Our last day in Amsterdam. A bittersweet time indeed. We are ready to get back and see our families, but we are going to certainly miss our wonderful family in Amsterdam. We have gotten to know Elle and Maya so much better, and with tears in our eyes we have both held them closely and felt all of their love. They are amazing, beautiful girls. Now the parents - ahhhh, I kid. They are amazing parents and people and we are so grateful that we have had this time to spend with them. They are indeed such gracious hosts.
So on to the day. Betty had the pleasure of riding "Old Crappy" (that would be Paul's old bicycle) to school with Deb and the girls. She survived and came home with the best almond croissants I have ever had. We had planned to shop for the few last items we needed before packing, but first needed to check in for our flights on Wednesday. Sue - no problem. Betty - oops - her flights had been cancelled. After many frustrating hang-ups from British Airways, she was finally able to get to speak to someone in England, and figured out that because her flight here was delayed from San Diego, they had rebooked her to another flight, but she caught the original (confusing, I know). Anyways, by 2 pm, she was able to contact the States, and all was fixed. The only glitch - she cannot check in on line, we will have to do that at the airport. So we took off for our shopping trip to Albert Cuyp (outdoor shopping market) and bought all our treasures (including another suitcase for Sue who not only has 3 daughters, and 2 granddaughters to buy for, but also is taking home treasures for Grandma and Auntie Gail.) Anyways, we have successfully fit everything into our suitcases and awaited Paul's return from work with the Thai food we ordered. YUMMY. A viewing of Elle's concert in Edinborough was our last family activity (it was absolutely awesome), a family photo, and time to toast our last beer (Betty finished her wine bottle already) to a great, great vacation.
An early morning awaits us - we will leave here by 7:30 a.m. for our 10:30 a.m. flights. And back to the good ol' USA.
This time spend with my niece's family and my sister, Betty, has beeen a dream come true for me. Thanks for sticking with us, we appreciate your caring and hope you enjoyed a little insight into my vacation of a lifetime.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Monday, May 7, 2012
5-7 Amsterdam to Keukenhof (Sue)
The day began bright (well not really) and early to take Deisel Derrick back to his home. He was a good and faithful pal for the last 5 days and took good care of us. Betty & I walked home from the Hertz rental place through Vondell Park, amazed at all the people on bikes going to work and school. A stop at the corner bakery seemed appropriate, so of course we had croissants, cappiciano and coffee for breakfast. The adventure of the day was a trip to the wold famous Keunkenhof. So what is Keukenhof? It is a tulip park that has more than seven million flowers and is amazingly beautiful. We spent 3 hours strolling among the beautiful flower beds, climbing the windmill and taking pictures. (Betty will be posting pictures that will better describe this amazing place). It was a wonderful day, however, our legs and feet were getting tired. We returned to the Dixon house, cooked dinner for the family, and gathered around the kitchen table for a few beers and great conversation. Last day - tomorrow - what will it bring?
Sunday, May 6, 2012
5-6 Beilstein to Amsterdam (Sue)
We are back in Amsterdam in the loving home of neice Deb and her family.....but it sure was difficult to leave the Mosel River Valley. We had our last delicious German breakfast provided by the Lipmann family. Betty took some pictures which will be posted to show you the beauty and elegance of this room and also our innkeeper, David. So we packed up, continued to look out at our view and imprint it in our minds. We reluctantly made our journey to check-out. David was there with his German hospitality to wish us well. His father, Joachim, was also there and I spoke with him a bit. He gave the business over to his son David and his wife, Anna, about 5 years ago. David and his family now live in the main house and the grandparents have moved up the hill. Joachim still comes down to do the night shift, so David and his hardworking wife and 2 kids can retire early. You must leave your key if you leave the building and ring the bell when you return. So they must stay up until everyone is home. Joachim says rarely are people out past 10 or 11. It's just not what the place is about. People are there to relax and rest - not party and carry one. After a sad good bye, we started off on our 4 hour drive to Amsterdam. Tina and Derrick got us here, without fail, even though we drove through lots and lots of rain. The girls were happy to see us, as we were to see them. We have been relaxing, had a wonderful dinner served by dear Deb, and are about to go through some pictures. Need to figure out what the last 2 days in Amsterdam will bring......stay tuned. Early night - good night.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
5-5 Beilstein to Cochem (Sue)
Rain, rain, rain, rain, rain and then more rain. That was the weather for Saturday in the Mosel River Valley - but it takes more than a few downpours to stop us from enjoying our last full day in Germany. After another wonderful breakfast at the Hotel Haus Lipman we ventured into the Markplatz and continued up Furst-Metternich-Strasse which leads to the Klostertreppe. While the population of this former monastery and beautiful church is down to one Carmelite monk, Rome continues to support this handsome Catholic church. It was amazingly gorgeous inside (pictures to follow) and it was set up for a wedding. After enjoying the interior and some more great views, we descended the stairs on the other side of the church and were treated to the lovely smell of the lilacs that we passed on the way down.
