Yep agree. Videos like this got me hooked on the channel in the first place. I’m on a long overseas trip for work and missing my family and bike. Watching this put a big smile on my face 🙂. Thank you both 🙏🏾
I love the Netherlands. My son is at university in Groningen and I’ve been over to visit on my bike. The Dutch people are very cool, love seeing the people cycling everywhere. Groningen is well worth a visit.
Today I was driving back home to Munich from Brittany, which is a 1300 KM two day trip. I stopped for a pee break near Stuttgart and happened to see two bikes with British number plates, so I went over to have a chat with the owners. One of the bikes was an old RD 350, so I asked where they were headed. They were on their way to Austria from the UK after being on the Isle of Man. One chap has 17 bikes, the oldest one from the 1920s. His companion has a BMW GS with 170 K Miles on the clock. Bikers are the best people. They were so nice and friendly, even though there was a rain cloud coming and they needed to get moving. Happy days.
This video made me realize how much I'm suffering from home blindness. I didn't see the beauty of my own country from being here all the time. Thank you for reigniting my love for my home country a little bit
I don't know if you are like this from sunrise to sunset, but if more people in the world had your passion for life, it would definitely be a far better place. You are rocking this Carpe Diem thing. Well done. Mark
Coincidentally, I was in the Netherlands last week (unfortunately for business, so not on my bike). This was my first visit and like Freddy, I was knocked out by its cleanliness, brilliant infrastructure and the friendliness and politeness of the Dutch people. A bike tour is definitely on the cards 😀
Next time you come to Holland, go to the Veluwe, don't use the highways there(A or E 's) , don't even use the N ways, just drive on the 60/80 Km/h roads through the countryside, absolute joy! Places to see: the Posbank (at Rheden), the Holtense Berg . Both nature parks that can be driven through during daytime. Also nice is, going from Deventer to Kampen, driving on the left side of the river Ijssel on the dike. One long relaxing road up high, goping through a few small townes, but one long great view!
Been riding my xsr700 for 3 years not around the northwest. Woke up this morning after watching your England to Barcelona video 2 months ago inspired to get an old bonnie and go on an adventure!! Keep up the content
I love what you are doing....its so inspiring! As an older biker I travel less than I use to, so its such a treat to get that adventure buzz again....I loved that ratty old VW at the start and then your sheer joy at seeing that BMW on the cycle path....enjoy these days you two....the memories last forever. By the way I just completed a 3 day run to Cornwall on my Pan, taking the road from St Ives and stopping at Pendeen and other coastal spots along the way...felt pretty tired after though! Thanks again, Guys
Being from the Netherlands and having visited these exact same places, it is sooo nice to see you taking the Bonneville here! Now I've got a sudden urge to start up my XJR1300, go for a beautiful Sunday morning ride in the Dutch countryside and appreciate how perfect everything is here 😅
Took the ferry once from Weymouth to St Malo and was delightfully surprised at how chilled it was compared to Dover, and the trip through the Channel Islands made it even better
Welcome to my country. Good choice for hotel, beautifull. Come to Limburg, the south of Holland and i will show you the dutch hills. The Bonnie would love that. Have a very good stay in Amsterdam. Berry
Good morning all! From Cambridge originally, but living in Amsterdam 32 years and ride my Street Twin on the daily commute to and from Edam to Amsterdam! Lovely to see your take on it !!
I saw the short and was super excited for the tour ❤ I love the touring series in general & now with Monica's experts cinematography I'm sure it'll be treat to watch ❤
You know with Monica on board there aren't going to be any disasters. Very nice apartment. The Netherlands are also great for cycling. Freddie and Monica on big old Dutch bikes. There is so much to see in Amsterdam, museums galore and so much interesting architecture. You should have called on Itchy Boots. I think she is recovered now.
How cool to see you guys pop up in my home country! Love the fact how enthousiast you were when describing the scenery and roads. Hope you have a good trip and enjoy! Regards from the south of the Netherlands ;)
Lovely job you two, as others have mentioned, back to the ‘couple on an adventure’ style again. Really enjoyed this one. Looking forward to the next one.
I love the Netherlands and the people. The place always seems more organised as a country, more set up for people and society. I lived in Amsterdam in early 1990’s for 15 months and had a great time.
Love it in Amsterdam have friends in the area not too far away...trying to get back...the Dutch learned plenty from WW 2 love all the farms and places to stop and shop and eat on those farms...
Hi Freddie and Monica! Koen here from Amsterdam. When you turn 16 you can get your bromfiets license in the Netherlands. You are allowed to ride a snorfiets (50cc 25km/h max) or bromfiets (50cc 45km/h max). You were supposed to ride them on the bycicle path only a few years ago but due too a lot of accidents now they just use the roads the cars use. In some areas thats not really feasible (like on 60/80 speed limit roads) so thats when you see the traffic sign with both the bicycle and bromfiets where they should take the bike path. Like you said you guys are pretty lucky with the room. That room looks amazing! Amsterdam deals with a lot of tourists. So much so that they have now capped the maximum amount of tourist (overnight) stays to 20 million a year. Considering Amsterdam has a population of just over 820.000 people, that is a lot of tourists. Thats also the reason tourist tax is pretty high, and parking cost is just ridiculous because otherwise the city center would get flooded with cars. Enjoy your stay and the lovely weather :)
I live in Norfolk and have ridden to the Harwich ferry after work on a Friday for a night crossing and onwards refreshed next morning. Love not having to use the M25.
