3. Getting Ready.

Getting ready for a trip like this is great, and writing it all down on a Blog is a great way to keep me focused and enthusiastic.   The time is just flying by.
    
I am also learning about writing blogs.   It's not only the writing, but getting and formatting pictures that takes a lot of time.   Any comments gratefully accepted.
   
I now use the Normal, Default, not Bold, Font.   I have learned to do some HTML editing, particularly when formatting text around photos.   I like the photos with the text, not just all at the bottom.  Photos are resized to 1024 x 768 pixel resolution, so they are good to see when enlarged.   That way they don't take too long to upload into the blog.  When I want 2 photos on a line I re-size them to 450 pixels wide, or set them as "small" when inserted.   I will see how all this turns out.     
    

I have contacted RB Motoren (MotorBikes) to hire a Yamaha XT660Z.  www.rbmotoren.nl   No problem, they said.   I will need it for 6 weeks, and they will fit panniers, topbox and GPS for me.   This may be an easier solution for me than buying.   I am unsure of the legal requirements to buy a motorbike in the Netherlands and how to register and insure it with a Green Card.
     
Maybe I can do it, but for 6 weeks, it is probably not worth the trouble and expense, and then I will have to sell it.
While I am there, I will see how to do these things for when I go back and tour southern Europe later.
    
I am due to arrive at Schiphol at daybreak.   When through Customs, I will take a train to Utrecht and taxi to RB Motoren.  I am sure everything will be ready.  
        
I have also learned about International Money Transfers from my bank in Australia.   It's not hard, I think,  but I must get all the account details correct.   IMT avoids Credit Card fees.
   
I have also received my Travel Insurance.  This is very expensive, I think, however, it is a necessity.   "If you can't afford Travel Insurance, you can't afford to travel", they say.   I have read the fine print and I am covered for motorcycling, providing I have a current Motorcycle Licence with the correct codes for the capacity of the motorbike.  (Some policies only cover mopeds, 50 cc).   I also must wear a helmet, even if it is not required by law in the country where I am riding.   
   
So Far, So Good.  
   
Other Stuff.
Airline tickets booked.
Check Baggage size and weights for airlines.
Baggage allowance = 23kg (one piece L+W+H <154 cms)
International Driving Permit from the AA.
International Currency.
Get GPS Maps for Zumo.
Get Travel Insurance, mostly for medical coverage and evacuations.
Hire a Motorbike.  
     
LN2N2012