Amsterdam, Here I come!

I've had some sleepless nights thinking on what to do when I get to Europe. I will arrive right before winter and I was told that the temperature is between 0-8 degrees celcius all day.

I am glad that Debenhams was on sale prior to my flight and I was able to buy cheaper (than Marks & Spencer) winterwear. I bought thermal underwear, thermal socks, thermal bonnet,thermal gloves and everything with the word "Thermal" on it lol.

I was supposed to leave for Amsterdam on November 30, but Cathay Pacific called and asked me to rebook it to an earlier flight because of the Airport strike in London.

I asked my boss to grant me a last minute half day so I can catch my 5PM flight.

I arrived 45 minutes before my flight and I was able to take advantage of Citibank Premiermiles Platinum's lounge access.

My plane left before 6PM and arrived past 7PM. I have a lay over of 5 hours in HKG.

My plane left 12:35 AM the next day and took a 13 Hours or so flight from HKG to AMS. Cathay Pacific's cabin crew are excellent and never gets tired.

After 2 airplane meals, 3 movies and a few hours of sleep, i finally reached Amsterdam Schipol Airport.

Immediately after stepping off the plane, Immigration officers asked to see the passports of everyone arriving. I think this is their way of checking for illegal immigrants.

Then I went through the Immigration area, the officer asked me "what's the purpose of your visit?" then I said "i'll be attending a conference." He asked me, "can i see your invitation letter?" Then i told him " here is the letter that was sent to the Dutch Embassy in Manila" then he told me, " wow you speak english well" then he stamped my passport eventually.

Goedendag Amsterdam for me!