Great to see you in Amsterdam Freddy. As it happens I just went the other way on the same ferry. By car to Cornwall. Hope you enjoy(ed) my home town. Would have loved to say hello. Keep it coming. Cheers!
I took my CRF250 via Harwich to Groningen in The Netherlands, unfortunately a one way ride because a month later the bike was stolen. Also went through on the Tiger Rally Pro, lovely roads, can be a bit breezy though, where it is so flat. I lived and worked in Amsterdam for 7 Months
Freddy - you made my day! Is 1:00 in the morning here in Iowa in the United States and I can't get to sleep and I'm bored. But now I see another video from you and this is fantastic
Freddie, Thanks for this, it brings back so many memories. Back in 1969(!) I and some student friends decided to visit NL at Easter, travelling on a couple of CB160 Hondas. I too instantly fell head over heels in love with the place, and remain so to this day. Even then, we found it eye-wateringly expensive but found ways of booking basic rooms via the tourism office VVV. We were adopted by some local kids in Delft and shown the best places to stay and eat cheaply. Perhaps our most memorable meal was bread & cheese sitting on a canal bank somewhere north of Amsterdam. Wonderful times, sadly gone forever. Can't wait for the next instalment.
So glad you got help getting the triumph back on the road Freddie. Would’ve been such a shame for it to be taken off the road. Iconic bike for your channel 👍
There's nothing like rolling off the ferry when you land on the continent! One tip - place a bath towel on your saddle under the ratchet strap. It protects the vinyl from friction damage.
I’m looking forward to my first international motorcycle trip in August. There’s a group of us riding through France to Monte Carlo, and I’m so excited, I’m worried it’ll become an addiction. Looking forward to seeing more of Amsterdam.
Lovely video - also toured the Netherlands on my Bonnie a few years ago. The A7 bridge that cuts across the sea to the north and on to Harlingen is simply stunning and a joy to ride. Also enjoyed The Hague and Edam. Didn’t visit Amsterdam so thanks for insight - one for the future.
As a Dutch guy growing up in and around Amsterdam, motorbike lover myself, I know. I now life in the German Eifel and to me this is real bike heaven. No part of the roads here are straight, it's a constant uphill downhill ride through the mountains. And from my house to the famous Nordschleife just 10 minutes. Just discovered your channel shortly, no idea if you ever been in my beautiful corner of the world. But you should 😄
@@FreddieDobbsif you go to the Eifel consider a night in Maastricht. Completely different from Amsterdam but still in Holland, from there it’s 100 miles to the Nurburgring!
Hi Freddy and Monica. I am glad that you are always so positive when it comes to places and experiences. When I saw your bike just parked on the pavement, like the locals, my first thought was, 'I hope he chained it down to a lamp post'. Bikes and electric bikes are stolen like there's no tomorrow. We have come to terms with that fact and I hope that for motorbikes the rate is not that bad. Amsterdam has become very expensive. I didn't know that the tourist tax was that high. But Amsterdam has suffered from too much tourism the last few years, so they've bumped up the prices. And when I saw 'Hotel Arena', I thought, 'Oh, this is expensive!', but thanks for the booking tip!🙂
Yes its great living in the Netherlands. Im not a fan of Amsterdam the city center, but yes the landscape etc. I love it. I live in North Holland even far northern. Around 70km above Amsterdam polders everywhere.
Great to see someone not talking about the green stuff in my country. I live somewhat 70km above Amsterdam still in North Holland. And yes its great to live here. I would never want to leave. For the coming years atleast
Great video, as usual. Hope you found your bike the next day. The Netherlands as a whole has a great feel to it , but theft is not uncommon in Amsterdam.
The ferry is very similar to the ones going between Sweden and Finland on a daily basis. Cabin looks like a standard design on many of them, and it's often worth the money to pick up a cabin even if the trip's not super long and overnight - you get your privacy, and you get your own recently cleaned bathroom. Can even grab a shower if that's warranted. Hope you have/had an awesome little mini holiday.
Nice vid. I've done Harwich to The Hook many times on a bike (usually 1959 Ariel). The trip is, as you say, quite pleasant and relaxing. I especially enjoy the overnight because it's quieter and you just wake up there. As for Holland and the greater Netherlands (don't conflate them. Calling all The Netherlands "Holland" is like calling The UK "England") it is lovely indeed. Not super exciting, but super relaxing and they are super welcoming of, and very well set up for, travellers, even bikers! Hehe. Easy peasy to rock on to Germany, Belgium, France, etc... Now you've 'broken the seal' with Monika going international, perhaps there will be more! My missus also wasn't keen until trying the Harwich/Hook crossing.
