Day 5 18/8/19

The Netherlands.  Just a couple of facts about the Netherlands. Almost half of the Netherlands was once under water, the Netherlands  is now one of the most densely populated nations on earth.  The region is famous for its centuries old windmills, artistic masterpieces and tulips. Seventeen million people call Netherlands home but over 20 million people speak Dutch worldwide. 

Approx 45% of the Netherlands is below sea level and floods are a common occurrence. Water ills and windmills have been used since the 13th century to pump water out of low lying areas. Today there are still over 1000 windmills in operation.

Whilst on board you get to choose you activities for the day.  The choices today are. 

1.  Cruise the canals of Amsterdam in glass top boats. 

2.  Visit a windmill village or 

3. Stay onboard the ship while it cruises to the next stop to make Stoopwafel.

We chose the Windmill Village which was very informative it is a village where old windmills and houses were moved to to setup the village to preserve the heritage.  We got to see a windmill in operation grinding limestone which is still being used by artists for painting.  We also visited in the village a cheese factory which made the most magnificent Gouda cheese and goats cheese like I have never tasted before, if only we could have brought some home.  

We then went to the clog making demonstration but we had run out of time and had to have a quick look in the shop (no I didn’t buy anything) because our bus was leaving. 

We then had to meet our boat at Utrecht where we left port straight away to head for Cologne. Tonight is the Captains cocktail party followed by the gala dinner. Tonight we sail all night to wake up in Cologne