As an American, cycling in Western Europe (especially Germany and NL) is like heaven. I love every place that has its own cycling paths, and a population of adults who still cycle.
I think it's much better to cycle in countries where the drivers think "Oh, that could be me, or my dad, or my son. I'll give him some extra room." Instead of America where most people haven't ridden bicycles since childhood and have no empathy for cyclists.
RE: Soaking up some sun in Brighton