Is Liedseplein(sp?) in Amsterdam still surrounded by little crowded cafes/pubs? One I remember had a very eccentric barman. His habit was to shout "Are there any English/Americans/French/Belgians/etc. Here?" And when someone would shout back where they were from he would jovially shout, "Ah, those (nationality) are (ridiculous and colourfully described stereotype)!" and go on to the next nationality. Far from offensive, everyone would be laughing at the absurdity of it all. One of my favourite nightspots, it was tiny, crammed with minute tables and mismatched chairs and barstools, and attracted the most diverse crowd you could imagine, where the most astonishing conversations could be had.

Have a good time, Skarpi. I wish I could be with you, as the Netherlands in May are pretty wonderful.