Hmmmmm you have all given me a whole heap to think about. I have decided to drop the Netherlands. I actually have quite a bit of family there and think I might get too caught up in visiting everyone rather than seeing sights. And I have been there before. So I am going to do a few nights in Germany and a few in France. IF (a big IF) my funding comes through as it is all dependent on that. I would love to do a walking or biking tour and definitely want to take in as many natural sights as possible as am a big fan of mountains and forests. I just heard back from an old school friend who will have an apartment in Paris and Cologne by the time I go and has offered a bed in either city so that is great! Thanks everyone for the tips, and will check out the Bahn card. You are all awesome!