Florecent Canals

Amsterdam

Amsterdam wears two faces. On one, it beckons youth with its
notorious Red Light District and liberal views around marijuana
use. On the other, it offers discerning travellers some of Europe's
finest museums and art galleries. Its house boats, bicycles,
cobbled streets, and quaint canals are a visual treat.

For tourists, Amsterdam's compactness is a plus. The old part of
town is a story-book setting of narrow lanes, gabled houses and
ancient bridges, and a pleasure to explore on foot. Visitors can
shop boutiques for souvenirs such as Delft china or wooden clogs,
or relax at cosy bars and pavement cafes.

At night even the most conservative visitors are drawn to the
Red Light District's lively atmosphere, where prostitutes stand in
shop windows and touts encourage passers-by to view raunchy
floorshows. For the most part, travellers will find the best bars
in the bustling Leidesplein and Rembrandtplein.

Enkhuizen

Enkhuizen is a charming town located in the province of North Holland in the Netherlands. Situated on the banks of the Ijsselmeer, Enkhuizen offers visitors a picturesque setting with its historic buildings, scenic canals, and beautiful waterfront.

Enkhuizen has a rich maritime history, dating back to its glory days in the 17th century when it was one of the most important trading ports in the country. This maritime heritage is still palpable today, and visitors can explore it firsthand at the Zuiderzee Museum. This open-air museum showcases the history and culture of the region, with traditional houses, workshops, and exhibits that give insight into the life of the people who lived along the Ijsselmeer.

One of the highlights of Enkhuizen is its well-preserved old town, which is a delight to explore on foot. Cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, and charming canals create a romantic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The historic buildings in the old town display a range of architectural styles, from traditional Dutch houses to grand merchant mansions. Some notable landmarks include the Drommedaris, a 16th-century defensive tower that offers panoramic views of the town, and the Westerkerk, an imposing church with a beautiful interior.

Enkhuizen also offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and is part of the West Frisian Woodlands, a region known for its forests, lakes, and meandering rivers. Visitors can explore this natural beauty by hiking or cycling along the numerous trails that crisscross the area. The nearby Enkhuizen-Stavoren ferry is a popular way to discover the Ijsselmeer and visit other charming towns along its shores.

For those interested in maritime history, a visit to the Enkhuizer Almanak Museum is a must-see. This small museum showcases the oldest continually published nautical yearbook in the world, providing insight into the seafaring traditions and practical knowledge of the Dutch. The museum also highlights Enkhuizen's role as a center for navigation and cartography.

Enkhuizen is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, particularly during the summer months. The town hosts a variety of festivals, including the annual Enkhuizen Jazz Festival, which attracts international musicians and jazz enthusiasts alike. The outdoor theater festival, Sprookjeswonderland, is also popular among families, offering performances and activities for children of all ages.

As for cuisine, Enkhuizen boasts several restaurants and eateries that offer a range of gastronomic delights. Seafood lovers will be in heaven, with fresh fish and other seafood specialties readily available. Traditional Dutch dishes, such as herring and stamppot, are also on offer, as well as international cuisines to cater to every taste.

Enkhuizen is well-connected to other parts of the Netherlands, making it easily accessible for visitors. The town is serviced by a train station, with regular connections to Amsterdam and other major cities. Alternatively, a trip to Enkhuizen can also be combined with a visit to the nearby historic towns of Hoorn and Medemblik, which are accessible by train, boat, or bicycle.

In summary, Enkhuizen is a delightful destination that offers a perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its maritime heritage to its well-preserved old town and scenic surroundings, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Dutch town. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Enkhuizen has it all.

Nijmegen

Nijmegen is a city in the southeastern Netherlands that has a rich history dating back over 2000 years. The city was an important military site during the Roman Empire and was also the first major Dutch city to be captured by the Germans during World War II. Today, Nijmegen is a vibrant and lively city with a population of over 158,000. The city is home to a number of universities and research institutes, as well as a lively nightlife scene. There is something for everyone in Nijmegen and the city is well worth a visit.

