Country No. 2

The beer is expensive in Amsterdam. But the atmosphere is worth the price.
A short walk from the central train station resulted in two massive bar/restaurants, which allowed us to see the second half of Brazil's win Tuesday night. Once again, I fail to see a goal scored while viewing in the crowd, but we all react in unison as Croatia misses chance after chance to notch the equalizer.
I wish I was here on a night the Dutch played because the support is already in full swing. Orange flags and banners wave everywhere, ranging from restaurants to drug stores -- not those drugs. Like Germany, there is a feeling of national pride within the country.
My choice in clothing proves wise, since the blue Israeli National Team jersey catches the eye of many people I meet. After looking at me with a strange expression for a few seconds, they ask what team it is and I explain.
On Monday, I toasted with countless Americans from all over before attending the match. On Tuesday, I felt good to just mention the Israeli team -- which made a good run in qualifying but fell short -- and thereby show a part of my Jewish heritage.
Unlike where I stayed in Germany, I can't get to a computer as easily here. That's made it tougher to keep in touch back home, since calling is very expensive.
I've been at the Internet Cafe about an hour now, so my time is almost up. There's shopping to do -- I'm eyeing a Dutch jersey -- and three matches to watch.