WINDMILLS TO COLOGNE

Windmills to Germany:

We spent our afternoon sailing the Rhine. The flat farmland of the Netherlands soon became the rolling hills of Germany. 

It was late, 1930 hrs (7:30) when we sailed past Nijmegen, some may recall this was the location of Operation Market Garden. The story of this WWII operation was detailed in the movie A Bridge To Far. 

The river water levels are low and are effecting our travels, in that we are in some ports later and leaving them earlier.  As we look at the river banks we can see how low the water level is. All is still in a state of flux, as all we know at this time is we will be switching boats tomorrow and have to pack up this evening, 

For those interested, the quality and variety of food is excellent. The service is great and no excellent speech. (some will understand)

Last night after an excellent dinner our cruise director gave a presentation about the Dutch. Very informative with many insights as to nature of these people. It was interesting to see how their lifestyle and beliefs were illustrated in the art work of their masters. 

NEWS FLASH: I ACTUALLY SLEPT MORE THAN 6 Hours!!!!!

Today we will dock in Cologne and explore the old city. We docked a bit later than expected and the low water level was notable, as the gang plank was at a steep angle. 

We had a very nice walking tour of Cologne which ended at the Cathedral. We learned about the local beer, the city and that cologne was invented here. Lynn got a small bottle. 

Visiting the cathedrals of Europe are always moving to me. The grandeur of the architecture is always so humbling. Granted the Cologne Cathedral took about 600 years to complete. 

After the cathedral we meandered the small streets of the old center of Cologne making our way back to the ship. Finding a bakery open, we enjoyed a marzipanstriezel almond pastry.  Next we made a  stop at a local brauhaus where we had a Brauhauswurst, a bratwurst made just for this establishment. It was very very good. It is served in a brown gravy and with a rye roll. The local beer is a Kolsch, only brewed in Cologne, a very light ale, served in skinny glasses. When one finishes with one it is quickly replaced with a full glass. To stop this process place your coaster on top of your glass.

Back onboard the ship before we set sail, we had a lecture about Germany Today, quite informative, noting very current events as the Paris attacks, and Volkswagons. Covering the recent history of Germany from WWII to present day.  

It was a dark grey overcast day which was not great for taking photos.  

Tonight we will be packing up and changing ships tomorrow, will let you know how that goes.