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We flew out a day before the cruise and did a little sightseeing in Amsterdam. I highly recommend doing this to get acclimated to the time change. We took a canal cruise which was interesting, but not recommended if you have jet lag! The warm sun made my eyelids heavy and I am sure I missed a thing or two!
Castle De Haar was once the private residence of the Van Zuylen family, whose descendants still stay here yearly. The castle also frequently hosted members of the international jet-set with their lavish lifestyle; from Coco Chanel to Roger Moore, they too left their mark on the plush rooms of the most beautiful spot in Utrecht.
After this, we had free time to explore. We ate waffle fries, bought and tasted some chocolate, visited the smallest bar in Ghent (which used to be a jail) and then off to visit the Gravenstein Castle. The moated castle was built by Count Phillip of Alsace in 1180. I am so impressed with how well these castles have stood the test of time. When I think about how long ago they were built with no modern way of constructing such a large building, it really is amazing!
Our day in Antwerp was spent participating in a walking tour of the city and ending our time with a Belgium beer tour! We saw the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady, Steen’s Castle, Grote Market and Brabo Fountain. This particular city paid homage to the Virgin Mary. Citizens from long ago would place a statue of the Virgin Mary on a light post so they would not have to pay taxes! Some statues were elaborate and some very simple, but all placed for the same reason. We ended our day with a beer tour tasting local beers. Some were good, others not so much! After all that beer, I finally found my Belgium waffle! It was delicious!






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Hello travelers! I'm Gretchen Ode - proud mom of two, Marine veteran's wife, Chicago native, and passionate travel advisor bringing global adventures to life from my home base in beautiful San Jose, California. Serving San Jose and the greater Bay Area , I combine my personal travel experiences with professional expertise to create unforgettable journeys for families, couples, and adventure-seekers. My approach to travel planning is deeply personalized – I believe every vacation should be as unique as the travelers themselves. My Approach As your dedicated travel advisor, I transf... Read More >>>
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Visiting Italy is like stepping into a living masterpiece, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine. From the ancient ruins of Rome and the Renaissance art in Florence to the romantic canals of Venice, every corner offers something unique. Explore charming hilltop towns in Tuscany, indulge in delicious pizza and pasta, and enjoy vibrant street life in cities like Milan and Naples. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, foodie, or nature enthusiast, Italy promises an unforgettable experience filled with beauty, culture, and passion.
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