We are in the Netherlands!

We arrived safely, and met Marja and George at the airport. We had to wait a long time for our luggage. This is  Marja and George's apartment . They live close to the river and across the street from a park. After we had dropped off our bags we had coffee and tea. Then we set off for an over 20 km. bike ride. Marja had borrowed her daughter and son in laws bikes. They were big sturdy Dutch bikes. It was a beautiful ride through small country streets and back roads. We rode as far as Kinderdyk home to many old dutchwindmils. The day was  Sunny and warm with a small breeze. Tony and I had decided not to go to bed, but to stay up in order to counteract jet lag. The bike ride sure helped. After we had delicious beer and prepared the walk to our Greek restaurant. The food for dinner was delicious. Afterwards we slept,like a log!

  Marja and George's apartment.

On the waterbus to Rotterdam.

On Sunday morning, after a lovely breakfast of croissants, eggs, fruits and cheese, we left on the waterbus to Rotterdam. The water busses go up and down the river and connect the small cities along the way. People bring their bikes and park them in the back of the ship. 

 In Rotterdam.

In Rotterdam we walked to the Hotel New York for lunch. I had croquettes and Tony chose the open faced salmon sandwiches. We ate outside and watched the other guests eat lunch, it was very nice.

 Waiting at the Hotel New York for lunch.

     

The Erasmus bridge.  Touring the harbor.

We walked back over the Erasmus bridge and bought tickets for the Spido harbor tour. It was a great hour and 15 minute ride through the harbors of Rotterdam and Schiedam.

   

Tony in front of the SS Rotterdam. 

At the end of the tour we took the water bus back to the apartment. Again we had some great beer on the balcony outside because it was a hot day. Marja made a delicious dinner of soup, spaghetti and dessert. A great way to end the day. 

After dinner they drove us to Amsterdam to our cousin Betty's house. We were sad to say goodbye to Marja and George but promosed to try to get together in the future.

It is now after 2:00 am and tomorrow is another busy day. More to come about Amsterdam later.