Amsterdam Into Germany on the Rhine River

Amsterdam Into Germany on the Rhine:
Remember, you can click on the photos to enlarge.

Amsterdam waterfront from our hotel at dusk

This photo did not capture the magic of its lighting

Iconic "Night Watch" by Mr R. in the Rijks

We took a ride through the countryside, about 30 minutes, to see the windmills. Some still work grinding paint colors for artists and grain. They also make cheese there. I purchased a type of cheddar with a slight, gentle orange after-taste. Very good. It was important to understand the canal system (Miami take note as the sea level rises) and the culture that still inhabits this area. A minor hi light - low lite was the taxi attempting to shortcut the turn into the parking lot as the motor coach made its necessary wide right turn. Approximately 100 cell phones came out to take photos of the damage to the vehicles and the ensuing discussion between the drivers. The motor coach won this battle by the way. 

Museums Visited:

The Sted (Impressionists to today) was my favorite; The Van Gogh was magical, The Rijks was a little disappointing only that it had limited 20th century art; however, it had more than paintings, including some intricate veneered tables and chests, a wonderful library, porceline, and the just sheer volume of works. Nice garden also. 

It's garden

The Rijks

I call this statue "The Naughty Jesus"

We enjoyed a canal tour and walking tour in Amsterdam:

These parked house boats cost in excess of $500,000 and they pay a high rent to dock. 

Typical canal shot

Notice the wavy windows? A sinking feeling.

Not so enjoyable but necessary: 

The Stumbling Stones project is relatively new; it marks the last residence of known Jews who were rounded up to transport to their death at a concentration camp. They are approximately 1/4" thick above the paving stones. Most are in the Jewish quarter/market area. It is an on-going project as information becomes available.

Stumbling Stones Project

Anna Frank house on the left

In closing, some photos of my illegal garden between the condo grounds and the nature preserve - can't help myself. Next blog will cover the overall trip agenda, info on the boat, and stops in Xanten, Duisburg and Dusseldorf. Cologne and Koblenz will probably have their own page before finishing up with the castles on the Rhine, smaller towns, a castle tour, and then finishing up with our day in Frankfurt from where we flew back to The States. 

Backyard summer flowers: