I came to be in Amsterdam at much the same time as Pia, though we did not know each other then. In fact, we found each other only relatively recently, but it did not take us long to relish our meetings as time to relax into “Australian” again, and to reminisce about home. Pia opened my eyes to a city I realised I knew only as an acquaintance, and her beautiful blog and more beautiful friendship is now a cherished and inspirational part of my everyday life. I am honoured to be a resident in the guest quarters, following in the footsteps of her other illustrious guests. Thank you Pia, for giving me the chance to share some of my travels and impressions with your wonderful readers, and to you, those same wonderful readers, for allowing me to share the same [cyber]space as your beloved [blog]house host.