You need a mortgage to pay the parking fee in A'dam which is why most Dutch avoid going there like the plaque but if there is no other option we don't take the bike or even the car to A'dam. It's much easier and cheaper to park in a small town nearby and take the train for the last bit.
Great video! I just spent a week in Amsterdam/Netherlands and it was beautiful! I was just wishing I had my RE Classic with me the whole time. Would love to be able to ride there (I'm from the states).
Goodness Freddie! You’re REALLY getting my juices flowing for a biking adventure of my own. Been years since I did a motorcycle trip abroad. Life just keeps getting in the way…….or is that a convenient excuse 🤔
Hay you two I hope there are no more surprises for you in Amsterdam. The place had a reputation about a few years back of people smoking weed and using public area as toilets. A few news articles were written about the scene there. Kickass ferry ride.
Lovely trip Freddie and Monica. Yes Harwich is lovely so funny as I was in Harwich when you went so I propbaly saw your Stenaline from the beach lol Love your videos they are great keep it up
Great video Freddie! I'm looking forward to start doing something similar hopefully next year once I have more experience in the big bike! Your sunday videos are always of great companu when I prepare breakfast for me and my wife on a Sunday morning 💪
I love Amsterdam, such a beautiful city, like most cities you pay for it, theres no escape from that. I find riding in most of Europe is simpler and easier than the UK. Looking forward to the next video and your experience in the Netherlands.
There's a lesson here for us Brexit idolising Brits. You get what you pay for. If you want to live in pleasant, functional and safe cities then there's a financial burden to bear. For some reason, the two leading political parties in the UK insist that reducing taxes is a priority. The Tories are buying our votes by promising a lower overall tax burden. The Labour party are promising more state funded giveaways for those that can't pay. Whilst the general level of taxation in the UK is now higher than it's been in over 70 years, it's still lower than in simiiar economies in Europe. When you visit countries like the Netherlands or Denmark, to name just two. You notice immediately how those tax Euros are being spent. You get what you pay for. Just saying...
Agreed- I’m ok with paying if I can see my money actually being used for something positive. Amsterdam seems very clean, safe and well run, so I was perfectly happy paying:)
Another great video Freddie. About to take my full motorbike licence this week, and doing Oxford to Amsterdam is my dream. Thanks for the motivation dude.
Ive done ireland to Amsterdam on a bike many times for work in construction dublin Holyhead to Dover Calais to Amsterdam on a kawasaki gt 750 96 model no problems
Hey Freddie. Luca from TOMCC. I lived in Amsterdam for 3 years. Please make sure you treat Monika to a dinner at the Italian restaurant Pianeta Terra, it’s just off the flower market. You won’t be disappointed.
Great video and loved your enthusiasm for the Netherlands. On a side note very impressed by the proper secondary glazing in the hotel bedroom, it’s just something I seem to notice as I am bit of all windows fanatic ! Oh and I loved at the beginning when you were behind I think a Citroen CX going onto the ferry.
Big fan of the older big Citroens. The CX is a classic, and so is the last "real" Citroen they made, the XM. Wanted a V6 XM for myself a lot, but it just was never feasible for me to do at the time.
Freddie, I’ve just completed the trip you’re doing from Scotland via Harwich. Wonderful trip. I’d recommend visiting the Rusty Gold Motorshop in Amsterdam. An amazing little Boutique Motorcycle shop.
Looks like a lot of fun Freddie and Monica , beautiful apartment you have to stay in , so lucky with the upgrade ! Visited Amsterdam years ago great place to stay in ..good luck with the rest of the trip ..
Welcome to The Netherlands Freddie and Monica, so good to see you both back in the saddle and in Amsterdam! (Thanks also for reaquainting us with the Harwich ferry - my girlfriend and I are seriously considering the reverse trip to London now!)
We always camp on the outskirts for €9 a night then venture into the city for supplies😉 then venture right back out to the campsite again where a campfire is much more enjoyable than worrying about interior design 😂👍
I’m finding your road trips of great interest so wondered if you are ever near the Dorset coast you would like to ride Englands answer to the Californian Pacific highway, albeit somewhat shorter. Goes from Abbotsbury to Bridport and only takes a fairly short ride but the views are magnificent so, knowing you often stop it may take a little longer.
Thanks Freddie and Monica for the visit to Amsterdam. Just be a bit careful in the City Centre as it might have been just bad luck but my Father had his wallet stolen on a Family holiday some years ago. The local Police said it goes on all the time as they use it for drug money! The place you are staying does look really nice. 👍
How wonderful to share a surprise high level Euro expedition together with Monika! When we journeyed through Europe, England, Scotland, Iceland, Canada, we felt it was worth it to pay a little extra to get good sleeps and enjoy a little luxury on the way. Enjoy!!
So funny I had the same reaction as Freddy when I entered Holland two weeks ago on my way to Maastricht. Holland is a lovely place to be and the people are so friendly and most speak English. Really looking forward to this little adventure
As usual with Freddie it's all about being spontaneous, no forward planning just go and do it. Who cares about taxes and expensive hotels, unfortunately most of us do I'm afraid. Great adventure, yes but only if you can afford it and if you like cities, I'm more of a Yorkshire Dales man personally.
