wifi.  I already love this place.  We are secure and fine for the most part.  I will say dutch is an interesting language and I have no way of figuring out what anyone is saying.  Fortunately in this hostel, its all in english.  We're staying in Amsterdam for three days and we'll probably rent some bikes tomorrow.  I give everyone my best.  Cheers!

Dan :  Finally made it over!  As Josh said, everything is all and well and we are now unpacked in our hostel in Amsterdam.  And about the Red light district (RLD) Josh was commenting on: we actually walked through it during the day, when most of the shops are closed and there aren't too many people walking through, so we actually had a chance to see what else it has to offer - 14th century architecture and restaurants offering many different types of food.  During the day, unless you were actively looking for it, it's not absurd to think you could walk right through without noticing it at all, because all of the glitz and glam has been closed up and something other than just the RDL can show through.  But aside from that there are some other interesting aspects like the theatre we are rooming behind and other museums we are sure to check out.  And there are many, many, bicyclists here.  Often, we're dodging two-wheeled bullets more than cars.  But it's a great city and we're sure to have plenty to share when you hear from us next.  (picture is of the train station in Amsterdam)