<BR>I am going to The Hague for a week. Then 2 nights Amsterdam, 3 nights Paris, 3 nights Brussels/Brugge. Would you advice me to stay in Haarlem rather than Amsterdam? Will it be too cold to go to Alkmaar (I believe the cheese market is closed in Winter) Can one go by train to Chartres for a day trip?

Herma: Not sure of when you are going, but it sounds like fairly soon. <BR> <BR>I'd stay in Amsterdam only because there is so much to see and do there. The city is quite a place built almost entirely on water. It is a very different kind of city, much like Paris and Berlin are, it's unique. <BR> <BR>I am not sure if the cheese market is closed or not, but cheese and tulip bulbs are available if you are interested, in many locations throughout the Netherlands. I especially liked Vollendam on the coast. <BR> <BR>I have not been to Chartres, but I'm certain that some of our well-travelled on this board can help you. <BR> <BR>Good luck! <BR>

Herma: Not sure of when you are going, but it sounds like fairly soon. <BR> <BR>I'd stay in Amsterdam only because there is so much to see and do there. The city is quite a place built almost entirely on water. It is a very different kind of city, much like Paris and Berlin are, it's unique. <BR> <BR>I am not sure if the cheese market is closed or not, but cheese and tulip bulbs are available if you are interested, in many locations throughout the Netherlands. I especially liked Vollendam on the coast. <BR> <BR>I have not been to Chartres, but I'm certain that some of our well-travelled on this board can help you. <BR> <BR>Good luck! <BR>

Herma: Not sure of when you are going, but it sounds like fairly soon. <BR> <BR>I'd stay in Amsterdam only because there is so much to see and do there. The city is quite a place built almost entirely on water. It is a very different kind of city, much like Paris and Berlin are, it's unique. <BR> <BR>I am not sure if the cheese market is closed or not, but cheese and tulip bulbs are available if you are interested, in many locations throughout the Netherlands. I especially liked Vollendam on the coast. <BR> <BR>I have not been to Chartres, but I'm certain that some of our well-travelled on this board can help you. <BR> <BR>Good luck! <BR>

<BR>Carol, I think one should go to Brussels first (Thalys) and then to Paris. Depending on what you would consider the high light of your tour would be. I am going to Brugge this time and from comments of other travellers it could also be a high light.

You will definitely want to spend some time in Brugge, at least a day and hopefully a night too. It is really beautiful and lots to see and do. The food in Belgium is fabulous!! Don't forget to try the chocolate - out of this world! I second the motion for Voldendam. It is very unique, and I believe quite close to the cheese market.