We borrowed 'dutch bikes' and did what the locals do, which is to ride everywhere. It was at a liesurely pace and a pure joy. It was so nice to be in the majority as a road user and respected by drivers, we felt completely safe. It was such a pleasant change from my usual perth rides which are on a carbon road bike and when I regularly meet unsafe/selfish behaviour. It also helped me get over my first crash in five years of cycling, when I was taken out by a careless rider on the PSP near the Narrows, two days before I left!
We were so impressd with the infrastructure, the bikes, the scenery, and no helmets required and the flat roads. We have decided to buy similar bikes for riding to the local shops and in our neighbourhood but will continue to commute on our regular bikes. Although, we may find that in time we use our 'dutch bikes' all the time!
It was also interesting to observe how few people cycled in France - quite the opposite of my expectation. I have gained a new perspective of the cycling infrastructure in Perth and have to admit that it is pretty good.
