Arriving in The Hague felt both grounding and disorienting. From public transit, recycling and tree-lined streets that brought the smell of nostalgia reminding me of my grandparents home.
I love reading your takes. The first time we went to the Netherlands, my daughter commented that the surreal volume of bikes made Amsterdam seem like a parody of itself. And agree with you about the smoking - it’s surprising how prevalent it is. I live in the Virginia suburbs of DC now and the Hague reminds us of DC in many ways. The only perspective I don’t share with you is about the trees. I feel that nature is mostly confined to pots, planters and parks in Dutch cities. DC and its suburbs are very green. That said, I’ve also spent years in the US West and so can see how The Hague is a big change.
Yes! Quite different from the SW. Utah and Arizona are my favorite states, but living amid forests and greenery feels more peaceful, more calming. Looking forward to more of your discoveries and observations.
Ah yes the woods have to be sought out! We frequently visit Haagse Bos between The Hague and Wassenaar. It’s a lovely area with so many trees.
But there are so many more in comparison to the prickly trees in the Southwest. I was shocked to learn mesquite trees have thorns that will go right through your foot!
I love reading your takes. The first time we went to the Netherlands, my daughter commented that the surreal volume of bikes made Amsterdam seem like a parody of itself. And agree with you about the smoking - it’s surprising how prevalent it is. I live in the Virginia suburbs of DC now and the Hague reminds us of DC in many ways. The only perspective I don’t share with you is about the trees. I feel that nature is mostly confined to pots, planters and parks in Dutch cities. DC and its suburbs are very green. That said, I’ve also spent years in the US West and so can see how The Hague is a big change.
Yes! Quite different from the SW. Utah and Arizona are my favorite states, but living amid forests and greenery feels more peaceful, more calming. Looking forward to more of your discoveries and observations.
Ah yes the woods have to be sought out! We frequently visit Haagse Bos between The Hague and Wassenaar. It’s a lovely area with so many trees.
But there are so many more in comparison to the prickly trees in the Southwest. I was shocked to learn mesquite trees have thorns that will go right through your foot!