Drivin' Derrick wanted to take a little drive today so we ventured 10 km up river to the largest city in the area, Cochem. The town seems to have grown quickly due to tourism, and we were a bit disappointed at how commercialized it seemed. We have become very comfortable in our quiet, sleepy town of Beilstein, where you have to ring the bell to come back into the hotel after 10 pm. We walked through the Cochem town square, but really couldn't enjoy much due to the constant rain. We took the shuttle bus (along with a group of loud, obnoxious Poles) up to the Cochem Castle (Reichberg Cochem). What a beautiful castle. The tour was given only in German, but they provided English explanation sheets. Our guide, who was spectuacular, was kind enough to point alot of it out in English also. We both agreed that this was the best tour and castle we have seen. We had hoped to ride the Sesselbah chairlift and explore Cochem a bit more, but the weather was just not cooperative. So trusty Derrick took us home to a few more Bitburger beers and another bottle of wine for Betty. We have so fallen in love with this place that we decided to have dinner here again. We had cream of asparagus soup, weinerschneitzer, fried potatoes, salat, and chocolate pudding (we split the special). Back to the room to fulfill our nightly correspondence. We skyped with the Dixon's, and we are looking forward to being back with them. It continues to rain this evening....as we spend our last night in the homeland. Thank you Deutschland - we have so enjoyed our time here.
Drivin' Derrick wanted to take a little drive today so we ventured 10 km up river to the largest city in the area, Cochem. The town seems to have grown quickly due to tourism, and we were a bit disappointed at how commercialized it seemed. We have become very comfortable in our quiet, sleepy town of Beilstein, where you have to ring the bell to come back into the hotel after 10 pm. We walked through the Cochem town square, but really couldn't enjoy much due to the constant rain. We took the shuttle bus (along with a group of loud, obnoxious Poles) up to the Cochem Castle (Reichberg Cochem). What a beautiful castle. The tour was given only in German, but they provided English explanation sheets. Our guide, who was spectuacular, was kind enough to point alot of it out in English also. We both agreed that this was the best tour and castle we have seen. We had hoped to ride the Sesselbah chairlift and explore Cochem a bit more, but the weather was just not cooperative. So trusty Derrick took us home to a few more Bitburger beers and another bottle of wine for Betty. We have so fallen in love with this place that we decided to have dinner here again. We had cream of asparagus soup, weinerschneitzer, fried potatoes, salat, and chocolate pudding (we split the special). Back to the room to fulfill our nightly correspondence. We skyped with the Dixon's, and we are looking forward to being back with them. It continues to rain this evening....as we spend our last night in the homeland. Thank you Deutschland - we have so enjoyed our time here.
Friday, May 4, 2012
5-4 Beilstein - Burg Eltz - Boppard (Sue)
We have officially taken our sister-rolls....I have become the correspondent and Betty is the photographer. So you will probably be hearing my ramblings for the rest of our trip.
Today was a beautiful day in the Mosel and Rhine River Valleys (yes we made it to both). We started our day with an amazing breakfast at Hotel Haus Lipmann. I keep saying it, but the rooms they served breakfast in were very impressive with all their antique weaponry and items. We then took our hike up to Burg Metternich which is directly behind the small village of Beilstein. The ascent was beautiful and a bit taxing, but we made it fine. When we arrived at the entrance we realized we forgot money -- oops -- so Betty (the younger, of course) offered to go back to the hotel room for the money. It seriously was only a 10 minutes trip, but she had to ascend those inclines and steps again and was huffing by the time she got back. The castle is in ruins, but offers picturesque views and a great hike. We then joined our friends Drivin' Derrick (car) and Tina Tom-Tom and took off for Burg Eltz, Rick Steve's favorite castle in all of Europe. It is over 700 years old, has never been destroyed and remains in the same family. They maintain a residence there and offer a great tour. We walked down the very steep road to get to the castle (it is actually in the valley - weird), but opted to spend the 1.5 euro to take the shuttle back to the car.
We then drove to Boppard, on the Rhine River. This town is the locations of many great memories for Tony and Betty as they spent 4 days there in 2009. A very, very curvy drive brought us to another quaint town this one on the Rhine. As with most memories, they are best left that way, but we enjoyed a nice walk down the river promenade, saw the hotel where B&T stayed and ate at their favorite Italian restaurant. The waiter they remembered was no longer there and they no longer had the 4 cheese pasta dish that Betty was so looking forward too. However, we did enjoy the Caperese salad and pizza we ordered.
On the way home we outsmarted Tina, as she kept trying to take us through alot of windy, curvy roads (we still have the trusty paper map in the car). So we tricked her by breaking up the trip into segments an bet her home by 10 minutes.....nah, nah, nah, nah, nah.
