Eel anyone?

First and foremost, a cheeky wee birthday shout out to my Gran, who turned 76 this week! Happy birthday!! =D

Volendam: causally turning part of the sea into a lake, as you do.  

This weekend I indulged myself in a little Dutch culture, visiting Zaanse Schans and Volendam on an ESN city trip. It was quite a day.

My first experience of the day? A party bus, at 9.30am. Alright then! 

Not exactly how I expected to start the day, but it certainly woke us all up, with music blaring and disco lights. Wow. 

Our first event was cheese tasting at a cheese farm at Zaanse Schans. I can't say that I was overly enthusiastic: wouldn't exactly call myself a 'cheese person' - just give me a bit of mild cheddar and I'll be grand. But I was pleasantly surprised; no mould or overwhelming stink. And, surprising myself, I actually enjoyed sampling all the different types. Slowly learning to be a little more adventurous when it comes to food. Baby steps, mind. 

Following that we had some free time to play tourist and ogle at countless windmills before travelling to Volendam. 

After arriving in Volendam we were quickly ushered inside for some lunch before heading out to explore the 'seaside' town. Yeah, I say 'seaside' because I was reliably informed that what used to be the sea, has instead been transformed into a massive lake. Something about building a dam for land reclamation? But don't quote me on that! The Dutch are beginning to sound more than a little impressive. 

During the course of the day we were shepherded around to a diamond 'factory', a Dutch photo experience, and eel tasting.

So, the diamond factory wasn't really up my street. I betray all my fellow women by not being completely wooed by them. Now, don't get me wrong, if anyone fancies buying me a diamond ring then go right ahead! But I'm more of a simple breed of girl. And the thought of having to look after (and not loose) a diamond fills me with dread. Although, some of the cutting process did sound rather interesting. And, of course, I couldn't possibly say no to pressing my nose against the glass and picking out my future engagement ring. =P

Yes, I took a photo of a photo...don't judge me! 

Next, the photo experience. And the opportunity to look like complete and utter plonkers in traditional Dutch costume. But I feel like I successfully pulled off the look: was totally born in the wrong country...and era! 

Final activity before dinner? Eel tasting...and here, I thought the cheese was pushing it! First we watched a presentation about the history of smoking and catching eels: watching hundreds of eels squirming together in a bucket, then being gutted (while they listen to 'eel music'). Then, just on cue, in came the samples. Yay... I have to admit, I was more than a little sceptical, and I did have to take a moment to shed the squirming images out of my mind. But it wasn't half bad. And after a second nervous bite: actually pretty nice. Perhaps not something to eat regularly, but a nice one-off experience. 

Following the eel tasting, we ended a fantastic day with a nice, warm meal before heading home...on the party bus, once again. Casual smoke and disco lights, accompanied by blaring music. I couldn't help but laugh!

It was truly a great day: a cultural experience with old and new friends in the Netherlands. =)

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The rest of my week has been a lot more normal, I'm afraid. Especially when coursework is already beginning to pick up the pace...yuck.

On Tuesday I wasn't really up for a full-on Bed night, but I enjoyed going to pre-drinks with some of the girls. And it was sounding even more appealing when I realised that all I had to do was walk downstairs. No cold and windy cycle - result! It was a really good laugh, so I'm glad I made the (small) effort to join them. And, of course, now we have all been enlightened that bar staff couldn't possibly slip something into someone's drink... 

Oh no! They have to take a test. 

*cue collapsing on the floor in hysterical giggles*

The only other landmark event was a failed trip to get Lindsey's ear's pierced today. I guess my hand-holding service wont be required after all! But the trip wasn't a total waste: I have been reliably informed that I might even receive a delivery of chocolate for my troubles...I'm so easily bought!