Two weeks on: things they don't tell you

Before the four of us headed off to Netherlands, we've got a number of instructions and friendly advice.

We were told that nothing gets done quickly and we need to be extremely patient.

We were told that a bike is a necessity and no one wears helmets because it just looks too daft.

We were also told that there would be little work to do compared to Ox and that we would really enjoy this year.

We were told to prepare for proper seasons, bring warm coats for winter and summer dresses for summer.

But there are certain things that we were not told.

Like how to stop a bus. I mean, this is important, right? Do you wave your hand or is it considered rude? Is it enough to press a 'stop' button on a bus or do I need to do something else too if I want to get off?

Or where to get proper coconut milk from. This is a major issue if you want to make something Thai.

Or where the recycling bins are (the answer is that there are none, just if you wonder).

Or where to get cheap wine glasses from just in case you manage to break the ones you've brought with you.

All this actually useful stuff that they haven't told us...