Home brought us to the patio for a glass of sweet white wine and hot apfelkuchen. We watched a thunderstorm roll down the Mosel, and, unfortunately, were sat too close to the ugly Americans (southern California by the way), who started talking politics, drones and meeting Danny Thomas. Then they asked the proprieter, David, if Rick Steves is a nice guy - duh - of course he is a good guy - he put this hotel on the map. Anyways, we exited a bit earlier than anticipated and returned to our room to continue to watch the sun set and catch up on the correspondence. One more day in the Mosel River Valley....what will it bring???
Today was a beautiful day in the Mosel and Rhine River Valleys (yes we made it to both). We started our day with an amazing breakfast at Hotel Haus Lipmann. I keep saying it, but the rooms they served breakfast in were very impressive with all their antique weaponry and items. We then took our hike up to Burg Metternich which is directly behind the small village of Beilstein. The ascent was beautiful and a bit taxing, but we made it fine. When we arrived at the entrance we realized we forgot money -- oops -- so Betty (the younger, of course) offered to go back to the hotel room for the money. It seriously was only a 10 minutes trip, but she had to ascend those inclines and steps again and was huffing by the time she got back. The castle is in ruins, but offers picturesque views and a great hike. We then joined our friends Drivin' Derrick (car) and Tina Tom-Tom and took off for Burg Eltz, Rick Steve's favorite castle in all of Europe. It is over 700 years old, has never been destroyed and remains in the same family. They maintain a residence there and offer a great tour. We walked down the very steep road to get to the castle (it is actually in the valley - weird), but opted to spend the 1.5 euro to take the shuttle back to the car.
We then drove to Boppard, on the Rhine River. This town is the locations of many great memories for Tony and Betty as they spent 4 days there in 2009. A very, very curvy drive brought us to another quaint town this one on the Rhine. As with most memories, they are best left that way, but we enjoyed a nice walk down the river promenade, saw the hotel where B&T stayed and ate at their favorite Italian restaurant. The waiter they remembered was no longer there and they no longer had the 4 cheese pasta dish that Betty was so looking forward too. However, we did enjoy the Caperese salad and pizza we ordered.
On the way home we outsmarted Tina, as she kept trying to take us through alot of windy, curvy roads (we still have the trusty paper map in the car). So we tricked her by breaking up the trip into segments an bet her home by 10 minutes.....nah, nah, nah, nah, nah.
Home brought us to the patio for a glass of sweet white wine and hot apfelkuchen. We watched a thunderstorm roll down the Mosel, and, unfortunately, were sat too close to the ugly Americans (southern California by the way), who started talking politics, drones and meeting Danny Thomas. Then they asked the proprieter, David, if Rick Steves is a nice guy - duh - of course he is a good guy - he put this hotel on the map. Anyways, we exited a bit earlier than anticipated and returned to our room to continue to watch the sun set and catch up on the correspondence. One more day in the Mosel River Valley....what will it bring???
Thursday, May 3, 2012
5-3 Cologne to Beilstein (Sue)
First of all - HAPPY GOLDEN BIRTHDAY - to sweet Sadie, my granddaughter, who turns 3 years old today. What a delight you have been to all of us Sadie-Lo.
We woke up this morning in Cologne, ready to put on a few miles again. We walked back to the Cologne Cathedral to spend a little time there. It is such an awesome place, words and pictures, never do it justice. We were on the road by 11 and heading south to our true "vacation" destination, the Mosel River Valley. "Tina Tom-Tom" got us here with no problems and we checked into the beautiful Hotel Haus Lipmann. The hotel has been run by the Lipmann family for over 200 years and we were greeted by our host, David (the hardworking son), just like Rick Steeves said. The hotel and room are just a fantasy and we are enjoying our patio river view. Pictures to follow. We walked around the quaint area and finally had our first weinerschnitzel. Yummy. We continued to explore and decided we needed to head to the nearest store (10 km) to buy beer for me. The hotel only sells wine, so as much as I have tried - I'm still a beer girl. Now Betty is loving every minute of the wine. We spent some great "sister-time" on our patio enjoying my beer and the bottle of Winehaus Lipmann wine that Betty bought from the hotel. After a delightful dinner of pork roast, fried potatoes and salad on the hotel's dining terrace, we retired into our German wonderland, resting up so we can explore more tomorrow.
We woke up this morning in Cologne, ready to put on a few miles again. We walked back to the Cologne Cathedral to spend a little time there. It is such an awesome place, words and pictures, never do it justice. We were on the road by 11 and heading south to our true "vacation" destination, the Mosel River Valley. "Tina Tom-Tom" got us here with no problems and we checked into the beautiful Hotel Haus Lipmann. The hotel has been run by the Lipmann family for over 200 years and we were greeted by our host, David (the hardworking son), just like Rick Steeves said. The hotel and room are just a fantasy and we are enjoying our patio river view. Pictures to follow. We walked around the quaint area and finally had our first weinerschnitzel. Yummy. We continued to explore and decided we needed to head to the nearest store (10 km) to buy beer for me. The hotel only sells wine, so as much as I have tried - I'm still a beer girl. Now Betty is loving every minute of the wine. We spent some great "sister-time" on our patio enjoying my beer and the bottle of Winehaus Lipmann wine that Betty bought from the hotel. After a delightful dinner of pork roast, fried potatoes and salad on the hotel's dining terrace, we retired into our German wonderland, resting up so we can explore more tomorrow.