Love the video love the video Freddie. I’m from here and love basically 2 minutes away from the hotel you stayed at. Next time you and Monica are here, let me give you a tour with dinner on my boat through the canals. I won’t even charge you for it ;)
Freddie, really love your vids mate. you've got that accent i just cant place (coz Im Ozzie) but im sure its the same accent I heard before getting my head caved in a year ago by some of your compatriots here in Bangkok na!
Interesting, stuck in the 1940s and no traffic? I'm from the Netherlands and I hate it for being so crowded on every road. I'm from the east where the quit roads should be, and even here you never are alone. But funny to hear your perspective about it. Maybe it isnt as bad as I thought. Nice vid btw! I just got my motorcycle license (like yesterday) and I cant wait to visit the UK on my bike (which I will collect today).
I used to go to Amsterdam and The Hague for work a couple of times a year for work a. 45 min flight, but I always elected to drive a company poolcar which was always a shed😂. I loved the ferry and the trip so much. I love the Dutch people and the cities. Amsterdam has its seedy side and worth seeing but also very cultural with hidden gems. I always took the Dover just enjoying the freedom. I used to stop off in Belgium and France and fill the Ford galaxy wiyh “ goodies”😂😂
What a beautiful place, the park bustling in the evening, no sense of menace, no dodgy groups of people just as it should be, I feel this is the place that should be the way of life that we should inspire to have. Alas, without getting too political....we cant have that many nice things all at once. The Bonnie is looking shiny, keep that up!!!!!
I go every year to amsterdam but I went this week and got stung with the 12.5 percent. The city is stunning though if you keep to the lower end . My only advice is keep away from tourist areas late at night or early hours due to Moroccan robbers . I almost got robbed at knife point bit I'm not the sort of guy to stand and hand it over so English man 1 morrocan criminals nil 😂. The architecture I'm the city is stunning and the way they have prioritised pedestrians and bikes/motorcycles is great. I ride a harley but we hired electric pedal bikes to tour the city and enjoyed every moment. Anyone thinking of doing it you won't regret it. Just don't fall for the tourist souvenir shops and shop at local supermarkets for drink and food and you can have a real good time
Now this one is vintage Monica and Freddie, the type that got me watching you guys from your Tenerife trip....more of these, please...
Exactly!
Thanks Ajay!
Yes I concur 😊
Yep more of this👍🏻
Yep agree. Videos like this got me hooked on the channel in the first place. I’m on a long overseas trip for work and missing my family and bike. Watching this put a big smile on my face 🙂. Thank you both 🙏🏾
I love the Netherlands. My son is at university in Groningen and I’ve been over to visit on my bike. The Dutch people are very cool, love seeing the people cycling everywhere. Groningen is well worth a visit.
Today I was driving back home to Munich from Brittany, which is a 1300 KM two day trip. I stopped for a pee break near Stuttgart and happened to see two bikes with British number plates, so I went over to have a chat with the owners. One of the bikes was an old RD 350, so I asked where they were headed. They were on their way to Austria from the UK after being on the Isle of Man. One chap has 17 bikes, the oldest one from the 1920s. His companion has a BMW GS with 170 K Miles on the clock. Bikers are the best people. They were so nice and friendly, even though there was a rain cloud coming and they needed to get moving. Happy days.
A man and his lady who always puts a smile on my face.Well done again Freddie.
Thanks very much🙌🏻
This video made me realize how much I'm suffering from home blindness. I didn't see the beauty of my own country from being here all the time. Thank you for reigniting my love for my home country a little bit
I don't know if you are like this from sunrise to sunset, but if more people in the world had your passion for life, it would definitely be a far better place.
You are rocking this Carpe Diem thing. Well done. Mark
Coincidentally, I was in the Netherlands last week (unfortunately for business, so not on my bike). This was my first visit and like Freddy, I was knocked out by its cleanliness, brilliant infrastructure and the friendliness and politeness of the Dutch people. A bike tour is definitely on the cards 😀
They really are a lovely bunch, and their level of English is phenomenally good!
I thought it had also turned into an Islamic state? Isn't it yet?
@@wrightvcx2249 No .
lovely people.
we’ve our problems like the rest of EU, but nothing compared to some cities back home
Next time you come to Holland, go to the Veluwe, don't use the highways there(A or E 's) , don't even use the N ways, just drive on the 60/80 Km/h roads through the countryside, absolute joy! Places to see: the Posbank (at Rheden), the Holtense Berg . Both nature parks that can be driven through during daytime. Also nice is, going from Deventer to Kampen, driving on the left side of the river Ijssel on the dike. One long relaxing road up high, goping through a few small townes, but one long great view!
