I am going biking in the Netherlands soon, and will have about 4 days in Amsterdam. These are all good ideas for things to look for. I especially like the umbrella on the handlebars, but gonna have to take a pass on visiting the coffee shops.

I am under the impression that it will rain almost every day we are there, and am now thinking maybe 2 rain jackets would be in order so I can alternate them while they are drying. Does anyone use shoe covers?

I figure at least 3 jerseys, and 3 tights, and accept the fact that there will be lots of hand laundry to do. I have visions of the bathroom looking like a 1950s tenement with all the laundry hanging up to dry. They have told us not to expect much in the way of laundromats on this trip.

Any tips on cycling in Western portion of Netherlands?

Martha