5-1 Addendum (Sue)
Seems we missed a bit of our trip on Tuesday, May 1 - so to catch you up. We left Amsterdam in "Diesel Derrick" (our blue Opal Corsa) with the assistance of "Tina Tom-tom" (thanks Paul).....and neither have failed. We headed the "northern" route to Bremen, Germany. This route, which took us along the North Sea was very reminiscent of the Wisconsin landscape. Approximately 4 hours later we arrived at our destination. Our communication with the hotel proprieter who spoke broken English was not the best, but we successfully checked into the Hotel Hansahof and got instructions to take public transportation into downtown Bremen. Without a hitch, we trammed to Market Square and saw the Town Hall, Guild Hall Roland Statute, St. Peter's Cthedral, and, of course, the Bremen Town Musicians. The highlight of our time spent in the square was when the bells of the Cathedral begin to ring, and ring, and ring, and ring. They rang for over 5 minutes - loud, magnificant and as Jennifer Lopez would say - "it gave us goosies." On to another famous part of Bremen, the Schnorr Quarters. This area is comprised of pretty little half-timbered houses dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with narrow lanes between the rows of buildings. Most shops were closed, so a quick walk-through was all we did. Thirsty and hungry we ventured toward our return tram station, and decideed to eat at an Italian/pizza place. The salad, margarita pizza and beer was great. Caught the tram back to Hotel Hansahof and settled in to our comfy beds as we knew we had a big day of travel ahead of us.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
5-2 Bremerhaven to Cologne (Betty)
This morning we headed up to Bremerhaven to visit the German emmigration museum. It was amazing. Visitors are given a passport when entering. Then we use the passport throughout the museum to hear about why so many people left Germany and what they went through to get to the US or another destination. it was very fascinating!
After the museum we hoped into our Opal car rental, lovingly nicknamed Derick Diesel, and headed down to Cologne. We're settled in for the night. Tomorrow we're heading down to Koblenz and the to our hotel in Beilstein. Don't know if we'll have Internet connection down there. So we may drop off the radar fora day or two. No worries ... Plenty of beer and wine in this area!
After the museum we hoped into our Opal car rental, lovingly nicknamed Derick Diesel, and headed down to Cologne. We're settled in for the night. Tomorrow we're heading down to Koblenz and the to our hotel in Beilstein. Don't know if we'll have Internet connection down there. So we may drop off the radar fora day or two. No worries ... Plenty of beer and wine in this area!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
5-1 On Our Way (Sue)
First of all HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the greatest mother, grandmother and great-grandmother in the world. She turns a blessed 85 today - and guess what's she's doing to celebrate?? Yup - she's at work at her beloved greenhouse, doing what she loves - playing with the dirt, flowers and vegetables. Enjoy your day Mom, we are thinking of you and love you more than anything in this world.
So I have to comment on yesterday - it was absolutely AWESOME! Definately one of the best party experiences of my life. What a way to celebrate Queen's Day. Deb's friends were wonderful, the boat was fantastic and the whole experience was awesome. What struck me the most was the fact that you had over 1 million people "celebrating", yet you never got the feeling that it was that crowded, or people were rushed, puking or obnoxiously drunk. Not to say that there wasn't drunkedness, but it wasn't as rude and threatening as you sometime see in the States. Oh yeah - another highlight - the men's outdoor, open-air urinals. Just walk up to the one your height and away they go. So I asked Paul why they accommodate the men only and he said the Dutch figured they've accommodated 1/2 of the people, and that's about as good as anyone can expect. Ha-ha.
So Betty & Deb are picking up the car and we are off for our sister-only adventure to Germany. First stop - Bremen. Unfortunately for Betty she will have to do all the driving as my WI driver's license also got stolen. The rain is stopping and I do believe the sun may shine soon. Onward to the homeland..........
So I have to comment on yesterday - it was absolutely AWESOME! Definately one of the best party experiences of my life. What a way to celebrate Queen's Day. Deb's friends were wonderful, the boat was fantastic and the whole experience was awesome. What struck me the most was the fact that you had over 1 million people "celebrating", yet you never got the feeling that it was that crowded, or people were rushed, puking or obnoxiously drunk. Not to say that there wasn't drunkedness, but it wasn't as rude and threatening as you sometime see in the States. Oh yeah - another highlight - the men's outdoor, open-air urinals. Just walk up to the one your height and away they go. So I asked Paul why they accommodate the men only and he said the Dutch figured they've accommodated 1/2 of the people, and that's about as good as anyone can expect. Ha-ha.
So Betty & Deb are picking up the car and we are off for our sister-only adventure to Germany. First stop - Bremen. Unfortunately for Betty she will have to do all the driving as my WI driver's license also got stolen. The rain is stopping and I do believe the sun may shine soon. Onward to the homeland..........
