Rhine Experience Netherlands &
Belgium

Cologne

Cologne (Köln) is one of the largest cities
in Germany, and a bustling hub of media and business on the Rhine.
The dramatic Kölner Dom can be seen from miles away, and a number
of other beautiful Gothic and Romanesque churches are dotted around
the city. There are also museums dedicated to Roman history, modern
and religious art, ethnology, sports and even chocolate.

There are two lovely, massive green lungs
in the city containing a number of parks, recreational areas and
beer gardens. In warm weather, there's a fun outdoor culture in
Cologne and thousands of people gather in these areas for picnics,
sports and socialising. The two pedestrian strips of Hohe Strasse
and Schildergasse offer great shops, cafes and street music.

Cologne is well known for its Veedel or
traditional neighbourhoods. One of the most interesting districts
for tourists is the bohemian Agnesviertel neighbourhood where
visitors can find local fashion designers, bookshops, bars and art
galleries.

Cologne has a vibrant and colourful
cultural life, with tourists sampling locally-brewed Kölsch beer
and other gastronomic specialties. The city is also known as the
gay capital of Germany with a large pride event held every year.
The local inhabitants are known to be friendly, sociable and
liberal, making Cologne one of the best German cities in which to
meet new people and make new friends.

Willemstad

Willemstad is the capital city of Curaçao, a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Located in the southern Caribbean Sea, this vibrant and colorful city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. With its diverse cultural heritage and warm hospitality, Willemstad attracts visitors from all over the world.

One of the most prominent features of Willemstad is its unique and picturesque architecture. The city is divided into two main sections, Punda and Otrobanda, which are connected by the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, also known as the "Swinging Old Lady." Punda is the historic center, with its narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings in pastel shades. Otrobanda, on the other hand, presents a more contemporary vibe with its modern architecture and waterfront promenade.

Willemstad's historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and rightfully so. Walking through its charming streets, visitors can admire majestic Dutch Colonial buildings, such as the stunning Handelskade waterfront, which is perhaps the most iconic sight in Willemstad. The colorful facades of these buildings reflect in the crystal-clear waters of Sint Anna Bay, creating a picture-perfect setting for photography enthusiasts.

In addition to its architectural splendor, the city boasts numerous cultural and historic sites. Fort Amsterdam, dating back to the 17th century, is a must-visit. It once served as the headquarters of the Dutch West India Company and now houses the Governor's Palace and various government offices. Another notable landmark is the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas. Its sand-covered floors are a testament to the Jewish community's history in Willemstad.

Willemstad's rich cultural heritage is also evident in its vibrant festivals and events. One of the most significant celebrations is Carnival, which takes place in February leading up to Ash Wednesday. Colorful parades, lively music, and traditional costumes make this a truly exhilarating experience. Another highlight is the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival, held annually in September, attracting jazz enthusiasts and renowned musicians from around the world.

For those seeking a relaxing escape, Willemstad offers beautiful beaches and clear turquoise waters. Mambo Beach and Seaquarium Beach are popular choices for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. Cas Abao Beach and Porto Mari Beach, located just a short drive away, are also worth exploring for their pristine beauty and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Food lovers will delight in the diverse culinary scene of Willemstad. The city offers a wide range of international and local cuisines, with influences from the Netherlands, South America, and the Caribbean. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties, such as keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and funchi (a cornmeal dish), as well as fresh seafood caught from the surrounding waters.

In conclusion, Willemstad is a destination that combines history, culture, natural beauty, and heavenly beaches. The city's unique architecture, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality make it a captivating place to explore. Whether you're interested in history, relaxation, or culinary adventures, Willemstad has something for everyone. Plan your trip to this enchanting city and get ready to create unforgettable memories.

Gent (Ghent)

Ghent is an old medieval city that has long
been overshadowed by Bruges, but nevertheless holds plenty of
exciting attractions for visitors and is far less crowded than
other Belgian cities.

The city was once the heart of the cloth
trade and one of the largest medieval cities in northern Europe.
Today, the old centre boasts many historic buildings including St
Bavo's Cathedral, the Castle of the Counts (a turreted castle with
a moat and bell tower, which make for great views), the Town Hall
and the 15th-century Cloth Hall.

Ghent's city centre is wholly modern
however, and the city's large university population mixes with an
eclectic blend of expats and artists to give the city a diverse and
cosmopolitan air.

