Wednesday, April 19. Docked in Amsterdam. 14 C. Blue sky.
Day 106, 22 to go.
After a restless night we walked off the ship around 9:15 out into a windy Amsterdam, just to take in the hustle-bustle of this interesting city. It is not an easy thing to do because of the number of silent rolling missiles that sneak up on you, these are called Bicycles! Missiles from hell they are! Also the silent motorcycles and other wheeled projectiles that have a right of way over mere walkers. Silent trams, coming out of nowhere also add to the excitement.
It felt wonderful to be out into such a vibrant and efficient society and so many young healthy people full of life and excitement. We walked past a River Cruise embarkation and disembarkation spot. Several long River Cruisers were tied up where passengers of several European countries were boarding or disembarking. There, we did see some elderly passengers wheeling their bags behind them, going or coming to the train station to head home on the very efficient train system that exists in Europe. Taxis and dogs were conspicuous by their absence.
Last night on our ship, the Holland America Line President was aboard and will be with us till Friday at least, in Copenhagen. Apparently it was quite a show on the Top Deck. All the preparation was done in two days but it was disassembled and virtually gone shortly after breakfast today. The ship was crawling with holland America mucky-mucks and hangers on this morning. It is obviously a Big Deal as the Company celebrates its 150th Anniversary of being in business, originating as a freight shipping company, and then added people to the mix. It played a big part in the beginning of the 20th century when people were coming to the Land of opportunity and freedom, the USA!
We have 12 ports yet to cover in 16 days before we start the six day crossing to Fort Lauderdale. Busy days coming up but a Sea Day tomorrow, fortunately.
A Lovely Quiet Day In Amsterdam...
Lots of fun stuff close at hand.
River Cruise Ships: You can sail from here to the Black Sea In Romania. We did it years ago, ending in Amsterdam. Three weeks, wonderful. 150 passengers, roughly. One similar ship across from us left this morning and another pulled in an hour later.
Man that coffee tasted fantastic this morning. Hat and scarf were needed, cold out!
Amsterdam is all about the water.
Bikes everywhere.
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