Monday, April 30, 2012
4-30 Queen's Day (Betty)
It's 7:30 pm and we survived our first Queens Day. And it was fantastic!
So Paul & Maya left the house around10 am to check out the street sales. On Queens Day flee markets, or rummage sales abound in the streets of Amsterdam. Elle, Deb, Sue & I stayed behind to prepare ourselves for the day's festivities. We were spending the day on a canal boat organized by the mothers of the British School where Elle and Maya attend school. All of Amsterdam is out on this day, dressed in orange, white or gold.
So we biked over to the neighborhod where we're catching the boat. We meet other families an hour before we're to get on the boat for a pre-party. Our hosts served a wonderful Indian lunch and at 1 pm we boarded the boat for our 4 hour cruise through the canals of Amsterdam. The food was plentiful and the beer was abundant and the experience was one in a lifetime! It's hard to describe, you just have to see the pictures!
The streets and the canals were packed. Music was blasting everywhere, everyone was dancing and just having a good time. The amazing thing was that everyone was partying, but we didn't see any disorderly conduct or aggressive behavior that often shadows these types of events in the States. I'm not saying they didn't happen, I'm just saying we didn't see any.
So the day was a success. We're were able to safely peddle back home. And, Paul is already in bed! God bless Queen Beatrix.
So Paul & Maya left the house around10 am to check out the street sales. On Queens Day flee markets, or rummage sales abound in the streets of Amsterdam. Elle, Deb, Sue & I stayed behind to prepare ourselves for the day's festivities. We were spending the day on a canal boat organized by the mothers of the British School where Elle and Maya attend school. All of Amsterdam is out on this day, dressed in orange, white or gold.
So we biked over to the neighborhod where we're catching the boat. We meet other families an hour before we're to get on the boat for a pre-party. Our hosts served a wonderful Indian lunch and at 1 pm we boarded the boat for our 4 hour cruise through the canals of Amsterdam. The food was plentiful and the beer was abundant and the experience was one in a lifetime! It's hard to describe, you just have to see the pictures!
The streets and the canals were packed. Music was blasting everywhere, everyone was dancing and just having a good time. The amazing thing was that everyone was partying, but we didn't see any disorderly conduct or aggressive behavior that often shadows these types of events in the States. I'm not saying they didn't happen, I'm just saying we didn't see any.
So the day was a success. We're were able to safely peddle back home. And, Paul is already in bed! God bless Queen Beatrix.
Greetings from Sue
I guess it's about time for me to put my 2 cents into this trip, and not just be the tagalong. Betty has done a wonderful job of describing our adventures so far, so I will fill you briefly in on my "pickpocketing trauma." last Friday. After a wonderful time in Brugge, we were ready to move on to Ghent. However, we still had not enjoyed a true Belgian waffle, so decided it was time to do that. This is the last time I knew I had my wallet. We enjoyed a nice walk to the train station, and made our way through a very busy station, entered a very full train amongst many not-so-always polite Europeans. Seating was very limited and we all took the first seat we found. Wouldn't you know it, I pick the seat next to the gypsy lady. I had my purse and backpack close to me at all times (but obviously not close enough), About 20 minutes into the trip, I suddenly had this feeling. The wallet was gone!!! So I went into my panic mode, and my wonderful sister and niece calmed me down and took over the situation. (I was a mess). We got off at our stop, turned around and went back to Brugge (15 minute) in hopes I left my wallet at the waffle shop. Deb took off running to the shop, we met her halfway back, but no such luck. We stopped at the train Police station and filled out a theft report. They were extremely helpful, friendly and some of the nicest policeman I have ever met. They told us that there are at least 10 pickpocket events reported daily, and that is just the reported ones. He said the chance of getting the cash (170 euro) back is 0% and the credit cards 5%. So all they got was the wallet, money, credit card, WI drivers license and a picture of my adorable grandchildren. When we arrived in Ghent we contacted my family to cancel my cards. Luckily Jen was online at school, she was able to get ahold of Randy, who efficiently cancelled all my cards. I had made a copy of everything, so it was easy (lesson for all). The luckiest part of this whole adventure is I decided to put my passport into a different pocket in my purse. Had they stolen that - it would have really put a damper on the adventure. We also were blessed with good connections on our chase, helpful Europeans and the fact that it was so easy to get ahold of the USA so they could do cancelling. So now it is time to move one, and continue to enjoy the wonderful adventure. I am very grateful that my sister is here and able to "front" the rest of my trip. There will be "reckoning" when we get home, but family is the biggest blessing of all.
It's Monday morning, April 30th - we are about to get dressed in our orange and celebrate QUEENS DAY.
It's Monday morning, April 30th - we are about to get dressed in our orange and celebrate QUEENS DAY.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
4-29 Biking through Amsterdam (Betty)
Another slow morning at the Dixon house. It feels good not to have any big plans today. We want to be rested up for Queens Day tomorrow, the celebration of Netherland's Queen Mothers birthday.