Been riding my xsr700 for 3 years not around the northwest. Woke up this morning after watching your England to Barcelona video 2 months ago inspired to get an old bonnie and go on an adventure!! Keep up the content
I love what you are doing....its so inspiring! As an older biker I travel less than I use to, so its such a treat to get that adventure buzz again....I loved that ratty old VW at the start and then your sheer joy at seeing that BMW on the cycle path....enjoy these days you two....the memories last forever. By the way I just completed a 3 day run to Cornwall on my Pan, taking the road from St Ives and stopping at Pendeen and other coastal spots along the way...felt pretty tired after though! Thanks again, Guys
Being from the Netherlands and having visited these exact same places, it is sooo nice to see you taking the Bonneville here! Now I've got a sudden urge to start up my XJR1300, go for a beautiful Sunday morning ride in the Dutch countryside and appreciate how perfect everything is here 😅
Took the ferry once from Weymouth to St Malo and was delightfully surprised at how chilled it was compared to Dover, and the trip through the Channel Islands made it even better
First! Greetings from Finland. Come ride here some day!
I love your videos. They usually combine two of my favorite things: England & bikes.
Thanks Samu! I’ve been meaning to do a ride over to Finland and Sweden for two years- I will do it soon:)
Welcome to my country. Good choice for hotel, beautifull. Come to Limburg, the south of Holland and i will show you the dutch hills. The Bonnie would love that. Have a very good stay in Amsterdam. Berry
Good morning all!
From Cambridge originally, but living in Amsterdam 32 years and ride my Street Twin on the daily commute to and from Edam to Amsterdam! Lovely to see your take on it !!
I saw the short and was super excited for the tour ❤ I love the touring series in general & now with Monica's experts cinematography I'm sure it'll be treat to watch ❤
Thanks Kaizen, I hope you enjoy it!
You know with Monica on board there aren't going to be any disasters. Very nice apartment. The Netherlands are also great for cycling. Freddie and Monica on big old Dutch bikes.
There is so much to see in Amsterdam, museums galore and so much interesting architecture.
You should have called on Itchy Boots. I think she is recovered now.
How cool to see you guys pop up in my home country! Love the fact how enthousiast you were when describing the scenery and roads. Hope you have a good trip and enjoy! Regards from the south of the Netherlands ;)
Lovely job you two, as others have mentioned, back to the ‘couple on an adventure’ style again. Really enjoyed this one. Looking forward to the next one.
I love the Netherlands and the people. The place always seems more organised as a country, more set up for people and society. I lived in Amsterdam in early 1990’s for 15 months and had a great time.
Yes! But also remember that Dutch trading prowess matched historically and now exceeds that of most European nations! Polite and purposefull nation.
Totally agree- on every point
Love it in Amsterdam have friends in the area not too far away...trying to get back...the Dutch learned plenty from WW 2 love all the farms and places to stop and shop and eat on those farms...
Hi Freddie and Monica! Koen here from Amsterdam. When you turn 16 you can get your bromfiets license in the Netherlands. You are allowed to ride a snorfiets (50cc 25km/h max) or bromfiets (50cc 45km/h max). You were supposed to ride them on the bycicle path only a few years ago but due too a lot of accidents now they just use the roads the cars use. In some areas thats not really feasible (like on 60/80 speed limit roads) so thats when you see the traffic sign with both the bicycle and bromfiets where they should take the bike path.
Like you said you guys are pretty lucky with the room. That room looks amazing! Amsterdam deals with a lot of tourists. So much so that they have now capped the maximum amount of tourist (overnight) stays to 20 million a year. Considering Amsterdam has a population of just over 820.000 people, that is a lot of tourists. Thats also the reason tourist tax is pretty high, and parking cost is just ridiculous because otherwise the city center would get flooded with cars. Enjoy your stay and the lovely weather :)
I live in Norfolk and have ridden to the Harwich ferry after work on a Friday for a night crossing and onwards refreshed next morning. Love not having to use the M25.
I’m only a minute into this video and I’m loving it. A journey I’ve always dreamed of of well done both.
Great to see you in Amsterdam Freddy. As it happens I just went the other way on the same ferry. By car to Cornwall. Hope you enjoy(ed) my home town. Would have loved to say hello. Keep it coming. Cheers!
I took my CRF250 via Harwich to Groningen in The Netherlands, unfortunately a one way ride because a month later the bike was stolen.
Also went through on the Tiger Rally Pro, lovely roads, can be a bit breezy though, where it is so flat.
I lived and worked in Amsterdam for 7 Months
Brilliant trip, will definitely pinch this idea and route, great commentary, and really nice to watch... I'm now a fan... Thank you
Was in Amsterdam just 3wks ago ...and yeah it's really expensive compared to yester year's... have a fab time ..great city 😊
Freddy - you made my day! Is 1:00 in the morning here in Iowa in the United States and I can't get to sleep and I'm bored. But now I see another video from you and this is fantastic
I’m so happy to hear if, Ralph! Sending you all my best over in the US🇺🇸:)
Freddie,
Thanks for this, it brings back so many memories. Back in 1969(!) I and some student friends decided to visit NL at Easter, travelling on a couple of CB160 Hondas. I too instantly fell head over heels in love with the place, and remain so to this day. Even then, we found it eye-wateringly expensive but found ways of booking basic rooms via the tourism office VVV. We were adopted by some local kids in Delft and shown the best places to stay and eat cheaply. Perhaps our most memorable meal was bread & cheese sitting on a canal bank somewhere north of Amsterdam. Wonderful times, sadly gone forever. Can't wait for the next instalment.