Despite being off the beaten track for many
tourists, Ghent offers good museums, lively nightlife and excellent
restaurants serving the best in Flemish cuisine.

Belgium's small size ensures that Ghent is
less than a 40-minute train ride from major cities such as Bruges
and Brussels, and within easy distance of other interesting tourist
destinations, like Courtray and Ostend. A weekend in Ghent is the
perfect way to cap an idyllic holiday in Belgium.

Vlissingen

Known for its tulips, windmills and bicycles, the Netherlands stretches out over a predominantly flat landscape. Sleepy rural towns and sophisticated cities lie within its expansive vistas, broken here and there by dikes, walls, canals and castles. The country is also home to one of Europe's most densely populated regions, which is located in an urban hub called Randstad. The area radiates in a circle from Amsterdam and includes The Hague, Utrecht, and Rotterdam, as well as the smaller towns of Delft, Haarlem and Leiden. Visitors will find vibrant art scenes, cultural activities, seasonal festivals and excellent pubs and restaurants in these destinations.

Historically speaking, the country's global influence stretches back centuries. That is, the Dutch East India Company established trading links with the East and West Indies in the 1600s, bringing a wealth of merchandise and cultural influences back to Europe. The Netherlands' Golden Age reached its zenith in the artworks of its master painters, namely, Frans Hals, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Johannes Vermeer. Today, their paintings hang from the walls of the country's many world-class museums and galleries.

Tourists generally visit the Netherlands to experience its capital city, Amsterdam, though nature lovers may enjoy the south's undulating landscapes of heath moors and shifting sands. They're best explored within the Hoge Veluwe National Park. The historical city of Maastricht is tucked between the Belgian and German borders, and is definitely worth seeing.

Regarding global conflicts, the Netherlands has largely taken a neutral stance since the collapse of Napoleon's empire in 1814. That said, it suffered severely in World War II, when the Nazis invaded. Its neutral position and tradition of tolerance and liberalism would make it the logical location for the International Court of Justice, which is situated in The Hague.

Brussel (Bruxelles)

Home of the European Union, Brussels has become a bustling
centre for bureaucrats and businessmen and is a thriving
cosmopolitan metropolis. The buildings in the city are a
fascinating mix of architectural styles, and there are numerous
museums of interest throughout. Within the 14th-century city walls
is the compact centre of the old city with the beautiful Grand
Place at its heart. Visitors rarely stray beyond the walls of the
'petit ring' of the city centre, clearly defined from the newer
glitzy quarters by its narrow maze of streets. This is where the
key sights can be enjoyed, together with the best bars and
restaurants.

Visitors can experience the beauty of the art and architecture,
marvel at the bizarre sight of the Mannekin-Pis statue, and spend
time shopping for traditional souvenirs such as Belgian chocolate
and lace. The National Opera House and many other theatres host a
variety of events and concerts for those wanting some high culture,
and there are plenty of restaurants offering gastronomic delights.
These outings can be rounded off by a drink or two in any one of
the lively bars located near the Grand Place.

Vibrant and energetic, Brussels is a city of museums and
architecture among Europe's finest, a shopper's fantasy and a
diner's capital.

Gorinchem

Emmerich

Cologne

Cologne (Köln) is one of the largest cities
in Germany, and a bustling hub of media and business on the Rhine.
The dramatic Kölner Dom can be seen from miles away, and a number
of other beautiful Gothic and Romanesque churches are dotted around
the city. There are also museums dedicated to Roman history, modern
and religious art, ethnology, sports and even chocolate.

There are two lovely, massive green lungs
in the city containing a number of parks, recreational areas and
beer gardens. In warm weather, there's a fun outdoor culture in
Cologne and thousands of people gather in these areas for picnics,
sports and socialising. The two pedestrian strips of Hohe Strasse
and Schildergasse offer great shops, cafes and street music.

Cologne is well known for its Veedel or
traditional neighbourhoods. One of the most interesting districts
for tourists is the bohemian Agnesviertel neighbourhood where
visitors can find local fashion designers, bookshops, bars and art
galleries.

Cologne has a vibrant and colourful
cultural life, with tourists sampling locally-brewed Kölsch beer
and other gastronomic specialties. The city is also known as the
gay capital of Germany with a large pride event held every year.
The local inhabitants are known to be friendly, sociable and
liberal, making Cologne one of the best German cities in which to
meet new people and make new friends.