After breakfast we head out to do some biking. Deb and Elle stay home to catch up on some homework and housework. Paul and Maya jump on his bike, Sue & I hop the tram and we meet down at the Leidseplein to rent some bikes.
Amsterdam is made for biking. But if one doesn't know what they're doing it could be a bit dangerous. Paul gives a quck lesson on Amsterdam biking rules and we're off. What a great time. We stop for lunch on a canal in the Jordaan neighborhood, visit a cheese shop, and then head to Vondelpark to meet up with Deb & Elle.
The sky's are threatening to rain, so we decide to head back to Hotel Dixon. I need to return my rental tonight so I head back to the bike rental with Paul while Sue, Deb and the girls head home. Paul drops me off at the rental store and heads home. I plan to hop a tram home. But instead I walk. I know there will be more beer to walk off.
Tomorrow - Queens Day!!!
After breakfast we head out to do some biking. Deb and Elle stay home to catch up on some homework and housework. Paul and Maya jump on his bike, Sue & I hop the tram and we meet down at the Leidseplein to rent some bikes.
Amsterdam is made for biking. But if one doesn't know what they're doing it could be a bit dangerous. Paul gives a quck lesson on Amsterdam biking rules and we're off. What a great time. We stop for lunch on a canal in the Jordaan neighborhood, visit a cheese shop, and then head to Vondelpark to meet up with Deb & Elle.
The sky's are threatening to rain, so we decide to head back to Hotel Dixon. I need to return my rental tonight so I head back to the bike rental with Paul while Sue, Deb and the girls head home. Paul drops me off at the rental store and heads home. I plan to hop a tram home. But instead I walk. I know there will be more beer to walk off.
Tomorrow - Queens Day!!!
4-28 Ghent (Betty)
After a late night we sleep in. The weather is gloomy and we're in no hurry to get anywhere. We finally check out of the Ghent River hotel at 11ish and head out to find a coffee and something light for breakfast. We find a pastry shop that meets our needs and after refuling we head out on the streets of Ghent. The city has a different feel from Bruge. Instead of groups of tourists we see the locals tending to their Saturday shopping.
It's raining slight so we walk to the Ghent Castle. Deb has already been here and Sue and I opt to save our castle touring for Germany. Instead we check out the Saint Bavo Cathedral. It's a great break from the weather and we're in luck, there's a school choir concert going on. So we settle in for a bit to listen and then tour the rest of the church and the crypts beneath the alter.
Before we leave the city we stop at the Belgium Chocolate shop, then head to the train station. It's time to head home.
It's raining slight so we walk to the Ghent Castle. Deb has already been here and Sue and I opt to save our castle touring for Germany. Instead we check out the Saint Bavo Cathedral. It's a great break from the weather and we're in luck, there's a school choir concert going on. So we settle in for a bit to listen and then tour the rest of the church and the crypts beneath the alter.
Before we leave the city we stop at the Belgium Chocolate shop, then head to the train station. It's time to head home.
4-27 Brugge (Betty)
We started the day rather early today. We're up at five and out of the house by six to catch the 7 am train to Brugge, the Venice of the north. After 3 train transfers and 3.5 hours we arrive in Brugge. The sky is still cloudy, but the sun will peek out later during our visit.
We stroll into the old city center, walking along the river and canels our first stop is the Beguinage, a Catholic order of lay women who wished to serve God, but not enter the convent - oh I'm sure there's more to it! We also visited a similar settlement in Amsterdam.
Our second stop was at a little sidewalk cafe for a ham and cheese sandwich and some of the famous Belgian beer. We order out of our pilsner comfort zone and opt for some local favorites. We feel a few sprinkles of rain but wish it away.
After a great lunch and some good "girlie" conversation we continue on into the city. Many of the churches and historical building now charge to enter. Deb & I opt to climb the belfry tower while Sue sits with our back packs in the courtyard. 366 steps later we have a beautiful view of Bruge and the surrounding countryside. Now for the climb down. Ahh, much easier.
Our next stop was a 30 boat tour of the Canals. Our tour guide's name was Sean Connery - so he claimed. It was nice to see the canals from the water level. During the tour we spotted a canal side bar that had 3 empty bar stools calling our name. More local beer to sample.
After our beer it was time to head back to the train station. But we couldn't leave town before sampling a belgian waffle! Lucky we're walking our way through Europe otherwise we'd have to buy some larger pants!
This is where the day gets a bit rough. While on the 6 pm train, almost in Ghent where we're spending the night, Sue realized her wallet was missing. So we hop off the train and catch the return train to Brugge to return to the waffle shop. I'll let Sue fill you in on the rest of the story.
Finally, at 9 am we check into the Ghent River Hotel, exhausted! Tomorrow we plan to tour Ghent.
We stroll into the old city center, walking along the river and canels our first stop is the Beguinage, a Catholic order of lay women who wished to serve God, but not enter the convent - oh I'm sure there's more to it! We also visited a similar settlement in Amsterdam.