So glad you got help getting the triumph back on the road Freddie. Would’ve been such a shame for it to be taken off the road. Iconic bike for your channel 👍
Great video guys, monica your camera work is great and the music you play is so fitting in a retro rustic style, Brilliant 😊
Just found your channel, subscribed instantly. Love the music montages.
This. Everything about this video. This is why I absolutely adore this channel!
There's nothing like rolling off the ferry when you land on the continent! One tip - place a bath towel on your saddle under the ratchet strap. It protects the vinyl from friction damage.
I’m looking forward to my first international motorcycle trip in August. There’s a group of us riding through France to Monte Carlo, and I’m so excited, I’m worried it’ll become an addiction. Looking forward to seeing more of Amsterdam.
Take a big wallet to Monte Carlo. We couldn't afford a cheese sandwich when we went in 1985 after graduating... 😊
Thanks Freddie,the last time I was in Harwich I was doing my part 1 training at HMS Ganges at Shotley Gate 1975.❤
For me when I load up the bike and head out (tenting makes it more authentic) I feel like a cowboy on his horse heading West !
Lovely video - also toured the Netherlands on my Bonnie a few years ago. The A7 bridge that cuts across the sea to the north and on to Harlingen is simply stunning and a joy to ride. Also enjoyed The Hague and Edam. Didn’t visit Amsterdam so thanks for insight - one for the future.
Live in Edam and ride a street twin 👌
@@RenataWolak one day - will come back. Thinking Belgium in September, maybe the Netherlands the year after.
It. really feels good to see you back there on the open road. Love to watch your adventures !!!
As a Dutch guy growing up in and around Amsterdam, motorbike lover myself, I know.
I now life in the German Eifel and to me this is real bike heaven.
No part of the roads here are straight, it's a constant uphill downhill ride through the mountains.
And from my house to the famous Nordschleife just 10 minutes.
Just discovered your channel shortly, no idea if you ever been in my beautiful corner of the world.
But you should 😄
You're exactly right Rick
Interesting, I’ve just saved this spot. Thank you, Rick🙌🏻
@@FreddieDobbsif you go to the Eifel consider a night in Maastricht. Completely different from Amsterdam but still in Holland, from there it’s 100 miles to the Nurburgring!
Wasn’t aware of a ferry there - have already looked into the route and looking at dates! Another trip to give us inspiration - cheers Freddie
Hi Freddy and Monica. I am glad that you are always so positive when it comes to places and experiences. When I saw your bike just parked on the pavement, like the locals, my first thought was, 'I hope he chained it down to a lamp post'. Bikes and electric bikes are stolen like there's no tomorrow. We have come to terms with that fact and I hope that for motorbikes the rate is not that bad. Amsterdam has become very expensive. I didn't know that the tourist tax was that high. But Amsterdam has suffered from too much tourism the last few years, so they've bumped up the prices. And when I saw 'Hotel Arena', I thought, 'Oh, this is expensive!', but thanks for the booking tip!🙂
Nice Trip :) I recommend visiting Rusty Gold Motorshop in Amsterdam if you're still there! ❤
What a fabulous trip. I hope to do something similar soon. The setup seems to work so well. Love it, thanks for sharing with us all.
Yes its great living in the Netherlands. Im not a fan of Amsterdam the city center, but yes the landscape etc. I love it. I live in North Holland even far northern. Around 70km above Amsterdam polders everywhere.
Great to see someone not talking about the green stuff in my country. I live somewhat 70km above Amsterdam still in North Holland. And yes its great to live here. I would never want to leave. For the coming years atleast
I love your enthusiasm,it looked like a good ferry crossing and the hotel is beautiful
England to Amsterdam journey is ❤.. My dream..Your bali 🏖️ adventures were informative..Less noise more journey.. Underrated.. All the best.
Just checked a crossing Santander to Portsmouth, 671€ plus 199€ cabin , one way ! Wtf !
Absolutely awesome! Many thanks :)
Great video, as usual. Hope you found your bike the next day. The Netherlands as a whole has a great feel to it , but theft is not uncommon in Amsterdam.
The ferry is very similar to the ones going between Sweden and Finland on a daily basis. Cabin looks like a standard design on many of them, and it's often worth the money to pick up a cabin even if the trip's not super long and overnight - you get your privacy, and you get your own recently cleaned bathroom. Can even grab a shower if that's warranted. Hope you have/had an awesome little mini holiday.
Another cracking video Freddie. Amsterdam is such a great city, so much in a small space.
Thanks very much🙌🏻 Totally agree- you can walk/cycle everywhere with ease👌🏻👌🏻
Nice vid.
I've done Harwich to The Hook many times on a bike (usually 1959 Ariel).