Antwerp

Antwerp is perhaps best known for its
diamonds, and the city's sparkling allure attracts the glitterati
with a thriving fashion and entertainment culture. The city also
has countless shopping opportunities, trendy bars and nightclubs
for the fashion-conscious and young at heart.

As the second-largest city in Belgium and a
major European port, Antwerp has a more modern face than many of
its neighbours. Much of the city was destroyed in World War II, but
its history is present in its beautifully-preserved Gothic and
Baroque architecture. At the centre of the city is the Grote Markt,
with the baroque Brabo Fountain in the middle. The work of baroque
sculptor Pieter Paul Reubens is visible all over the city, most
notably at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts.

A visit to Antwerp is a must on any Belgian
holiday. Indeed, the city does a uniquely European balancing act of
old and new, offering plenty of pretty sights, good museums, family
attractions and sidewalk cafés.

Middelburg

Middelburg is a village and a district in the municipality of Maldegem, in East Flanders, Belgium. Founded as a town by Pieter Bladelin in the 15th century, it still contains the medieval church with the tomb of Bladelin and his wife.

Rotterdam

Unlike many historic cities in the Netherlands, which sport
Gothic churches and Renaissance buildings, Rotterdam is a gleaming
cluster of high-rises. Indeed, some of them are marvels of
20th-century architecture. Public parks, spacious streets and slick
shopping malls dot this efficiently designed city, making it the
perfect destination for travellers who lean more towards the modern
than the classical.

Many parts of the city were bombed in World War II. In fact,
only three buildings in Rotterdam's historic centre survived the
onslaught, namely, the art deco City Hall, the iconic White House,
and St Lawrence Church. The Delft Harbour area also escaped
destruction. Extensive rebuilding has given the city a unique
personality when compared to the rest of the country. Travellers
should view it from the iconic Euromast Space Tower, which has a
revolving sit-down elevator.

Rotterdam hasn't forgotten its roots, though, despite its modern
look and feel. Its museums cover art, World War II, architecture,
photography, maritime history, natural history, and the
Netherlands' rail system. Rotterdam is also a multicultural city,
with larger immigrant populations than most of the Netherlands.

That said, the city is roughly 16 miles (26km) away from a
prominent cluster of windmills, which are an enduring symbol of the
Netherlands. Located in the small town of Kinderdijk, these
structures are fully functioning and drain water from the
Alblasserwaard polder. They're also a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
and one of the most popular attractions in the region.

Dordrecht

Dordrecht is a charming Dutch city located in the southwestern Netherlands. It is the capital of the province of South Holland and has a population of just over 118,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful canals and medieval architecture, as well as its many museums and art galleries.

Dordrecht is located on the confluence of the rivers Oude Maas and Merwede, and is therefore an important hub for inland shipping. The city has a long history, dating back to the 9th century when it was first mentioned in a document. In the Middle Ages, Dordrecht was an important trading city, and many of its historic buildings date from this period.

Today, Dordrecht is a popular tourist destination, with many visitors coming to admire its beautiful canals and architecture. The city also has a lively cultural scene, with several museums and art galleries. There are also many good restaurants and cafes, making Dordrecht a great place to visit for a day or two.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam wears two faces. On one, it beckons youth with its
notorious Red Light District and liberal views around marijuana
use. On the other, it offers discerning travellers some of Europe's
finest museums and art galleries. Its house boats, bicycles,
cobbled streets, and quaint canals are a visual treat.

For tourists, Amsterdam's compactness is a plus. The old part of
town is a story-book setting of narrow lanes, gabled houses and
ancient bridges, and a pleasure to explore on foot. Visitors can
shop boutiques for souvenirs such as Delft china or wooden clogs,
or relax at cosy bars and pavement cafes.

At night even the most conservative visitors are drawn to the
Red Light District's lively atmosphere, where prostitutes stand in
shop windows and touts encourage passers-by to view raunchy
floorshows. For the most part, travellers will find the best bars
in the bustling Leidesplein and Rembrandtplein.