Our second stop was at a little sidewalk cafe for a ham and cheese sandwich and some of the famous Belgian beer. We order out of our pilsner comfort zone and opt for some local favorites. We feel a few sprinkles of rain but wish it away.
After a great lunch and some good "girlie" conversation we continue on into the city. Many of the churches and historical building now charge to enter. Deb & I opt to climb the belfry tower while Sue sits with our back packs in the courtyard. 366 steps later we have a beautiful view of Bruge and the surrounding countryside. Now for the climb down. Ahh, much easier.
Our next stop was a 30 boat tour of the Canals. Our tour guide's name was Sean Connery - so he claimed. It was nice to see the canals from the water level. During the tour we spotted a canal side bar that had 3 empty bar stools calling our name. More local beer to sample.
After our beer it was time to head back to the train station. But we couldn't leave town before sampling a belgian waffle! Lucky we're walking our way through Europe otherwise we'd have to buy some larger pants!
This is where the day gets a bit rough. While on the 6 pm train, almost in Ghent where we're spending the night, Sue realized her wallet was missing. So we hop off the train and catch the return train to Brugge to return to the waffle shop. I'll let Sue fill you in on the rest of the story.
Finally, at 9 am we check into the Ghent River Hotel, exhausted! Tomorrow we plan to tour Ghent.
4-26 Enjoying the City (Betty)
Another wonderful day in Amsterdam. Today we woke up early. Deb had already left to take the girls to school (via bikes) and Paul was just leaving for work. Sue & I took the time to get a bit organized and get ready for the day.
Later in the morning we walked down to the corner bakery for cappicino and pastry, then on to the The Albert Cuyp Market, a street market on Albert Cuypstraat in the Oud-Zuid district of the city. The street and market are named for Albert Cuyp, a 17th century painter. It was alot like going to a swap meet in Southern CA with a broader variety of venders - bread cheese, meats, olives, fruits & veggies trinkets, clothes, and fabric to name a few. Oh, yeah ... and kohlrabi. YUM! Many of the stalls were extensions of shops along the street.
After walking through the market we checked out the Heinekin Brewery but opted not to take the tour. Instead we hopped a tram and headed toward Rembrandt Square where we found a quiet cafe to have lunch. We ordered some lunch and a glass of local beer and enjoyed the sites and sounds of Amsterdam. One of the cutest things was the wagons filled with toe-headed nursery school children being pushed by their, tall, blond teachers. Have I mentioned Dutch people are very tall?
After lunch we hopped back on the tram and headed back to the Dixon Hotel to rest up for our big evening out - Paul's "Red Light" tour!
We head back out around 6:15, jump back on the tram and head back to central Amsterdam. First stop, In de Wildeman, an authentic Dutch pub located in an old distillery. After sampling of some great beers we move on to our second stop, Wynand Fockink, a liquer distillery established around 1679. We try the house specialty in apple flavor - WOW! Perhaps it's time to get some food in our bellies.
So we head back toward Rembrandt Square via the red light district - through the ethnic section, the "hottie" section, the transvestite section, and on and on. This is part of Amsterdam one always hears about, but there is so much more to this city!
It's 9:30 and our last stop is dinner at a Thai restaurant. Great food and great company! Suddenly it's 11pm and it's time to go home.
Later in the morning we walked down to the corner bakery for cappicino and pastry, then on to the The Albert Cuyp Market, a street market on Albert Cuypstraat in the Oud-Zuid district of the city. The street and market are named for Albert Cuyp, a 17th century painter. It was alot like going to a swap meet in Southern CA with a broader variety of venders - bread cheese, meats, olives, fruits & veggies trinkets, clothes, and fabric to name a few. Oh, yeah ... and kohlrabi. YUM! Many of the stalls were extensions of shops along the street.
After walking through the market we checked out the Heinekin Brewery but opted not to take the tour. Instead we hopped a tram and headed toward Rembrandt Square where we found a quiet cafe to have lunch. We ordered some lunch and a glass of local beer and enjoyed the sites and sounds of Amsterdam. One of the cutest things was the wagons filled with toe-headed nursery school children being pushed by their, tall, blond teachers. Have I mentioned Dutch people are very tall?
After lunch we hopped back on the tram and headed back to the Dixon Hotel to rest up for our big evening out - Paul's "Red Light" tour!
We head back out around 6:15, jump back on the tram and head back to central Amsterdam. First stop, In de Wildeman, an authentic Dutch pub located in an old distillery. After sampling of some great beers we move on to our second stop, Wynand Fockink, a liquer distillery established around 1679. We try the house specialty in apple flavor - WOW! Perhaps it's time to get some food in our bellies.
So we head back toward Rembrandt Square via the red light district - through the ethnic section, the "hottie" section, the transvestite section, and on and on. This is part of Amsterdam one always hears about, but there is so much more to this city!