The trip is, as you say, quite pleasant and relaxing. I especially enjoy the overnight because it's quieter and you just wake up there.
As for Holland and the greater Netherlands (don't conflate them. Calling all The Netherlands "Holland" is like calling The UK "England") it is lovely indeed. Not super exciting, but super relaxing and they are super welcoming of, and very well set up for, travellers, even bikers! Hehe.
Easy peasy to rock on to Germany, Belgium, France, etc... Now you've 'broken the seal' with Monika going international, perhaps there will be more!
My missus also wasn't keen until trying the Harwich/Hook crossing.
You need a mortgage to pay the parking fee in A'dam which is why most Dutch avoid going there like the plaque but if there is no other option we don't take the bike or even the car to A'dam. It's much easier and cheaper to park in a small town nearby and take the train for the last bit.
Nothing like a good new video from F.Dobbs to cure my Sunday blues
Great video! I just spent a week in Amsterdam/Netherlands and it was beautiful! I was just wishing I had my RE Classic with me the whole time. Would love to be able to ride there (I'm from the states).
Had the pleasure in seeing you on film at the BSA stand at the Adventure Bike Festival yesterday .You do get about Freddie 😁😁
Great vid Bike looks fantastic and so does this trip to Amsderdam .
Goodness Freddie! You’re REALLY getting my juices flowing for a biking adventure of my own. Been years since I did a motorcycle trip abroad. Life just keeps getting in the way…….or is that a convenient excuse 🤔
Hay you two I hope there are no more surprises for you in Amsterdam. The place had a reputation about a few years back of people smoking weed and using public area as toilets. A few news articles were written about the scene there. Kickass ferry ride.
Lovely trip Freddie and Monica. Yes Harwich is lovely so funny as I was in Harwich when you went so I propbaly saw your Stenaline from the beach lol Love your videos they are great keep it up
Great video Freddie! I'm looking forward to start doing something similar hopefully next year once I have more experience in the big bike!
Your sunday videos are always of great companu when I prepare breakfast for me and my wife on a Sunday morning 💪
Greetings from a biker in Alabama USA. New sub. Enjoy your videos.
I love Amsterdam, such a beautiful city, like most cities you pay for it, theres no escape from that. I find riding in most of Europe is simpler and easier than the UK. Looking forward to the next video and your experience in the Netherlands.
There's a lesson here for us Brexit idolising Brits. You get what you pay for. If you want to live in pleasant, functional and safe cities then there's a financial burden to bear. For some reason, the two leading political parties in the UK insist that reducing taxes is a priority. The Tories are buying our votes by promising a lower overall tax burden. The Labour party are promising more state funded giveaways for those that can't pay. Whilst the general level of taxation in the UK is now higher than it's been in over 70 years, it's still lower than in simiiar economies in Europe. When you visit countries like the Netherlands or Denmark, to name just two. You notice immediately how those tax Euros are being spent. You get what you pay for. Just saying...
Agreed- I’m ok with paying if I can see my money actually being used for something positive. Amsterdam seems very clean, safe and well run, so I was perfectly happy paying:)
@@FreddieDobbsif you consider Amsterdam clean, that’s extrodinary because it is by far the dirtiest place you can find in The Netherlands 😂
Another great video Freddie. About to take my full motorbike licence this week, and doing Oxford to Amsterdam is my dream. Thanks for the motivation dude.
Ive done ireland to Amsterdam on a bike many times for work in construction dublin Holyhead to Dover Calais to Amsterdam on a kawasaki gt 750 96 model no problems
I went to Newhaven a month ago to catch the ferry to Dieppe. That's a nice route into France rather than Dover - Calais
Yeah and a nice ride to Paris.
@@alexmorgan3435 I avoided paris and went via Rouen to Limoges no toll roads
Hey Freddie. Luca from TOMCC. I lived in Amsterdam for 3 years. Please make sure you treat Monika to a dinner at the Italian restaurant Pianeta Terra, it’s just off the flower market. You won’t be disappointed.
Great video and loved your enthusiasm for the Netherlands. On a side note very impressed by the proper secondary glazing in the hotel bedroom, it’s just something I seem to notice as I am bit of all windows fanatic ! Oh and I loved at the beginning when you were behind I think a Citroen CX going onto the ferry.
Big fan of the older big Citroens. The CX is a classic, and so is the last "real" Citroen they made, the XM. Wanted a V6 XM for myself a lot, but it just was never feasible for me to do at the time.
Welcome here in the Netherlands! Good to here you like it already 😃👍...ik wish you both a very good time in Amsterdam
Freddie, I’ve just completed the trip you’re doing from Scotland via Harwich. Wonderful trip. I’d recommend visiting the Rusty Gold Motorshop in Amsterdam.
An amazing little Boutique Motorcycle shop.
Looks like a lot of fun Freddie and Monica , beautiful apartment you have to stay in , so lucky with the upgrade ! Visited Amsterdam years ago great place to stay in ..good luck with the rest of the trip ..
