Really not very open.

A combination of a suspect weather forecast and bike related injury pushed the idea of using the train. The local station, a 40 minute walk away offered easy access to The Hague, Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Opted for the former - nearest and easiest option. While it was sunny the wind was definitely of the cold NE variety. Wrapped and made the hike to the station. All very easy but got told off by the guard for not checking in the ticket. Headed straight for the tourist info at the station - map sorted and a range of ideas. Headed out and the rain came. Needed indoor options. Opted to go to the Maurithuis Gallery - so called 'A small World class musuem.' Got there to find people queuing - not open till 1. The temporary viewing tower near the oldest parliament building on the world had been postponed due to the rain so decided to try the cathedral tower. Closed on Mondays. Next option was the optical Illusion gallery - in particular the work of Escher. Closed on Mondays. It seems The Hague is really not very open on Mondays. Had a lazy McDonalds lunch and re- grouped. Topping off the wondrous introduction to The Hague - went to the toilet to be greeted by a lady snapping at me in Dutch. Made it clear I couldn't understand on numerous occasions. When I carried on to toilets suddenly managed English. It seems customers here have to pay to use the toilets. Initially it stunk of a scam but there above the entrance was a McDonalds sign. Sod that, not that I had any money. By now the sun was out - needed cheering up. Climb a tower. Did the trick, didn't feel too secure though - swaying around in the wind a bit more than I'd like. By now the gallery was open & no queue. App downloaded and ready for culture. That was the theory. In practice it pointed out dead possums, people who'd fallen through the ice and shagging dogs so that was nice. Mooched around the old town and enjoyed some evening sun in the Palace gardens. Much better day than the start suggested. Train back and then a battling walk through the wind that was working it's way up to a yellow weather warning.Read more