It's 9:30 and our last stop is dinner at a Thai restaurant. Great food and great company! Suddenly it's 11pm and it's time to go home.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
4-25 Exploring the City (Betty)
We woke up slowly this morning. After coffee and some great local croissants we ventured out with Deb who introduced us to the tram system - just jump on the #5 or 24 and get on at the Biblioteck!
So we started off at the Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market) which is the only floating flower market in the world. The flower stalls stand on the houseboats. Oh how we wish we could carry these bulbs & buds back to the US! We wander through enjoying the sites and smells, and stopping at a cheese market for a few samples of the local flavors.
Leaving the Market we walked to the Begijnhof Kapel, a chapel enclosed in a courtyard. The church "was built in the 14th century as a residence for the Begijntes (Beguines), a Catholic order of unmarried or widowed women who wished to live a pious life of service without becoming nuns. The Beguines received free lodging in return for caring for the sick and the educating the poor of Amsterdam." Unfortunately we were unable to go inside because of a service being conducted. This is the chapel where Elle (Deb &Paul's daughter) sang with her school choir for Thanksgiving service.
Leaving the Begijnhof, we search for some lunch settling for a generous dose of Frittes (french fries) with various toppings. The ChipsyKing delivered. Fries devoured we headed out to find a pub to wash down the fries. Again, success.
From here Sue & I part ways with Deb. She heads back home to pick up the kids from school. Sue & I walk to the Anne Frank Museum for our tour. I visited this museum in 2009. Walking through it a second time is just as sobering. It is so difficult to believe the intolerance of that era ever existed in this City of Tolerance. Sue had also been to the museum in 1969. I'll let her tell you about her experience.
After touring the museum, we stopped at the cafeteria to wait out the rain and introduce Sue to European cappicino. She's hooked!!! Then we decide to walk to Leidseplein to find the local Hard Rock - success. It's not too much further to the Dixons and we're right accross from Vondelpark, so we decide to walk the rest of the way and we're glad we did. We stopped at the local grocery store, Albert Heim, picked up a couple of items and headed back to Ruysdaelstraat.
The remainder of the evening we enjoyed the company of our host family and headed for bed by 10 to conquer our jet lag and rest up for Day 2.
So we started off at the Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market) which is the only floating flower market in the world. The flower stalls stand on the houseboats. Oh how we wish we could carry these bulbs & buds back to the US! We wander through enjoying the sites and smells, and stopping at a cheese market for a few samples of the local flavors.
Leaving the Market we walked to the Begijnhof Kapel, a chapel enclosed in a courtyard. The church "was built in the 14th century as a residence for the Begijntes (Beguines), a Catholic order of unmarried or widowed women who wished to live a pious life of service without becoming nuns. The Beguines received free lodging in return for caring for the sick and the educating the poor of Amsterdam." Unfortunately we were unable to go inside because of a service being conducted. This is the chapel where Elle (Deb &Paul's daughter) sang with her school choir for Thanksgiving service.
Leaving the Begijnhof, we search for some lunch settling for a generous dose of Frittes (french fries) with various toppings. The ChipsyKing delivered. Fries devoured we headed out to find a pub to wash down the fries. Again, success.
From here Sue & I part ways with Deb. She heads back home to pick up the kids from school. Sue & I walk to the Anne Frank Museum for our tour. I visited this museum in 2009. Walking through it a second time is just as sobering. It is so difficult to believe the intolerance of that era ever existed in this City of Tolerance. Sue had also been to the museum in 1969. I'll let her tell you about her experience.
After touring the museum, we stopped at the cafeteria to wait out the rain and introduce Sue to European cappicino. She's hooked!!! Then we decide to walk to Leidseplein to find the local Hard Rock - success. It's not too much further to the Dixons and we're right accross from Vondelpark, so we decide to walk the rest of the way and we're glad we did. We stopped at the local grocery store, Albert Heim, picked up a couple of items and headed back to Ruysdaelstraat.
The remainder of the evening we enjoyed the company of our host family and headed for bed by 10 to conquer our jet lag and rest up for Day 2.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
4-24 In the Dam (Betty)
We made it! We're in Amsterdam! After a very, tight connection for me (Betty) at Heathrow we were seated next to each other the plane to Ansterdam. And now it's 4:30 am and I'm wide awake? But not before: 1) We're met by our wonderful nephew-in-law, Paul, at the Airport. 2) we received our first lesson on tran & tram etiquette from Paul. 3) Experience our first climb up the Dixon stairwell. 4) Hug & kiss all the Dixon ladies. 5) Drink the Dixon fridge clear of beer. 6) Have a wonderfully evening of conversation. 7) Love to finally be here. We finally head to bed around midnight. But jet lag is viering its ugly head. Gotta try for some more sleep.
PS Sue & I are using the same blog to post. So you'll see one of our names after the title.
PS Sue & I are using the same blog to post. So you'll see one of our names after the title.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Another Journey
When we heard our niece and her family were relocating to Amsterdam, my sister and I decided this would be the opportune time to plan a sister to sister beer-cation.
If you're up to it, follow us on our travel blog!
If you're up to it, follow us on our travel blog!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)