Thanks Danny:)
Welcome to The Netherlands Freddie and Monica, so good to see you both back in the saddle and in Amsterdam! (Thanks also for reaquainting us with the Harwich ferry - my girlfriend and I are seriously considering the reverse trip to London now!)
I moved to NL from the UK 15 years ago.best decision I ever made
We always camp on the outskirts for €9 a night then venture into the city for supplies😉 then venture right back out to the campsite again where a campfire is much more enjoyable than worrying about interior design 😂👍
Everyone’s different, I hate camping with a passion that’s why I’d always stump up for a hotel room, even if it cost an arm and a leg 🫣
Holland roads are legendary its true! Cheers from belgium Freddy! This ferry is super interesting thanks for the tip!
The motorised bikes on the cycle lane are only for below a certain KW rating although some get a more powerful and they fit a switch to reduce it
Interesting about the Ferry. Might be worth a little trip. Nice video, Freddie.
Love this, going to book it for myself and partner, you have inspired me
I’m finding your road trips of great interest so wondered if you are ever near the Dorset coast you would like to ride Englands answer to the Californian Pacific highway, albeit somewhat shorter. Goes from Abbotsbury to Bridport and only takes a fairly short ride but the views are magnificent so, knowing you often stop it may take a little longer.
Thanks Freddie and Monica for the visit to Amsterdam. Just be a bit careful in the City Centre as it might have been just bad luck but my Father had his wallet stolen on a Family holiday some years ago. The local Police said it goes on all the time as they use it for drug money! The place you are staying does look really nice. 👍
How wonderful to share a surprise high level Euro expedition together with Monika! When we journeyed through Europe, England, Scotland, Iceland, Canada, we felt it was worth it to pay a little extra to get good sleeps and enjoy a little luxury on the way. Enjoy!!
little extra ? Far from little ,old Bean
So funny I had the same reaction as Freddy when I entered Holland two weeks ago on my way to Maastricht. Holland is a lovely place to be and the people are so friendly and most speak English. Really looking forward to this little adventure
I'm glad you enjoyed my country Donny poo
As usual with Freddie it's all about being spontaneous, no forward planning just go and do it. Who cares about taxes and expensive hotels, unfortunately most of us do I'm afraid. Great adventure, yes but only if you can afford it and if you like cities, I'm more of a Yorkshire Dales man personally.
Great stuff, looking forward to the next instalment.
Thanks!
Thank you so much, Jose!:)
Love the video love the video Freddie. I’m from here and love basically 2 minutes away from the hotel you stayed at. Next time you and Monica are here, let me give you a tour with dinner on my boat through the canals. I won’t even charge you for it ;)
Freddie, really love your vids mate. you've got that accent i just cant place (coz Im Ozzie) but im sure its the same accent I heard before getting my head caved in a year ago by some of your compatriots here in Bangkok na!
Interesting, stuck in the 1940s and no traffic? I'm from the Netherlands and I hate it for being so crowded on every road. I'm from the east where the quit roads should be, and even here you never are alone. But funny to hear your perspective about it. Maybe it isnt as bad as I thought. Nice vid btw! I just got my motorcycle license (like yesterday) and I cant wait to visit the UK on my bike (which I will collect today).
This is what a happy life looks like, one can only dream.
Great video , all the soldiers are probably onroute to Germany to train there we use the hook of Holland route alot now esp if your driving over
Awesome, another trip series from Freddie and with Monica too, oh we're in for a treat! Thanks for sharing Freddie & Monica. 👍👍
Nice one Freddie .Looking forwards to the ret of your trip. 👍👍👍
I used to go to Amsterdam and The Hague for work a couple of times a year for work a. 45 min flight, but I always elected to drive a company poolcar which was always a shed😂. I loved the ferry and the trip so much. I love the Dutch people and the cities. Amsterdam has its seedy side and worth seeing but also very cultural with hidden gems. I always took the Dover just enjoying the freedom. I used to stop off in Belgium and France and fill the Ford galaxy wiyh “ goodies”😂😂
You have to visit Luxembourg once, we have beautiful riding roads:)
What a beautiful place, the park bustling in the evening, no sense of menace, no dodgy groups of people just as it should be, I feel this is the place that should be the way of life that we should inspire to have. Alas, without getting too political....we cant have that many nice things all at once. The Bonnie is looking shiny, keep that up!!!!!
You guys are amazing! Peace and love ❤
I go every year to amsterdam but I went this week and got stung with the 12.5 percent. The city is stunning though if you keep to the lower end . My only advice is keep away from tourist areas late at night or early hours due to Moroccan robbers . I almost got robbed at knife point bit I'm not the sort of guy to stand and hand it over so English man 1 morrocan criminals nil 😂. The architecture I'm the city is stunning and the way they have prioritised pedestrians and bikes/motorcycles is great. I ride a harley but we hired electric pedal bikes to tour the city and enjoyed every moment. Anyone thinking of doing it you won't regret it. Just don't fall for the tourist souvenir shops and shop at local supermarkets for drink and food and you can have a real good time
Great episode Freddie and Monica! Thanks for taking us along!