Tuesday, 21 June, 2017
The Amsterdam Museum is a must so we go there. I follow obediently the historical path from settlement to modern Holland while Naomi and Rachel discover a fashion exhibition. 'Wonderful' both say. The highlight of today though is the Begjinhof, a housing project set up in 1346 . The stylish houses, perfectly maintained are set in a perfectly cared for, serene, garden. We walk along the winding path, admire , take photos. The old plaques which have been saved from demolished houses indicating ownership are worth a close look.
Beguinage
the oldest house
visitors
old plaques
We discover a stationery shop selling old and new writing tools. We are in Holland after all
Wednesday, 22 June, 2017
Anne Frank house for Naomi and Rachel and walk along the canal for me. Lunch at 'prince'is special, not because of the sandwiches but because it is in an old wooden house with prints to match. Rembrandt might come in for a pint. Naomi and Rachel decide to climb the Westerkerk, to admire the view. I admire their determination and sit on a bench outside the church. I have a magnificent view too.
Dutch cats
,We find out how Dutch people care for stray cats; They house them in a boat. People are encouraged to adopt a cat and pay a donation
Tuesday, 23 June, 2017
Our last day here but we make good use of it. Naomi and Rachel go paddling down the canal - a delightful experience they tell me- while I visit the Dam, a central place, mentioned as a 'must see' in guide books. It might look better without the crowds. Also, the Royal Palace is closed. Dinner here is special though, with dishes changing daily and not written in a menu.
It starts raining, hard. We are off the next day.
Oh, Amsterdam
We take a night cruise and admire those magnificent building all lit up and those seven bridges all in line behind each other. Pity my camera doesn't work in the dark
ROTTERDAM
Thursday, 23 June, 2017
To Rotterdam by train
We have one day here and decide to visit The Windmills - since we are in Holland.
The weather is still fine, we take the boat that will take us to the Windmill Village. Pity we cannot spend more time here, we have time for only one windmill visit. We climb the winding stairs, study the furniture and try to see ourselves living this life. I would like to visit more windmills, walk along the canal...we get to the boat just before it leaves.
Life in a windmill